A fresh sports wagering platform, Betr, has formally debuted in Massachusetts, marking its second state to provide real-currency gaming. The application boasts a distinctive user experience, showcasing betting options as multiple-choice inquiries with transparently exhibited probabilities.

In honor of the launch, Betr is hosting a celebration in Boston on May 12th. They’ll be entering a bustling Massachusetts market already populated by industry giants such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.

Betr aims to differentiate itself from rivals through its simplified interface and emphasis on micro-wagers. They intend to broaden their reach to additional states in the near future.

Subsequent to its prosperous Ohio debut in January 2023, Betr, the micro-wagering app phenomenon, has broadened its reach to Massachusetts. The enterprise garnered attention in Ohio by transforming into the most rapid application in the annals of the United States to transition from company establishment to a completely licensed and governed real-currency wagering offering.

Capitalizing on this impetus, Betr also recently procured the Chameleon framework from FansUnite for roughly $7 million, indicating ambitious expansion aspirations.

A gaming firm has been slammed with a substantial penalty of £2.87 million (roughly $3 million) due to numerous regulatory violations. It appears they weren’t precisely adhering to the guidelines regarding anti-money laundering and ethical obligations.

The UK Gambling Commission, the top dog in British gambling, essentially stated the company was caught napping when it came to monitoring its clientele. They weren’t taking sufficient measures to observe high rollers or those who abruptly began spending lavishly, a major warning sign of potential money laundering. Furthermore, their systems for encouraging responsible gaming were far too lenient – akin to setting an alarm for midday when one should be rising at daybreak.

In addition to these issues, the company seemingly overlooked a multitude of other crucial matters. They failed to adequately address money laundering and terrorism financing hazards, disregarded the Commission’s regulations, and essentially ignored the Money Laundering Regulations. A grave oversight!

As if the financial penalty wasn’t sufficient, the Gambling Commission also issued a stern formal caution. Leanne Oxley, the Commission’s chief enforcer, didn’t sugarcoat the situation, stating this was just the latest instance of them taking action against poorly behaving businesses. She effectively put everyone on alert, emphasizing the need to improve or face consequences.

And lest anyone believe they could escape notice, the Commission recently imposed a comparable fine on another company, LeoVegas.

The telecommunications regulator is taking a firm stance against mobile providers who fail to adequately address money laundering concerns. A significant financial penalty was recently levied against one company, serving as a stark warning to others that failure to improve their practices could result in fines reaching as high as £32 million. The regulator is sending a clear message that safeguarding consumers from financial malfeasance is of the utmost importance.

A premier global online sports wagering platform, bet365, is aggressively targeting the American market. They’ve recently unveiled their Virginia launch, marking their fourth state following prosperous entries in Ohio, New Jersey, and Colorado. This is a significant development for Virginian sports enthusiasts, who gain access to bet365’s premium platform and a diverse selection of wagering choices.

Furthermore, Washington Commanders supporters are in for a treat! bet365 has secured a multi-year agreement to be the team’s official sports betting associate. Anticipate seeing bet365 branding prominently displayed throughout FedExField, accompanied by exclusive promotions and deals crafted specifically for Commanders fans. It’s evident that bet365 is committed to becoming a dominant force in the US sports betting landscape, and this recent action demonstrates their dedication to backing their ambitions.

This is a revolutionary development for our supporters in Virginia and all athletics enthusiasts,” stated Ryan Moreland, Head of Partnerships for the Washington Commanders. “We’re delighted to collaborate with bet365 to deliver captivating chances to interact with the sport we adore.”

Residents of Virginia who are unfamiliar with bet365 can join the excitement with an exceptional promotion: put down a mere $10 and wager $1 to receive $200 in bonus wagers.

“The Commanders are a legendary NFL team with a devoted following,” remarked a bet365 spokesperson. “We’re eager to work closely with the organization to provide an unmatched wagering experience.”

