Gambling Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/gambling/ The Ultimate Keno Destination for Odds, Tips & Tricks Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:25:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://i0.wp.com/kenowizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-keno-wizard-icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Gambling Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/gambling/ 32 32 230792155 Gambling Inspector in Maine Claims Retaliation by Boss over Concerns https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/28/gambling-inspector-in-maine-claims-retaliation-by-boss-over-concerns/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/28/gambling-inspector-in-maine-claims-retaliation-by-boss-over-concerns/#respond Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:25:14 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/28/gambling-inspector-in-maine-claims-retaliation-by-boss-over-concerns/ Currently, the regulation of gambling activities in Maine is in the hands of the Maine Gambling Control Unit. An ongoing goal for the agency is to oversee gambling activities across the state, providing effective, efficient and consistent regulation. As such, the authority constantly monitors the activities of land-based casinos. Online betting, which launched in November, [...]

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Currently, the regulation of gambling activities in Maine is in the hands of the Maine Gambling Control Unit. An ongoing goal for the agency is to oversee gambling activities across the state, providing effective, efficient and consistent regulation.

As such, the authority constantly monitors the activities of land-based casinos. Online betting, which launched in November, is also scrutinized by the Maine Gambling Control Unit.

While the constant monitoring of casino operators was among the requirements set by Maine’s residents when they approved such activities, internal changes to the gambling regulator’s policies may result in more lax control.

This is according to a recently released report by WGME, which highlights the concern of one gambling inspector who complained about the actions of their boss who allegedly created a hostile work environment and implemented changes to the monitoring schedules for the inspectors.

Gayle Craig currently holds the role of a gambling inspector for Bangor’s Hollywood Slots and Casino. She is a subordinate of the Maine Gambling Control Unit’s director, Milton Champion. According to the recent report, Craig complained that her boss retaliated after she raised different concerns.

Decreasing the Monitoring Frequency as a Result of the Changes

The gambling inspector said that she and the other inspectors’ schedules changed from 10 hours for four days to eight hours for five days. But Craig’s main concern is that the changes in schedule deprived the casinos across Maine of 24/7 monitoring, something which was a standard practice before.

In the words of the gambling inspector: “Removing us two days a week is really impacting the casinos, and as far as I’m concerned the public would be interested because when people voted to bring casinos into Maine they voted for strict oversight and he’s removing it.”

Craig explained that the aforementioned change in the inspectors’ schedule means that there won’t be a representative of the gambling regulator in the late hours. Moreover, she warned that the changes mean that there won’t be a casino inspector present on Sundays and Mondays.

Michael Sauschuck, a commissioner with the Department of Public Safety, supported the change made by the gambling regulator’s boss. Sauschuck spoke in defense of the gambling regulator’s boss during a meeting earlier this week.

The recent report did not reveal what concerns the gambling inspectors raised with their boss. It is yet to be seen how the sector or gambling addiction groups will react to the change.

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Indonesia Cracks Down on Online Gambling Networks https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/26/indonesia-cracks-down-on-online-gambling-networks/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/26/indonesia-cracks-down-on-online-gambling-networks/#respond Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:42:14 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/26/indonesia-cracks-down-on-online-gambling-networks/ Indonesia has taken decisive steps to curb online gambling activities by targeting internet lines connected to the Philippines and Cambodia. This move, initiated by the nation’s Communications and Informatics Ministry, aims to sever access to networks allegedly facilitating illegal online gaming within Indonesia. Under directives issued on June 21st, Indonesia’s NAP (Network Access Point) service [...]

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indonesia_on_philippines_and_cambodia_to_shut_down_online_gambling_via_napssIndonesia has taken decisive steps to curb online gambling activities by targeting internet lines connected to the Philippines and Cambodia. This move, initiated by the nation’s Communications and Informatics Ministry, aims to sever access to networks allegedly facilitating illegal online gaming within Indonesia.

