Brazil’s President Calls for Ban on Online Casinos – Move Challenges 2023 Regulatory Framework

Key Takeaways

President Lula Signals Legislative Push Against Online Casino Games

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has publicly called for legislation to prohibit online casino games in the country. The statement was delivered during a nearly six minute national radio and television address linked to International Women’s Day. The speech was broadcast nationwide on Saturday night and had been recorded two days earlier at the Palácio da Alvorada.

In his address, Lula described gambling addiction as a growing problem in Brazilian households. He stated that although most gambling addicts are men, the financial consequences often fall on women. According to the president, money intended for food, rent, and children’s education is being lost through gambling on mobile phones.

Lula also referred to popular online games such as the so called “Jogos do Tigrinho” or “Tiger game,” describing them as examples of digital gambling that should not be allowed to operate in homes. He emphasized that land based casinos are currently prohibited in Brazil and questioned the logic of allowing similar gambling activities to take place online.

The president said the government would work together with the National Congress and the judiciary to ensure that digital casino platforms do not continue operating in a way that, in his words, indebts families and harms households.

Contrast With the 2023 Online Betting Law

The president’s remarks mark a significant shift from the regulatory framework approved under his own administration in 2023. That legislation was originally introduced by the Ministry of Finance, led by Minister Fernando Haddad, with the primary objective of regulating sports betting platforms that were already active in Brazil without a formal legal structure.

During debate in the Chamber of Deputies, Representative Adolfo Viana introduced an amendment expanding the scope of the bill. The amendment authorized so called online games, a category that includes online casino offerings such as the “Tiger game.” This change broadened the proposal beyond sports betting.

The Federal Senate later attempted to restrict the legislation exclusively to sports betting by removing the provision that authorized online casino games. However, the Chamber of Deputies reinstated the clause before the final vote. President Lula signed the legislation into law in December 2023 without vetoing the expanded provisions.

As a result, the legal framework that emerged permits both sports betting operators and online casino platforms to operate under regulated conditions in Brazil. The regulation governing sports betting came into effect in January 2025.

Lula’s latest statements therefore contrast with the policy direction established by the earlier law. While the current framework allows digital betting platforms, the government is now signaling a willingness to pursue legal changes that could prohibit certain forms of online gambling.

Focus on Household Finances and Social Impact

In his speech, Lula framed the issue primarily as a matter of household financial stability and social welfare. He stated that gambling losses frequently undermine family budgets and redirect resources intended for essential expenses.

The address was linked to International Women’s Day and included references to government actions aimed at combating gender based violence. Lula stated that violence against women is not a private matter and highlighted broader policy priorities connected to women’s welfare.

Within this context, he positioned online gambling as another factor contributing to financial and social pressures within families. By highlighting the disproportionate burden on women, the president connected gambling regulation to a wider social agenda.

Implications for Brazil’s Regulated Online Gambling Market

Brazil currently operates under a legal framework that explicitly authorizes both sports betting and online casino activities. Any prohibition of online casino games would therefore require legislative changes and coordination between the executive branch, Congress, and potentially the judiciary.

For operators and users, the president’s announcement introduces the prospect of regulatory adjustments affecting the availability of online casino style games. The existing framework was designed to bring previously unregulated platforms into a formal system. A reversal or modification of that approach would alter the scope of permitted activities.

At this stage, no specific legislative text has been presented. The president has stated an intention to work with Congress and the judiciary to introduce measures aimed at preventing the continued operation of digital casino platforms.

Our Assessment

President Lula’s call for legislation to prohibit online casino games represents a potential policy shift from the 2023 framework that authorized both sports betting and online casino operations in Brazil. The proposal focuses on concerns about gambling addiction and its financial impact on households, particularly women.

If pursued, the initiative would require changes to existing law and coordination with Congress and the judiciary. For users and operators in Brazil’s regulated online gambling market, the development signals that the current scope of permitted digital casino activities may face renewed legislative scrutiny.

