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The MGA publishes its 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statements

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2 years ago

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The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/Authority) is publishing its Annual Report and audited Financial Statements for the financial year ending 31 December 2022. In addition to outlining the performance of the Maltese gaming business in 2022, the report gives a broad summary of the Authority’s accomplishments during the year under review and offers a medium-term outlook for the future. A thorough report outlining key statistics for the land-based and online gaming industries is then presented.

Supervisory Activities

  • 28 compliance audits were conducted and 228 desktop reviews were carried out during 2022, accompanied by additional AML/CFT compliance examinations that are carried out by the FIAU, or by the MGA on its behalf. Following information which emerged from compliance audits, compliance reviews and formal investigations, the Authority issued 10 warnings and cancelled six (6) licences. In addition, the MGA issued a total of 16 administrative penalties as well as three (3) regulatory settlements, with a collective total financial penalty of €179,150.
  • A total of 25 licensees were subject to remediation and/or administrative measures by the FIAU, ranging from written reprimands to administrative penalties, based on the breaches identified during examinations carried out in previous years, including by the MGA. In total, these amounted to just over €738,000.
  • Six (6) individuals and companies were deemed by the Fit & Proper Committee to not be up to the Authority’s probity standards due to various factors, including due to the risks of money laundering or funding of terrorism.
  • Forty-one (41) gaming licence applications were received during 2022. Thirty-one (31) licences were issued, while twenty-one (21) were unsuccessful.
  • Over 1,500 criminal probity screening checks were undertaken on individuals, shareholders and ultimate beneficial owners, key persons and other employees, and companies from both the land-based and online gaming sectors.
  • The Authority conducted 48 interviews with prospective MLROs and key persons carrying out the AML/CFT function to determine the knowledge and suitability of each candidate.
  • The Commercial Communication Committee of the MGA issued a total of nine (9) Letters of Breach following breaches of the Commercial Communications Regulations (S.L. 583.09).
  • In its efforts to protect players and encourage responsible gambling, the Authority supported a total of 5,280 players who requested assistance, covering most of the cases received during 2022 and the spill-over from 2021.
  • The MGA conducted 85 responsible gaming-themed website checks, through which 38 URLs were found to have misleading information. This led to 17 notices being published on the MGA website, and 30 observation letters that were sent out reflecting responsible gaming issues.

Improvements in Efficiency and Effectiveness

  • The Authority commissioned a sectorial skills strategy to address the gaming industry’s challenges with respect to the ongoing demand for qualified and skilled human capital, which increased significantly as the economy grew and diversified into numerous sectors.
  • Consultation exercises were conducted with industry stakeholders regarding the bets offered by licensees – with a focus on sports integrity and player protection considerations – on the proposed amendments to the Player Protection Directive (Directive 2 of 2018), and on the proposed policy on the use of Innovative Technology Arrangements (ITAs) and the acceptance of Virtual Financial Assets (VFAs) and Virtual Tokens, which led to amendments and a finalised Policy, respectively.
  • The Authority streamlined the approval process of appointing an MLRO in collaboration with the FIAU while, at the same time, ensuring that the industry is kept updated on any changes affecting this process and on any best practices that are intrinsic to the role of the MLRO.
  • The concept of Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUPs) Reports was introduced, covering player funds and Gaming Revenue. Audit firms are drawing up these reports in compliance with the ‘International Standard on Related Services (ISRS) 4400 (Revised) Agreed-Upon Procedures Engagements’.
  • The MGA kickstarted a process for possibly implementing a voluntary Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Code of Good Practice for the industry to showcase and increase the positive social and environmental impacts of the gambling sector.

National and International Cooperation

  • Throughout 2022, the Authority issued 43 news items on its website and 26 external communications, providing a synopsis of various updates and developments at the Authority and across the industry.
  • A total of 224 alerts were sent to the industry, 167 of which were also sent to the appropriate Sports Governing Bodies.
  • A total of 44 requests for information specifically relating to the manipulation of sports competitions or breaches in sports rules were submitted by enforcement agencies, sport governing bodies, integrity units, and other regulatory bodies. As a result of such requests, data was exchanged in 25 instances. Additionally, a total of 475 suspicious betting reports from licensees and other concerned parties were received.
  • During the period under review, the Authority was a direct participant in 15 different investigations across the globe relating to the manipulation of sports competitions or breaches in sports rules, as well as an indirect participant in 3 such investigations.
  • The Authority received a total of 83 international cooperation requests from other regulators and sent 97 such requests, with the majority referring to requests for background checks as part of an authorisation process.
  • A total of 177 official replies were issued providing feedback on the regulatory good standing of our licensed operators to the relevant authorities asking for this information.
  • The MGA works together with other local regulating authorities and governing bodies. This is reflected through responses furnished by the MGA to requests for information made by the Asset Recovery Bureau (ARB), the FIAU, as well as the MPF on the gaming sector. Additionally, the relevant information is provided to the Sanctions Monitoring Board (SMB) to assist in issuing penalties in instances of non-compliance with sanctions screening obligations.