Under directives issued on June 21st, Indonesia’s NAP (Network Access Point) service providers have been instructed to block internet lines associated with online gambling, particularly those traced to locations in Davao, Philippines, and Cambodia. This strategic approach follows regional precedents where jurisdictions focus on disrupting infrastructure rather than targeting individual platforms directly.

Budi Arie Setiadi, Indonesia’s Communications and Informatics Minister, emphasized that these measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to eliminate online gambling from the country. The initiative includes the removal of nearly 3 million pieces of online gambling content from mid-2023 to mid-2024, demonstrating Indonesia’s commitment to enforcement.

Financial and Regulatory Impact

In addition to the NAP directive, Indonesia has sought cooperation from financial institutions to freeze approximately 5,800 bank accounts and block 555 e-wallets under Bank Indonesia’s authority. This multifaceted approach underscores the severity with which Indonesia views online gambling, with penalties for participants and organizers reaching up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $1,500.

Indonesia’s newly formed gambling task force, comprising personnel from the National Armed Forces and National Police Force, plays a pivotal role in monitoring suspicious financial activities linked to online gambling. Hadi Tjahjanto, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, highlighted ongoing efforts to monitor and block access to overseas iGaming platforms, ensuring compliance with Indonesia’s strict anti-gambling laws.

Financial Transaction Oversight

The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center of Indonesia continue to analyze surveillance data to identify and investigate potential online gambling transactions. Recent findings have flagged thousands of bank accounts suspected of involvement in iGaming activities, which are then forwarded to the Criminal Investigation Agency for further action.

As Indonesia intensifies its crackdown on online gambling networks, these concerted efforts underscore the government’s commitment to upholding national laws and safeguarding societal interests against the adverse impacts of illicit gambling. By targeting network access providers and bolstering financial oversight, Indonesia aims to mitigate the proliferation of online gambling activities across its borders.

Source:

Indonesia on Philippines and Cambodia to shut down online gambling via NAPs, agbrief.com, June 23, 2024.

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Spain Appoints Andrés Barragán Urbiola as Minister for Federal Gambling Reforms https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/25/spain-appoints-andres-barragan-urbiola-as-minister-for-federal-gambling-reforms/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/25/spain-appoints-andres-barragan-urbiola-as-minister-for-federal-gambling-reforms/#respond Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:27:07 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/25/spain-appoints-andres-barragan-urbiola-as-minister-for-federal-gambling-reforms/ The Council of Ministers of Spain has appointed Andrés Barragán Urbiola as Secretary General of Consumption and Gaming. In this role, Urbiola will oversee Spain’s ongoing federal overhaul of gambling laws, a directive led by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. This appointment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the regulation and safety of [...]

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Spain-appoints-Urbiola-as-‘dedicated-minister-of-federal-gambling-reformsThe Council of Ministers of Spain has appointed Andrés Barragán Urbiola as Secretary General of Consumption and Gaming. In this role, Urbiola will oversee Spain’s ongoing federal overhaul of gambling laws, a directive led by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. This appointment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the regulation and safety of Spain’s gambling sector.

Leadership and Legislative Reforms

Pablo Bustinduy, Spain’s Minister of Consumer Affairs and Social Rights, advocated the need for a dedicated minister to oversee gambling reforms. Bustinduy has assumed the remit of gambling reforms from his predecessor, Alberto Garzon, who chose not to serve in Spain’s new ‘progressive left’ coalition government.

Since 2020, under Garzon’s leadership, Spain has undertaken a significant reorganization of its gambling laws, focusing on unified standards and centralized controls for both online and land-based gambling. Key among these reforms was the “Royal Decree on Gambling Advertising,” which reshaped the gambling landscape by banning betting sponsorships and restricting gambling advertisements to late-night hours.

In 2023, Garzon introduced the “Royal Decree on Responsible Gaming Environments,” preparing the Spanish gambling industry for additional changes. These include the implementation of a centralized player registry and the mandatory documentation of risk profiles for younger consumers, particularly those under 25.

