Express Weekly Wrap-Up #9: Italy and Denmark Tighten Gambling Regulations

Italy and Denmark are implementing important regulatory changes in 2025, with Italy raising gambling taxes and introducing a €7 million online operator license fee, while Denmark shifts certification responsibilities to game suppliers and tightens security requirements. Meanwhile, the UK Gambling Commission warns operators about unauthorized game distribution. Amid these changes, Game Media Works continues its growth strategy, leveraging its diverse portfolio and rapid game development to expand in Latin America and North America. Discover these developments and more in Express Weekly!

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The UK Gambling Commission has issued a warning to licensed online casino operators regarding the distribution of gambling games on unlicensed websites accessible to UK consumers. The Commission emphasizes the risk of losing their licenses for operators who fail to prevent such violations and announces increased inspections, including test purchases. An investigation has revealed that the distribution of games is often carried out by independent resellers who frequently breach agreements with licensed operators. Unlicensed websites do not provide adequate consumer protection, exposing players to fraud and unfair practices. The Commission urges operators to monitor their business relationships and report any suspicious activities.

Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is under investigation for alleged involvement in illegal sports betting. The suspicion arises from an unusually high number of bets placed on Okoye receiving a yellow card in a match against Lazio, which raised concerns at betting agency Sisal. The investigation is also looking into the potential role of Diego Giordano, a pizzeria owner in Udine, who is suspected of acting as an intermediary in placing the bets. If found guilty, Okoye faces a minimum four-year suspension, though his lawyers deny the allegations, emphasizing a lack of evidence. Udinese has signed a new goalkeeper, which could be seen as a precautionary measure.

The success strategy of Game Media Works, an iGaming company operating since 2002, revolves around several key elements. The company boasts a diverse portfolio of over 300 slot games, with a rapid development cycle that delivers a new game every week for online platforms. A major focus of its growth strategy is the targeted expansion into the Latin American and North American markets. Game Media Works stands out by combining extensive industry experience with the agility of a smaller company, offering a high-quality gaming platform and a personalized approach to clients. The company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction further strengthens its position in the competitive market.

The amendment to Italy's gambling tax law has been approved as part of the 2025 budget. A key aspect of the reform is the extension of licenses for both online and land-based gambling operators, accompanied by significant changes in fees and taxation. Tax rates have been increased for various types of gambling, both online and offline, and a high licensing fee of €7 million has been imposed on online operators. The changes have elicited mixed reactions, with smaller operators expressing concerns about losing competitiveness, while foreign companies view Italy as a promising market with growth potential.

New, stricter certification regulations in the Danish gambling industry have been introduced by the Danish Gambling Authority (DGA), effective from January 1, 2025, with a six-month transition period. The key change shifts the responsibility for certification from license holders to game suppliers, streamlining the reporting process and enhancing transparency. The new regulations introduce three versions of requirements tailored to different industry segments: online betting, land-based betting, and online casinos, specifying criteria for random number generators (RNG), core platforms, and the games themselves. Additionally, the requirements for penetration testing and vulnerability scanning have been tightened, mandating specific certifications for personnel conducting these tests. The regulations aim to enhance security and ensure compliance with DGA standards, with the transition period allowing stakeholders to adapt before full enforcement on July 1, 2025.