Spillemyndigheden, the regulator of the gambling market in Denmark, has announced that in the month of February 2024 the industry recorded an 18.3 percent increase in gambling spend compared to the same month last year.

Moreover, all sectors of the industry registered such increases: sports betting, online casinos, gaming machines and land-based casinos. The total gambling spend registered in February 2024 amounted to 587 million Danish Krone or around 83.6 million U.S. dollars.

The most impressive revenue increases were registered by sports betting and online casinos. According to Spillemyndigheden, the revenue increases for these two segments were most likely due to lower return to player (RTP) rates in February 2024 compared to the same month of last year.

The figures included in the report are based on the data submitted by sports betting and casino operators to the Danish Tax Agency. The report also used data related to responsible gambling, taken from the Register of Self-Excluded Gamblers and StopSpillet, the problem gambling helpline that is available to residents of Denmark.

Online Casinos Dominate the Market

Most of the overall gross gaming revenue for the industry came from online casino operators, which accounted for 47.3 percent of the total. Sports betting managed to cover 30.2 percent of the market in terms of gross gaming revenue, while gaming machines accounted for 16.9 percent. The lowest market share in terms of gross gaming revenue was that of land-based casinos, which only managed to take up 5.4 percent of the market.

In terms of increases of gross gaming revenue in February 2024, sports betting registered the largest percentage: 32.5 percent compared to the same month of last year for a total of 134 million Danish Krone. Within the sports betting vertical, mobile betting was the most popular channel, attracting 65.6 percent of all bets in February 2024.

Online casino operators also registered a major increase of 18.53 percent when it comes to gross gaming revenue, with a total amount of 278 million Danish Krone generated in February 2024. Mobile gambling is also preferred by customers in this vertical, with 61.1 percent of bets being placed through this channel.

Gaming machines recorded a less significant increase in gross gaming revenue, just 1.85 percent year-on-year for a total of 100 million Danish Krone. Land-based casinos also registered a modest gross gaming revenue increase of 7 percent over the same month of last year for a total of 32 million Danish Krone.

Source: “Danes’ gambling spend increased in February 2024“. Spillemyndigheden. April 16, 2024.

The post February Brings Major Gambling Spend Increase in Denmark appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Denmark’s gambling regulator, Spillemyndigheden, has launched a new informational website that provides local consumers with information about gambling and gambling harm. The new site’s goal is to provide local players with sufficient educational materials about the sector and its risks.

Called StyrPåSpillet.dk, the new site will be Denmark’s official public informational portal for information about the country’s gambling industry. It will cover materials about the various gambling sectors, including brick-and-mortar casinos, lottery operators and iGaming companies.

In addition to updating Danish consumers about the latest developments in Danish gambling, StyrPåSpillet.dk will have a section dedicated to parents and educators. This section will include a variety of educational materials about addictive behavior, how to spot it and how to prevent kids and young people from harm.

The available educational materials, the Spillemyndigheden elaborated, are primarily focused on students aged 13 to 15.

In addition to all that, the new informational website will also host a special podcast dubbed “Vi snakker om spillet,” which translates to “We talk about the game.” As suggested by its title, the podcast will see experts talk about the gambling sector, providing audiences with insights into the experiences of former and recovering addicts.

StyrPåSpillet.dk is already live, allowing Danish consumers to learn more about the country’s gambling industry.

Denmark Seeks to Reduce Problem Gambling

The new informational website was launched in accordance with Denmark’s strategy to reduce problem gambling in the country.

In October, the Spillemyndigheden confirmed that the country’s self-exclusion system, ROFUS, will now cover land-based casinos and betting shops across the country. As a result, new registrants and registrants who have signed up after October 1 were allowed to benefit from exclusion from land-based gambling properties.

Denmark is bullish on enhancing its player protections and, under a new plan, will continue to crack down on harm.

In the meantime, the country introduced customized player IDs, further bolstering consumer protection. The customized IDs facilitate the withdrawal of winnings and the setting of deposing limits, while also safeguarding players from losing their winnings due to misplaced betting slips.