In publishing this report, the CEO, Dr Carl Brincat said: “This report is testament to our collective efforts in promoting a fair and sustainable gaming ecosystem. Through proactive measures and leaner regulation processes, we strive to ensure a level playing field that nurtures innovation while safeguarding against any potential risks.

“As the global gaming landscape evolves, our role becomes even more critical. We embrace this responsibility with utmost determination, working tirelessly to stay ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and challenges.  We remain steadfast in our pursuit of robust frameworks that inspire confidence, protect vulnerable individuals and render Malta the home for gaming operators of good will.”

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Belatra ready to make waves at SBC Summit Lisbon with immersive Blast the Bass experience

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7 minutes ago

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August 6, 2025

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Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, is heading to SBC Summit Lisbon 2025 — and it’s bringing more than just its award-winning games.

Visitors to Stand B523 will be treated to an unforgettable experience inspired by Blast the Bass, Belatra’s smash-hit slot that exploded onto the market with massive success. Belatra’s expert team will be laying on a themed bar built around the game’s legendary energy, giving guests a taste of the excitement through a special menu, immersive design, and vibrant conversation.

This unique activation sets the tone for Belatra’s SBC presence, where the fusion of entertainment, innovation, and bold design is front and centre.

On top of that, Belatra will be dropping exclusive merch that is as bold and fun as its games. Guests to the stand will be able to get their hands on fantastic designs, top-tier quality, and 100% Belatra vibes.

The biggest catch of the day will be for the quickest winners during Lisbon’s show. Belatra is launching something totally new, breathtaking, and — most importantly — unforgettable, but only for the champions.

Kateryna Goi, Belatra Games’ CMO, said: “SBC Summit Lisbon is one of the standout events on the iGaming event tour. As ever, Belatra is not just rolling up, we’re showcasing what drives our success – creativity, energy, and unforgettable experiences.”

The post Belatra ready to make waves at SBC Summit Lisbon with immersive Blast the Bass experience appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR ACR POKER’S MASSIVE DUAL VENOM TOURNEYS WITH $10 MILLION GUARANTEED AND HUGE BOUNTIES

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10 hours ago

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August 5, 2025

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$8 Million NLH and $2 Million PLO events start this weekend, with top bounty prizes of $500,000 and $200,000 respectively

ACR Poker is turning up the heat this Sunday with the return of its flagship Dual Venom tournaments, featuring a combined $10 million guaranteed and massive mystery bounties.

The action kicks off with the first of five Day 1 flights for the $8 million NLH and $2 million PLO Mystery Bounty Venoms, starting this Sunday at 12:05pm ET. Players can build momentum by combining their stacks ahead of Day 2 on Monday, August 25th at 1:05pm ET, where all remaining players will already be in the money. Those who make it to the Final Table will battle for the Venom titles on Tuesday, August 26th at 4:05pm ET.

Alongside massive guarantees, both events boast huge bounties. In the Venom NLH, knocking out just one opponent could unlock a top bounty of $500,000, with the tourney winner projected to take home around $600,000. The Venom PLO, which ties ACR Poker’s biggest Omaha tourney ever, offers a $200,000 top bounty and an estimated $200,000 top prize for the champion. Every knockout in both tourneys earns players a minimum bounty of $5,000.

“Big bounties, massive guarantees – the Dual Mystery Bounty Venom tourneys are coming in hot,” said ACR Pro Chris Moneymaker. “The action kicks off this Sunday, so don’t miss out. Satellites start at just $0, so players of all bankrolls can take a shot. Let’s make it a big one – see you at the tables.”

While the buy-in for both tournaments is $2,650, players can still qualify for much less. Hundreds of low-cost qualifiers are up for grabs starting from $0 via Venom Fever Satellites. Plus, the Venom Vault and the Poison Path offer players more chances to unlock $2,650 Venom tickets.

Fans can tune in to watch the Venom NLH Day 1A action on ACR Poker’s Twitch channel this Sunday, featuring ACR Pros Chris Moneymaker, Rob Kuhn and Jon Pardy. The Final Table live stream follows on Tuesday, August 26th.

For more Mystery Bounty action, players can join ACR Poker’s new Daily Mystery Bounty tournaments for a shot at Mystery Bounty Chests packed with surprise rewards, with top bounties worth up to 10% of the prize pool.

