Caught in the Game: How Gaming and Gambling have become the same thing

Once viewed as entirely separate forms of entertainment, gaming and gambling are now closer than ever before. Video games were traditionally skill-based experiences — something you bought once, played at your own pace, and mastered through time and effort. Gambling, on the other hand, revolved around risk, chance, and the possibility of financial reward or loss.

Today, that distinction is increasingly difficult to make. Many modern video games borrow heavily from the same mechanics used by online casinos, blending chance-based rewards, recurring payments, and psychological triggers into everyday gameplay. As a result, players may find themselves engaging in gambling-like behaviour without ever placing a traditional bet.

This convergence matters. It influences how players spend money, how long they stay engaged, and how comfortable they become with risk-based systems — often without fully realising it. Understanding where gaming ends and gambling begins is becoming one of the most important conversations in digital entertainment.

The Blurring Lines Between Play and Risk

The gaming industry has undergone a fundamental shift over the past decade. Instead of one-time purchases, many games now operate as ongoing services designed to keep players engaged — and spending — for months or even years. Free-to-play models dominate mobile and online platforms, with revenue generated through in-game purchases rather than upfront costs.

This model closely mirrors the structure of online casinos, where access is easy, entry costs are low, and ongoing participation is encouraged through constant incentives. In both environments, players are rewarded for returning frequently, progressing through levels, or unlocking new content — often with financial prompts woven seamlessly into the experience.

The result is a blurred boundary between harmless play and risk-based behaviour. When spending money becomes a regular part of progression, players may no longer perceive purchases as optional extras but as necessary steps to keep up, compete, or enjoy the full experience.

Monetisation Mechanics That Resemble Gambling

At the heart of the gaming–gambling crossover are monetisation systems that rely on chance, uncertainty, and repeat spending.

Loot boxes are one of the most prominent examples. Players pay real money for a virtual container with randomised rewards, never knowing what they will receive. This mirrors the core mechanic of gambling: wagering something of value for an uncertain outcome. The excitement comes not from the purchase itself, but from the possibility of a rare or valuable reward.

Microtransactions further reinforce this behaviour. Small, frequent payments feel low-risk individually, but over time can add up significantly — a pattern also common in online casinos. Pay-to-win mechanics push this further by offering direct gameplay advantages in exchange for money, subtly encouraging players to spend in order to remain competitive.

These systems raise concerns because they shift gaming away from skill and towards spending, chance, and repetition — the same pillars that underpin traditional gambling models.

Psychological Hooks: What Keeps Players Spinning

The similarities between gaming and gambling extend beyond monetisation into psychology. Both industries use well-documented behavioural techniques to maximise engagement and spending.

Variable reward schedules — where rewards are unpredictable — are particularly powerful. Players don’t know when the next big win or rare item will appear, which keeps them engaged for “just one more try.” This uncertainty triggers dopamine responses similar to those experienced during gambling sessions.

Near-miss experiences are another shared tactic. In games, this might look like almost unlocking a rare item or narrowly losing a match. These moments encourage continued play by creating the illusion that success is just around the corner.

Progression loops, daily rewards, and limited-time offers add urgency and habit-forming behaviour. Over time, these systems can make spending feel routine rather than optional, blurring the line between entertainment and compulsion.

Case Studies: Controversy and Classification Challenges

Several high-profile games have sparked debate due to their gambling-like mechanics, forcing regulators and players to question how these titles should be classified.

Some games feature casino-style visuals, spinning reels, or card-based randomness without offering real-world payouts. Others focus heavily on chance-based progression, where success depends less on player skill and more on repeated purchases. These designs challenge traditional age ratings and legal definitions, as they technically avoid gambling laws while replicating the experience.

The controversy highlights a growing regulatory gap. While online casinos are strictly regulated, games using similar mechanics often fall outside existing frameworks, creating confusion about consumer protection, especially for younger players.

Youth Exposure & Normalisation of Spending

One of the most pressing concerns surrounding this convergence is youth exposure. Many popular games featuring loot boxes and microtransactions are played by teenagers and even younger children.

Early exposure to chance-based spending can normalise the idea that paying for random rewards is a standard part of entertainment. Over time, this may shape attitudes toward risk, money, and gambling-like behaviour later in life.

Unlike online casinos, which are age-restricted, games often rely on parental controls and self-regulation systems that can be easily bypassed. This raises ethical questions about responsibility and whether current safeguards are sufficient to protect younger audiences.

Where Responsibility Lies: Regulation, Industry, and the Future of Play

As the boundaries between gaming and gambling continue to fade, questions around responsibility become impossible to ignore. Governments and regulators around the world are beginning to acknowledge that chance-based mechanics, aggressive monetisation, and psychological engagement loops can no longer exist in a regulatory grey area. Measures such as stricter age ratings, clearer disclosures around spending and odds, and potential legislation targeting loot boxes signal a growing recognition that modern games can carry real financial and behavioural risks.

At the same time, the gaming industry faces increasing pressure to balance profitability with player well-being. While some developers argue that player choice and personal responsibility should remain central, critics point out that design systems engineered to encourage repeated spending undermine that argument. When games are built to resemble online casinos in all but name, the responsibility cannot rest solely with the player.

Ultimately, the question is no longer whether gaming and gambling are converging, but how society chooses to respond. Whether through regulation, industry reform, or informed player awareness, the next chapter of gaming will be shaped by how seriously this overlap is taken — and who is held accountable when play starts to look a lot like risk.

NZ learners found gambling online, govt seeks to ban cellphones

Learners in New Zealand have been discovered engaging in gambling activities at online casinos and during school hours; and it’s prompted calls to limit the ways that learners can access these services. In response, the Coalition’s National Party has promised a ban on cell phones in schools to help combat this as well as other learning challenges. This is exacerbated by the difficulty in providing safe restrictions to online gambling, and the ubiquity of mobile devices – especially in schools – that provide access to the betting facilities for underaged participants.

Teenagers are reportedly winning up to $2000 through online underage gambling, causing concern among parents, the Department of Internal Affairs, and the government.

Of particular concern is that gambling is linked to online gaming, where bets can be placed on which teams or players will win competitive matches on virtual platforms. Game developers typically do not sanction the associated gambling platforms, where players can bet money or “skins” (virtual costumes) and other paraphernalia that can sell for thousands of dollars. Often these transactions are paid out via PayPal, where they will not be traced on bank statements.

Consequences for Online Gambling Learners

While gambling rates in New Zealand have slowly declined in recent years, youth gambling has historically remained underreported. Recent work by AUT and the Ministry of Health found that around one in 12 Pakeha youths and more than one in three Pacific youth reported gambling daily; the same report found that one in 10 youths spent $50 a week or more.

Under-18s are rarely financially literate or stable, which makes these figures so concerning. Irresponsible gambling can foster financial strain and potentially lead to risky behaviours such as unwise loans or misusing guardians’ credit cards to recoup their losses – without a full understanding of the repercussions.