The post Denmark Unveils Informational Website about Gambling appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Gambling operator Tipwin has been hit with a substantial fine in Denmark after a year-long investigation into alleged breaches of anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. The Danish Gambling Authority, known as Spillemyndigheden, imposed a DKK100,000 ($14,476) fine.

Danish Regulator Escalates Case Against Tipwin

The troubles for Tipwin began in June 2022 when Spillemyndigheden, the Danish Gambling Authority, reported the company to the police, alleging severe violations of the Danish Money Laundering Act. The investigation revealed that Tipwin had negligently breached two subsections of the Act. These regulations pertain to risk assessments, policies, and internal controls concerning AML.

Spillemyndigheden’s concerns centered around Tipwin’s risk assessments, policies, business processes, and controls for both land-based and online gambling offerings. Spillemyndigheden reported Tipwin to the police for failing to address money laundering risks and violating the Anti-Money Laundering Act after Tipwin neglected to conduct a required risk assessment, provide printed policies for its retail offerings, and establish necessary business procedures and controls related to money laundering by set deadlines. 

Spillemyndigheden considered these obligations fundamental and gave Tipwin three months to rectify these issues, which included staff training on money laundering policies. However, it’s worth noting that the requirement for training improvement was annulled on September 9, 2022, following certain corrective measures taken by Tipwin.

Denmark’s Spillemyndigheden Steps Up Fight Against Money Laundering in Gambling

In recent years, Spillemyndigheden has intensified its focus on combating money laundering in the gambling sector. Tipwin is not the only operator to face AML-related actions, as other companies like Casumo, Casino Copenhagen, bet365 and Betfair have also faced injunctions in the past year.

The crackdown on AML activities began in July 2022, aligning with the Ministry of Justice’s new strategy to address these concerns effectively.

Denmark’s gambling regulator Spillemyndigheden has been diligently working to enhance player protection and industry sustainability. The regulator has tightened controls on deposit limits and bonuses, targeted illegal gambling websites, and even sought collaboration with tech giants like Google and Facebook to combat illegal gambling. 

Just last week, Spillemyndigheden blocked 49 illegal gambling websites, bringing the total number of blocked sites in Denmark since 2012 to 276. The regulator will now increase the frequency of blocking illegal gambling websites, implementing these measures twice a year instead of once. 

While Spillemyndigheden’s efforts set a positive example for other regulators worldwide, the complex regulatory environment in Denmark presents challenges for operators, requiring thorough documentation and compliance with over 750 individual requirements. Third-party solutions like SG:certified have emerged to streamline the regulatory process and help operators navigate the intricate landscape.

The post Tipwin Faces Hefty Fine in Denmark for AML Violations appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Betfair International Plc, a subsidiary of Flutter Entertainment, has been hit with three enforcement orders and a reprimand by the Danish Gambling Authority, Spillemyndigheden, for breaching Denmark’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Act.

Betfair Faces Regulatory Action for AML Act Violations in Three Key Areas

The regulatory authority found that Betfair had failed to meet the requirements set out in the AML Act in three key areas. The first order was issued because Betfair’s risk assessment did not adequately consider the inherent risk factors associated with its business model.

The second order was issued due to insufficient written procedures for customer due diligence. The procedures did not ensure that customer due diligence measures were conducted at appropriate times in accordance with the requirements outlined in the AML Act. 

Furthermore, the written procedures did not address how Betfair would become aware if an employee was convicted of a criminal offense during their employment, thereby increasing the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing.

The third order was given because Betfair failed to provide documented evidence of regular and appropriate controls in various areas such as risk management, customer due diligence, employee screening, investigation and reporting obligations, information storage, and internal controls.

The company must now submit an updated risk assessment that addresses the identified shortcomings, improve its written procedures, and provide documentation of future control procedures.

Betfair has been given a three-month deadline to rectify the issues highlighted in the first two orders, while a twelve-month deadline has been set for the submission of documentation demonstrating compliance with the third one.

Spillemyndigheden Issues Reprimand to Betfair over Customer Identity Control Deficiencies

Additionally, Betfair received a reprimand from Spillemyndigheden for its inadequate control of customer identity information up until May 16, 2023. However, this specific violation is no longer active and does not require further action.

