Dutch land-based monopoly, Holland Casino, is facing tough times with a net loss of €3.5 million in the first half of the year. The proposed gambling tax increase in 2025 could push its total tax burden to nearly 50 percent, making it impossible to turn a profit. Similarly, Sweden’s horseracing monopoly, ATG, is also concerned about the impact of the recent tax increase on its operations.
In Portugal, a recent study by the Portuguese Online Gambling and Betting Association revealed that 41 percent of players are using unlicensed gambling platforms. This poses a significant challenge for licensed operators and highlights the need for better regulation and enforcement in the country.
The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has warned the Sauber Formula 1 team against promoting the Stake.com brand during the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix. Stake.com is not licensed in the Netherlands, making it illegal to advertise the brand in the country.
In Sweden, the closure of the final retail casino operated by Svenska Spel has raised concerns about the potential rise of illegal gambling activities. The government has been urged to consider allowing private casinos to operate in order to revitalize the land-based gambling sector.
Meanwhile, Evoke plc, the owner of William Hill, is looking to revamp its product suite with automation and AI to improve revenues in the second half of the year. The operator reported a decline in revenue in the first half of the year and is focusing on enhancing the customer experience to drive growth in the coming months. The introduction of new products like Betbuilder and Impact Sub aim to provide players with more flexibility and engagement opportunities.
These developments in the European gambling industry highlight the challenges and opportunities facing operators in a rapidly changing regulatory environment. As the industry continues to evolve, companies will need to adapt and innovate to stay competitive and meet the needs of players in the digital age.