In an article from NZ Herald, Mariton Crocker of Netsafe explained that betting on online casino games with real money is not surprising, since it is something that “young people probably understand better [i.e. more than horse racing] and therefore would be more likely to have an opinion on the outcome of, and therefore could be drawn into gambling on it.”

Yet, because it is difficult to verify ages online, underage people often have easy access to these platforms – despite the fact that using them can result in heavy fines.

The implications and consequences for online gambling learners also extend to the realm of mental health, as irresponsible online gambling can become addictive, posing a heightened risk for teenagers who are still navigating emotional and mental development. This addiction can result in long-term consequences, contributing to a wealth of issues such as depression, anxiety, and heightened stress levels.

The educational impact of online gambling is equally alarming, with distractions hindering teenagers from focusing on their studies and potentially affecting academic performance. Because bets can be placed from mobile devices and during school hours, the appeal of this distraction can take their attention away from their education.

National Party calls for banning of cell phones at schools

This alarming development has raised concerns about the impact of technology on academic performance and the need for stringent measures to address underage gambling. The National Party – which leads the recently-formed New Zealand coalition government – has responded with an outright ban on cellphone usage in schools.

Party leader and now Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has said that the party wanted to “turn around falling achievement” by eliminating “unnecessary disturbances and distractions”.

Similar policies have been introduced in France, and supported in places across Australia. Advocates often point to research by the London School of Economics that limiting access improves exam results by reducing distractions; reducing phone theft and the impact of social media.

Introduced in 2018, France’s law stipulated that children could not use their phones on school grounds or during school-based activities (i.e. field trips). Exclusions were in place for children with special needs. Australia’s policies are similar. The proposal for New Zealand would follow suit, with National proposing that phones would be banned for the entire school day, including breaks between classes, and would apply to primary, intermediate and secondary schools – that is, learners from five years to 17.

According to Luxon, schools will be able to decide how they enforce this rule but could include requiring students to hand in their phones or leave them in bags or lockers. The implication is that phones and other mobile devices like smartwatches would only be able to be used outside of school hours. Exceptions would also be made where phones helped with learning challenges or health purposes.

This proposal has been met with mixed responses. Some have argued that the decision should be left to the schools themselves.

However, banning or restricting access to devices also prevents underage gambling, and this should be welcomed by guardians, schools, and the government. It also speaks to the importance of carefully and respectfully monitoring learners’ internet usage to prevent illegal and potentially harmful behaviour.

What measures can parents take to help underage gamblers

Whether the proposed policy is introduced, or schools take matters into their own hands, we can all agree that combatting underaged gambling is important, and encouraging responsible gambling for those of age.

If you’re concerned about your learner gambling, then here’s what you can do:

• Talk to your child about gambling
  • Explain that gambling is a form of entertainment. Help them understand the difference between skill-based games and games of chance, and how irresponsible gambling can affect their mood, health, relationships, and future goals.
• Encourage your child to be involved in non-phone-related activities
  • Mobile devices are designed to be addictive, so encourage your learner to get involved with positive social activities such as recreational clubs, sports, and other community outlets that provide fun, excitement, and social connection.
• Avoid giving scratchies as gifts
  • Gambling should be treated as an 18+ activity, so avoid sending the wrong message to your children. Instead, give your child non-monetary rewards or experiences that they enjoy and value.
• Monitor online activity
  • Respect your child’s privacy, but do monitor their online activity. If possible, limit their access to gambling websites and apps through the use of parental controls and filters. You may also need to check their bank statements, including PayPal transactions, to check for activity.
• Seek professional help
  • There are several free and confidential services in NZ that can provide information, support, and counselling for you and your child. You can contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 or txt 8006, or find a local gambling counselling service on the Safer Gambling Aotearoa website. You can also talk to your GP, school counsellor, or other trusted person for advice and referrals.

How iGaming has re-invented what it means to be an Online Casino

Over the past years, the online iGaming industry has seen a revolutionary shift, with Cryptocurrencies becoming one of the most popular payment methods at a Best Online Casino sites. Many new casinos that open online include Crypto, and this is because of player demand. This is reshaping the industry and attracting a new wave of online casino players. It is no surprise that Bitcoin has become one of the most popular ways to deposit and withdraw at Top Online Casinos. It offers tight security, super fast withdrawals, and a level of anonymity valued by players globally.

Thanks to technology, playing slots and table games at Online Casinos means not having to use banks or traditional payment processors. The chance to deposit and withdraw with Crypto has revolutionized how payment providers operate. Online gamblers can deposit and withdraw funds more efficiently, with lower transaction costs and through Blockchain technology, players can enjoy the highest possible security features as each transaction is recorded on an immutable ledger, which is resistant to fraud and tampering. Our article looks at how iGaming has re-invented what it means to be an Online Casino and why VR might be the next generation of iGaming at casinos.

What is iGaming?

The term iGaming refers to playing games online or betting on sports at Top Rated Online Casinos. The “I” in iGaming means Internet, which means that casino games such as slots, sports, sweepstakes, lottery, bingo, and card games, can be played with an Internet connection. In contrast to games of chance – where the outcome is influenced by Random Number Generators (RNG) – players will also find an exciting selection of table games like blackjack and baccarat.

Cryptocurrency is the future of iGaming

If you’re an online casino player, you will have seen Bitcoin mentioned in our pages as it’s becoming more popular every day. Bitcoin is a decentralized payment option not connected to any bank. Ever since it was introduced to the market in 2009, it’s been a top contender to use at any best online casino. When it first launched, Bitcoin was not appreciated by most people. But today, Bitcoin has become one of the most desired payment options. Bitcoin ensures that online gamers can remain anonymous, and withdrawals are processed at lightning speed. Some popular Crypto options include Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Litecoin, and others. The main reason online casino players are attracted to Crypto is because of its low transaction fees, fast processing times, and enhanced security.

Because Crypto is not connected to any financial institution, governments aren’t in love with this payment provider. They can’t make money from a virtual coin, but the market is changing and Bitcoin and other Cryptos are being used increasingly across all industries. Crypto, like Bitcoin, allows players to withdraw their funds within minutes, and who doesn’t want their money as quickly as possible! Regarding anonymity, blockchain transactions don’t require your bank details or your name, and as long as you have a BTC wallet, you can easily send money. Blockchain is open-source technology with cutting-edge technology ideal for online gambling sites.

When you play at top online casinos, you will get crypto payment options and you will benefit from encrypted deposits and withdrawals, but at blockchain casinos, there are some notable advantages not found in online casinos:

• Players can open their accounts quickly with an email, password, and username.
• Playing with Crypto ensures anonymous gambling, where you won’t have to submit documents.
• With Crypto, your withdrawals are processed in minutes.
• Crypto Casinos offer Provably fair games with better odds and payouts.