Neosurf Appoints Laura Moore as Chief Strategy & Operations Officer – Focus on Global Expansion and Operational Integration

Key Takeaways

Laura Moore Joins Neosurf’s Senior Leadership Team

Neosurf has announced the appointment of Laura Moore as Chief Strategy & Operations Officer. She joins the company’s senior leadership team following a period in which she supported the business as an expert consultant.

In her new role, Moore becomes responsible for shaping Neosurf’s corporate strategy and supporting its next phase of growth. The company states that her mandate includes driving market expansion, identifying future mergers and acquisitions opportunities, and establishing strategic partnerships intended to strengthen its position in the cash to digital payments sector.

Her appointment formalizes an advisory relationship and places her at the center of strategic and operational decision making. According to Neosurf, this step reflects an effort to align long term planning with day to day operational execution.

Operational Oversight Across Global Teams

As Chief Strategy & Operations Officer, Moore will oversee Neosurf’s global operations teams. Her responsibilities include ensuring the delivery of secure and compliant payment services for millions of users worldwide.

The company specifies that her remit extends across core operational functions. These include global settlements, treasury operations, risk management, and regulatory adherence. In addition, she is tasked with re engineering a number of the company’s core business processes.

By consolidating oversight of these areas under one executive role, Neosurf links its strategic objectives with operational control functions. For users and partners, this structure directly relates to how payment services are processed, monitored, and aligned with regulatory requirements.

Focus on Strategy, M&A, and Partnerships

Beyond operational leadership, Moore will spearhead corporate strategy. This includes evaluating expansion opportunities and identifying potential mergers and acquisitions.

The company also states that she will be responsible for forging key strategic partnerships. Such partnerships are intended to support Neosurf as it enters what it describes as the next phase of its growth.

For businesses operating in online payments and digital services, structured partnerships and acquisition strategies can influence product availability, geographic reach, and integration capabilities. Within Neosurf’s framework, these initiatives are positioned as central components of its development plan.

Professional Background in Consumer Tech and Platform Development

Neosurf highlights Moore’s previous experience in consumer technology, platform development, and senior management roles. She has worked for several high profile B2B and B2C companies, including Vodafone and Sky.

This background is cited as a foundation for her dual focus on strategic vision and hands on operational management. According to the company, her experience will support efforts to unify operations and promote continuous improvement across business functions.

In addition to her corporate roles, Moore co founded LIFT as we Climb, an organization dedicated to advancing and celebrating women in technology. Neosurf identifies her as a thought leader in the technology space and notes that her perspective will contribute to its development in the cash to digital payments industry.

Statements from Company Leadership

Laura Moore stated that she is taking on the role at what she described as a key moment in the group’s evolution. She identified her priorities as driving sustainable growth, ensuring operational excellence, and building scalable frameworks necessary for future expansion.

Andrea McGeachin, Global CEO of Neosurf, commented that Moore’s experience as a global strategist and advocate for women in technology positions her to make a significant impact. McGeachin also emphasized the company’s expectations that Moore’s leadership will support its continued growth.

These statements align with the formal scope of the role, which combines strategic direction with operational management.

Implications for Neosurf’s Payment Operations

Neosurf describes itself as a cash to digital payments company with responsible gaming at its core. The Chief Strategy & Operations Officer role therefore sits at the intersection of payment processing, compliance oversight, and long term expansion planning.

By assigning responsibility for settlements, treasury, risk management, and regulatory adherence to a single executive, the company consolidates functions that are central to payment service reliability and compliance standards. For users and business partners, these areas affect transaction security, operational stability, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.

Moore’s mandate to re engineer core processes indicates a review and potential restructuring of existing operational workflows. The company frames this as creating a foundation that supports its long term vision.

