2020 has been a challenging year for many entrepreneurs. Due to the current epidemiological situation in the world, many sectors of the economy have undergone significant changes. They also touched on the gambling business. How have casino gaming conditions changed in Europe during the pandemic? This will be discussed further.
Development prospects
Online casinos have seen a significant increase in player interest. According to experts, the online casino’s revenue was about $ 60 billion. Gambling profitability is also expected to grow by 7.9% annually.
Online gambling is especially popular among Europeans. For example, in a casino “how to get around gamstop”, the main profit is achieved through online slots. It was they who brought 84% of the main revenue to Internet sites over the past year.
New playgrounds are constantly opening up in Europe. This is due to the facilitated tax regime. However, the authorities of some countries are seeking to monopolize the gaming sector and raise the tax rate.
For example, Bulgaria has introduced full control over operators. Responsible gaming is a prerequisite.
Croatia fights illegal immigrants
The Ministry of Finance offered to provide a license for online platforms and make their activities in the country absolutely legal. At the same time, it was proposed to reduce the tax on winnings. The initiative was not recognized by the authorities. The Croatian government continues to fight illegal sites, blocking them.
Finland
Monopoly provider Veikaus Oy monopolized control over the regulation of gambling. The monopolist has banned the activities of offshore sites in France. During the pandemic, the maximum spending limits during the game were significantly reduced. This resolution was valid until September 30, 2020.
France
Owners of online gambling sites can obtain a license from government officials to carry out their activities. Since July 22, 2020, a new regulator has appeared on the territory of the state – the National Gambling Administration. During the quarantine associated with the coronavirus pandemic, players were not recommended to use bonuses to play and attract new gamblers.
Ireland
Currently, the country is undergoing court hearings related to changes in the legislation regulating the activities of online platforms. In this country, the regulations have not changed since 1985. Serious reform of the gaming business and the reduction of harm from it is being prepared.
Portugal
In 2020, the gambling business on the territory of this state was under serious threat. Due to the epidemiological situation, the Portuguese government has approved a ban on the use of online gambling sites.
Spain
The gambling business in Spain has also undergone major changes. Starting from April 2020, a complete ban on advertising of online gaming platforms and virtual casino bonuses has been introduced in the country. However, operators can obtain a license to operate during the crisis caused by the epidemic. It is impossible only to obtain a license to sell lotteries. This niche is completely under state control.
Gambling in Europe as a leisure activity
Online playgrounds have great potential. This market segment is constantly evolving and attracts a large number of gambling enthusiasts. The legalization of gambling in some European countries allows players to spend their leisure time doing their favorite pastime without fear of any restrictions. On foreign sites, there are a large number of slots with high returns. Well-known world providers are constantly developing and uploading new slots to gaming platforms.
Online casinos in European countries have undergone significant changes in 2020, which did not prevent them from continuing their development and attracting new players.