There are 2 types of crypto casinos. Some only accept Crypto to deposit and withdraw, and those that offer both traditional currencies and Crypto. We feature an extensive range of both types of casinos, which you can access on our pages. Browse through our featured $/€1 Deposit Casinos and get some Free Spins to play top slots, or try your luck at a $/€5 Deposit Casino and load up with deposit bonuses and Free Spins. At our $/€10 Deposit Casinos, players can claim lucrative bonuses and plenty of Free Spins with only a $/€10.

VR might be the next generation of iGaming and casinos

Embark on the best virtual reality experience at our featured Top Online Casinos and awaken your senses. For anyone who doesn’t know what Virtual Reality (VR) is, remember the 2016 Pokemon GO craze? An early form of Artificial Intelligence, Pokemon GO had players battling among themselves to catch Pokemon, and the whole experience was a raging success. VR Top Online Casinos magically transforms the impossible into the possible and the ordinary into the extraordinary. Virtual Reality adds true-to-life visuals and sounds to enhance the world around us, and along with a VR headset, people can step into a make-believe world, which, as you can imagine, is ideal for the future of online casinos.

A headset lets players enjoy a 360-degree view of their surroundings, with a joystick to make things even more realistic. Virtual Reality at New Online Casinos provides a realistic gaming experience in a virtual casino world where players can interact with a game to make it more engaging and fun. At online casinos, players can step into the slot machine and be part of the whole adventure.

As VR smartphone technology develops, the prospects for VR integration at online casinos are becoming more believable. Beyond just games, there’s the potential for social interactions between players meeting at the bar, joining live discussions, and relaxing in a virtual lounge. VR Casinos offer a more immersive and social environment, which sets the stage for a new era in online gambling.

iGaming’s best software providers have made casinos even better

Software developers like Microgaming, NetEnt, Play’nGO and Yggdrasil are easily the backbone of the online gaming industry. They develop software solutions that enable real-time live streaming, irresistible themed slots and casino games, juicy bonuses, and secure transactions. The quality of the software directly impacts the user experience. This includes game variety, streaming quality, and the overall performance of the platform. Choosing an online casino with the right software providers is essential to experiencing a unique and memorable online gambling experience.

The future of online casinos includes Virtual Reality Integration, increased mobile optimization, enhanced User Interface and User Experience, and we have software companies to thank for this. With a growing demand from players worldwide and advancements in technology, in the future, we expect to see more virtual Reality, artificial intelligence, and personalized gaming experiences.

iGaming is here to stay

As technology advances, iGaming at the best online casinos and sportsbooks will only get better and more advanced. Virtual reality is already on the table – combining gambling and gaming in a more realistic setting. This unique casino experience is our future. The online casino industry is evolving and VR is becoming more accepted and trusted than ever before. The future of iGaming is here to stay and we are happy to experience it with all the thrills it comes with!

Indonesian govt holds talks with Google to obliterate online gambling with AI

Indonesia is not giving up on its fight against gambling. It is so determined to rid the country of gambling that it has enlisted the help of Google to crack down on the best online casinos and minimum bet sportsbooks.  

This fresh approach follows the implementation of removing some 800,000 online gambling websites since 2023. But this was not enough, as offshore gambling sites continued to emerge and operate in Indonesia. 

So, the Communications Ministry took a different approach. Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi held talks with Google to discuss the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) in eradicating online gambling, even going as far as labelling it a “scam”. 

So, when exactly will this be introduced?  For now, he says that the AI method is still in the testing stage.  

“As a form of Google’s participation in government programs, they will help us to eradicate online gambling with AI technology.”  

Minister Setiadi

He said the use of AI would be in line with Google’s focus, which, in the last year, developed many innovations in its services based on AI. Therefore, believes that similar steps can be implemented by Google in Indonesia, which is currently fighting online casinos. 

According to Indonesian law, gambling is a criminal offence. It is illegal for locals and foreigners, punishable by a fine of up to 1 billion rupiah, or 6 years jail time.  There are also no proper casinos in the country. Indonesia follows Sharia Law, which means any form of gambling is considered a sin.  

What was discussed at the meeting with Google

The two parties discussed reporting, and how to speed up processing of reports on online gambling content. With the help of AI, the process of identifying and handling online gambling content would be carried out faster and more accurately, compared to the human method.  

The minister asked Google to immediately apply AI technology, and such an implementation would also take into account aspects of good governance and cybersecurity.  

Background of the online gambling crackdown in Indonesia

Since 2023, the Indonesian government has been trying to rid the country of gambling websites. So far, it has taken down over 800,000 online casino sites, including sportsbooks and online casinos. 

At the end of May 2024, the president reassigned the national task force with the mandate to dismantle the online gambling ecosystem in Indonesia. It ordered banks to block over 4,000 bank accounts implicated in online gambling and embarked on tracing gambling money. 

Recent government data suggests that the 2023 “fund circulation” in the country stood at around 327 trillion rupiah, which is roughly $27.5 billion. Fund circulation refers to the amount of money people won, spent, and lost through gambling. The Government has also taken note that there was a high number of bank loans taken out, and it strongly believes gambling debt is the reason for it.   

The government’s stance is aimed at curbing the high number of loans being taken out by gamblers, who are in severe debt. But whether the debts are actually linked to gambling cannot be verified or confirmed.  

However, what we do know is that even private banks have been approached by the government to assist in this fight against top online casinos.  

The issue of gambling in Indonesia has been in the spotlight for decades. But despite efforts to get rid of it, more gambling sites have emerged online. The government continues to battle with blocking them. This is because many of these online casinos are located offshore, operating from regions like Cambodia and the Philippines.  

In a text message, Minister Setiadi told The Strait Times that they were working towards creating public campaigns to convey their message to gamblers.  

“Nobody could win by betting their money against a machine that is designed to always be in profit,”     

Minister Setiadi

The government is so determined to win this war that it has even gone to the extent of pleading for help from Interpol, especially since many of these best online casinos are in different regions, where the Indonesian government has no jurisdiction.  

It asked Interpol to help them shut down these gambling sites.  

Indonesia is a country is made up of an 87% Muslim population, and it follows strict Sharia laws.  To give some context about how strict they are, we decided to look at other activities considered taboo in Indonesia.  

Smoking, for instance, is prohibited in public spaces and public transport, and other vicinities. Foreign travellers to the country are restricted with the number of cigarettes they can bring along. According to their law, travellers can bring a maximum of 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars- that’s it. Nothing more is allowed.  

The government is so strict that it has even outlawed drinking in most public spaces. Penalties for breaking the law is extremely harsh. Travellers who overstay their welcome face penalties such as blacklisting and deportation.  

So, given all of this, it’s not hard to see why the country is so adamant about gambling. It does not care if an online casino is regulated or not. It just will not allow it. It just wants to rid the nation of gambling in its entirety once and for all. And this is why, it has prioritized its war against gambling operators. 

Crash Game tournaments coming to a Softswiss partnered casino soon!

