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History and Evolution of the UK Gambling Commission
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The United Kingdom has a long history of gambling, and to this day it is one of the most lucrative markets in the world. It has also become a model for gambling regulation.
The UK Gambling Commission is the government body responsible for supervising and regulating all legal gambling activities in the United Kingdom. Formed following the Gambling Act 2005, the UKGC has become one of the most highly-regarded gambling authorities in Europe. Here we will take a look at the history of gambling in the UK, how the UKGC came into being, and how it has evolved since.
Gambling in the UK: A Brief History
Evidence of gambling activities goes right back to pre-history and early civilization, and it’s certainly been a huge part of the culture of the British Isles for many centuries. People living in the Middle Ages were wagering money on activities such as horse racing and dice and card games, as we still do today. In fact, the earliest recorded legislation to do with gambling goes back to 1190, when the king decreed that betting was for noblemen only and imposed a daily limit on how much could be wagered. Subsequent monarchs continued to impose more restrictions on gambling.
The history of gambling law in the UK is uneven, although the popularity of wagering has remained high. The first government-sanctioned national lottery occurred in 1694, and lotteries were a common way to raise funds for various projects, right up until the 19th century. During this later period, concern over the perceived immorality of betting led to the Gaming and Betting Acts of 1845 and 1853, which sought to ban commercial gambling, at least for the lower classes.
It wasn’t until the 1960s that any further legislation was introduced, with the Gaming Act of 1968 allowing commercial casinos for the first time. This was the start of modern gambling law, and was the direct precursor of the codes of practice that are in force today.
The Gambling Act 2005 and the Formation of the UKGC
By 2005, online casinos and sports betting were already big business, and it was clear that the laws needed to be updated to reflect the changed landscape. The Act’s primary objectives were threefold; to ensure that gambling was not associated with crime, to guarantee fairness, and to protect youth and vulnerable persons from being negatively impacted by gambling.
The cornerstone of the new Act was the formation of the UK Gambling Commission, an executive public body of the British government sponsored by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The UKGC is responsible for the oversight of all legal gambling activities in the UK, both online and in physical establishments, as well as regulating the National Lottery. The Commission replaced the Gaming Board for Great Britain from 1968.
The UKGC has the power to verify that providers comply with the codes of practice established by the Act, and to investigate whether offences have been committed. It can also pursue legal action against any such infringements. Licenses are granted, refused and revoked by the Commission.
How the UKGC Protects Players
The creation of the Commission is considered to be of great benefit to consumers. The codes of practice surrounding fair play, anti-money laundering and responsible gaming have been strictly enforced since the 2005 Act, and the UK has one of the most tightly regulated gambling markets in the world. Unlike some other jurisdictions, which either leave the market totally unregulated or impose strict limits on where players can go to gamble, the UK market is both well-regulated and open.
Considering the profitability of the UK for operators, and the potential penalties for breaking the rules, casino and gambling providers are happy to comply with the licensing requirements. This gives players an enormous choice, particularly in online UK casino sites, of safe and secure providers. To guarantee that the casino sites you are interested in hold a license from the UKGC, consult a trusted source like https://casinopilot.co.uk and choose from one of their verified operators.
The 2005 Act was the most comprehensive overhaul of gambling regulation since the 1960s, but there have been some amendments since then to take into account the changes that have occurred.
Gambling (Licensing and Advertising) Act 2014
The Act of 2005 did take into account the role of online casinos, but by 2014 the ruling Conservative government decided that new rules needed to be created surrounding remote gambling. Previous to this, operators outside of Great Britain could legally advertise and provide their services to UK players, provided that they were based in the EEA or in one of the whitelisted jurisdictions specified – this included Alderney, the Isle of Man and Tasmania.
The changes brought in in 2014 refocused the licensing requirements on the point of consumption; if the end users were in the UK, then the provider must hold one or more licenses from the Commission in order to advertise or operate here. The new law also imposed a gambling duty of 15% of gross gambling profits from UK residents.
Recent Updates
The latest measures introduced to gambling law came into effect in 2018, following a consultation with industry stakeholders.
The new requirements implemented are focused on giving customers of online casino websites better tools to monitor their own gambling practices. This includes allowing players to easily access their account, gambling and transaction history for specified periods and going back a minimum of twelve months. It also requires that consumers must be able to see their net deposits rather than just their winnings, and set limits on their spending in a variety of ways. Many of these provisions had already existed as responsible gaming recommendations, but now they are part of the licensing requirements.
What the Future Holds
The future of gambling law in the UK depends on multiple factors, such as the outcome of Brexit, who is in power and how much importance future administrations will put on such matters. If Britain leaves the EU, there may need to be negotiations over cross-border gambling duty.
However, the robust UK gambling laws are an advantage for casino sites in this country who provide their services in other European markets. Current members of the Labour Party have expressed a desire to further restrict playing at online casinos, with suggestions such as capping betting amounts and banning credit card payments. Such proposals have been welcomed by some, with others cautioning that it may encourage players to turn their backs on legal sites.
