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GambleAware is one of the leading organizations tasked with protecting vulnerable players and keeping the gambling industry safe. Over the years, it has received substantial contributions from gambling operators, but the 2022-23 financial year marked a 17.5% drop compared to the previous year. On the bright side, Bet365 has stepped up to donate larger amounts and contributed more than £5 million, which is a substantial increase. Making a Safer Place for Gamblers Bet365 is one of the leading gambling operators, with a distinguished track record and a place where players can enjoy their favorite game securely. Whether they prefer sports, casino games, poker, or other forms of entertainment, the platform provides the security and stability they seek. An indirect contribution is made in the form of donations to GambleAware and in the first three quarters of this financial year, it passed a psychological threshold with more than £5 pounds in donations. £2.4m, £1.7m, and £907,000 were the amounts spent by the company Hillside, operating as Bet365. The donation is still behind the biggest contributor in the nine-month period, as Ladbrokes Coral provided funds worth £7.0m to the charity. Other gambling operators have also donated tens of thousands of dollars, yet the amounts pale in comparison with the sums donated by these large gambling groups. They have also been some of the staunchest supporters of the charity over time. GambleAware Relies on Voluntary Donations Gambling operators who make a profit from this activity are supposed to donate at least 0.1% of the annual gross yield. Those who make no more than £250,000 have the same requirements, but this would amount to a minimum donation of £250. Obviously, the organization depends heavily on voluntary donations, which can bridge the gap and provide an invaluable safety net to players. The fact that the total amount donated dropped by 17.5% compared to the previous year, which stood at £16 million, is concerning. On the bright side, the fact that some of the biggest names in the online gambling industry have stepped up is reassuring. Companies have until March 31, 2023, to make a donation to the charity, as this is the time when the 2022-23 financial year concludes. The funds gathered in this way are spent to advance the charity’s commissioning objectives in a transparent way.
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Touch Games (ITG) has been cracked with a hefty fine by the Great Britain Gambling Commission for social responsibility and money laundering violations. The Fine The Commission has levied the unsightly fine of £6.1m (€6.9m/$7.5m) for the failures across 11 websites ITG runs in Britain, including Bonusboss.co.uk, Drslot.co.uk, Cashmo.co.uk, and Slotfactory.co.uk. Specific Failures Among the findings of a March 2022 compliance assessment were failures by ITG to interact with customers within seven weeks of being flagged for not addressing erratic play patterns and extended periods of play. Negligent Diligence ITG was also found negligent by not performing due diligence for a player whose account was flagged after claiming they earned £6,000 a month and exhibiting irregular customer spending and gambling behavior during unsociable hours. Negligence Counts The specific counts of negligence identified by the Commission include ITG culpability for insufficiently accounting for risks associated with a customer being the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, having links to high-risk jurisdictions, PEP Politically Exposed Status, and being in the family of a PEP. Procedural Breakdowns The Commission further found fault with the lack of procedures at ITG addressing general risk factors, and the lack of compliance ITG displayed for the Commission’s money laundering and terrorist financing risk assessment. Failing to Implement AML ITG did not implement its own general AML policies, failing to request source of funds information from customers who had deposited and lost £10,000 over a 12-month period. Specific Code Violations The Commission cited specific breaches of AML and terrorist financing prevention codes of Licence condition 12.1.1 paragraphs 1, 2, and 3 for the massive fines. Social Responsibility Breaches The Commission further cited ITG for Social Responsibility Breaches SRCP including Provision 3.4.1 Customer Interaction – paragraphs 1b, 1c, and 2, which brought ITG afoul of section 82(1) of the original UK iGaming regulations Gambling Act 2005. Fine Applied The fine of £6.1m was levied under the Gambling Act’s section 121(1). History of Violations This is ITG’s third slap: ITG shelled out £2.2m to settle regulatory failures in 2019, and in 2021 was penalized a stiffer £3.4m fine accompanied by a warning against subsequent failures. Commission Head Speaks Commission executive director of operations Kay Roberts expressed consternation regarding the larger new fines, saying her organization expected to see more improvement at this scheduled compliance assessment: “Disappointingly, although many improvements had been made, there was still more to do.” Outlook The ITG action indicates to all operators in the UK should take note of the escalating nature of fines for repeated violations, and understand that just paying a fine does not end the problem.