Here’s a glimpse of what new users can anticipate with bet365:

* **A state-of-the-art interface:** Feel the rush of in-game wagering, withdrawal choices, and the adaptability to modify your bets.
* **Amplify your earnings:** Capitalize on enhanced odds across a variety of sports and optimize your returns with parlay multipliers.
* **Accelerated payouts:** Receive your winnings promptly on successful bets across major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAAB.
* **Unrivaled live broadcasts:** Gain access to live streams for more than 780,000 events annually.*
* **Extensive prop bets:** Discover a wide array of pre-game and live prop bets for all the most significant matches.

*Live streaming availability depends on eligibility and location.

Should you or someone you know struggle with problem gambling, assistance is readily available. Reach out to the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 via call or text. Individuals must be 21 years or older and physically present in Virginia to engage in betting activities. bet365 prioritizes responsible gaming and offers resources to help maintain control.

An Optimistic Outlook

Although encountering obstacles in Sweden and the Netherlands during 2019, Betsson’s Chief Executive Officer, Jesper Svensson, desires to convey a clear message: the gaming sector is in a much healthier state than many perceive.

Individuals hesitant to enter the gambling realm might benefit from a conversation with Svensson. The Betsson Group head remains remarkably positive amidst a climate of industry pessimism.

In a discussion with Gambling Insider regarding the hurdles confronting operators like Betsson in the present market, the Swedish executive demonstrates practicality. However, this practicality also acts as a consistent reminder for Svensson to never overlook the advantages of operating in such a “highly favorable” position.

“We must keep in mind that this is a fantastic sector,” he states. “It is structurally expanding and will persist in expanding for numerous years to come. Both online and offline are experiencing growth; online is expanding at a faster rate, making it a very advantageous position to be in. This industry has been developing very positively for many years. Occasionally, there are periods of slight deceleration, requiring the industry to adapt. What’s crucial, amidst all these transformations, is to remember that this is a robust, growing industry.”

Naturally, Svensson’s remarks stem from a place of expertise, having initially ventured into the industry back in 2006. The executive has now been with Betsson for six years, following tenures with companies such as Ladbrokes, InterCasino, and Bodog.

Betsson, headquartered in the island nation of Malta, has witnessed significant shifts in the iGaming sector. CEO Pontus Lindwall guided the firm through a substantial reorganization, enabling them to surmount internal obstacles. This culminated in a robust performance in 2018, marked by a 15% surge in revenue, which reached 54.1 billion Swedish kronor. They concluded the year on a highly optimistic trajectory.

Nevertheless, 2019 presented fresh difficulties, this time stemming from external elements such as regulatory adjustments in jurisdictions like Sweden and the Netherlands. These modifications affected the entire sector, not solely Betsson.

Despite these impediments, the sentiment in Malta, a center for gaming enterprises, persists in being upbeat. This is evident in the density of gaming operators and vendors. Stroll down any thoroughfare, and you’re likely to encounter someone affiliated with the industry!

For certain individuals, the throngs of people in Malta can be overwhelming. Some may perceive the limited cultural variety as somewhat restrictive. However, Jesper Svensson holds a different perspective.

“I genuinely relish residing on this island,” he remarks. “I believe it offers a fantastic way of life, with the Mediterranean Sea and abundant sunshine, which are significant advantages, particularly for someone originating from Sweden. Moreover, I find Malta to be exceptionally receptive to the gaming sector. The gaming industry holds immense importance in Malta, occupying a prominent position on the national agenda.”

“This, in itself, fosters a positive environment. It stands as one of the most robust industries in Malta.” He further notes that if one desires a change of surroundings, “Malta, despite its small size, provides convenient travel options, allowing for easy weekend getaways. I, myself, travel extensively to our various global offices.”

Svensson’s daily responsibilities in Malta revolve around the operational aspects of Betsson. At this point, some readers might be puzzled: if you happen to be among them, you likely assumed Pontus Lindwall to be the CEO of Betsson Group. Svensson confirms that Lindwall is indeed the CEO of Betsson. However, the executive, always eager to elaborate, acknowledges that *Gaming Insider* is not the first publication to seek clarification on how his role and Lindwall’s operate in conjunction.

“The structure is unambiguous, with Pontus serving as the CEO of Betsson AB, the publicly listed entity on Nasdaq Stockholm,” the Swedish national elucidates.