As gambling evolves and changes, so must the UKGC stay abreast of and respond to developments as they occur. A recent example of action taken was in regards to fixed-odds betting terminals, which offer games like roulette and blackjack on physical machines in betting shops and casinos. When it was revealed that players in Britain were losing almost £2bn per year, the government enacted a law to reduce the maximum stake from £100 to £2. The implementation and enforcement of this law is the responsibility of the UK Gambling Commission.
Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: History and Evolution of the UK Gambling Commission

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Pioneering Compliance and Innovation: Atlaslive’s Strategy in the Evolving iGaming Landscape
HIPTHER, organizer of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, is excited to welcome Atlaslive, a cutting-edge iGaming platform provider, as the Badge & Bracelet Sponsor and key participant in this year’s event. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Lasha Kupatadze, Chief Product Officer at Atlaslive, to explore the company’s readiness for Brazil’s evolving regulatory landscape, its approach to industry certifications, responsible gambling, and the product innovations driving the future of iGaming.
Atlaslive has achieved the Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) certification for its iGaming Platform in Brazil. What were the most critical compliance requirements for entering Brazil’s newly regulated gaming market, and how does this certification position Atlaslive for long-term success in the region? What are your next strategic steps?
Entering Brazil’s newly regulated gaming market presented a unique set of compliance requirements that companies must navigate carefully. For Atlaslive, achieving the Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) certification was a significant milestone, as it demonstrates our commitment to maintaining high standards of fairness, security, and player protection.
Achieving this certification gives us a solid foundation for long-term success in Brazil. It not only enhances our credibility but also streamlines the regulatory approval process for entering the market. This positioning can help us attract investors and partners who prioritize ethical operations in their collaborations.
As we look to the future, our strategic focus will be on enhancing partnerships within the region. By fostering relationships with local payment processors and regulatory authorities, we can ensure a more seamless entry into the market. We also recognize the importance of creating a marketing strategy that resonates with Brazilian players, emphasizing responsible gaming and community engagement.
Furthermore, we plan to localize our game content to align with Brazilian culture, ensuring that we enhance the user experience. As we progress, continuous monitoring of compliance requirements will be vital to adapt to any regulatory changes. Investing in the technology behind our platform will also support our ability to scale and engage players effectively.
You have recently shared insights about how AI revolutionizes responsible gaming and player protection. Can you share Atlaslive’s perspective with our readers?
At Atlaslive, we see artificial intelligence as a real game-changer in ensuring player well-being. By using AI-driven analytics, we can detect potential risk behaviors early and proactively assist players who might need a break or additional support. We offer self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and other responsible gaming tools. Also we’ve found that these real-time insights help us personalize responsible gaming measures and gain genuine trust with our audience. We will continue leveraging AI-driven insights to make Atlaslive a safer and more enjoyable platform for players worldwide!
Responsible gambling and KYC compliance are growing priorities worldwide. How does Atlaslive integrate these crucial elements into its platform to ensure a secure and player-focused experience?
At Atlaslive, we understand that responsible gambling and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance are not just regulatory necessities but essential elements in delivering a secure and player-focused experience. Our commitment to these priorities is seamlessly integrated into our platform, particularly as we tailor our solutions for the Brazilian market.
A key component of our KYC compliance strategy is a strategic partnership with Brazil’s leading identity verification technology provider. This partnership allows us to leverage advanced tools that meet the specific requirements of the Brazilian market. Utilizing document examination through Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and 3D facial identification, our partner provides comprehensive identity verification in fewer than 30 seconds. This innovation not only streamlines the registration process, reducing player registration time by an impressive 30%, but also significantly minimizes fraud risks and ensures strict adherence to Brazilian regulations.
In addition to our robust KYC services, we are devoted to promoting responsible gaming. Atlaslive has developed a suite of features designed to empower players to engage in gaming safely and responsibly. We offer customizable settings that allow users to set their own limits on deposits, wagers, and gaming sessions. Self-exclusion options and cool-off periods are also available, providing players with the tools they need to manage their gaming behavior effectively.
We additionally provide educational resources on our platform to inform players about the risks associated with gambling. Our customer support team is well-trained to identify signs of distress and offer appropriate guidance, ensuring that support is always available when needed.
Atlaslive is known for its adaptable and scalable platform. Can you share some of the latest product innovations and enhancements that set you apart in the competitive iGaming landscape?
At Atlaslive, we focus on developing a platform that seamlessly adapts to our partners’ evolving needs. That means we’re constantly refining everything—both the user-facing interface and the powerful backend behind it. Recently, we have prioritized real-time data analytics, enabling operators to swiftly identify player trends and adapt to engagement shifts seamlessly. We’ve also introduced flexible integrations, making it effortless for businesses to plug in third-party services while keeping everything running smoothly. On top of that, we’re unveiling personalization features that let operators fine-tune everything from lobby layouts to bonus offerings according to each player’s preferences. Altogether, these updates give our clients the agility and creativity they need to stay ahead in a market that never slows down!