Following FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) approval, United Kingdom-based Open Banking payments platform, Ecospend is now officially a Trustly acquisition. As a result, the two companies are officially the United Kingdom's leading Open Banking Payments Corporation, connected to 80+ banks, with an approximate customer reach of 50 million people. The United Kingdom ranks among the fastest-growing account-to-account markets in Europe, and it represents a strategic growth market for Trustly. Combined with Ecospend's robust UK Payment Initiation Services & Data Services, it's now possible to deliver identity verification solutions and affordability to customers across the board. All of these value-added benefits operate within the realm of UK banking connectivity. This fits perfectly with Trustly's international appeal and its collection capabilities. The synergistic units are well-positioned to provide a value-added product to UK customers, line for massive growth and expansion across the UK and continental Europe. Combined, Trustly and Ecospend deliver on expectations with the following benefits: Connectivity to 80+ banks across the United Kingdom Immense payment volume was £7.5 billion in the UK in 2022 Far-reaching potential with access to 50 million+ consumers across the UK Already, millions of customers are enjoying all the benefits of Trustly's new partnership with Ecospend. Thanks to the Open Banking Technology solutions of Ecospend, Trustly's services are bolstered by enhanced technology, connectivity, and accessibility. Johan Tjärnberg, Group CEO of Trustly stated: It's now official - the acquisition has been completed, and we couldn't be more thrilled. This milestone perfectly aligns with Trustly's mission to become the leading provider of Open Banking solutions for consumers and merchants in the UK. We're thrilled to continue our growth as a unified team, providing the best Open Banking technology on the market. James Hickman, Ecospend CCO, stated: The UK is a major hub for digital payments in Europe and presents an immense opportunity that Trustly and Ecospend are uniquely positioned to capitalize on. Consumers and businesses alike are eager for Open Banking and its convenience and security. Our offering is the most comprehensive and compelling on the market, and we are confident that we can make an impact in this space. About Ecospend Ecospend is an innovative FCA-regulated pay-by-bank payments provider revolutionizing the payments and financial data services industry. Established in 2017, Ecospend has already secured a binding agreement with HMRC, the UK government's tax authority. This rapidly expanding company is well-known for providing services to various industries, enabling businesses to securely and quickly process payments and access valuable financial data.
European lottery operator Allwyn now owns Camelot UK Lotteries. Final Piece The finalisation of Allwyn’s purchase of Camelot UK from the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board (OTPP) makes Camelot a subsidiary of Allwyn. Earlier Approvals The deal was originally announced last October 2022 and received approval from the Great Britain Gambling Commission last month. Passing the Torch Allwyn takes over Camelot UK operation rights to operate the National Lottery until February 2024. Allwyn’s awarding of the fourth National Lottery licence concluded Camelot’s 28-year run as the sole UK Lottery operator. Current Licence The third License award to Camelot will continue to run commensurately, keeping Camelot operating separately from Allwyn but as an Allwyn holding. Allwyn Benefits Allwyn looked forward to the acquisition facilitating a smooth transition of operations, and producing “greater clarity and certainty” for the future of the National Lottery, the social causes of the lottery funds, and all Camelot and Allwyn employees. New Leaders Camelot chief financial officer Clare Swindell and commercial director Neil Brocklehurst were tabbed last month to supervise Camelot through the conclusion of the third licence. Shakeup at Camelot Five-year Camelot chairman Sir Hugh Robertson has been replaced by Sir Keith Mills as the new chair of the business, with Nigel Railton leaving the chief executive of Camelot spot. Value Financial terms have not been disclosed, with Sky News estimating the agreement’s worth at £100m (€112m/$121m), according to unnamed sources close to the deal. Ontario Teachers Deal Part of the transition process includes Allwyn’s key acquisition of US-facing Camelot Lottery Solutions unit of companies from Ontario Teachers, with the completion of this transaction finalising the transfer of all Camelot holdings to Allwyn. Allwyn is Confident and Prepared Despite all the changes, Allwyn assures that Lottery operations will continue as normal. More Offerings The deal further provides Camelot Lottery Solutions with access to Allwyn’s expansive portfolio of resources to support Camelot clients. Technology Allwyn acquires extensive Camelot technology, a division that provides diverse Lottery products and services to lotteries throughout Europe and North America, above and beyond the UK. Allwyn’s Foothold Allwyn’s new lottery license will last ten years and fortifies Allwyn’s leading multi-national lottery operator status. Allwyn’s Rise Allwyn has built its brand with an organisational mission to give back more to good causes through a lottery-first approach that encompasses a full casual gaming portfolio. Allwyn has established leading market positions in prominent European markets such as Austria, Czech Republic, Greece and Cyprus, and Italy. Outlook The launch of the Fourth Licence next year will usher in a new era of advanced lottery services and social re-investment across the entire iGaming industry.