Betsson AB primarily functions as a holding company, strategically investing in ventures within the gaming sector. My position as COO entails overseeing the entirety of the companies operating under the Betsson AB umbrella. While our CEO concentrates on the financial aspects, my responsibilities are more operational, encompassing the daily management of the business, including areas such as marketing and technological advancements.”

Svensson stresses that his professional dynamic with Lindwall is seamless, characterized by well-defined parameters. Envision less of a Michael Scott and Jim Halpert scenario from “The Office” and more of a clearly delineated collaboration.

In addition to managing this partnership, Svensson derives satisfaction from addressing novel obstacles that arise on a daily basis. He underscores the intricate nature of navigating regulatory frameworks across 12 distinct licenses, with each market presenting its unique set of challenges.

This leads us to the unavoidable topic: the escalating regulatory landscape within the gambling industry. Svensson cites the Swedish market in 2019 as a pertinent illustration. When Sweden liberalized its gambling sector, allowing private gaming companies to operate, Betsson’s CEO boldly projected that they would ascend to a position of market dominance. However, the actual outcome has been more intricate, a narrative for another occasion.

The Swedish landscape presents a complex picture, especially for gaming entities such as Betsson. Their latest fiscal statement wasn’t particularly impressive. Income remained relatively stagnant, experiencing a meager 2% rise year-on-year, while the second quarter even witnessed a 5% decline. Profits also suffered, decreasing by 12% in total, with the second quarter appearing especially challenging. The primary factor? A substantial slump in their wagering activities.

Further complicating matters, Sweden has been taking a stricter stance against businesses that haven’t adhered to the updated regulatory framework implemented in 2019. Betsson faced penalties as a result, and they weren’t the sole target. There’s an expectation that relations between authorities and the sector will eventually stabilize, but the initial transition has been turbulent. It’s a delicate equilibrium, indeed. Regulators must uphold responsible gaming practices without entirely suppressing the companies functioning within the legal boundaries.

A perfect harmony between rules and fresh thinking remains elusive across all regions. Governing bodies should collaborate with businesses, offering support within well-defined boundaries, rather than simply enforcing regulations and hindering novel concepts.”

The head of Betsson Group commended the Malta Gaming Authority. “Considering their extensive background, I believe the MGA is among the most capable regulatory bodies, perhaps even *the* most capable,” he stated. “They possess valuable insights for other regulators. Undoubtedly, they are stringent – a fact that has become increasingly evident – and they have implemented decisive measures over time.”

When questioned by *Gaming Insider* about how the MGA might address comparable re-regulation challenges, Mr. Svensson noted that Sweden is “still in its infancy.” He expanded, “The communication between operators and the regulatory body is not as advanced as in other areas. I anticipate this will progress in the coming years. It boils down to receiving appropriate direction. If operators require clarification on the updated regulations, the regulatory body should furnish it, not merely direct them to the legal language. There’s still room for improvement.”

Tobias Fagerlund, leading Global Gaming, would undoubtedly concur with Svensson’s evaluation.

In the month of June, the Swedish Gaming Commission withdrew the Swedish permit of SafeEnt, a branch of Global Gaming. Chief Executive Officer Fagerlund vehemently disagreed with this ruling, labeling it “unlawful” and contending that the governing body had misconstrued an ambiguous regulation. He disclosed that he was only informed a mere eight minutes prior to the decision’s announcement, at 8:00 am on the first day of the workweek.

The Betsson Group Chief Executive Officer proceeded to state that these circumstances frequently become more evident with time, highlighting the multiple penalties levied on businesses in Sweden that year. He posits that this doesn’t inherently signify that companies are deliberately flouting the regulations, but rather that more explicit directives from regulatory bodies could avert such occurrences.

As previously stated, the Netherlands presents yet another regulatory obstacle for Betsson. The eagerly anticipated Remote Gaming Act was ultimately ratified in 2019, signifying a pivotal year for the Dutch internet gambling sector. Market expert Willem van Oort characterized the sensation of witnessing the Act’s enactment as “unbelievable,” following thirty months of anticipation for its approval by the House of Representatives. The licensing procedure is scheduled to commence in the middle of 2020, with a projected launch date of the first of January, 2021. Critically, there exists a two-year “grace period” during which enterprises that functioned without a permit in the Dutch market within the preceding two years are disqualified from applying.