Our Assessment

Neosurf’s appointment of Laura Moore as Chief Strategy & Operations Officer centralizes strategic planning and operational control within one executive position. Her responsibilities cover corporate strategy, market expansion, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and oversight of key operational functions including settlements, treasury, risk management, and regulatory adherence. The move formalizes her previous advisory role and positions her as a core decision maker as the company advances its global operations and growth plans.

New Zealand to Launch Online Casino Licensing in July 2026 – Government Moves to Regulate Offshore-Focused Market

Key Takeaways

Online Casino Gambling Bill Sets Legal Framework

New Zealand is preparing to formally regulate its online casino sector, which has so far been largely served by offshore providers. According to a timeline published by the Department of Internal Affairs, the licensing process will begin in July 2026.

The legal basis for the new system is the Online Casino Gambling Bill. The bill passed its first reading in July 2025 and is expected to become law in May following additional parliamentary stages. Once enacted, it will introduce domestic oversight for online casino operators targeting New Zealand consumers.

Government estimates indicate that more than NZ$750 million, equivalent to about $442.54 million, is spent each year by New Zealand players on offshore online casino platforms. The new framework is designed to bring this activity under national regulation.

Licence Cap and Three-Stage Allocation Process

The number of online casino licences will be limited to 15 operators. These licences will be distributed through a structured, three-stage process aimed at ensuring compliance and competitive fairness.

First, once the bill becomes law, operators will be invited to submit an expression of interest. This window is expected to remain open for one to two months.

Second, a licence auction will take place within one month after the expression of interest period closes. Bidding is expected to last up to two months. Only companies that successfully secure a licence during this auction will move to the final stage.

Third, successful bidders must submit full applications. Authorities will assess these applications based on criteria that include consumer protection standards, financial stability, and operational integrity. The evaluation phase is projected to take between four and six months.

Initial licences will be granted for up to three years. Renewals will depend on continued compliance with regulatory requirements.

Application Deadline and Enforcement Measures

The Department of Internal Affairs has set December 1, 2026 as the deadline for operators to apply for a licence. Companies that fail to do so must stop offering online casino services in New Zealand.

Non-compliant operators may face financial penalties of up to NZ$5 million, equivalent to approximately $2.95 million. Authorities may also remove operators from the market if they do not adhere to the new legal requirements.

For international operators currently serving New Zealand customers without a local licence, this deadline establishes a clear compliance timeline. After December 1, 2026, continuing to operate without approval could result in enforcement action.

Taxation and Community Funding Requirements

Under the proposed framework, licensed operators will be subject to a 12% gaming duty. In addition, the government plans to introduce a community funding guarantee equivalent to 4% of gross gaming revenue.

Officials estimate that the measures could generate between $10 million and $20 million in the first 12 months of operation. Earlier versions of the proposal had faced opposition from sports organisations, which warned that the reform could reduce community funding by more than $150 million.

In response, the government incorporated specific funding guarantees into the bill to address these concerns. The 4% gross gaming revenue requirement forms part of that approach.

Harm Prevention and Player Protection Measures

The legislation also includes provisions aimed at reducing gambling-related harm. According to data from the New Zealand Gambling Survey 2023/24, offshore online gambling participation is more common among younger men and certain ethnic groups, particularly in areas experiencing social deprivation.

To address these risks, the bill introduces mandatory age verification requirements and restrictions on advertising that targets children. These measures form part of the broader regulatory criteria that operators must meet during the application and ongoing compliance process.

Consumer protection standards will be a core component of the full application assessment, alongside financial and operational checks.

What the Timeline Means for Operators and Players

The licensing window beginning in July 2026 marks the start of a formal transition from an offshore-dominated market to a regulated domestic system. With licences capped at 15 and allocated via auction, market access will be limited and competitive.

Operators currently serving New Zealand customers must decide whether to enter the licensing process or exit the market before the December 1, 2026 deadline. The combination of a capped licence structure, auction mechanism, and defined tax obligations introduces clear entry conditions.

For players, the shift means that online casino services will increasingly be offered by domestically licensed providers subject to local oversight, tax contributions, and harm prevention requirements.