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GAMOMAT is one of the top software producers for online casinos and a leading brand in the development of slots. In recent years, it has expanded its presence and is the supplier of choice for some of the biggest online casinos in regulated jurisdictions. The leading independent software developer has just added another prize to its trophy case, by winning the Charitable Community Award at the 2023 International Gaming Awards. An Important Milestone Set at the Savoy Hotel in London The glamorous hotel in London acted as a gracious host for the awards ceremony, where GAMOMAT picked up the prestigious prize. It was a night of celebration for the biggest names in the gaming industry and an opportunity to recognize their contribution. The company was awarded for its approach and willingness to build on strong values that emphasize the importance of helping people. The prize highlights GAMOMAT’s contribution to improving the leading environment and ecological and social sustainability. The competition was intense, so the fact that they were presented with the award means a great deal, as highlighted by Dr. Alexandra Krone, Managing Director. She emphasized the importance of businesses doing more to create an environment fit for children and grandchildren. The company she represents is socially sustainable and tries to lead by example. A Top Developer for German Casinos GAMOMAT is a German-based online game developer and one of the most appreciated suppliers of games for local casinos. It has more than 150 games and is well-versed in providing players with games from other verticals in 27 languages. Internationally, they activate in nearly 40 countries, emphasizing providing licensed and regulated casinos with slots that modern players love. GAMOMAT is best known for its quality slots and the uncanny ability to provide casinos with top-notch games. However, it is also actively involved in supporting charitable initiatives, such as the Krisenchat, Chancenstiftung, and Aktion Mensch. The Charitable Community Award comes naturally as a recognition of the work already done and as an incentive to maintain high standards. Yggdrasil wins the Innovator of the Year at the International Gaming Awards 2023 The leading publisher accelerating iGaming innovation was also in the spotlight and won the Innovator of the Year prize at the International Gaming Awards (IGAs). This accolade acknowledges the innovation and originality of their products, based on the last 12-month performance. Yggdrasil won similar awards over the years, and this time, they were celebrated for their innovative Game Engagement Mechanics (GEMs). The YG Masters program and immersive portfolio of award-winning games also weighed heavily in the balance. Björn Krantz, Yggdrasil CEO, expressed his satisfaction with the fantastic achievement and the great start his company enjoyed at ICE 2023. Videoslots Wins Online Casino Operator of the Year Award One of the most prestigious industry awards was awarded to casino operator Videoslots.com. On Monday night, the company was crowned the Online Casino Operator of the Year in London. Headquartered in Malta, it build a name for itself by delivering a huge number of games from leading software developers in a secure and user-friendly environment. Ulle Skottling, Deputy CEO at Videoslots, was thrilled to have his colleagues awarded the prestigious prize, which acknowledges their hard work and dedication. With a portfolio of more than 9000 games supplied by nearly 200 software developers, it is the obvious choice for many fans of the genre. The casino was founded in 2011; a decade later, it is one of the most respected brands in the industry.
Online casino games provider, Blueprint Gaming, announce a significant upgrade to one of their biggest slot machines. 7’s Deluxe Fire Wheel Jackpot King keeps all of the elements that made the original so popular and adds the massive Jackpot King progressive feature. Fiery 7's, Fruits, and Valuable Crowns Cherries, lemons, golden bells, and 7's feature on the 3 reels. Just 5 paylines cross the grid, and players win from matched symbols across any line. The blazing 7's are wild symbols that can stand in for others to complete winning combinations. A Fire Wheel springs into action whenever the whole 3x3 grid fills with the same type of symbol. The wheel spins to multiply the win by up to 10x. It's a desktop and mobile slot with a traditional style that appeals to a wide range of players. Grab a Jackpot By joining the Jackpot King progressive network, this game now has the potential to pay even greater prizes. The feature can trigger at random and sees the reels spin with just crowns and blanks in play. More crowns move players up a prize ladder for higher multipliers and the chance to enter the Jackpot King progressive game for a shot at the main prize. The jackpot grows as a percentage of all wagers made across the Jackpot King network is put aside. Other contributing games include the Eye Of Horus Jackpot King slot, Fishin Frenzy Jackpot King, and The Goonies Jackpot King, which is themed around the popular movie. Comments From Blueprint Gaming Jo Purvis, Director of Key Accounts and Marketing UK at Blueprint Gaming, said: 7’s Deluxe Fire Wheel Jackpot King is another dose of classic slots play and the action is augmented by the winning possibilities brought by the Fire Wheel and Jackpot King. It’s another flaming hot entry in the game family that is certain to raise temperatures as the prize pots climb. ----- Try 7’s Deluxe Fire Wheel at the best online casinos - click here for the full list.