We are certain that we will be able to penetrate the open Netherlands market eventually,” stated Svensson. “We needed to implement modifications to the product to satisfy the Netherlands’ criteria, which is now complete, and that places us in a favorable spot to submit an application for a permit. Therefore, we had to make these alterations to be compliant with Dutch regulations.”

The final jurisdiction is the United Kingdom, which readers may find peculiar, being another heavily regulated and fiercely competitive market that both ComeOn and EveryMatrix have departed in recent months (refer to page 32 for an article on Maltese firms leaving the UK). Betsson revealed the shutdown of its office there in December 2018, with its Netplay brand slated to not extend its agreement with the UK broadcaster. Many interpreted this as an indication that the operator was downsizing its UK operations, potentially with the goal of withdrawing entirely. However, Svensson informed
_Gambling Insider_
that the organization is not departing the UK market, nor are there any plans to do so.

“We maintain a presence in the UK market, so we have not left,” the Swedish national remarked. “However, we are not as engaged as we were a few years ago. We are presently transitioning a business that we acquired a couple of years ago – the Netplay brand – onto our proprietary platform, which will be concluded this year. We are still active in the UK, but we are not investing at the same level as we did a few years ago.”

Incorporating these trademarks within the NetPlay portfolio prioritizes product enhancement above all else, after which we can contemplate additional allocations. Our current concentration remains fixed on this objective.”

Svensson proceeded to underscore that a plethora of fresh prospects await operators beyond established markets. He emphasized Betsson’s command over the user journey through their proprietary development of the sports betting interface, gaming framework, and transaction system. Nevertheless, as Betsson commemorates its 57th anniversary and sustains its pursuit of expansion and market dominance, it’s unsurprising that Svensson revisited a subject evidently significant to him as our conversation neared its end.

He restated his optimistic outlook to his counterparts in the gaming sector, concluding: “For the industry in its entirety, it’s imperative that we engage in heightened communication and cooperation, aim for greater alignment in our objectives, and steer the industry’s trajectory towards a favorable course. This has historically been the industry’s critical vulnerability. However, I remain optimistic that certain transformations will incentivize the industry to unite with a shared impetus and purpose.

“Occasionally, when reviewing coverage from both mainstream and industry publications over the preceding six to nine months, there’s been a disproportionate emphasis on unfavorable news, while in actuality, this industry is undergoing a process of maturation, becoming more resilient and professional. Concurrently, remarkably positive advancements are transpiring, and I believe we should accord them greater recognition than we have previously.”

Its undeniable: should other gaming industry leaders embrace Svensson’s perspective, the year 2020 could be even more luminous for gaming. The Betsson Group CEO stated, “Each year presents its share of hurdles and prospects.” However, he believes the possibilities within gaming consistently eclipse the obstacles.

As a subsidiary of Aspire Global, Pariplay is entering the Alberta, Canada market through a collaboration with NeoPollard Interactive. This alliance will bring Pariplay’s vast selection of games to Play Alberta, the province’s sole authorized online gaming platform.

This expansion represents a major stride for Pariplay, bolstering their presence in North America following successful entries into New Jersey and West Virginia. They are joining forces with NeoPollard Interactive, a partnership between industry leaders Pollard Banknote Limited and NeoGames S.A., the driving force behind the Play Alberta platform.

Possessing a collection of over 1200 titles from leading global developers, including their own in-house productions, Pariplay is poised to make a significant impact on the Canadian market. Aspire Global CEO, Tsachi Maimon, conveyed his excitement about the partnership, emphasizing their dedication to providing premium gaming experiences.

Revenues generated by Play Alberta contribute to the province’s general revenue fund, supporting a diverse array of programs benefiting Albertans.

Liz Siver, a prominent leader at NeoPollard Interactive, conveyed her excitement about collaborating with Pariplay. She emphasized Pariplay’s remarkable track record and standing for providing premium gaming products, stressing that this alliance will substantially broaden the selection of games offered on the Play Alberta platform.