Softswiss is set to shake up the world of online casinos as it introduces crash game tournaments to its Game Aggregator platform. This will undoubtedly lead to new levels of excitement and engagement for those who play casino games, and it will also offer a boost to operators by driving revenue and increasing retention rates. 

With the integration of crash games into its tournament tool, Softswiss is showing how savvy it really is by taking advantage of the rapid growth in this exciting format. It’s clear that crash casino games have already captured the attention of players around the world, thanks to the simple, yet thrilling gameplay. Other attractions of these games are the chance for social interaction and, of course, significant wins. What the Softswiss move will lead to is all of these elements coming together and then being taken to the next level. It’s practically a guarantee that players will be engaged and keep coming back for more.  

For operators that choose to tap into the Softswiss Game Aggregator, they will have access to an outstanding tool that will allow them to create tournament experiences that are both exciting and customized. This customization is thanks to the fact that crash games can be combined with other popular types of games. This allows operators to provide an outstanding experience and cater for a diverse range of players. This will ultimately lead to online casinos with the highest satisfaction levels ever seen. 

After reaching this far, it becomes clear that crash game tournaments will present operators with a unique opportunity to boost both revenue and customer numbers. With tournaments being competitive by nature, players will be incentivized to come back as they try to climb the leaderboards. Operators will be able to generate more of a buzz at their online casinos by offering the likes of prize pools too.  

Why Crash Games, in particular, are being added

Crash casino games have exploded in popularity. This is down to the fact that they offer a unique blend of simplicity and excitement. Players place their bets and then they simply watch an increasing multiplier until the inevitable crash comes. To win, players need to cash out before the crash. To maximize their winnings, they need to do so as close to the time of the crash as possible. This format is incredibly simple but that doesn’t stop players coming back for more. There’s a major sense of satisfaction as you cash out and watch those around you lose. 

With the gameplay being so simple, you may wonder quite what it is that appeals so much and why crash games are so popular at online casinos. Firstly, it’s all about the pace of the game. This is exceptionally fast and this appeals to a younger, more tech-savvy audience. The game seems to fulfil their need for instant gratification. Then there’s the element of skill that comes in as players try to perfectly time their cash out. Of course, this is more to do with luck, but players enjoy a sense of control over the outcome. Lastly, there’s the social aspect to these games. Yes, there’s a sense of competition, but there’s camaraderie too. 

The decision by Softswiss to incorporate crash games into its tournament tool is all about amplifying these qualities. It is seeking to create a playing environment that’s dynamic and competitive. The chance to compete for major prizes is a real plus point and it is this that will ensure that players keep returning. 

Softswiss hasn’t focused on crash casino games by chance. Rather, this is about following broader trends in the industry. There’s the growing popularity of esports to consider and this has highlighted the appeal of a social, yet competitive, edge to online gaming. Softswiss is simply tapping into these trends and offering players a new way to explore their favourite games. 

Softswiss’ Game Aggregator

The Softswiss Game Aggregator is a popular platform that provides operators access to a vast library of casino games. It has garnered a reputation for being both innovative and user-friendly, making it indispensable for any operator that wants to increase its offerings and give the very best player experience. 

Now that crash games are being added, we will see the capabilities of the Aggregator expand even further. It will allow operators to create tournament experiences that are both diverse and engaging. It is the combination of crash games with other popular titles that will allow operators to reach an audience that is as wide as possible and to create a whole new playing environment. 

It’s clear that crash tournaments stand to benefit both online casinos and players. As far as casinos are concerned, they can expect increased player engagement, a boost to revenue, and a growing number of customers. From the side of the players, there’s social engagement, competition, and the chance to win big prizes. This truly is a win-win. 

The move by Softswiss to integrate crash games with its Aggregator platform is a significant development in the world of casinos. The combination of fast-paced thrills and competitive tournaments allows for an experience that is unique and can drive the industry forward. 

While what’s offered here is already attractive, there are options available to develop this even further. By integrating social media and streaming platforms, there’s the chance to allow players to connect on a whole new level and share in the gameplay. It’s also worth considering the advancements being made with virtual and augmented reality. These could allow for a fully immersive experience that takes crash tournaments to a new level.  

It’s worth noting that the integration of crash casino games with the Softswiss Game Aggregator doesn’t guarantee success. There is still work to be done by operators of online casinos to ensure that they create a playing environment that’s attractive and compelling. There needs to be a focus on the player experience, with transparency around rules and regulations. This will allow for tournaments that are seen as fair and lead to a great influx of competitors. This presents a real opportunity for the online casino industry and one that it needs to capitalize on. 

Children’s exposure to gambling ads has declined in the UK: Advertising Standards Report confirms

The top online casinos take extreme care not to target any children or minors in their advertising. This is usually considered a priority in terms of responsible gambling, however, it’s not to say that mistakes weren’t made in the past with advertising being inadvertently seen by children or teens. 

The UK Gambling Commission, which is the gambling regulator for online casinos operating in the UK, takes a particularly strict approach to this. In October 2022, a particularly controversial law was enacted in the UK, stating that gambling adverts “must not be of strong appeal to children or young persons”.  

The change was intended to safeguard children and young persons, but it created strong controversy for appearing to catch top sports personalities and other influencers with a strong under-18 following who had previously had no legal problems accepting advertising contracts with some of the top-rated online casinos and sportsbooks. 

The law also resulted in the removal of gambling advertising from many major UK sporting events, such as the Premier League, which also has a large following among children and teens. Now, this law appears to be bearing fruit despite the controversy, as a new report published by the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) revealed information about children’s exposure to restricted TV advertising. 

Children’s exposure to gambling advertising on TV has decreased from an average of 3.0 adverts per week in 2010 to 1.8 adverts per week in 2023. Moreover, the exposure of under-16s to gambling ads decreased by two-fifths since 2010, rendering the world of online casinos generally safer. The report reveals that children’s exposure to gambling TV ads is on a definition “downward trend”.  

This reflects a wider trend where children are actually being exposed to less advertising on TV in general. In fact, children’s exposure to all forms of TV advertising decreased from an average of 226.7 adverts per week in 2010 to 58.2 adverts per week in 2023. Broken down further, this means that children saw around two adverts on TV on average, for every nine seen by adults in 2023. These included all gambling adverts related to land and online casinos. 

 Out of all four countries in the UK –  England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales – the best performer in this regard was England, with children only being exposed to a total average of 56.6 adverts per week, including gambling-related ones. 

British media adamant that UK children are “bombarded’ by gambling ads

Still, not everyone views the situation from such rose-tinted spectacles. The majority of British media remains of the opinion that children across the UK are exposed to an excess of gambling adverts. A few weeks ago The Guardian ran an in-depth story about the issue, referring to a claim that was made by responsible gambling agency GambleAware that children are being “bombarded” with gambling ads. 

The Guardian reported that, despite legal restrictions on advertising campaigns targeting young people, the internet remains “saturated” with gambling content and promotions, with young people feeling their internet activity is “overwhelmed” by such content. 