Blue Star Planet is paying a hefty fine for falling short in AML and protection procedures. Blue Star’s Fines Trading as 10Bet, Blue Star Planet has been ordered by the Great Britain Gambling Commission to pay £620,000 (€698,271/$746,716) for a series of anti-money laundering and social responsibility failings the commission cited. Timing The infractions were found to have occurred between November 2019 and June 2021, with Blue Star failing to comply with sections of the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) governing British licensees. Overall Failings Failings identified include the implementation of AML policies, procedures, and controls along with shortcomings in responsible gambling policies. Violations Violations were found in paragraphs 1, 2, and 3 of license condition 12.1.1, requiring compliance with AML and terrorist financing guidelines. Failing to Identify Paragraph 1 requires effective and appropriate risk assessment of businesses being used for money laundering and terrorist financing, with the Commission finding that Blue Star’s assessment failed to explicitly acknowledge certain high-risk factors or customer risks. Deposit Limits Breached The Commission said appropriate procedures and controls were not in place such as limits on amounts customers could deposit being too high, and allowing players to deposit large amounts before satisfactory risk profiling took place. Failures to Review Policies also must be kept under review and updated as necessary. Gamblers were allowed to gamble at too high a velocity before automated restrictions were applied, with the source of funds requested too late in the business stage with the 10Bet operator. License Information Display AML measures for operators in foreign jurisdictions were further cited, including 10Bet failures to display required information on each screen of their website. Required information includes a statement they are licensed, their account number, and a link to their licensed status on the regulator’s website, with Blue Star correcting those errors instantly. Interaction Failures The Commission further cited Blue Star for failing to address ways that licensees are required to interact with players to minimise the risk of gambling harm and failing to provide compliance staff to monitor safer gambling alerts overnight. Lengthy List The list of violations goes on and on and indicates a blueprint for the implementation requirements that all operators must adhere to proactively, with the £620,000 payment to be donated to socially responsible causes instead of a financial penalty. Outlook The penalties show that as rigorous as the procedures are in the UK, the profits that operators hope to gain have a procedural price to pay. However, if these procedures are followed, the industry is safer and more sustainable for all.
Grosvenor Casinos is vying to be the premier destination for immersive online gaming with its newly launched Live Casino Studio. Following a successful rebrand last year, the UK's top casino operator has revamped its digital live casino games to provide players with a more authentic and immersive adventure. With seven stylish tables, including roulette and blackjack games, the Live Casino Studio offers 24/7 access for thousands of digital customers. The highly skilled and passionate dealers ensure an authentic user experience, creating real-world gameplay on demand. Positive guest feedback during the test phase confirms that the Live Casino Studio reflects the welcoming and pleasant environment of Grosvenor Casinos' 51 venues across the UK. Grosvenor Casinos, the leading casino operator in the UK, cements its position as the ultimate destination for immersive online gaming with its Live Casino Studio launch. With 24/7 availability, the Studio boasts seven casino tables, including famous games like roulette and blackjack, and features 50 skilled and dedicated Grosvenor Casinos' dealers on demand. Spyros Kanakis, Head of Gaming Commercial at Grosvenor Casinos, quoted: As the largest casino operator in the UK, we’re on a mission to broaden casino gaming’s appeal to a new generation of players. We knew there was a gap in the market for players to enjoy a truly authentic casino experience, so we created Live Casino Studio to bring our industry-leading expertise and immersive entertainment to create the go-to place for online live play. Hosted by our expert Grosvenor dealers, we have invested in the innovative user experience to create authenticity and excitement. Customers will be able to enjoy the unique atmosphere of our best in venue casino games but online where they will feel close to the action, able to play anytime, from anywhere. In collaboration with EVO Casino, Grosvenor Casinos has introduced the Live Casino Studio as part of its Live and Direct proposition. This allows players to join online tables on demand from three of Grosvenor's major casinos in London, Glasgow, and Sheffield. The Live Casino Studio and Live and Direct showcase Grosvenor's vibrant new brand identity, featuring stylish color palettes to modernize its appeal and break down perceptions of online and offline traditional casino experiences. About Grosvenor Casinos As the largest UK casino operator with 51 venues nationwide, Grosvenor Casinos, part of The Rank Group Plc, offers an exceptional in-venue background with games such as blackjack, roulette, and slots as sports entertainment and hospitality. GrosvenorCasinos.com is the home of live casino games. It features the new Live Casino Studio and Live and Direct, allowing players to join online tables on demand from three Grosvenor casinos in London, Glasgow, and Sheffield. The Rank Group Plc and Grosvenor Casinos are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices, with various support services and tools available. Only those over 18 may participate, and we always encourage responsible betting. For further information, please visit begambleaware.org
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