For further details on the Dual Venom tournaments and other promotions, visit ACRPoker.eu.

 

The post COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR ACR POKER’S MASSIVE DUAL VENOM TOURNEYS WITH $10 MILLION GUARANTEED AND HUGE BOUNTIES appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Future of Online Casinos

Future of Online Casinos and Slots: Navigating Industry Trends in 2025

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17 hours ago

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August 5, 2025

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When it comes to online casino play, and indeed online gaming in general, there is no such thing as inertia. In fact, things change all the time as technology advances and consumers become ever more demanding and expectant.

The online gambling industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements, changing norms, and shifting player preferences. With a global industry such as this, leading rather than following can be worth millions.

In 2025, online casinos and slot games are more innovative and accessible than ever before. This article explores the latest industry trends, recent news, and what players and operators can expect in this dynamic landscape.

Of the many evolutions, the ability to play both non-paying games and real money options has been hugely significant. This creates a much larger demographic, or pool of potential players – both those who play for fun and those who wish to place wagers and play against other enthusiasts.

The online casino real money USA market, for example, has grown exponentially, as has the overall number of consumers now accessing online casino sites both here and around the world. Put another way, the online casino real money markets have taken an already multi-billion dollar industry to another fiscal level, and for players, the range of options and choices can only be trending in their favor.

Rapid Technological Advancements Fuel Innovation

One of the most significant drivers of change in the online casino sector is technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain are transforming the way players experience and engage with casino games.

Artificial Intelligence Enhances User Experience

AI-powered personalization is now standard in many online platforms. Casinos utilize AI algorithms to analyze player behavior, providing tailored game recommendations and customized promotions.

This not only increases engagement but also improves player retention.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies Boost Security and Transparency

Blockchain’s decentralized nature enhances transaction security and transparency.

Several operators now accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and emerging altcoins, allowing for faster deposits and withdrawals with reduced fees. This shift caters to a growing demographic seeking privacy and efficiency.

Industry News: Global Market Expansion Continues for Online Casino Companies

Asia-Pacific: Growth and Gaming

The Asia-Pacific region shows promising growth, especially in countries like Japan and South Korea. With such large populations, this potential player pool can only be positive for the online casino creating community, and for the players themselves.

Continued Rise of Mobile Gaming

Mobile continues to dominate the online casino playing scene.

With high-quality apps and optimized websites, players can access their favorite slots anywhere, anytime. Again, the almost limitless number of online casino choices is helping drive this growth.

As well as this, and as the online gaming stats attest, we’ve seen massively increased accessibility thanks to so many game-friendly devices hitting the market. In such circumstances, it is hard to see how this growth could not continue.

2025 Mobile Slot Innovations

Recent releases feature multi-screen gameplay, augmented reality (AR) integration, and 5G connectivity, leading to faster load times and seamless experiences. The convenience has driven increased engagement among younger audiences in particular.

Growing Popularity of Live Dealer Games

Live dealer games bridge the gap between online play and land-based casinos. High-quality streams, real-time interaction, and professional dealers make this sector one of the fastest-growing.

Online Gaming Creating Coherent Communities

Such is the growth of the online casino and overall game-playing arena that an increasing number of global, as well as local, online gaming communities are starting to emerge.

From playing to offering tips, or even just sharing comments during the game itself, millions now use the online casino as a way to forge new friendships, creating an online gaming culture all of their own. These games appeal to players seeking both thrill and social interaction, and we’re seeing the birth of forums, chat sites, and all things game and online casino-related as a result.

Looking at the creation of online casino communities shows that this is so much more than just a casual pastime for millions; it is a cultural activity that transcends age, demographics, and geography. Indeed, some people take online casino gameplay very seriously, and that’s not a bad thing…

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Future Outlook: What’s Next for Online Casinos and Slots?

Looking ahead, several developments are set to shape the industry further:

  • Integration of AI and Big Data: Personalized gaming experiences will become more sophisticated.
  • Continued Adoption of Blockchain: Cryptocurrencies will facilitate cross-border transactions and global accessibility.
  • Enhanced Player Security: Biometric authentication and anti-fraud measures will improve safety.

Conclusion

The online casino and slots industry in 2025 and beyond is likely to be driven and marked by innovation, growth, accessibility, and even inclusivity.  As technology continues to advance and markets expand, both players and operators must stay informed about the latest trends and best practices.

Embracing these changes will ensure a safe, engaging, and enjoyable gaming experience for all.

Put another way, the online casino landscape looks hugely positive for all involved. From developers to creators, players to proprietors, the online casino world looks to be growing and gathering even more pace, and I’d bet on that continuing.

The post Future of Online Casinos and Slots: Navigating Industry Trends in 2025 appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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