“Research shows that gambling content is now part of many children’s lives. This is worrying, as early exposure to gambling can normalise gambling for children at a young age, and lead to problems. We need to see more restrictions put on gambling advertising and content to ensure it is not appearing in places where children can see it. Urgent action is needed to protect children.” 

GambleAware CEO Zoe Osmond

Osmond explained that the report was based on a number of interviews with children and young people aged between seven and 25 about the way gambling affected their lives. The report found that children had difficulties distinguishing between gambling products and gambling-like content, like mobile phone games played with in-app purchases. 

The interviews were carried out by Sherbert Research, with managing director Nicki Karet elaborating that there’s a “confusing” gray area between online gambling and gambling-like gaming. This was especially true for younger children. 

“This grey area is further confusing because gambling advertising, particularly online, often uses visuals and tonal expressions that can be seen to directly target children, such as cartoon graphics, bright colours and sounds,”

Karet told The Guardian. 

This is not the first time that GambleAware has highlighted the issue. An earlier study held in March 2020 had already established that exposure to gambling advertising, including on social media, can have an impact on the likelihood that a child or young person will gamble in the future.  

The study had revealed that almost all (96%) of the 11-24-year-old participants had been exposed to gambling marketing messages in the previous weeks. This was in part thanks to the rise of new forms of gambling marketing through social media, which increased the ways in which children and young people could engage with gambling brands and online casinos. 

The above situation has led to GambleAware calling for “fresh regulation to curb the amount of advertising seen by young people”, with the CEO stating that “a wider definition of gambling may be required to include excessive or compulsive engagement with online games that have elements of betting, such as loot boxes – which can be bought with virtual currencies or real money – and free fruit-machine slot games on Google Play and other platforms.” 

Enforcement of age verification on all gambling products

However, the Betting and Gaming Council in the UK insist that all its members actually do take a very strict approach to age verification on all their gambling products, with online casinos even going so far as to introduce new ‘age gating’ rules when it comes to advertising on social media platforms. 

The Council in fact released a press statement only a few days ago, stating that its members boast record compliance on age verification checks. This statement is backed by research recently concluded by Serve Legal, which is a leading provider of ID and compliance testing services in the UK & Ireland. The company provides extensive, independent audit services to gambling operators to help clients protect and improve operational and compliance standards. 

Its research into this specific topic yielded highly encouraging results: sportsbooks boast a 91.4% age verification pass rate, while land-based and online casinos have an almost perfect pass rate of 98%. 

The figures represent a whopping 30% increase since the last audit took place in 2009. The Council insists that all its members take a “zero tolerance approach” to gambling activities by children and young people, and have raised their standards to implement this approach.   

For instance, age gating is being employed to successfully stop children from encountering gambling-related advertising on social media, with UK online casinos targeting ads to those aged 25 and over unless a platform can verifiably prove that its age gating systems can prevent under 18s from accessing regulated betting and gaming advertising content. 

The study also revealed that remote gambling at online casinos and sportsbooks was not the main source of underage gambling. Rather, the most popular forms of betting by children turned out to be legal arcade games like penny pusher and claw grab machines, bets between friends or family, and playing cards for money. 

The Council has also petitioned the Government, requesting that social media companies be asked to cooperate more closely with the betting and gaming industry in limiting marketing seen by young people. 

Ultimately, this is an area where it’s always good to encourage improvement, and top online casinos are always willing to implement any reasonable measures to help improve the figures. And as the latest statistics show, the strategy appears to be working.

What Is a White Label Casino

Imagine if you could skip all the hassles of setting up an online casino and obtaining the necessary licenses. Imagine starting your own casino business under your branding but with the help of experienced professionals supporting you every step of the way. 

Well, you don’t actually have to imagine any of these things because they already exist and represent the concept of white label casino solution. In fact, many of the best online casinos have used this approach. That’s exactly what has enabled them to focus on players rather than on time-consuming administrative errands. 

With interest in white label casino products increasing, our team has taken the time to create a full guide on the topic. Stay on this page to learn what white label solutions are and how they work. Of course, we’ll also reveal the secret of what makes them so attractive to operators. 

The White Label Casino Concept

A white label casino solution represents a pre-build and ready-to-launch online casino platform. This product is always offered by a third-party company specializing in such solutions. 

Those investing in such a platform get: 

• Fully functional platform and games;
• Technical support by the third-party company;
• White label licensing through the platform provider;
• Financial infrastructure necessary for payment processing;
• Website development and even hosting;
• Customer support;
• AML, KYC, risk and fraud management;
• Real-time reporting and analytics;
• Gamification and player engagement services.

As mentioned, the product is ready to go. The client (casino operator) just needs to provide any individual requirements as well as branding directions. 

To a first-time visitor, a white label casino looks like a new and unique product. This simple solution is especially popular among new online casinos that want to join the market quickly and without investing in big teams. 

Please don’t confuse white label casinos with turnkey casino solutions. The latter is for operators who hold their own licenses but don’t want to develop a casino platform. By contrast, a white label casino product always includes platform, licensing, and payments. 

How White Label Casinos Work

To establish an online casino business, you need to build the website, make agreements with game providers, and set up payment processing. You also need a proper license based on what market or markets you want to target. 

Let’s not forget that you’ll also need a customer care team, affiliate managers, and, of course, an entire marketing team. 

A while label casino product will remove many of these segments from your plate. Please note that platform providers don’t do this important work for an affordable price just because they’re nice. In many cases, they will also get a share of your profits. Yet, reports from top-rated online casinos using such solutions show the deal is more than lucrative. 

To set up a white label casino, you need to follow these general steps: 

1. First contact and consultation. 
2. Discuss your target market and licensing. 
3. Agree on all the segments handled by your team and those handled by the white label platform provider. 
4. Provide all your requirements and customization requests. 
5. Decide if you want additional services like a loyalty program, tournaments, jackpots, etc. 
6. Give the platform provider the time necessary to set up everything. 
7. Take the reign of your newly launched and fully operational online casino! 

We already covered what the white label product supplier does. But what about you? As an operator of such a casino, you stay in charge of the following aspects: 

• Daily casino operations and management;
• Marketing, brand building, player acquisition;
• Customer support;
• Player retention strategies. 

Once again, it’s good to note that white label casino providers often have additional services that can cover some or all of these. However, it’s good to stay ahead of these vital aspects and build a strong relationship with your players without third parties in between. 

The Benefits of White Label Casinos

By the number of operators using white label casino solutions, it’s easy to conclude that the investment is worth it. Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of this service and understand it better. 

