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A Guide to Isle of Man Gambling Regulation: Ensuring Compliance and Integrity in the Online Gambling Industry
Nick Bowden is the Head of Regulatory Affairs for SolutionsHub with a passion for assisting businesses navigate complex gambling regulation. As a highly respected former Inspector for the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC), Nick has a unique and invaluable perspective on the regulatory landscape.
During his tenure with the GSC, Nick worked closely with online gambling operators, ensuring their adherence to the stringent regulations set by the Commission. His responsibilities spanned a wide range, from processing applications, ongoing supervision, and conducting compliance visits to participating in policy projects.
In this article, Nick explores the intricacies of Isle of Man online gambling regulation and supervision. Leveraging his wealth of experience from both sides of the regulatory spectrum, he offers an overview of the regulatory landscape. This includes an examination of the key requirements for operators and the pivotal role of the GSC in upholding the integrity of the industry.
The Isle of Man: A Hub for Online Gambling Businesses
The Isle of Man is a well-established jurisdiction for online gambling operations, offering a number of significant benefits for licence holders:
- A robust regulatory framework;
- A favourable tax regime;
- A skilled workforce; and
- State-of-the-art infrastructure.
These factors have made the Isle of Man an attractive destination, both for start-up businesses and established operations who may be looking to relocate or set up an additional entity in the island.
What Does the GSC do?
The GSC is responsible for the regulation and supervision of all gambling activities on the Isle of Man. Its primary objectives include:
- Ensuring that gambling is conducted fairly and transparently;
- Protecting the young and vulnerable individuals from the potential harms of gambling;
- Keeping the gambling industry crime-free; and
- Maintaining the Isle of Man’s reputation as a trusted jurisdiction.
The GSC achieves these objectives through a rigorous licensing process, regular compliance audits, and the ongoing supervision of its licensed operators.
The Licensing Process: What Does It Entail?
To obtain a license from the GSC, issued under the Online Gambling Regulation Act 2001 (“OGRA”), an applicant must go through a comprehensive licence application process, which includes:
- Submission of a detailed business plan: This includes information about the proposed business model, company structure, ownership, key personnel, financial projections, marketing strategy and funding for the operation.
- Provision of supporting documentation: Applicants must submit various documentation to support their application, such as:
- Certificates of incorporation;
- Articles and memorandums of association;
- Shareholding structure;
- Proof of identity for key personnel;
- Evidence of financial stability;
- Evidence of the source of wealth and funds to finance the model.
- Technical systems evaluation: The GSC assesses the operator’s gaming platform, ensuring that it meets the required technical standards in terms of fairness, security, and reliability.
- Fit and proper tests: The GSC conducts thorough background checks on the company and its key personnel to ensure they possess the necessary integrity, competence, and financial standing.
- Payment of licensing fees: Operators must pay an application fee, and once successful with the application, a licence fee paid annually. Operators are also required to pay gambling duty where applicable, which is calculated based on the licensee’s gross gaming yield.
Upon successful completion of the licensing process, operators are granted an OGRA license, permitting them to conduct online gambling activities in the Isle of Man.
Compliance: An Ongoing Responsibility for Online Gambling Operators
Licensed operators must conform to the legislative requirements of OGRA and other Isle of Man gambling laws. To ensure the operations remain complaint, licensees are subject to ongoing compliance requirements, which include:
- Periodic reporting: Operators must submit quarterly financial and operational reports to the GSC, together with copies of audited financial statements on an annual basis; each demonstrating the licence holders’ ongoing compliance with regulations;
- Compliance audits: The GSC conducts both desk-based and on-site audits to assess the operator’s adherence with regulatory requirements;
- Player protection measures: Operators must ensure all player funds are segregated from operational funds and protected in the event of insolvency. Operators must also implement responsible gambling measures, such as the provision of self-exclusion options, and always maintain strict age verification and screening processes;
- Anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) controls: Operators must have robust systems in place to detect and prevent money laundering and terrorist financing activities. Operators must also appoint a competent Money Laundering Reporting Officer (“MLRO”) and AML/CFT Compliance Officer
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in penalties, including fines, or a suspension or revocation of the license.
Why Is Regulatory Compliance Crucial in the Online Gambling Industry?
At the heart of the Isle of Man’s regulatory framework is a focus on protecting players and maintaining the integrity of the industry, however unlike other tier-one regulators there is a distinct human connection between the GSC and its licensees.
By fostering a transparent, fair, and responsible gambling environment, the GSC helps build trust between operators, players, and other stakeholders.