The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (DFSA) introduced updated rules for the AML Act earlier this year, imposing stricter requirements for customer due diligence and monitoring individual transactions and money transfers.

Betfair now faces the challenge of addressing the deficiencies highlighted by the Danish Gambling Authority within the specified timeframes, in order to ensure compliance with the AML Act and maintain its operations in Denmark.

Betfair has also faced difficulties in Sweden and the UK. In April, the company was fined for providing betting markets on 148 matches between 2021 and 2022 in the U21 Allsvenskan, a youth soccer league where operators are prohibited from offering gambling opportunities. In May, Betfair faced a fine of £490,000 ($606,300) from the UK regulator for the dissemination of promotional material to individuals who had self-excluded themselves.

The post Betfair Faces Enforcement Action for AML Violations in Denmark appeared first on Keno Wizard.

One of the oldest sports betting brands within the Nordics, expekt, was relaunched for customers in Denmark, its owner, LeoVegas, reveals. Announced Tuesday, the relaunch of the famous brand follows LeoVegas’ strategic plan for expansion within the global betting vertical. At the same time, the relaunch comes after the company reintroduced the brand for the Swedish market back in 2021.

Introduced as nye expekt or the new expekt, the brand is expected to help LeoVegas reaffirm its presence in Denmark. Thanks to the launch, customers of the brand can now tap into a new mobile app that provides competitive odds and delivers overall thrilling betting experiences.

Currently, LeoVegas Group has active strategic deals with famous European soccer clubs such as FC Internazionale Milano and Manchester City FC. Now, the reintroduction of “nye expekt” is expected to re-establish the popularity of the brand, which has been absent from the market in Denmark for 10 years.

The Company Is Delighted to Unveil Nya Expekt

Gustaf Hagman, LeoVegas Group’s CEO, was excited about the recent announcement regarding the relaunch of the brand in Denmark. He explained that expekt is famous as one of the biggest Nordic brands.

Additionally, Hagman said that LeoVegas is delighted to relaunch nye expekt which delivers an app that offers competitive odds for Danish customers. Finally, LeoVegas’ CEO, added: “We have a clear strategy to expand by increasing the number of brands and markets where we’re present, and we see great potential for growth in sports betting.”

“Expekt is one of the strongest brands in the Nordics, and we’re thrilled to be relaunching nye expekt in Denmark with a modern app and competitive odds.“

Gustaf Hagman, CEO at LeoVegas Group

Elsewhere, earlier this month, MGM Resorts’ LeoVegas confirmed its plans to acquire Push Gaming along with its subsidiaries. This marked a strategic move for the Group as it sought to provide a vital boost and supercharge its global expansion.

At the time of the announcement, MGM Resorts’ president, Gary Fritz, said that the company is delighted to add Push Gaming to its team. Moreover, he acknowledged that the game developer is recognized around the world for its leading content.

The post LeoVegas Confirms Relaunch of Expekt Brand in Denmark appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Denmark is taking proactive measures to address gambling addiction and create a safer gambling environment for its customers through a new initiative. Leading this effort is the Danish Gambling Committee, which aims to conduct research and collaborate with experts in the field to promote responsible gambling practices.

To support its research endeavours over the next three years, the Danish Gambling Committee secured funding of DKK 12 million ($1.8 million). This funding was contributed by prominent gambling operators, including Danske Spil, Mr. Green, Betsson Group, Kindred Group, and Spilnu.dk. These operators, already licensed by the Danish gambling authority, are reaffirming their commitment to responsible gambling through this donation.
Despite being known for its strict regulations, the Danish gambling market has experienced significant growth in the past decade, largely driven by online gambling. However, research on responsible gambling and problem gambling has struggled to be on the same level.

The Danish Gambling Committee aims to bridge this gap by focusing on key areas such as the treatment of problem gambling, prevention of gambling harm (particularly among vulnerable groups like young people), prevention of harm in online gambling, and the collection of valuable knowledge about problem gambling.

Leading the committee is Jørgen Frøkiær, the head of the department at the university, who will assume the role of chairperson. Joining him on the board are representatives from esteemed institutions such as the University of Copenhagen, the University of Southern Denmark, Aarhus University Hospital, and Aalborg University.