• Faster time to market – Acquiring proper licensing often takes an entire year, and developing standalone casino software isn’t any quicker either. By contrast, the average launch time for a white label casino is only four weeks.
• Lower initial investment – Developing a casino from scratch doesn’t only mean more money spent but also more time spent. You could redirect both toward player acquisition and retention instead!
• Access to established gaming software and payment systems – White label software providers have agreements with multiple game suppliers, ensuring game lobbies with thousands of games. They also partner with payment systems, so you don’t have to. For example, one of the leading suppliers of white label casinos gets you launched with 7,500 casino games!
• Ongoing technical support and updates from the provider – While your team works to attract and keep players happy, your white label casino partner bothers with the technical aspect of your operations. Not only will they provide ongoing tech support but also all necessary updates for your product.
• No hassle compliance – Since the platform provider holds the license, it’s in their interest to ensure your operations are fully compliant. That means you get a product meeting all regulatory standards right from the start and without any hassles from your side.
• Target one or more markets at once – Many white label casino providers hold multiple licenses, directly enabling you to target several markets at once. It’s your decision what country or countries you want to serve, and the company will help you do it. You can operate as an MGA and UKGC-approved brand without complex paperwork or long processing times. 

When creating our best online casino reviews, we’ve noticed that many of those leading brands are white label casino solutions. 

SOFTSWISS is perhaps the most popular company offering a ready-to-go casino platform. The brand has powered 800+ brands over the years, including Megaslot, King Billy, BitStarz, Playamo, and 7bit Casino. 

Conclusion

Overall, we can conclude that taking the white label casino route is the simplest way of starting your own online casino business. Thanks to the deep support of casino platform providers, aspiring casino operators get everything they need without wasting time on research, paperwork, and negotiations. 

iGaming is a complex industry with tons of regulations and preferences,  both of which vary by market and audience. A small issue can grow into a costly problem if you fail to optimize even the smallest aspect of your service. 

With a ready-to-launch white label casino adapted to your brand and needs, you skip directly to the finish line. Now, all the hassles are behind you. You can focus on building your business and communicating with the most important segment – your players! 

Without white label casinos, the iGaming industry wouldn’t be what it is today, that’s for sure. So, if you have the investment and the brand idea, we invite you to consider this modern and elegant solution! 

Complaints Against GambleAware For Alleged Funding From Casino Industry

Following allegations that GambleAware is taking donations from the casino industry, there are now questions over the charity’s ability to promote responsible gambling at UK online casinos. This has led to a compliance case against the organization. 

The complaint filed by The Good Law Project (GLP), an independent non-profit organization, accuses GambleAware of spreading false information about gambling-related harms and suicides, and of failing to fulfil its objectives of educating the masses about gambling-related harm. Expert gambling specialists Annie Ashton and Will Prochaska are among those who have joined the complaint.  

The chief executive of GambleAware, Zoe Osmond, strongly refuted the accusations made in the letter from the Good Law Project, describing it as both highly harmful and baseless. According to iGaming Business, Osmond said, “We are robustly independent of the gambling industry, having long called for further regulation on gambling advertising and for the implementation of a statutory funding system to hold the gambling industry to account” 

The Good Law Project Has Become Involved In The Case

Recently, the GLP complained to the Charity Commission about how GambleAware spreads information. It accuses GambleAware trustees of not meeting the charity’s objectives to offer adequate gambling harm education.  

The complaint asserted that GambleAware’s poor performance was due to its connections with the industry and reliance on industry funding. The main allegations in the complaints about GambleAware are: 

1. There are claims that its trustees have neglected their responsibility to push forward its objectives, which include the public benefit education and prevention of betting dangers.
2. The charity’s actions are dictated by the industry’s view on gambling due to its strong links to the sector and its severe dependence on financing. Allegedly, it has disregarded competing critical analyses of industry practices. 

Experts contest GambleAware’s approach, which is based on industry-approved analysis. This approach portrays gambling as normal and inevitable, suggesting that issues like problem gambling can be addressed through individual responsibility rather than by discouraging gambling entirely or by pressuring operators to stop predatory practices. Critics argue that the industry would be significantly less profitable without these practices. 

According to the complaint, GambleAware faces challenges in advancing research and treatment services related to UK online casinos and even minimum bet sportsbooks because other experts and providers do not see it as sufficiently independent. Furthermore, the educational and public information related to responsible gambling is considered too one-sided to fulfil its charitable obligations effectively. 

If the Charity Commission does not conduct an investigation, the GLP may sue it. Because of its financial ties to the gambling industry, the GLP maintains that GambleAware cannot give people objective information. Campaigners Annie Ashton and Will Prochaska argue that this financial dependency compromises GambleAware’s ability to deliver impartial advice and support. 

GambleAware’s Response to Allegations

According to iGaming Business, a GLP spokesperson stated, “We believe that GambleAware’s close ties to the gambling industry hinder its capacity to provide independent and effective education on gambling harms. This relationship must be scrutinised to ensure the charity fulfils its legal and ethical obligations.” 

Despite these allegations, GambleAware’s CEO, Zoë Osmond, has consistently defended the charity’s independence. In a recent statement, Osmond emphasized, “Our robust governance and commissioning practices ensure that the industry has no influence over our operations. GambleAware’s independence has been widely recognized by many stakeholders, including the government, as evidenced in the gambling white paper.” 

Osmond further added, “The complaint lodged to the Charity Commission by the Good Law Project is based on misleading and outdated information. While we are confident that this complaint will not be upheld, we are deeply concerned that inaccurate headlines and misleading newspaper articles may have a damaging impact on our services and the people who rely on them.” 

GambleAware has highlighted the positive outcomes of its programs to defend its work. According to the annual National Gambling Support Network statistics, nine out of ten vulnerable players who complete their treatment see an improvement in their condition. Additionally, GambleAware’s website sees 6.5 million visits annually, and its national stigma public health campaign has reached over 95% of the population. 

Osmond also expressed concern over the potential negative impact of the allegations on those seeking help for gambling problems. “The deeply stigmatised nature of gambling harms often makes it difficult for individuals to reach out for help. Maintaining the credibility and reputation of essential support services is crucial to reaching people before their gambling issues become catastrophic.” 

Background of GambleAware

For the last two decades, GambleAware has been at the forefront in a bid to minimize the adverse impacts of gambling on the best UK online casinos. The charity was established following growing recognition of how gambling is harmful to individuals, families, and communities. 

GambleAware is accountable to the Charity Commission and their expert Board of Trustees. It is currently funded by voluntary donations from the iGaming industry, an arrangement established by the UK Government. However, GambleAware has long advocated for a change to this model.  

Ultimately, the council’s goal is to lessen the effects of gambling addiction by supporting programmes that educate the public, conduct research, and provide treatment. As a result, the charity operates several vital programs: 

• Research Approach: The organization commissions studies with the aim of understanding what drives gambling addiction and the consequences thereof. This research includes the crafting of educational materials and leads on how effective treatment can be carried out.
• National Gambling Support Network (NGSN): NGSN is an assembly of groups throughout the United Kingdom that offers treatment free of charge and confidentially. They also oversee the National Gambling Helpline which sees close to 42,000 calls each year.
• Campaign Information: The charity runs public awareness campaigns to promote responsible gambling practices. These campaigns target various sectors, young people inclusive, intending to educate the youth about the risks involved with gambling plus tips on control.
• Advice and Tools: The organization provides treatment services for people who have issues with gambling addiction. It gives grants to institutions that offer counselling, support groups, and other therapeutic interventions.