Why is this trust so important? Consider the following aspects:
- Player confidence: When players feel confident that operators are regulated and adhere to strict guidelines, they are more likely to participate in that operator’s activities, which benefits both the industry and the Isle of Man economy;
- Responsible gambling: The GSC’s regulations help protect minors and vulnerable persons from the potential harms that are unfortunately often linked with the industry. The regulatory regime of the GSC ensures that operators promote responsible gambling practices and provide resources for those who may be struggling with gambling addiction;
- Fairness and transparency: By requiring operators to maintain fair and transparent gaming practices, players are able to have an enjoyable gambling experience with the knowledge they will always receive their fair and true winnings, whilst being free from risks of fraud and manipulation;
- Crime prevention: Strict AML and CFT measures deter criminals from using the services of OGRA licence holders as a conduit for illegal activities, keeping the sector clean and legitimate.
Ultimately, a well-regulated online gambling industry benefits all parties involved – players, operators, and the jurisdiction itself.
Key Takeaways for OGRA Licence Holders & Applicants
For online gambling operators seeking to set up operations in the Isle of Man, it is crucial to understand and comply with the regulatory requirements set by the GSC. Some key points to remember include:
- Thorough preparation: The licensing process is comprehensive, and operators must be prepared to submit detailed documentation and demonstrate their adherence to the required standards;
- Ongoing compliance: Obtaining a license is just the beginning; operators must maintain compliance with the GSC’s regulations throughout the lifecycle of their business;
- Player protection: A core focus of the GSC’s regulations is the protection of players, with an emphasis on responsible gambling, fair play, and security of player funds;
- Anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism: Operators must have AML/CFT controls in the forefront of their mind, ensuring they have robust systems in place to mitigate the risk of financial crime within their operations.
The Isle of Man is a leading jurisdiction for online gambling operators, thanks in large part to the GSC’s commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and reputable industry. By understanding and adhering to the GSC’s regulations, operators can build a successful and sustainable online gambling business that benefits both their customers and the wider community.
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Yaspa, the award-winning Pay by Bank fintech, today announced a new partnership with Sterling Lotteries, the UK’s market-leading External Lottery Manager (ELM). Sterling has selected Yaspa as its primary open banking payments provider for prize-led fundraising, enabling faster, safer, and more efficient supporter payments across its charity lottery programmes.
Sterling powers weekly lotteries and raffles for 800+ UK charities, from local organisations to national causes. By integrating Yaspa, Sterling can offer a streamlined Pay by Bank experience that confirms entries in real-time, reduces processing costs, and strengthens fraud protection, thereby freeing up more funds for impact.
Yaspa’s Head of Commercial, Amie Kadhim, said: “Sterling sets a high bar for reliability, security, and supporter experience. We’re proud to power their next chapter with instant bank payments that help charities move faster, enhance engagement, and achieve more with every donation.”
The partnership aligns with Sterling’s ongoing modernisation of the charity lottery model, bringing the convenience supporters expect, while improving cashflow and operational efficiency for fundraising teams. Entry confirmation is immediate and funds settle instantly, helping charities plan with confidence and reduce admin overheads.
Richard Dixon, Managing Director at Sterling, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Yaspa to deliver an open banking solution that represents a true sector-first innovation. From the outset, it was clear that Yaspa shares Sterling’s vision for using technology to drive meaningful change in the charity lottery space. Open banking has transformed retail and financial services and now we’re bringing that same innovation to fundraising. It’s faster, more secure, and significantly more cost-effective for charities. By harnessing open banking, we offer charities a bold, efficient, and future-proof way to engage supporters, especially digital-first donors who expect a seamless experience.”
Key benefits for Sterling and its charity partners include:
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Instant payment settlement and immediate entry confirmation
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Lower processing costs compared with traditional methods i.e. debit and credit cards
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Reduced fraud and chargeback risk, utilising bank-grade security
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A smoother, mobile-first, user journey for supporters
The post Sterling Lotteries selects Yaspa as its primary open banking payments partner appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
RocketPlay Casino has been awarded Best Customer Service at the European iGaming Excellence Awards 2025 — a widely respected industry award celebrating excellence and innovation worldwide.
For RocketPlay, this award marks a major milestone — proof that genuine care, innovation, and consistent performance are noticed and appreciated by the iGaming industry.
“Our goal has always been simple — to create a service that players can rely on,” said Alex Martin, PR Manager at RocketPlay. “Winning this award highlights that our focus on trust, speed, and human connection truly makes a difference.”
This recognition also reflects the daily work of RocketPlay’s 24/7 multilingual support team, which delivers help within seconds and reaches 90%+ one-touch resolution. The casino maintains a CSAT score above 90%, and over half of all inquiries are now handled through AI-powered chat while keeping the tone personal and friendly.