At the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, you’ll be speaking on the panel “Regulatory Crossroads: Lessons & Compliance Strategies from North America & LATAM.” Can you share a sneak peek of the key regulatory challenges and strategies you’ll be discussing with the audience?
During the panel, I’ll dive into how our platform is built to adapt to Brazil’s unique regulatory requirements, which can change quickly as legislation matures. I plan to highlight two core areas: first, how to navigate the nuanced compliance landscape to ensure operators are always a step ahead, and second, how technology-driven solutions—like real-time monitoring and reporting—make that possible. We’ll also touch on the importance of forging strong relationships with local authorities, so you can seamlessly enter and thrive in the market. When you boil it all down, a flexible, tech-savvy approach to compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about protecting players, earning trust, and ultimately growing a strong brand in one of the world’s most dynamic iGaming arenas!
With Atlaslive at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, this year’s event promises invaluable insights into the future of iGaming and technology. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain exclusive market perspectives, and be part of the most dynamic gathering in the CEE region!
Join us on 25-26 March 2025 in Prague – Register now and explore the full agenda!
The post Pioneering Compliance and Innovation: Atlaslive’s Strategy in the Evolving iGaming Landscape appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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XSOLLA AND UKIE ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP AT GDC 2025 TO EMPOWER GAME DEVELOPERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND THROUGHOUT EMEA
Xsolla, a global leader in video game commerce, is proud to partner with UK Interactive Entertainment (Ukie), the United Kingdom’s industry trade body. This strategic collaboration names Xsolla as Ukie’s official monetization partner and exclusive programming sponsor, reinforcing their commitment to providing game developers with the tools, services, and solutions needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving gaming market.
The primary objective of this partnership is to create a new collaboration that delivers an exclusive programme, showcasing Xsolla’s unique strengths and capabilities for monetization and commercialization in games. By focusing on commercial excellence, the partnership aims to transform the long-term success of the UK video games industry, fostering sustainable growth and innovation. Additionally, the collaboration seeks to build confidence among government bodies, investors, and key stakeholders, demonstrating the UK’s potential as a global leader in the video games sector.
To achieve these objectives, Xsolla and Ukie will implement a series of targeted activations across the UK designed to support and empower game developers directly. One key initiative will be a programme of UK-wide activations, including bespoke workshops delivered through Ukie’s new Supercharged Sessions. As part of this effort, Ukie will manage and deliver two tailored workshops for Xsolla at two different game hubs across the UK, equipping developers with the knowledge and tools to maximize commercial success.
In addition to the UK-based initiatives, the partnership will include a strategic activation at Gamescom, one of the world’s largest gaming events. This presence will showcase Xsolla’s cutting-edge solutions, strengthen international connections, and reinforce the UK’s position as a global leader in game development. Throughout the year, Xsolla and Ukie will explore further opportunities to support the UK games industry through additional activations and community engagements.
“We are thrilled to partner with Ukie, a leading voice in the UK games industry,” said Chris Meredith, Senior Vice President of Business Development – EMEA at Xsolla. “This collaboration allows us to help UK-based developers unlock new revenue opportunities and streamline the monetization process. At Xsolla, we’re committed to providing a seamless, scalable experience for developers, and working with UKIE enables us to extend our support to a vibrant community of gaming professionals.”
Nick Poole, CEO at Ukie, added. “This partnership with Xsolla is an exciting development for our members. As the video game landscape continues to evolve, developers must have access to the best tools to support their financial growth. With Xsolla’s expertise in monetization and global payment solutions, Ukie members are strongly positioned to thrive in domestic and international markets.”
“In 2025, we are looking to partners in the industry to collaborate and help connect with video game developers of all sizes and from all regions around the world to provide distribution, monetization, and payment solutions to help developers create a successful gaming business,” Berkley Egenes, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at Xsolla. “We remain committed to providing access and bringing opportunities together for the video game industry. We look forward to connecting and building a long-lasting relationship with Ukie and its member companies and individuals in the UK and beyond.”
Through this collaboration and partnership, Ukie and Xsolla will create custom programming, events, and opportunities for game developers to share the challenges and opportunities facing them in the growing video game industry. A full schedule of activities will be shared through Ukie and Xsolla in 2025 and beyond, as their mission is to bring opportunities together for the gaming industry and to help stimulate the growth of gaming businesses in the UK and Europe.
The post XSOLLA AND UKIE ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP AT GDC 2025 TO EMPOWER GAME DEVELOPERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND THROUGHOUT EMEA appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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The post Stakelogic Unleashes More Mythological Mayhem with Stone Gaze of Medusa 2 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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