News desk
News matters most when it helps readers understand what changed, where, and why that change actually matters.
31Casino tracks regulation, enforcement, market openings, operator movement, and responsible-gambling developments with an editorial lens. The goal is not volume. The goal is context.
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The most recent article in the current news slice. Use it as the quickest way into the latest coverage.
Alberta Launches Licensed iGaming Market with 50 Operators on Opening Day
Alberta has launched its fully regulated online gambling market, becoming the second Canadian province to do so. With 50 licensed iGaming operators registered at launch, the move signals a significant shift in Canada’s gambling landscape and provides a robust framework for consumer protection and market competition.
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The broader feed, with room for regulatory, industry, and responsible-gambling developments.
Gibraltar Launches World-First Regulation for Online Prediction Markets
Gibraltar has established the world’s first regulatory regime specifically for online prediction markets, licensing two specialist platforms under its new framework. This strategic move positions Gibraltar at the forefront of innovation in regulated gambling and digital economy policy.
Alberta iGaming Market Opens With 50 Licensed Operators on Launch Day
Alberta officially launches its regulated iGaming market on July 13, featuring 50 registered operators including global brands such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM. The high-profile rollout marks a pivotal step for Canada’s online gambling landscape and sets a notable regulatory precedent for other provinces.
UK Gambling Commission Faces CMS Committee Scrutiny Over Financial Risk Assessments Rollout
The UK Gambling Commission is under scrutiny from the Culture, Media and Sport Committee following its decision to proceed with Financial Risk Assessments, highlighting concerns around player privacy and regulatory transparency in the UK’s gambling sector.
FanDuel VIP Program Faces Scrutiny After $2M Gambling Addiction Allegation in US
A FanDuel VIP sports bettor in the US alleges the sportsbook fuelled his $2 million gambling loss with high-value perks and a personalized Bryce Harper video, raising fresh questions for the industry’s responsible gambling protocols and VIP practices.
UK Gambling Commission Faces Criticism Over Financial Risk Assessments Rollout
The UK Gambling Commission's plan to introduce Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs) for operators has drawn strong backlash from across the gambling sector. Industry representatives warn the staged approach could have lasting impacts on both operators and players amid debates about public safety and regulatory overreach.
Banijay-Driven JOA Acquisition Raises Stakes in French Online Casino Legalisation Debate
Banijay Gaming’s acquisition of JOA Groupe, France’s second largest land-based casino operator, highlights renewed momentum in the country’s contentious debate over regulated online casinos, as one of Europe’s entertainment giants signals a deeper ambition to shape the future of French gambling policy.
UKGC Implements New Risk Checks as Sweden Enforces AML Fines and Malta Prioritises AI in Regulation
The UK Gambling Commission has begun phasing in enhanced financial risk assessments, Swedish courts have backed the regulator’s AML fines for three operators, and Malta is moving to integrate artificial intelligence in gambling oversight. This article analyses the implications for EU iGaming regulation and industry compliance trends.
Alberta iGaming Market Set for July 13 Launch as Major Operators Prepare Entry
Alberta’s regulated online casino and betting market will officially launch on July 13, with leading operators such as FanDuel announcing their entry. The move signals a major shift for Canada’s iGaming landscape and could reshape competition and consumer protection in the province.
DraftKings Launches Alberta Sportsbook Ahead of 2026 World Cup Surge
DraftKings is set to debut its sportsbook and online casino platforms in Alberta as the province opens its regulated market on July 13, aiming to capture early momentum ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The launch marks a significant milestone in Canada’s evolving legal gambling landscape.
Ohio Lawmakers Propose Historic Ban on Online Sports Betting with House Bill 971
Ohio could become the first US state to repeal legal online sports betting if House Bill 971 passes, signaling a pivotal shift in state-level gambling regulation and igniting national debate over responsible gambling measures.
UK Gambling Commission Confirms Rollout of Financial Risk Assessments Despite Industry Pushback
The UK Gambling Commission is moving forward with mandatory financial risk assessments for players, despite strong opposition from operators who warn this could increase black-market gambling. The decision marks a significant shift in responsible gambling regulations within the UK.