The brand continues to strengthen its reputation across the community, holding top ratings such as 9.8/10 on CasinoGuru, 9.1/10 on AskGamblers, 4.4/5 on Trustpilot, and 4.3/5 on LCB.
RocketPlay remains committed to pushing standards higher — ensuring every player receives fast assistance, transparent communication. We thank the award organizers and the jury for this meaningful recognition.
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Boomerang Partners celebrated Golden Boomerang League winners and engaged booth guests with a gift auction at SiGMA Europe 2025
Boomerang Partners, an affiliate marketing agency and an Official Regional Partner of AC Milan, participated in SiGMA Europe 2025 in Rome from November 4th to 6th, 2025. The company’s booth generated heightened interest among conference participants throughout the event. It was designed in the signature ‘Boomerang Arena’ concept, effectively connecting sports and modern technologies. The booth was divided into several themed zones dedicated to football, tennis, basketball, and boxing, as well as locations for sports-related activities.
One of the main highlights of Boomerang Partners’ participation in the Rome event was the announcement of the Golden Boomerang League winners. This sports traffic tournament took place from September 1st to October 31st. It involved current and new Boomerang Partners’ affiliate partners. 68 teams, which generated 20+ sports FTDs for brands from Boomerang Partners’ client portfolio over the two-month tournament period, made it to the final draw. On November 4th, the company determined the winners using certified randomization tools. The winners became:
- QQMedia (prize — direct access to the annual Golden Boomerang Awards tournament)
- Apex Media (AC Milan Experience package, including paid flight, accommodation, and attendance at an AC Milan home match at San Siro Stadium in Milan)
- Luis Xavier (AC Milan Experience package, including paid flight, accommodation, and an AC Milan home match attendance).
The CEO of QQMedia commented: “Those who know me understand that I work with some of the largest operators in the industry, but Boomerang Partners will always hold a special place in my heart. What they are building is truly impressive, and I am proud to be part of this journey, witnessing how Boomerang Partners is steadily evolving from an underdog into a true power player.
A big thank you also goes to their entire team, especially the affiliate department, and in particular to Lilli, whose outstanding work, constant availability, and solution-oriented approach deserve special recognition.
The next goal is of course to win the Golden Boomerang Awards 2026, and we will give it our all to make that happen.”
Boomerang Partners’ booth guests could play ping-pong with promoters, who were actually professional players in disguise, as well as participate in Soccer Penalty Shootout, bowling, volleyball, tennis, and badminton using Nintendo Switch Sports. For participation and wins, they received chips of various denominations. Chips could also be earned by completing tasks on the Wheel of Fortune, ordering drinks at the bar, and even finding them in the open areas of the SiGMA Rome venue. On November 5th, Boomerang Partners hosted a gift auction at their booth, with chips as a currency. These prizes were raffled off:
- Luka Modrić (AC Milan) signed jersey
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- Ray-Ban | Meta Wayfarer smart glasses
- Apple AirPods Pro 3
Those participants who failed to win the auction were in for a surprise. The next day, November 6th, a gift shop with items of varying prices opened at the Boomerang Partners booth. Booth guests could exchange chips for these gifts, which included, for example, AC Milan t-shirts, electric air pumps, instant photo printers, and other prizes.
Anton Eshtokin, Chief Marketing Officer at Boomerang Partners, commented: “Continuing the development of the ‘Boomerang Arena’ concept, we tried to bring numerous sports elements and meanings into the booth atmosphere, thus once again revealing our sports DNA and strategic vector. We traditionally applied the formula that connects business solutions, entertainment, and marketing activities.
We strive to make our booth a place that attracts partners and media, putting considerable effort into preparation, and believe that we have managed to solve the set tasks. We are already preparing for iGB Affiliate in Barcelona and invite you to visit our booth in advance.”
Boomerang Partners are ending 2025 on a major note, but they’re not saying goodbye for long. Stay tuned.
About Boomerang
Boomerang Partners is a rapidly growing global marketing agency offering a wide range of services. Boomerang Partners is the Official Regional Partner of AC Milan. In 2024, it launched the inaugural Golden Boomerang Awards — a global tournament for affiliate teams. More than 400 affiliate teams participated in the second season of the tournament in 2025. The agency launched six new products in 2024-2025, contributing to a nearly 1.5-fold increase in product users.
The agency’s client portfolio contains 13+ brands offering affiliate and entertainment services across 40+ markets in compliance with local regulations. These products provide personalized bonuses and 24/7 multilingual support.
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