As the sole partner of AGLC, NPi maintains its dedication to improving its technology, game catalog, and Power Suite offerings. This commitment seeks to deliver players in Alberta a smooth and captivating online gaming encounter.

Moreover, Pariplay’s vast game collection is anticipated to generate fresh avenues for AGLC to produce increased revenue for its philanthropic endeavors throughout the region.

A top app and digital user experience creator, Mkodo, is encouraging gaming companies to pay close attention to the newest Apple App Store rules.

Set to be implemented soon, Version 4.2 of these regulations will mandate that all sports wagering, casino, bingo, and lottery applications deliver a richer and more captivating user journey. This implies applications must present functionalities and material that set them apart from their internet-based equivalents. In essence, a basic website disguised as an app will no longer suffice. Apple desires distinct functionality and a user interface crafted specifically for the app environment.

Mkodo suggests this update will considerably affect both major and minor players in the gaming sector. Stuart Godfree, Mkodo’s Managing Director and co-founder, stresses the significance of these alterations: “Apple’s drive to guarantee all apps provide unique value compared to the web experience will have a genuine influence on new and current apps in our field.” He cautions further about the substantial expense of rejection, both regarding resubmission attempts and missed market opportunity.

Godfree’s recommendation? Collaborating with specialists who comprehend the complexities of both the App Store and Google Play Store is vital to ensure seamless navigation and avert app denials.

Alphawin and Altenar are teaming up to transform online wagering in Bulgaria with advanced technology.

A newcomer to the scene, Alphawin will utilize Altenar’s comprehensive suite of tools for sports betting, trading, and promotion. They aim to forge a robust, enduring alliance with Altenar, a well-regarded and established provider of sports betting software.

The wagering sector is poised for a significant shift, mirroring other fields impacted by technology. Both Alphawin and Altenar are leading this change, leveraging their expertise in artificial intelligence, risk mitigation, and data analytics to deliver a premium betting experience to the Bulgarian market.

Already operating in Bulgaria, Altenar views the addition of Alphawin to its portfolio as a strategic victory and a logical expansion of its operations.

Having secured its operating permit in March 2022, Alphawin is ambitious and “aims to broaden its reach internationally within the coming year.” Altenar, with its vast experience in diverse global markets, is ideally situated to assist Alphawin in realizing this objective.

This collaboration is anticipated to make a splash in the Bulgarian market, a primary factor in Alphawin’s selection of Altenar as its sports betting provider.

## Embracing the Latest Trend in Wagering

With esports swiftly gaining traction in the realm of sports betting, Altenar has foreseen this trajectory and is prepared to address the growing demand for esports wagering.

Alphawins is highly concentrated on establishing a dominant presence in the Bulgarian wagering market. They are fully committed to utilizing state-of-the-art technology from Altenar and forging strategic alliances to achieve this goal. A prime illustration of this is their recent collaboration with Oddin, a firm making significant strides in the esports realm – a clear indication that Alphawins is determined to lead the market.

Despite their swift growth, Alphawins remains dedicated to prioritizing customer satisfaction. This commitment to exceptional service is evident in all their endeavors and serves as a source of immense pride for the organization.

Looking towards the future, both Alphawins and Altenar are prepared to capitalize on the wave of innovation transforming the industry. Their shared objective of expansion, adaptability, and triumph in this evolving era of sports wagering is driven by the proficiency of their experienced teams.

Central to their philosophy is a shared dedication to prioritizing the customer. Both entities firmly believe that outstanding customer assistance, encompassing round-the-clock access to customized sports information, is of paramount importance. This customer-centric strategy, deeply ingrained in the core values of both Alphawins and Altenar, has garnered them an exceptional reputation within the industry.

Ultimately, it is widely acknowledged that individualized experiences are crucial for cultivating a devoted customer base, particularly in the fiercely competitive domain of online wagering. With their combined expertise and unwavering commitment, Alphawins and Altenar are well-positioned to accomplish precisely that.