Dutch Supreme Court Rejects Claims Against Pre-Regulation Gambling Operators
The Dutch Supreme Court has ruled that contracts between online gambling operators and players from before the 2021 regulation cannot be voided, shielding operators from liability in the Netherlands' pre-legalisation market. The decision sets an important legal precedent affecting historic claims in the country's gambling sector.
UKGC Raises Licence Fees as Leadership Turnover and Betfred Fine Signal Regulatory Shift
The UK Gambling Commission has increased licence fees across the sector, fined Betfred £900,000 for compliance failures, and experienced a second senior leadership departure within a year. These moves signal a period of heightened regulatory focus and internal change in the UK gambling industry.
Ohio Lawmakers Seek Ban on Online Sports Betting in Sweeping Regulatory Bill
Ohio legislators have introduced House Bill 971, proposing a full ban on online sports betting and restricting legal wagering to retail sportsbooks. The measure signals a major shift in the state’s regulatory stance and raises questions about the future of Ohio’s booming online gambling market.
UK Gambling Commission Raises Licence Fees 25% After Larger Hikes Rejected
The UK Gambling Commission has confirmed a 25% increase in licence fees for operators, rejecting proposals for even larger hikes. This move reshapes operator costs in the UK market amid broader regulatory reforms.
Bulgaria Moves to Impose Stricter Rules on Gambling Affiliates as 2026 Budget Advances
Bulgaria is set to introduce new rules for gambling affiliates as part of its 2026 national budget, currently approaching final parliamentary approval. The regulatory overhaul follows months of caretaker government and signals increased scrutiny of the country's online gambling marketing channels.
Playson Unveils €25 Million BLASTS & RACES Prize Campaign, Doubling Down on Global Slot Competitions
Game provider Playson has launched its BLASTS & RACES global campaign, featuring a €25 million prize pool—two and a half times larger than its previous initiatives. This move signals intensified competition in international slot engagement and promotional strategies within regulated markets.
Betfred £900,000 Fine Highlights UK Regulator's Focus on Automated Safer Gambling Systems
UK betting operator Betfred has received a £900,000 fine from the Gambling Commission for failures related to automated safer gambling controls, marking a significant signal of heightened regulatory scrutiny on responsible gambling technology and operator compliance in the UK.
UK Gambling Licence Fees to Rise 25% from October 2026 as DCMS Targets Operator Costs
The UK will increase gambling licence fees by 25% from October 2026, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) confirmed, amid industry opposition. This marks a significant escalation in regulator funding as the UKGC faces mounting responsibilities under ongoing reforms.
ADI Predictstreet and Kalshi Partner to Expand Official World Cup 2026 Prediction Markets
ADI Predictstreet, the Official Prediction Market Partner of FIFA World Cup 2026, has teamed up with Kalshi to extend the reach of regulated trading on tournament outcomes worldwide. The collaboration features co-branded presence across stadiums and broadcasts. This marks a pivotal moment for the international integration of prediction markets.
UK Gambling Industry Urges Data-Driven Approach as Think Tank Seeks Further Tax Hikes
The UK gambling sector faces renewed calls for higher taxation after the Social Market Foundation advocated further duty rises, just months after online gaming taxes reached 40 percent. Industry stakeholders warn of unintended consequences, urging policymakers to base tax strategy on evidence and impact analysis.
Ireland Enacts Landmark Online Gambling Regulation as GRAI Assumes Control
Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRAI) will assume full oversight of the country’s online betting sector in July 2024, concluding the most sweeping regulatory overhaul in the state’s history. The new Gambling Regulation Act 2024 imposes strict licensing and compliance measures across the Irish gambling industry.
Spain Gambling Regulator Moves to Cap Deposits as Entain Exits CEE, Meta Faces Ad Scrutiny
Spain's industry regulator is advancing plans to cap player deposits, Entain announces withdrawal from Central and Eastern Europe, and Meta comes under pressure over gambling ad compliance. This roundup details key developments shaping EU iGaming regulation and business in June 2026.
Regulators
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Licensing and player protection
A useful companion when news stories hinge on licensing and player-safety claims.