At SiGMA Europe 2024, held last week, the framework of “Regulation and Compliance” provided a platform for critical discussions on evolving industry challenges and regulatory shifts across key regions. These sessions were among the many insightful panels taking place throughout the three-day event.
One highlight was the panel titled “Are Mature EU Continental Gambling Markets at a Turning Point?” which explored whether well-established European markets may be on the cusp of transformation. Speakers evaluated the disruptive forces reshaping the industry, from stricter regulations to growing channelization challenges. Ricardo Domingues, President of the Portuguese Online Gambling Association (APAJO), commented on the need for fresh market initiatives: “To grow further and improve channelization in Portugal, the market needs new products and a stronger regulatory focus on eliminating illegal gambling across Europe.” His statement underscored a broader European call for regulatory alignment to sustain market growth while safeguarding legal integrity.
The panel “Shaping the Future of Player Protection and a Potential Post-Advertising Ban in Northern Europe” addressed the complexities faced by operators in a region increasingly defined by advertising restrictions. This discussion, featuring industry experts such as James Scicluna of WH Partners and David Yatom Hay, General Counsel at Soft2Bet, examined the real impact of advertising bans on player protection and market stability. The panellists debated whether such bans, initially introduced without comprehensive empirical evidence, have achieved their intended goals of reducing problem gambling. Reflecting on the unintended effects of these restrictions, Scicluna noted that a lack of advertising drives players to unregulated operators, undermining both player protection and tax revenue.
Further insights were shared by Justin Franssen, who highlighted recent developments in the Dutch market, where restrictions have become increasingly stringent. He explained how the “Orca decree,” a Dutch regulation that restricts untargeted gambling advertising in the Netherlands, introduced in response to excessive TV marketing, has forced operators to limit their outreach, particularly to vulnerable groups. The panellists collectively emphasized that while responsible gaming is a priority, regulation must balance player protection with the industry’s ability to operate effectively.
The discussions throughout SiGMA Europe underscored that regulatory approaches across Europe vary widely, impacting the industry in different ways. Many speakers stressed that fostering open communication between regulators and operators is essential for creating stable, well-regulated markets that benefit both industry and consumers. The ongoing collaboration and dialogue witnessed at SiGMA Europe continue to shape the future of regulation and compliance in gaming markets worldwide.
As the gaming world looks ahead, SiGMA invites you to join the upcoming SiGMA Eurasia summit in Ras Al-Khaimah, UAE from February 23-25, 2025, where pivotal topics like these will continue to be explored. For those interested in revisiting the content and insights from SiGMA Europe 2024, visit our official YouTube channel for comprehensive coverage of all panels and discussions.