Our Assessment

New Zealand is moving to regulate an online casino market currently estimated at more than NZ$750 million annually in offshore spending. The Online Casino Gambling Bill establishes a capped licensing system, a structured auction process, defined tax obligations, and mandatory harm prevention measures. With applications opening in July 2026 and a compliance deadline of December 1, 2026, the government has set a clear timetable for transitioning to a domestically supervised online casino framework.

Klobuchar and Merkley Introduce Bill to Bar Federal Officials From Prediction Markets – Legislative Move Targets Insider Trading Concerns

Key Takeaways

Lawmakers Introduce the End Prediction Market Corruption Act

Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Jeff Merkley have filed new legislation designed to restrict the participation of federal officials in prediction markets. The proposed measure, titled the End Prediction Market Corruption Act, would bar government officials from accessing these platforms.

According to the information provided, the initiative is framed as a response to a series of insider trading controversies. The lawmakers are positioning the bill as a safeguard intended to prevent potential misuse of non public information by individuals holding government positions.

The legislation specifically targets access to prediction markets. While the proposal has been introduced, further details about its scope, enforcement mechanisms, or timeline have not been disclosed in the source material.

Focus on Insider Trading Controversies

The filing of the End Prediction Market Corruption Act comes amid what is described as a series of insider trading controversies. Although the source does not outline individual cases or investigations, the reference indicates that concerns about information asymmetry and potential conflicts of interest are central to the lawmakers’ effort.

By seeking to block federal officials from participating in prediction markets, the bill aims to reduce the risk that individuals with access to sensitive or market moving information could use that knowledge in a trading context. The proposal reflects a legislative attempt to address perceived vulnerabilities tied to the intersection of public office and financial activity on emerging digital platforms.

No additional information has been provided regarding which categories of officials would be covered or whether the restrictions would apply during active service only. The text of the proposal, as referenced, is focused on limiting access in order to curb what lawmakers describe as corruption risks.

Implications for Prediction Market Platforms

If enacted, the End Prediction Market Corruption Act would directly affect who is permitted to participate in prediction markets within the scope of federal employment. Platforms operating in this space would likely need to consider compliance measures to ensure restricted individuals cannot access their services.

The source material does not detail how such restrictions would be implemented or monitored. However, the legislative intent centers on preventing participation by government officials, suggesting that operators could face new obligations if the bill advances through Congress.

For users of digital trading and wagering platforms, including those active in adjacent sectors such as crypto based markets or online betting, legislative scrutiny of prediction markets may signal broader attention from policymakers. The proposal highlights the increasing regulatory focus on how public officials interact with financial and quasi financial digital markets.

Legislative Context and Next Steps

At this stage, the End Prediction Market Corruption Act has been introduced but not yet enacted. The legislative process will determine whether the bill moves forward, is amended, or remains under consideration.

The involvement of two sitting senators underscores that the issue has reached the federal legislative agenda. The stated objective is to prevent government officials from engaging with prediction markets in order to address concerns linked to insider trading controversies.

No timeline has been provided for committee review, debate, or potential voting procedures. As with any proposed federal legislation, the bill would need to pass both chambers of Congress and receive presidential approval before becoming law.

Our Assessment

The introduction of the End Prediction Market Corruption Act marks a formal legislative effort to restrict federal officials from accessing prediction markets. The measure is explicitly linked to insider trading controversies and seeks to limit potential conflicts involving government figures. While details about implementation and scope remain undisclosed, the proposal places prediction markets within the broader discussion of ethics and financial conduct among public officials. For platform operators and users, the bill signals heightened political attention to participation rules and compliance standards in this segment of the digital market landscape.

Onlyplay Launches Clover Treasure Hold and Win Slot – 3×3 Format Combines Multi Round Bonus and Four Jackpots

Key Takeaways

Game Structure and Mathematical Profile

Onlyplay has introduced Clover Treasure: Hold and Win as a compact 3×3 slot built around a Hold and Win feature. The format reduces the grid size compared to standard five reel layouts and keeps spins visually focused on a limited number of positions.