Strategic Appointment

Appointing Urbiola as Secretary General of Consumption and Gaming is a strategic move by Spain’s government to continue its rigorous overhaul of gambling laws. Urbiola, who has a strong background in economic policy and financial analysis, was personally selected by Bustinduy to lead the federal reforms for the gambling sector.

Urbiola brings diverse experience from his tenure at the Ministry of Economy, Commerce, and Business, where he played a pivotal role in designing support measures for companies during the pandemic and planning Spain’s Transformation and Resilience Recovery Plan. His expertise in economic strategy and policy development makes him well-suited to navigate the complexities of gambling reform.

Focus on Compliance and Safety

As Secretary General, Urbiola’s primary focus will be on implementing and enhancing the measures laid out in recent decrees. By 2024, he aims to ensure that Spanish gambling operators comply with some of the strictest regulations in Europe. This includes strict adherence to advertising restrictions and robust mechanisms to protect younger and vulnerable consumers from gambling-related harms.

The appointment underscores Spain’s commitment to fostering a safer gambling environment and addressing gambling addiction challenges. It aligns with the new Action Plan on Addictions for 2025-2028, which Bustinduy will lead, focusing on comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risks associated with gambling.

Source:

Spain appoints Urbiola as ‘dedicated minister’ of federal gambling reforms, SBC News, June 25, 2024.

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Comparing Traditional vs Online Gambling: Best Player Experience https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/21/comparing-traditional-vs-online-gambling-best-player-experience/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/21/comparing-traditional-vs-online-gambling-best-player-experience/#respond Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:14:40 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/21/comparing-traditional-vs-online-gambling-best-player-experience/ Gambling has existed in some form for thousands of years, providing players with the excitement of taking risks for potential rewards. With so much time to develop, it’s no surprise that the gambling landscape has changed dramatically over time. Today, we have the luxury of choosing from traditional gambling at brick-and-mortar casinos and online gambling, [...]

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Gambling has existed in some form for thousands of years, providing players with the excitement of taking risks for potential rewards. With so much time to develop, it’s no surprise that the gambling landscape has changed dramatically over time. Today, we have the luxury of choosing from traditional gambling at brick-and-mortar casinos and online gambling, like the many NZ casinos operating online, that can be played from the comfort of our own homes.

There are many similarities between traditional gambling and online gambling. Both options are popular and involve wagering real money on various games of chance or skill, whether land-based or virtual. However, while there are many commonalities, there are also key differences between the two. This article provides aspects of both traditional and online gambling in an attempt to identify the best player experience.

Traditional Gambling vs Online Gambling

Gambling’s rich history dates back centuries, and since online gambling wasn’t established until 1994, it makes sense that traditional land-based casinos have been preferred by gamblers. Brick-and-mortars offer a variety of games, including casino classics such as poker, blackjack, roulette and craps, as well as player favorite slot machines. The face-to-face interactions with other players and dealers that are a part of real-life gambling make it more of a social experience. The excitement experienced at a busy casino is unmatched.

Convenience, Accessibility & Game Selection

However, as the gambling industry embraces the digital age, there has been a significant rise in online gambling. Unlike traditional casinos, internet gambling offers the convenience of playing from the comfort of your own home via smartphone, computer, or tablet, whenever you want. Accessibility is a convenience offered by online platforms that is unparalleled.

Players can also typically choose from a wider variety of games at online platforms versus traditional casinos where there may be more of a limited selection due to space constraints and less variety within each category. Online casinos offer a broad range of slots that feature advanced game mechanics, immersive storylines and sequels to players’ favorite titles; table games and live casino games that give the real feel of TV game shows, and even sports betting. These offerings provide players with a realistic and thrilling gaming experience that recreates the atmosphere of a traditional casino while delivering all the advantages of online play.