Alphawin understands that the modern digital gamer possesses elevated standards. They desire a fluid and captivating encounter with a diverse selection of choices. Therefore, Alphawin collaborated with Altenar, a premier provider of sports wagering and iGaming software solutions. Altenar’s adaptable framework empowers Alphawin to deliver a genuinely personalized experience, especially for the rapidly expanding esports sector. Should you wish to discover how Alphawin and Altenar are influencing the trajectory of online gaming, explore their web presences and engage with their representatives.

This week, the African online gaming industry is alive with anticipation. Major stakeholders are preparing for a significant assembly, and the enthusiasm is evident. The reason? The African online gaming market is booming! Prominent companies like 888Africa and Bet365 are investing heavily in the continent, enticed by its rapidly growing market. However, it’s not solely about the profits. African countries are strengthening regulations and licensing, establishing a more secure and appealing atmosphere for online gaming enterprises. Furthermore, let’s not overlook the technological aspect – firms like Kiron Interactive are pushing limits with their software, setting new worldwide benchmarks. Africa is poised to assert its position as a dominant force in the global online gaming arena, and everyone desires a share of the activity.

At the center of this fervor? The BiG Africa Summit 2023, occurring in Johannesburg, South Africa. This two-day gathering is where the enchantment unfolds – innovative dialogues, priceless networking prospects, and an exhibition of state-of-the-art online gaming technology. Coordinated by Eventus Internationals, the summit provides an in-depth exploration of this vibrant market, linking participants with crucial figures and unlocking avenues for expansion and prosperity. This year’s summit is particularly noteworthy, featuring an exceptional roster of speakers prepared to analyze the present condition of online gaming throughout Africa.

Connect with gaming industry peers at the Emperors Palace Summit. This exceptional gathering provides a valuable chance to connect with prominent figures and engage in current conversations surrounding the most critical factors shaping the African gaming sector.

“The Gaming Africa Summit holds immense importance, and its significance extends beyond the Summit itself. Every event organized by Eventus [International] carries weight because they unite stakeholders, investors, operators, regulators – essentially, the entire ecosystem. These events offer a wealth of knowledge and insights.”
—Purity Wahiu, Operations Manager, Palms Bet, Bulgaria

The gaming giant, 888 Holdings, is divesting its bingo operations to Saphalata Holdings, a Broadway Gaming Group entity, in a transaction valued at $50 million. Anticipated to finalize in the second quarter of the following year, the agreement awaits regulatory consent. 888, a prominent player in the online betting and gaming sector, intends to utilize the funds to prioritize its principal casino, sports wagering, and poker ventures. This calculated maneuver will empower 888 to allocate additional resources toward technological advancements and expansion into untapped markets. Broadway Gaming, recognized for its ownership of renowned brands such as “Butlers Bingo,” is poised to bolster its global footprint within the online bingo domain through this strategic acquisition.

During the ninth month of 2021, 888 Holdings increased its presence in the United Kingdom by purchasing William Hill’s non-American holdings from Caesars Entertainment. This substantial transaction brought two million active British clients and 1,400 wagering establishments into the 888 fold.

Regarding the British market, 888’s lotto-style game operations there demonstrated considerable profitability in 2020, producing approximately $65 million in earnings and $7.4 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization.

Law enforcement in India conducted a search of an unlawful betting establishment disguised as a celebratory gathering, apprehending 41 people. The operation, carried out at the Harman Palace in Delhi’s Tagore Garden, resulted in the confiscation of 498,000 rupees (approximately $6,000 USD) in cash, in addition to cellular devices and gaming tokens. This raid, characterized by authorities as a “Satta” gambling ring, underscores the continuous endeavors to suppress illicit wagering activities within the city.

This event comes shortly after another apprehension where authorities detained three individuals for allegedly deceiving online players nationwide. The suspects purportedly enticed victims into placing wagers on their manipulated gaming platforms, offering a range of games such as billiards, card games, cricket, and poker. These detentions highlight a broader concern of online gaming deception that officials are actively working to counter.

These fraudsters masquerade as a legitimate gaming platform to deceive individuals. They might even permit you to gain a small sum initially to create the illusion of legitimacy.