The game runs with a return to player rate of 95.66 percent, a HIT rate of 10.15 percent, and medium volatility. These figures define how often combinations are expected to occur and how payouts are distributed over time. A HIT rate of 10.15 percent indicates the frequency at which winning outcomes are triggered, while medium volatility signals a balance between smaller, more regular returns and less frequent higher values.

For users comparing slot titles across platforms, these parameters provide measurable indicators of risk and payout structure. RTP and volatility in particular are commonly used benchmarks when evaluating different casino offerings.

Four Jackpot Tiers Integrated Into Base Gameplay

Clover Treasure: Hold and Win includes four jackpot levels: Mini, Minor, Major, and Grand. According to the game description, these jackpots are integrated directly into the core mechanics rather than operating as a separate side feature.

Their values fluctuate depending on Coin symbols that appear during play. This design links jackpot progression to symbol outcomes within the main grid. Instead of triggering an independent jackpot round, players encounter jackpot related values as part of regular spin results.

For users assessing jackpot slots, this structure means that jackpot participation is embedded in standard gameplay rather than tied to an external prize pool mechanism described separately. The jackpot labels indicate tiered reward levels, with values changing in relation to Coin symbols.

Hold and Win Mechanic With Accumulator Function

The central feature of the title is its Hold and Win system. When Coin symbols land on the grid, their assigned values move into an accumulator. As additional Coin symbols appear, the accumulated total increases.

This mechanic creates visible progression within the base game. Each new Coin contributes to a growing value, allowing players to track incremental development across spins. The structure keeps spins brief and continuous within the 3×3 grid, maintaining a consistent rhythm.

Hold and Win formats are commonly built around collecting and locking specific symbols. In this case, the accumulator function emphasizes value aggregation during standard play before or alongside entry into the dedicated bonus sequence.

Multi Round Bonus Coin Game With Reset Mechanism

A defining element of Clover Treasure: Hold and Win is its Bonus Coin Game, which can extend across multiple rounds. When a full screen is achieved, the board clears and resets. After the reset, new symbols can land and additional values can be collected.

This reset mechanism differentiates the feature from single screen bonus formats that conclude once all positions are filled. Here, the cleared grid enables continued symbol accumulation across successive stages. As a result, the total collected amount can expand over several cycles within the same bonus session.

During the bonus feature, a Sticky Collect symbol remains active. Each Coin that lands transfers its value directly to this symbol, consolidating all collected amounts into a cumulative total. This ensures that newly landed Coin values are automatically added without requiring additional triggers.

Wild symbols are also part of the game design. Each Wild carries an individual multiplier that can enhance winning combinations when activated. This adds another variable to payout calculations during both base and bonus phases.

Theme and Distribution

The game uses a St. Patrick’s Day inspired aesthetic. The visual setting centers on green tones, clovers, coins, and gold themed elements. This seasonal theme frames the mathematical and feature structure within a recognizable visual context.

Clover Treasure: Hold and Win is accessible via integration platforms, indicating that operators can add the title through standard content aggregation systems. A demo version is available online, allowing users to review mechanics and features before engaging with real money play where offered.

For comparison platform users, demo availability enables direct assessment of gameplay flow, feature triggers, and volatility characteristics without financial exposure.

Our Assessment

Clover Treasure: Hold and Win combines a 3×3 slot structure with a Hold and Win accumulator mechanic, four integrated jackpot tiers, and a multi round bonus that resets after a full screen. The published RTP of 95.66 percent, HIT rate of 10.15 percent, and medium volatility define its mathematical profile. Jackpot progression is tied directly to Coin symbols within standard gameplay, and the Sticky Collect symbol consolidates values during the bonus phase. The title is distributed through integration platforms and includes an online demo version, enabling users to review its mechanics before selecting it on supported casino sites.