Online gambling is considered by some a “lone-wolf” activity and can be isolating. However, an increasing number of platforms are starting to address the social aspects of gambling. Unlike the virtual casinos of old, many of today’s online casinos offer live dealer games with real-time chat among fellow players, tournaments and leaderboards, each providing a greater level of social interaction.

Bonuses & Promotions

Another real benefit of online gambling is the level of anonymity and privacy offered, which cannot be matched by traditional casinos. Meanwhile, perks such as bonuses, promotions and loyalty programs are often offered by online gambling sites. Meant to attract and retain players, these incentives are not as common in land-based casinos and are proven to be effective drivers of traffic to virtual casinos.

Payment Methods & Payouts

Online casinos also offer a larger selection of payment methods, including cryptocurrencies and digital wallets, whereas traditional gambling venues are typically limited to cash and credit cards. Payouts are an important aspect and one that most consider to be the most important. This is one area where a physical casino has the edge. Winnings are immediately paid in cash when the game is over at a traditional casino, while you can wait anywhere from 10 or 15 minutes to up to a week, depending on the online casino’s payment methods and policy.

Safety & Security

Whether you choose traditional or online casino, you want to be assured you’re betting at locations you know are safe, secure and fair. That means licensed and regulated by reputable gaming authorities, so you know your personal information and payments are handled securely. Personal preference and circumstances also go a long way when considering when choosing one form of gambling or the other.

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Australia Enforces Credit Card Ban for Online Gambling to Enhance Consumer Protection https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/13/australia-enforces-credit-card-ban-for-online-gambling-to-enhance-consumer-protection/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/13/australia-enforces-credit-card-ban-for-online-gambling-to-enhance-consumer-protection/#respond Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:19:41 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/13/australia-enforces-credit-card-ban-for-online-gambling-to-enhance-consumer-protection/ Australia has introduced a new measure banning the use of credit cards for online gambling, aiming to ensure that players only gamble with their own money. This significant change has been in the works since 2021, with Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) and its members playing a crucial role in advocating for and developing this ban [...]

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Australia has introduced a new measure banning the use of credit cards for online gambling, aiming to ensure that players only gamble with their own money. This significant change has been in the works since 2021, with Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) and its members playing a crucial role in advocating for and developing this ban alongside the Commonwealth Government and the financial services industry.

Industry Support for the Ban

australia_enforces_credit_card_ban_for_online_gamblingResponsible Wagering Australia CEO Kai Cantwell expressed the importance of this measure, emphasizing that it helps individuals manage their gambling more effectively. “This is an important measure to protect customers, making it easier for people to stay in control of their own gambling behaviour,” Mr. Cantwell stated. He highlighted that this ban complements the existing suite of safer gambling tools provided by RWA members.

Cantwell also pointed out the need for uniform consumer protection measures across all forms of gambling. “RWA and its members support the extension of this measure to all forms of gambling that have been exempted from the ban such as lotteries and keno. If consumer protection measures aren’t consistent across all forms of gambling, it will incentivize vulnerable Australians to move to less-regulated types of gambling, where they are more at risk of harm.”

Enhanced Consumer Protection Tools

RWA members are committed to ensuring that gambling is conducted safely and responsibly. They offer a variety of tools to help users manage their gambling activities more effectively. Many of these tools have been integrated into the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) by the Commonwealth Government.

Cantwell noted the significance of the NCPF in maintaining a safe gambling environment. “The NCPF is expected to be evaluated shortly and we look forward to engaging in this process to ensure that consumer protection tools are fit-for-purpose and support a safe and sustainable regulated gambling environment,” he added.

This credit card ban marks a crucial step in protecting Australian consumers from the potential harms of gambling by preventing the use of borrowed money for such activities. It underscores the commitment of both the government and the industry to foster a safer and more regulated gambling environment.

Source: “Australia Enforces Credit Card Ban for Online Gambling”, European Gaming, June 12, 2024.

