Goldwin Ltd and the Winning Poker Network were slapped with fines by the KSA. The ANJ's ombudsman noticed a substantial decline of 20.8% in mediation requests, signaling a potential shift in dynamics. Over in Lithuania, Top Sport finds itself entangled in yet another web of penalties, adding to its already troubled journey. On a different front, the Netherlands ponders over the possibility of shaking up its gambling laws, potentially altering the course of the industry. And Norway's appeal court resolutely upheld an order against Kindred.
KSA fined Goldwin Ltd and Winning Poker Network
Dutch Gambling Authority imposes sanctions on two operators for illegally providing services to Dutch gamblers. KSA issued strong warnings to Winning Poker Network and Goldwin Ltd for operating without a valid Dutch license. While Goldwin promptly ceased its activities following the notice, Winning Poker Network chose to defy the directive.
Consequently, Winning Poker Network has been mandated to make weekly payments of €25,000 that are capped at a maximum limit of €75,000. Goldwin, on the other hand, has been levied a penalty of €239,000, with the possibility of escalating up to €717,000. If Goldwin repeats the offense of delivering its games to local players in the future, the penalty will be reinstated. Both decisions made by the KSA can be subjected to appeal.
ANJ: ombudsman sees 20.8% drop in mediation requests
The latest announcement from l'Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) reveals that Denys Millet, France's gambling ombudsman, experienced a notable decline of 20.8% in mediation requests in 2022, receiving a total of 1,373 cases.
Millet's role as the gambling ombudsman involves resolving conflicts between players and licensed operators in France with the aim of fostering harmonious resolutions.
Isabelle Falque Pierrotin, the president of ANJ, expressed optimism about the progress made in promoting safer gambling, highlighting the positive relationship between the regulator and the ombudsman.
Top Sport faces yet another penalty in Lithuania
Lithuanian gambling authority slaps €15,000 fine on the operator for unveiling an automated betting feature on the app. Automated bets persisted on Ezugi’s live roulette table despite the phone lock.
The Authority determined that this action disregarded Article 16, Parts 4 and 5 of Lithuania's Gambling Law, which outline specific gaming device requirements. Part 4 mandates compliance with Authority-approved standards, while Part 5 necessitates certification from accredited institutions. Top Sport has been warned that failure to rectify the situation or further breaches could result in the suspension of its Lithuanian license, with a deadline of July 1 for compliance.
It is important to note that all decisions made by the watchdog are subject to potential appeals. Top Sport faces double blow with €25,000 fine for allowing underage access to slot Salon, alongside recent penalty. The findings of The Authority's inquiry uncovered an intriguing revelation: a trio of individuals, featuring the presence of at least one adolescent, were granted access to the facility for over two hours. Top Sport did not take any actions to remove these individuals from their premises.
Netherlands considers gambling law reforms
The local watchdog, de Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has recommended amending gambling laws. The KSA urges the government to address key points, including granting the regulator the ability to create false identities for monitoring compliance.
They also emphasize the need to expand data usage from licensees for analysis and research. Additionally, the KSA suggests improvements to the Cruks self-exclusion procedure and modernizing land-based slot machine regulations. These changes aim to establish a safer and more responsible gaming environment for Dutch players.
Norway's appeal court upholds order against Kindred
The country’s Appeal Court rules against Kindred, upholding the gambling regulator's order to halt unlicensed gambling services. Kindred, operating through its Trannel subsidiary, must comply with Norwegian law and bear the legal costs of the case.
The Lotteries and Foundations Authority expresses satisfaction with the verdict, emphasizing the need for international gaming companies to follow regulations. The Culture and Equality Minister highlights the court's affirmation of the exclusive rights model in Norway.
This development is the latest in the ongoing legal dispute between Kindred and Norwegian authorities. The regulator initially directed Kindred to cease online gambling in April 2019, and the company faced daily fines until compliance was achieved.
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