Express Weekly Wrap-Up #1: European Markets Feel the Regulatory Squeeze

Welcome to the first edition of Express Weekly Wrap-Up! We’re breaking down the biggest stories: How did IGT respond to its cybersecurity breach? What regulatory changes are brewing in the Netherlands and France? And what strategic steps did Flutter and GiG take? Let’s catch you up on everything from the past few days—quick and to the point!

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International Game Technology (IGT) was hit by a cybersecurity breach on November 17, 2024. The company acted quickly, shutting down affected systems and ramping up its security response. The investigation is ongoing, and it’s still unclear how much of a financial impact this incident will have. What makes this situation even more intriguing is its timing—it comes just as Apollo Global Management is set to acquire part of IGT.

Pressure is mounting to regulate France’s online casino market. The illegal market currently generates massive profits—around €2 billion annually—and experts are debating how to introduce regulation while promoting responsible gaming and combating unauthorized operators. Nicolas Béraud, CEO of Betclic and head of AFJEL, has called the current situation unsustainable. France may look to Denmark’s approach to combating illegal gambling, particularly its success with DNS blocking, as a model. Proper regulation in France could have a transformative impact on the market, similar to the introduction of online sports betting in 2010.

The Dutch parliament is pushing for a complete ban on online gambling advertising in response to a growing number of addiction cases. The proposed measures include a total advertising ban, restrictions on payment methods, and increased funding for addiction treatment. Since the legalization of online gambling in 2021, unintended consequences have emerged, such as a rise in addiction and debt. The initiative, led by the Socialist Party and ChristenUnie, faces resistance from the government. However, government reports highlight the urgent need for reform.

Kevin Harrington, the former CEO of PokerStars, is stepping in as the new CEO of Flutter UK & Ireland, taking over from Ian Brown. This move is part of a broader shake-up at Flutter, which is streamlining its global operations into two main divisions: one focused on the U.S. and the other on international markets. The shift comes as Flutter pivots its strategy, including moving its primary stock listing to the New York Stock Exchange to reflect its growing focus on the U.S. market. Both Brown and Flutter Entertainment CEO Peter Jackson have spoken positively about the changes and the company’s bright future.

GiG Software and Betsson Group have decided to extend their partnership, continuing the collaboration that first began in 2022. The deal focuses on using GiG’s cutting-edge technology, including AI and automation, to boost the scalability and innovation of Betsson’s platform, with a particular focus on its Zecure brand. The partnership is designed to help Betsson expand into new regulated markets and streamline its operations. Both companies have praised the success of their work together so far and reaffirmed their shared dedication to innovation.

That’s it for this edition of Express Weekly! Stay tuned to our newsletter and the iGamingExpress website to keep up with the latest happenings in the iGaming industry.