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Crimea’s Gambling Zone Project Is Alive But Still in Limbo https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/11/crimeas-gambling-zone-project-is-alive-but-still-in-limbo/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/11/crimeas-gambling-zone-project-is-alive-but-still-in-limbo/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:52:16 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/11/crimeas-gambling-zone-project-is-alive-but-still-in-limbo/ The Crimean Parliament’s head, Vladimir Konstantinov, just announced that the plans to construct a gambling zone in Crimea are still in place. In an interview with RIA Novosti, Konstantinov also noted that the main investors have been identified. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014, sparking a conflict with Ukraine. The war, which would escalate [...]

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The Crimean Parliament’s head, Vladimir Konstantinov, just announced that the plans to construct a gambling zone in Crimea are still in place. In an interview with RIA Novosti, Konstantinov also noted that the main investors have been identified.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014, sparking a conflict with Ukraine. The war, which would escalate with Russia’s invasion in 2022, has been raging on ever since. Yet, the plans to create a gambling zone that would spark tourism in Crimea seem to be in place, according to the local parliament’s head.

For context, the plans outline the construction of a gambling zone on the southern coast of the peninsula, in the village of Katsiveli near Yalta. Originally planned to begin in 2021, construction of the project was postponed amid the complex geopolitical situation.

The so-called Golden Coast gambling zone is set to occupy the site of an unfinished sanatorium. Previously owned by the Yalta Municipality, the site was eventually handed to the government. The Infrastructure Project Management Company, a local investment firm, was planning to take on the project.

The Project Will Continue Once the Situation Allows It

Konstantinov was firm that the project is still well and alive. He said that “nothing bad” had happened to it and that the main participants had been identified.

The head described the interested parties as well-known organizations in the Russian Federation. He said that the investors in question have the necessary experience but added that the project is still facing certain setbacks because of the ongoing war and the lack of air traffic.

Konstantinov added that Crimea is ready to begin work on the project once the situation calms down and air traffic resumes. In his interview with RIA Novosti, the Crimean Parliament’s head added that the gambling operation would be profitable and would attract foreign tourists, enhancing the local economy.

Speaking of Russia and Ukraine, the latter country recently dismissed claims of Zelensky’s alleged casino purchase in Cyprus. Labeling the claims as Russian misinformation and efforts to tarnish Ukraine’s reputation, the Embassy of Ukraine in Cyprus promised that the transaction was a lie.

In the meantime, MND, which owns Moravia Gas Storage, decided to purchase its remaining stake from Russian energy giant Gazprom. This means that KKGC, MND and Allwyn’s parent company, no longer has ties with Russia.

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Dana White Celebrates Adin Ross’ Gambling, Calls It Hardcore https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/dana-white-celebrates-adin-ross-gambling-calls-it-hardcore/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/dana-white-celebrates-adin-ross-gambling-calls-it-hardcore/#respond Fri, 07 Jun 2024 19:37:37 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/dana-white-celebrates-adin-ross-gambling-calls-it-hardcore/ UFC president Dana White recently rhapsodized about Adin Ross, noting that Ross has been more than dabbling in gambling, spending heavily without seemingly affecting his net worth. Adin Ross Celebrated by Dana White for Low Risk Aversion White, a bit of a gambling buff himself, appeared on the FLAGRANT podcast hosted by Akaash Sing and [...]

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UFC president Dana White recently rhapsodized about Adin Ross, noting that Ross has been more than dabbling in gambling, spending heavily without seemingly affecting his net worth.

Adin Ross Celebrated by Dana White for Low Risk Aversion

White, a bit of a gambling buff himself, appeared on the FLAGRANT podcast hosted by Akaash Sing and Andrew Schulz. White became very passionate about gambling when it was brought up and shared a story about Charles Barkley, who once wagered $650,000 at a party.