The relevance of GambleAware’s work has grown alongside the expansion of the UK gambling industry, particularly with the rise of online casinos. The charity’s efforts are crucial in addressing the public health issues related to gambling, which include financial hardship, mental health problems, and social consequences. 

However, the recent allegations and subsequent investigation by the Charity Commission, coupled with the involvement of the Good Law Project, have cast a shadow on the charity’s operations. The central concern is whether GambleAware can maintain its impartiality and effectively fulfil its mission if it receives substantial funding from the gambling industry.  

In January of 2024, GambleAware CEO Zoë Osmond urged the government to reconsider its implementation plan for a statutory industry levy, by emphasising the need for a comprehensive National Strategy for Gambling Harm Prevention and Treatment. 

Osmond pointed out that such a strategy could only limit the levy’s effectiveness. She advocated creating a unified Prevention and Treatment Commissioner or a closely integrated framework to ensure equitable access to services across different regions. 

These developments underscore the need for transparency and integrity in charitable organizations, especially those dealing with issues as sensitive and impactful as gambling addiction when playing at the best online casino UK. Only time will tell how these issues will unfold and their impact on the future of gambling support services.

By Daniela Rose

The 3 Best Sign-Up Bonuses Right Now

The online casino industry is constantly evolving with each gaming site offering attractive sign-up bonuses to bring in new players. These sign-up offers range from match bonuses to free spins, no-deposit bonuses, and cashback bonuses. However, with so many casinos offering welcome bonuses, choosing the most generous ones can be challenging. For that reason, we reviewed dozens of global sites and came up with a list of top online casinos that offer the best welcome bonuses.

You will find these welcome deals at our recommended casinos and it will help you build your bankroll and win real money without investing more of your money. Moreover, the bonus offers are minimum deposit casino Sign up bonuses. This means that you only need to make a small deposit in order to activate the sign-up bonuses. Keep reading and discover more about the welcome offers including wagering requirements, qualifying deposits, eligible games, etc.

Sign-Up Bonus 1 – GG.Bet’s Welcome Bonus up to $/€1500 Plus 500 Free Spins

GG.Bet Casino is by far one of the most generous online casinos available right now. As a newly registered player, GG.Bet will reward you with an exciting welcome bonus of up to $/€1500+500 free spins. This welcome bonus is distributed across the first four deposits as shown below:

• First deposit bonus – 100% up to $/€500+75 free spins
• Second deposit bonus – 125% up to $/€200+100 free spins
• Third deposit bonus – 150% up to $/€300+100 free spins
• Fourth deposit bonus – 175% up to $/€500+225 free spins

Welcome Bonus

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Deposit $/€10 Get Up to $/€1500 + 500 free spins

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To activate the first deposit bonus, you need to transfer at least $/€7 to your account. On the other hand, you will need to deposit at least $/€10 to activate the second and third deposit bonuses. For the fourth deposit bonus, you only need to make a deposit of $/€15 or more.

Once you claim match bonuses, you can use them on all casino games. But for the free spins, you can only use them on selected slot machines. Specifically, free spin bonus on the first, second, third, and fourth deposits are available on Big Bass Splash, Book of GGBet, Gates of Olympus, and Hot Volcano slot machines respectively.

Another important thing worth pointing out is that you have 5 days to activate the welcome bonus from the moment you sign-up. Plus, you will need to wager the match bonuses at least 40X within 5 days of bonus issuance. Winnings from free spins, on the other hand, have wagering requirements of 30X, which must be fulfilled within 5 days. And don’t forget, the maximum bet when using bonus funds is $/€5.

GG.Bet is 100% legal, which means you can claim the welcome bonus and play in a safe and secure atmosphere. In particular, the casino operates under Brivio Limited, a company registered in the Republic of Cyprus. The company also operates with a license granted by the Government of Curacao. The license number is 8048/JAZ2012-009.

When it comes to banking, GG.Bet has every popular payment system you could ask for. You can rest assured of making safe casino payments using the likes of Visa, Mastercard, ecoPayz, Skrill, Paysafecard, Flexepin, Neosurf, Giropay, Klarna, and Interac. These payment systems are free when depositing and withdrawing funds.

Sign-Up Bonus 2 – Spin Fever’s 100% Match Bonus up to $/€2000 Plus 200 Free Spins

Spin Fever is another best online casino where you can sign-up and jumpstart your gaming adventure with a juicy welcome package. Specifically, the casino’s welcome bonus is a whopping $/€2000+200 free spins. This bonus is available on the first three deposits as shown below:

• First deposit – 100% match bonus up to $/€500+50 free spins
• Second deposit – 100% match bonus up to $/€500+50 free spins
• Third deposit – 50% match bonus up to $/€1000+100 free spins

Welcome Bonus

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Deposit $/€20 Get Up to $/€2000 + 200 free spins

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The three deposit bonuses require a minimum qualifying deposit of $/€20 or more. Moreover, you must use codes FEVER1, FEVER2, and FEVER3 when claiming the first, second, and third deposit bonuses respectively. Match bonuses are available on all casino games including slots and table games. On the other hand, free spin bonuses are credited on selected slot machines. Free spins on the first deposit are credited on the Gates of Olympus slot machine from Pragmatic Play. The second and third deposit free spins are credited on the Book of the Fallen and Big Bass Splash slot machines respectively.

To withdraw match bonuses and winnings from free spins, you will first need to wager them at least 45 times. Plus, you must complete wagering requirements within 7 days of bonus activation. And remember, you can cash out a maximum of $/€5000 with each of the match deposit bonuses. For the free spins, you can cash out up to $/€2000.

Spin Fever is also one of the safest and most secure new online casinos you will ever come across. The casino launched in 2023 under Dama NV, a reputable gambling company licensed and regulated by the Government of Curacao. The license number for the company is 8048/JAZ2020-13. With this license, you can claim your welcome bonus and play casino games with peace of mind.

Spin Fever Casino is also unparalleled when it comes to banking methods. Whether you love playing with fiat currencies or cryptocurrencies, the casino has got you covered. The most popular fiat currencies you can use include Skrill, Neteller, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa, Neosurf, ecoPayz, iDebit, MiFinity, MuchBetter, and AstroPay. If you are a crypto player, you can use renowned crypto such as Litecoin, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and Tether. The minimum you can deposit and withdraw using these payment systems is only $/€20.

Sign-Up Bonus 3 – Mirax Casino’s Welcome Bonus up to 5BTC Plus 150 Free Spins

Mirax Casino is a crypto casino site that boosts your wagering bankroll with a welcome bonus of up to 5BTC+150 free spins. This new player bonus is spread across the first four casino deposits.