One in Five Swedes Bet Online and One in Six Play Online Casinos – New Survey Details Participation and Player Behavior

Key Takeaways

Survey Scope and Methodology in the Regulated Swedish Market

The findings come from the 2025 edition of Casinotempen, part of the Casinofeber research project examining participation and player behavior within Sweden’s regulated gambling sector. The survey was conducted between July 3 and July 17, 2025.

Researchers initially screened 3,463 respondents. From this group, they focused on 1,004 individuals who actively gamble online. The final sample consisted of 501 online casino players and 503 sports betting players. Results were weighted according to gender and age to better reflect the broader population.

The data provides a snapshot of how online gambling is distributed across different segments of Swedish society, including age, gender, income, education, and gambling frequency.

Online Betting Reaches More Users Than Online Casino

According to the survey, online sports betting has a slightly larger reach than online casino gaming in Sweden. Around one in five Swedes take part in sports betting. In comparison, nearly one in six participate in online casino games.

Online casino players tend to be somewhat younger than sports bettors. The typical age range for casino players falls between 39 and 42 years. Sports betting players are on average older, ranging from 42 to 49 years.

Employment levels are high in both groups. About two thirds of respondents report working full time. Among online casino players, the most common monthly income range is between 30,000 and 40,000 Swedish crowns. This indicates that participation is common among middle income households rather than being concentrated in a narrow income segment.

Brand Awareness and User Ratings Among Operators

Brand recognition remains strong across both casino and sportsbook segments.

Among online casino brands, LeoVegas achieved the highest recognition level at 69 percent. Other well known operators include bet365, Unibet, and Betsson. When players were asked to rate casinos, Expekt received the highest average score at 3.84.

In the sports betting segment, Svenska Spel leads in brand awareness. A total of 86 percent of respondents recognize the brand, and 64 percent report having placed bets through the platform. ATG and Unibet are also widely recognized among sports bettors.

These figures show that established brands maintain high visibility among Swedish players, both in casino and sportsbook categories.

Player Profile and Betting Preferences

Sports betting participation shows a distinct demographic profile compared with online casino.

Men account for 62 percent of sports betting players. This group also demonstrates higher levels of education compared with casino players, according to the survey results.

Football stands out as the dominant betting market. A total of 63 percent of bettors place wagers on football. Horse racing follows at 30 percent, and ice hockey at 29 percent. These figures indicate a clear concentration around specific sports.

Spending levels are generally modest. The most common monthly betting amount is below 99 SEK. However, 10 percent of sports bettors report spending more than 1,000 SEK per month. Gender differences are visible in spending patterns. Women tend to wager less, while men more often fall within the 200 to 999 SEK monthly range.

Betting frequency varies. About 24 percent of bettors place wagers once per week. Seven percent report gambling almost daily. Live betting is less common. While 45 percent say they sometimes place live bets, only 6 percent do so regularly.

Responsible Gambling Indicators and Use of Spelpaus

The survey also assessed borrowing behavior and awareness of responsible gambling tools.

Most respondents state that they have never borrowed money to gamble. Among online casino players, 84 percent report never borrowing funds. However, within the subgroup of weekly casino players, 28 percent say they have borrowed money at least once.

Among sports bettors, 93 percent report never borrowing money for gambling purposes.

Awareness of Sweden’s national self exclusion system, Spelpaus, remains high. Among casino players, 65 percent are aware of the system but have never used it. Thirteen percent report having used Spelpaus previously or currently.

Among sports betting players, 71 percent know about the service. Only 1 percent report that they are currently self excluded.

Our Assessment

The 2025 Casinotempen survey shows that online gambling participation in Sweden remains widespread, with sports betting slightly more common than online casino play. The data highlights clear demographic patterns, including age differences and a higher proportion of men in sports betting.

Spending levels are generally low for most users, and most respondents report not borrowing money to gamble. Awareness of the Spelpaus self exclusion system is high across both segments. Together, these findings provide a detailed picture of participation, brand recognition, and responsible gambling indicators within Sweden’s regulated online gambling market.