Barkley is known for his often excessive gambling and not always wise decisions. Yet, White was fascinated by Barkley’s risk aversion and was happy to share the story. “I’ll tell you this, though—Charles Barkley is a gambler, too. Charles Barkley came to Power Slap, and the one that we did at the Durango, I have a big gambling party after, and he f**king beat him for, like, $650,000,” White recounted.

Even Barkley’s exploits paled in comparison with what Adin Ross was able to do during Power Slap. “This kid is what, 22? He goes on fking… he’s up a million, he’s down $750,000, he’s up $1,500,000 in a fking Power Slap weekend,” White said, growing more excited with his account.

Adin Ross has been a fixture in gambling and streaming, often finding himself in controversial stories. He once lost $4 million in a single session, and a UNILAD story claimed that he also cheated during a game with marked cards.

In the meantime, criticism against the streamer had been shut down by fellow gambling icons, such as xQc, real name Félix Lengyel, who said that people who criticized him or Adin Ross were hypocrites who would have opted the same deals if they were offered to them. Admittedly, the paychecks both streamers command are enough to tempt the majority of people.

Adin Ross Continues to Fascinate with His Relentless Affinity for Gambling

He is also said to have lost $15 million in a single gambling session, according to media news outlet The SportsRush, citing the player’s own account, but the story was never corroborated by other sources.

Whether it’s betting or casino gaming, Adin Ross has been keen to participate, according to popular accounts. Ross also made headlines when he announced that he would be quitting his Twitch streaming career (he had been banned by the platform) to join Kick, a newly formed rival at the time. Twitch did consider unbanning Ross, but the CEO faced public criticism for potentially allowing gambling to proliferate on the Amazon-owned platform.

The streamer was also escorted out of a TwitchCon event in October 2023, following his ban from Twitch. At the time, Ross arrived with a few friends, donning Kick apparel to promote the new platform. He and his entourage were escorted out by security.

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KRAIL Blocks 371 Illegal Gambling Websites in Ukraine Amid Regulatory Uncertainty https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/krail-blocks-371-illegal-gambling-websites-in-ukraine-amid-regulatory-uncertainty/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/krail-blocks-371-illegal-gambling-websites-in-ukraine-amid-regulatory-uncertainty/#respond Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:30:29 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/07/krail-blocks-371-illegal-gambling-websites-in-ukraine-amid-regulatory-uncertainty/ The Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL), Ukraine’s gambling regulator, has taken decisive action against illegal gambling activities in the country. Recently, KRAIL blocked 371 websites offering illegal gambling services as part of a joint effort with the Security Service of Ukraine. This move was formalized through Order No. 451/2256, which targeted [...]

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krail_blocks_illegal_gambling_websites_amid_uncertain_future The Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL), Ukraine’s gambling regulator, has taken decisive action against illegal gambling activities in the country. Recently, KRAIL blocked 371 websites offering illegal gambling services as part of a joint effort with the Security Service of Ukraine. This move was formalized through Order No. 451/2256, which targeted the domain names of these unauthorized gambling sites.

The order mandates electronic communication service providers to block the specified websites using their Domain Name System (DNS) servers. Between April and May, KRAIL and the Security Service issued over 1,000 orders to restrict access to various domain names and subdomains on DNS servers, further intensifying the crackdown on illegal gambling operations.

Uncertainty Over KRAIL’s Future

KRAIL’s recent actions come at a time when the future of the regulator is in question. In April, the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, voted to dissolve KRAIL after more than a year of contention over its effectiveness in regulating the gambling industry. The opposition to KRAIL’s operation stemmed from dissatisfaction with its regulatory performance, particularly its delays in processing license applications.

KRAIL is currently composed of a collegial body with a chairman and six members. Meetings are only valid if at least five members are present. However, some commission members were mobilized for military service following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, causing significant delays in regulatory processes, including the issuance of licenses.