• First deposit – 100% match bonus up to 1.5BTC+50 free spins
• Second deposit – 50% match bonus up to 1BTC+50 free spins
• Third deposit – 75% match bonus up to 1BTC+50 free spins
• Fourth deposit – 100% match bonus up to 1.5BTC

Welcome Bonus

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Deposit $/€10 Get Up to 5BTC+150 free spins

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In order to activate each of the match deposit bonuses, you need to deposit at least 0.00072BTC. Additionally, you must use bonus codes W2, W3, and W4 when claiming the second, third, and fourth deposit bonuses. Regarding terms and conditions, you need to wager each of the match bonuses at least 45 times before withdrawing. Winnings from free spins also have wagering requirements of 45X.

You also need to bear in mind that free spins are credited on the Aloha King Elvis slot machine from BGaming. This means that wagering free spins on any other slots will result in the cancellation of the bonus. What’s more, the maximum you can win using free spins is capped at 0.0036BTC.

We were impressed to find that Mirax Casino is part of Hollycorn NV, a renowned gaming company licensed and regulated by the Government of Curacao. The company’s license number is 8048/JAZ2019-015. This license means that the casino is safe and you can activate the sign-up bonus and enjoy playing with free money in a secure gaming environment.

Mirax Casino also supports some of the most popular payment methods in the gambling industry. From credit/debit cards to e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and bank transfers, the casino has every payment option you could ask for. As a crypto player, you can transfer money in and out of your account using Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether, and Bitcoin Cash. And if you love e-wallets, you can choose from MuchBetter, MiFinity, ecoPayz, Jeton, Neteller, and Skrill. Players who love cards can also use Visa and Mastercard. All these payment methods have no processing fees. Besides, you can use them to make instant deposits and fast withdrawals.

Comparison of Sign-Up Bonuses

At this point, you already know the best online casinos with the most generous welcome bonuses. We will now compare the bonuses in a table so that you can know which one deserves your attention. The table shows the bonus amount, qualifying deposits, wagering requirements, Eligible games, and withdrawal times at different casinos.

UK Govt calls for crypto trading to be regulated as gambling

The UK House of Commons Treasury Committee has published a call to regulate cryptocurrency trading in the country. In a statement issued, the committee stated that crypto trading was dangerous and speculative, warranting the same degree of regulation as gambling activities at UK online casinos. This idea elicited a variety of views from stakeholders and the industry, with some encouraging the demand for laws to protect consumers and others concerned about possible stifling of innovation.

Here we take a look at what this potential move could mean for gambling in the UK. We also examine how this could affect key stakeholders in the crypto sector if implemented.

What would this move mean for the current gambling legislation

If the UK Government chooses to regulate cryptocurrency trading as gambling, crypto exchanges would be treated similarly to regulated, licenced, top-rated UK online casinos. This would imply that cryptocurrency exchanges would be subject to the same laws. The following would be the consequences of such a move.

Anti-Money Laundering and User Identification

To authenticate the identities of consumers, cryptocurrency exchanges would be forced to employ sophisticated client identification methods.

Safeguards for Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling precautions would need to be established through crypto exchanges by rules enforced to present players with endless benefits at the best-rated UK online casinos. This might include putting restrictions on consumers’ daily deposits or losses, as well as preventing individuals from participating in excessive or dangerous trading practices.

The mixed reaction to the legislation proposal

The proposal to regulate cryptocurrency trading has had conflicting responses. Below we investigate various points of view.

Those in support of the regulation believe that it would shield UK citizens from the intrinsic risks of cryptocurrency trading. Andrew Griffith, the UK Financial Services Minister voiced that if crypto assets were treated as a form of gambling, it could put Britain at odds with the European Union and global regulators while failing to mitigate risks.

Regulation opponents, meanwhile, are concerned that excessive legislation would inhibit innovation in the crypto sector. They claim that adopting tight laws would stifle the development of innovative technology and the growth of cryptocurrency-related enterprises. The worry with lawmakers in treating the crypto sector as a financial service was that it could be seen by consumers as a much safer option than it is. Critics underline the necessity of encouraging innovation and creating a welcoming atmosphere for crypto companies and entrepreneurs.

Another view included the possible scenario that crypto trading could be regulated by the FCA and in such an instant, it would be subject to crypto restrictions like those imposed on other financial services businesses. Regulations would include liquidity management, capital sufficiency, and company behaviour guidelines. Crypto exchanges would need to set aside adequate capital to cover potential losses to ensure stability. Another requirement would also include a strong liquidity management system to ensure prompt customer withdrawals.  

Corporate behaviour guidelines would need to be in place to ensure that players at top-rated UK online casinos were open to fairness and consumer protection. In addition, such procedures would need to include price information to avoid market manipulation.

Background of Gambling and Crypto in the UK

The UK Gambling Commission oversees and controls all forms of gambling in the country and has no specific laws or regulations in place regarding cryptocurrency use. The best-rated online casinos UK that have been supporting cryptocurrency gambling require an operator license and notifying the UKGC of any supported payment methods. While cryptocurrency trading is not classed by the UK Gambling Act as gambling, crypto investors are required to report gains from crypto on tax returns.

Established in 2007, under the 2005 Gambling Act, the UK Gambling Commission took over regulating bingo, lotteries, casinos, betting, slot machines, and arcades from Great Britain’s Gaming Board. The Gambling Commission is responsible for issuing licenses to land-based and online gambling operators and has the power to revoke licences or issue fines, as well as prosecuting and investing illegal gambling. It constantly updates the regulations to ensure a safe and responsible online experience for players. In fact, the latest update regarding remote customer interaction was released in August and becomes effective from the end of October 2023.

Most authorities and jurisdictions still need to enact cryptocurrency governing laws, which means the legality of crypto mining in most countries remains unclear. In Great Britain, the Cryptoassets Taskforce was established in 2018, consisting of Her Majesty’s Treasury, the FCA, and the Bank of England. The main task of the Cryptoassets Taskforce is to examine and determine how and when cryptoassets should be regulated.

Early in 2020, the FCA was also charged with stepping in as the Counter Terrorist Financing and Anti Money Laundering supervisor over organizations carrying out cryptocurrency ventures. In October 2020, the distribution, marketing and selling of crypto derivatives were banned by the FCA, estimating that retail consumers would save approximately £53 million due to the ban. In April 2021, the BoE-Treasury taskforce was created to explore the possibility of a digital pound, which could be called Britcoin instead of Bitcoin.

Conclusion

Where there is smoke, there’s fire. Changes in the UK seem inevitable in the future as the government continues to evaluate recommendations from the committee regarding legislation of cryptocurrencies. Aside from the above regularity suggestions, the UK Government is also expected to explore other steps such as mandating exchanges and taxation of crypto trading. The decisions by the government regarding crypto regulations could have a huge impact on the crypto industry’s future in the country. A fully regulated industry like online gambling could hold great benefits for both and attract more clientele with effective regulations to ensure a fair and safe environment for all.