“We are pleased that the gaming companies are contributing to being part of the solution, and we are now looking forward to helping a research area well on its way, which has had a difficult time for many years,” Frøkiær, said concerning the donations.

Kate Jacquerot, the legal director responsible for responsible gambling at Danske Spil, expressed the company’s support for the creation of a secure and safe gambling market in Denmark. She emphasized the importance of independent research conducted by the Danish Gambling Committee to understand how best to prevent and support individuals showing signs of gambling addiction.

Kim Olesen, the general manager for Denmark and Italy at Kindred Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to investing in research that addresses problem gambling and addiction.

“We do not want to make money from players who have an unhealthy relationship with gambling,” Olesen said. “It is therefore important that we are able to help those who need help.”

Kindred Group aims to achieve zero revenue from problem gambling and emphasizes the need to avoid benefiting from individuals with an unhealthy relationship with gambling. Olesen further praised the Danish Gambling Committee’s efforts in developing innovative approaches to treat gambling addiction and prevent problem gambling.

By focusing on research and collaboration, Denmark aims to enhance its responsible gambling measures and safeguard the well-being of its citizens. The proactive approach taken by the Danish Gambling Committee and the support of leading gambling operators are positive steps towards a safer and more sustainable gambling market in the country.

The committee’s primary focus will revolve around four crucial areas: the treatment of gambling addiction, the prevention of harm among children and young people, addressing addiction in the realm of online gambling, and the acquisition of comprehensive knowledge on the subject.

With the committee’s formation underway, it is anticipated that they will begin accepting applications for new research projects at the start of July. This will pave the way for innovative studies that contribute to finding solutions in an area that has long faced challenges.

Frøkiær expressed satisfaction with the involvement of gaming companies in being part of the solution. He emphasized the importance of advancing research efforts, acknowledging the struggles the field has encountered over the years. The committee’s formation is seen as a significant step forward in tackling these issues.

The post Denmark Receives Donations For Responsible Gambling Research appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Denmark has a concerning gambling problem. The country, which has a population of 5.85 million, has a whopping 500,000 people suffering from gambling problems. This figure was reported by Rambøll last year, as commissioned by the Gambling Authority.

The harm rates have more than doubled since 2016, sparking concerns about the future of the country. Luckily, many people now realize the dangers of gambling addiction, prompting active efforts to reduce it.

As a result, the Danish government has now agreed to set aside DKK 10 million (around $1.47 million) for treating gambling harm each year from 2023 to 2025. The project will see this money invested in various initiatives.

A Breakthrough of How the Money Will Be Used

The Danish government officialized its plans for 2023, sharing details on how the money will be used.

DKK 5 million will be used for the research of gambling addiction. Research groups can apply for a grant by contacting the Ministry of the Interior and Health. The main purpose of this research would be to find ways to treat problem gambling.

Another DKK 2.5 million will be provided to the local regulator, which will run a new information campaign. The authority will target people of all ages and will try to convey how dangerous irresponsible gambling can be.

Furthermore, DKK 1.5 million has been set aside for the development of a national information platform where people can find educational materials on gambling addiction.

Lastly, a million will be used by the regulator to begin a study of gambling addiction in Nordic countries. The study, however, would depend on the other Nordic countries’ willingness to collaborate. If they fail to allocate funds for the project, the Danish regulator will simply move the funds to its national campaign.

Bruus Praised the Funding

Jeppe Bruus Christensen, Denmark’s Minister for Taxation, described the recent developments in gaming as “very worrying.” He emphasized that problem gambling can cause long-term damage to the lives of those who suffer from it.

Bruus said that Denmark has an obligation to protect vulnerable groups from harm, which is why the country needs to reinforce its efforts against problem gambling.

Therefore, we need to both strengthen information efforts towards children and young people and research into gambling addiction.

Jeppe Bruus Christensen, Minister for Taxation, Denmark

Bruus concluded that he is very happy that more funding has now been allocated for this cause.

A month ago, on the other hand, Denmark introduced player registrations for land-based gaming. This will hopefully help the country mitigate gambling fraud while protecting at-risk players.

The post Denmark Allocates Funds for Combating Gambling Harm appeared first on Keno Wizard.