The legislative bill that includes KRAIL’s dissolution also proposes stricter measures on gambling advertising and other regulatory controls. This bill is set for a second reading, and if passed, it will become law upon the signature of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Future of Gambling Regulation in Ukraine

Should KRAIL be dissolved, the responsibility for regulating gambling will be transferred to the Ministry of Digital Transformation. Alina Plyushch, a partner at Kyiv-based law firm Sayenko Kharenko, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the future structure of gambling regulation. “This is pending a further government decision on the creation of a new regulator under the digital transformation ministry’s umbrella,” Plyushch said.

She also noted the possibility that the Ministry of Digital Transformation might retain regulatory functions indefinitely. The exact duration and structure of this transitional regulatory framework remain unclear, leaving the future of Ukraine’s gambling industry in a state of flux.

As KRAIL continues its efforts to combat illegal gambling, the impending legislative changes pose significant questions about the long-term regulatory landscape for gambling in Ukraine. The outcome of the legislative process and subsequent government decisions will determine the next steps for ensuring a well-regulated and compliant gambling market in the country.

Source:

“КРАІЛ про обмеження доступу до 371 вебсайту, через які надавався доступ до нелегальних азартних ігор”. The Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL). June 5, 2024.

Ukraine regulator blocks 371 illegal gambling sites. iGaming Business. June 6, 2024.

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Spanish Online Gambling Market Reports Q1 2024 Growth with €350.7M GGR https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/06/spanish-online-gambling-market-reports-q1-2024-growth-with-e350-7m-ggr/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/06/spanish-online-gambling-market-reports-q1-2024-growth-with-e350-7m-ggr/#respond Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:51:54 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/06/spanish-online-gambling-market-reports-q1-2024-growth-with-e350-7m-ggr/ The Spanish online gambling market has shown robust growth in the first quarter of 2024, as reported by the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ). The Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) for the quarter reached €350.69 million, marking an 11.23% increase quarter-over-quarter and a 15.14% increase year-over-year. This significant rise underscores the market’s resilience [...]

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The Spanish online gambling market has shown robust growth in the first quarter of 2024, as reported by the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ). The Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) for the quarter reached €350.69 million, marking an 11.23% increase quarter-over-quarter and a 15.14% increase year-over-year. This significant rise underscores the market’s resilience and recovery from previous fluctuations.

Growth Across Key Segments

spanish_online_gambling_report_q1_2024_ggr_up_15_1pctIn terms of player transactions, both deposits and withdrawals showed notable increases compared to the previous year, rising by 15.85% and 13.90%, respectively. Quarter-over-quarter, deposits grew by 5.61% while withdrawals saw a modest increase of 0.72%. Despite the overall growth, marketing expenditure saw a slight decrease of 1.0% quarter-over-quarter, while the number of new accounts surged by 15.21%.

The GGR is distributed across various gaming segments, with betting, casino, bingo, contests, and poker all contributing to the total. Betting accounted for €150.28 million (42.85% of the total GGR), followed by the casino segment with €167.76 million (47.84%). Bingo contributed €4.19 million (1.19%), contests €0.002 million (0.00%), and poker €28.45 million (8.11%).

Betting and Casino Drive Growth

The betting segment experienced a significant positive variation rate of 30.99% quarter-over-quarter and 15.37% year-over-year. This growth was largely driven by a remarkable 588.84% increase in pre-match betting, although in-play sports betting saw a decline of 31.69%. Other betting categories also grew by 1.57% this quarter, whereas horse betting decreased by 28.36%.

The casino segment, despite a slight quarter-over-quarter decline of 2.05%, showed a strong annual growth rate of 17.02%. Within the casino segment, slots increased by 14.98% year-over-year, and live roulette saw an impressive 22.19% growth. Quarter-over-quarter, Blackjack, conventional roulette, and live roulette grew by 7.32%, 9.69%, and 6.37%, respectively, while slots fell by 7.51%.