Malta Gaming Authority Invites Licensees to Contribute to EU AML Standards Consultation – New Draft Rules Target Customer Due Diligence and Reporting Obligations

Key Takeaways

Malta Gaming Authority Alerts Licensees to EU-Level AML Consultations

The Malta Gaming Authority has informed its licensees and other relevant stakeholders that the European Union has opened public consultations on new draft anti-money laundering standards. The consultations are being conducted by the newly established EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority, which is responsible for developing technical standards under the updated EU framework.

According to the Authority, the draft measures are directly relevant to the non-financial sector, which includes gaming. By notifying authorized persons, the regulator is encouraging early engagement with proposals that may shape future compliance obligations for gaming operators licensed in Malta.

The consultation phase comes as the European Union advances toward a more unified and risk-sensitive legislative regime for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. For operators offering online gambling and related services, including those accepting digital payments, changes at EU level can influence operational processes, customer verification requirements, and reporting structures.

Three Draft Regulatory Technical Standards Under Review

The public consultations concern three separate draft Regulatory Technical Standards.

The first draft, issued under Article 28(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering Regulation – Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 – focuses on customer due diligence. This area covers how businesses verify the identity of their customers and assess risk in ongoing relationships.

The second draft, issued under Article 19(9) of the same Regulation, sets out criteria for identifying business relationships, occasional transactions, and linked transactions. It also addresses the determination of lower thresholds. These provisions are relevant for defining when customer due diligence measures must apply and how transactions are categorized under the regulatory framework.

The third draft standard is issued under Article 53(10) of the Anti-Money Laundering Directive – Directive (EU) 2024/1640. It relates to the reporting of material weaknesses. In practice, this concerns how obliged entities, including gaming operators, would report significant deficiencies in their internal controls or compliance systems.

Together, these draft standards form part of the EU’s broader anti-money laundering framework, which aims to harmonize obligations across Member States and sectors.

Deadlines and Participation Process for Gaming Operators

Two separate deadlines have been set by the EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority.

Feedback on the draft Regulatory Technical Standard under Article 53(10) of the Anti-Money Laundering Directive must be submitted by Monday, March 9, 2026. Responses to the two draft standards issued under Articles 28(1) and 19(9) of the Anti-Money Laundering Regulation are due by Friday, May 8, 2026.

The Malta Gaming Authority has encouraged licensees and stakeholders to review the draft texts carefully and to submit their responses directly to the EU authority through the designated consultation channels. It has also invited stakeholders to share written feedback with the Authority itself, which will use this input to inform its continued engagement as the EU legislative process progresses.

According to the regulator, this consultation stage represents an important legislative step for the gaming sector. It marks a point at which the EU-level authority is actively consulting on non-financial activities, including gaming.

Relevance for the Gaming and iGaming Sector

The Malta Gaming Authority has stated that early and informed participation can help ensure that the resulting technical standards remain proportionate and appropriately calibrated to sector-specific risks. For licensed gaming operators, anti-money laundering rules form a core part of regulatory compliance and are subject to ongoing supervision.

The proposed standards address operational areas that directly affect how gaming companies onboard customers, monitor transactions, and manage internal compliance systems. Requirements on customer due diligence and transaction classification can shape how platforms design verification processes. Obligations to report material weaknesses may also influence internal governance and risk management procedures.

By calling for engagement at this stage, the Maltese regulator is positioning its licensees to contribute to the development of detailed technical rules before they are finalized at EU level.

Our Assessment

The Malta Gaming Authority’s notice highlights that the EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority has entered a public consultation phase on three draft Regulatory Technical Standards relevant to the gaming sector. The drafts address customer due diligence, identification of business relationships and transactions, and reporting of material weaknesses under the updated EU anti-money laundering framework. With specific submission deadlines in March and May 2026, licensed operators have a defined window to provide feedback before the standards move further in the legislative process.

