Gambling on lotteries has long been viewed differently to other forms of gambling. But as the lines between the different types of operators, games and verticals become increasingly blurred, is it time for a rethink? Joanne Christie reports
Veikkaus executive vice-president Velipekka Nummikoski has launched a robust defence of the operator’s Finnish gambling monopoly, warning that a change to a licensing regime would lead to a decline in funding for social causes and put players at risk.
A new study into the potential risks and rewards that would arise from Norway’s current gambling monopoly being replaced by a regime allowing offshore operators into the market has concluded that such a move could see problem gambling rise. This could also result in funds generated by Norsk Tipping for Norwegian society fall by as much as NOK1.3bn.
The first day’s panels at ICE VOX 2019 saw speakers talk up the need for cooperation between operators and regulators if the industry is to survive in the face of increasing regulatory pressure and worsening public opinion. Speakers also highlighted the importance of clarity on issues such as the Department of Justice’s reinterpretation of the Wire Act and what is expected of operators when it comes to player protection.
In the second part of iGaming Business' deep dive into the revised Wire Act opinion, ICE Sports Betting USA speakers stress the need for clarity from the Department of Justice as they look to work out the best way to interpret the ruling.