Other Segments Show Mixed Results

Bingo showed steady growth, with a 9.18% increase quarter-over-quarter and 24.93% year-over-year. Conversely, the contests segment continued its irregular performance, experiencing a dramatic fall of 96.79% quarter-over-quarter and 99.38% year-over-year.

Poker presented a positive outlook with an 11.98% quarter-over-quarter increase and a 3.99% year-over-year rise. Poker tournaments grew by 11.19% quarter-over-quarter and 2.04% year-over-year, while poker cash games increased by 13.91% compared to the previous quarter and 8.91% compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

Player Engagement and Market Dynamics

The average number of active game accounts per month reached 1,327,575, reflecting a 4.57% increase quarter-over-quarter and a 14.58% increase year-over-year. The average number of new game accounts per month stood at 148,862, with a growth of 15.21% quarter-over-quarter and 33.64% year-over-year.

For this quarter, there were 78 licensed operators in the market. The number of active operators by segment included 41 for betting, 4 for bingo, 50 for casino, 2 for contests, and 9 for poker.

Marketing Expenses

Marketing expenses for the last quarter totaled €112.79 million, broken down into €14.27 million for affiliation expenses, €1.07 million for sponsorship, €55.67 million for promotions, and €41.78 million for advertising. Compared to the previous quarter, marketing expenses declined by 1.00% but increased by 14.86% year-over-year. Specifically, sponsorship decreased by 12.55%, affiliates by 0.87%, advertising by 7.68%, while promotions increased by 4.93% quarter-over-quarter. Year-over-year, sponsorship fell by 27.23%, affiliates increased by 14.82%, advertising by 22.49%, and promotions by 10.92%.

Source: “1st Quarterly Report 2024”. Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling. June 4, 2024.

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Danish Gambling Authority Revises Anti-Money Laundering Guidance https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/04/danish-gambling-authority-revises-anti-money-laundering-guidance/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/04/danish-gambling-authority-revises-anti-money-laundering-guidance/#respond Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:05:48 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/04/danish-gambling-authority-revises-anti-money-laundering-guidance/ The Danish Gambling Authority, known as Spillemyndigheden, has released a refreshed version of its anti-money laundering (AML) guidance. This update, formulated after extensive consultations with external stakeholders, aims to support gambling operators, their employees, and other relevant parties. It complements the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s Guidance on Preventive Measures against Money Laundering and Financing of [...]

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The Danish Gambling Authority, known as Spillemyndigheden, has released a refreshed version of its anti-money laundering (AML) guidance. This update, formulated after extensive consultations with external stakeholders, aims to support gambling operators, their employees, and other relevant parties. It complements the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s Guidance on Preventive Measures against Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism.

New Guidance Incorporates Extensive Revisions

spillemyndigheden_updates_anti_money_laundering_guidanceThe revised AML guidance includes several key changes, particularly in the areas of risk assessment, policies, procedures, controls, and customer due diligence. These changes reflect both linguistic refinements and substantive updates. To help users navigate the revisions, a version history is now part of the guidance document, detailing specific amendments made.

Additionally, Spillemyndigheden has introduced a new document specifically focused on AML inspections. This document consolidates information that was previously scattered within the AML guidance, offering a comprehensive overview of the inspection process, potential outcomes, and confidentiality issues.

Ongoing Updates and Reporting Requirements

Spillemyndigheden is committed to keeping its anti-money laundering guidance current, ensuring alignment with updates to the Anti-Money Laundering Act, national risk assessments, and best practices in the field.

In other related developments, the authority updated its reporting requirements at the end of last month. These new requirements are set to take effect in 2025, although an exact implementation date has yet to be finalized.

Earlier this year, Spillemyndigheden also issued several orders and reprimands to the gambling operator SkillOnNet for breaches of AML regulations. The company received three orders for AML violations and two additional reprimands related to whistleblowing and business procedures, following an inspection of its compliance materials.

Source: “Spillemyndigheden updates anti-money laundering guidance”Gambling Insider. June 3, 2024.

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