GLI Becomes First Accredited Test Laboratory in Santa Fe – New Certification Pathway for Gaming Suppliers and Operators

Key Takeaways

Santa Fe Grants First Test Laboratory Accreditation to GLI

The Caja de Asistencia Social – Lotería de Santa Fe has accredited Gaming Laboratories International as a test laboratory for the province. According to the announcement, GLI is the first laboratory to receive such approval from the Santa Fe gaming regulator.

The accreditation authorizes GLI to test and certify a broad range of gaming products. This includes land-based gaming machines as well as online games, related systems, and digital platforms. For companies planning to operate in Santa Fe, testing and certification by an approved laboratory form part of the regulatory requirements. With this decision, GLI is now officially authorized to provide those services within the province.

Karen Sierra-Hughes, Vice President of Latin America, Caribbean, and Spain at GLI, described the accreditation as an important step and noted that obtaining such approvals is a demanding process. The company stated that the recognition enables both regulators and suppliers to rely on its testing and certification services within the jurisdiction.

Scope of Authorization Covers Land-Based and Online Gaming

The scope of GLI’s accreditation in Santa Fe extends to multiple segments of the gaming industry. It includes certification of land-based gaming machines, which typically operate in physical venues, as well as online games and their associated systems and platforms.

For operators and suppliers, this means that products intended for the Santa Fe market can be submitted to GLI for evaluation against the standards set by the provincial regulator. Testing laboratories play a defined role in regulated markets by assessing whether gaming equipment and digital systems comply with technical and regulatory requirements before they are deployed.

The authorization therefore creates a formal pathway for companies seeking market access in the province. Instead of relying on approvals from outside the jurisdiction, suppliers and operators targeting Santa Fe can work directly with an accredited laboratory recognized by the local regulator.

Part of GLI’s Broader Presence in Argentina

The Santa Fe accreditation adds to GLI’s existing certifications in Argentina. The company already provides testing and certification services across multiple jurisdictions in the country. By securing approval in Santa Fe, GLI expands its formal recognition within another provincial regulatory framework.

GLI has maintained a local presence in Argentina and throughout Latin America for more than two decades. The company’s regional operations position it to work with regulators and industry participants across different jurisdictions. The latest approval reflects continued cooperation between GLI and provincial authorities in Argentina.

Sierra-Hughes noted that Argentina remains a dynamic country for gaming and stated that the accreditation allows suppliers and operators to enter the Santa Fe jurisdiction with full and proper testing and certification through GLI.

Implications for Suppliers and Operators Targeting Santa Fe

For companies active in gaming manufacturing, software development, or platform operations, regulatory approval is a prerequisite for entering new jurisdictions. In Santa Fe, the regulator’s decision establishes GLI as an officially recognized testing body for both physical and online gaming products.

Suppliers that intend to distribute gaming machines or offer online games in the province must ensure that their products meet local requirements. With GLI’s accreditation in place, these companies can use its services to obtain the necessary certifications. This may streamline the compliance process by providing a locally recognized testing route.

Operators planning to launch land-based or online gaming activities in Santa Fe can also rely on GLI’s certification as part of their licensing and approval procedures. The accreditation therefore has practical relevance for market entry and ongoing compliance within the province.

For international stakeholders following regulatory developments in Argentina, the decision signals that Santa Fe has formalized its relationship with at least one accredited test laboratory. This provides clarity on which certification bodies are authorized to assess gaming products under its regulatory framework.

Our Assessment

The accreditation of Gaming Laboratories International by the Caja de Asistencia Social – Lotería de Santa Fe establishes GLI as the first authorized test laboratory in the province. The approval covers both land-based gaming machines and online games, systems, and platforms. For suppliers and operators seeking entry into Santa Fe, the decision creates a defined pathway for obtaining required testing and certification through an accredited provider that already operates in multiple Argentine jurisdictions.