Latest News
Slovakia: How iGaming sites can build traffic
Are the Slovaks about to liberalize their iGaming market? Is it worth it to wait for any new laws? This deep-dive into the Slovak market takes a closer look at the reality on the ground and how you can profit from it.
This year in May, the Slovak government announced a planned liberalization of its restrictive iGaming laws.
This change would abolish the current state-owned monopoly on online casinos and it is hoped it will attract foreign operators. The plan is still in its early stages, but the detail released so far suggests the change will come into force in 2019, with a planned 23% tax on revenue.
What this deep dive will cover
We will go behind the headlines and cover the current market situation in Slovakia as it really is.
From the domestic players, to international operators, to the best-performing affiliates, you will see who is making money in the Slovak market right now.
We are also going to look at potential marketing strategies for those who want to build traffic from Slovakia.
Who this deep dive is for
If you are an operator who is considering applying for a licence, then you should read this.
If you are an operator or affiliate who has been scared away from the Slovak market by news reports of IP-blocks, payment processor bans, and €500,000 fines, then you should definitely read this.
But first a legal disclaimer
I am just a Slovak-speaking iGaming/marketing geek and not a lawyer, so none of the information below should be seen as legal advice—it isn’t. These are just my observations on Slovakia and iGaming.
Make sure to get proper legal advice before entering any grey market like Slovakia, Czech Republic or Hungary.
The legal situation today (June 2018)
Only the state-owned monopoly Tipos is permitted to run an online casino, which it does alongside a sportsbook and a lottery product.
Operators with a land-based betting business may also run online sportsbooks, and there are a number of Slovak and Czech betting firms which offer this. These firms currently pay a 27% tax on revenue.
Foreign firms who market to Slovak residents without a licence are named on a blacklist published by the Slovak Ministry of Finance. The list is updated every Monday and can be found here.
The current blacklist is a mixed bag of household names (William Hill, Bet365, Bwin), smaller operators based in the likes of Curacao, and a few affiliates.
As of June 2018, some of the names still on the list have removed any Slovak language options on their site, and yet they still appear there. The blacklist seems to be like the Hotel California—you may check in, but you may never leave.
If the firms do not shut down their websites to Slovak visitors within 10 days of going on the blacklist, Slovak Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must IP-block the website from Slovakia. However, all my technical tests show it is possible to access all the sites on the list while based in Slovakia.
The blacklist also contains IBAN details for each operator. Although there have been some public threats to stop Slovak payment processors from sending payments to these companies, I haven’t heard of this ever happening.
Indeed, there is no mention of any payments ban on the current version of the list.
The Slovak Ministry of Finance also threatens to issue fines to persistent offenders. There is a potential fine of €500,000 for operators and €250,000 for advertisers/affiliates.
Again, we haven’t heard of such fines being either issued or paid. Considering that the Dutch have failed to collect any fines since 2015, it’s probably safe to assume that no international operators have ever paid any Slovak fines.
Proposed changes to the law (by 2019)
The Ministry of Finance has recently proposed ending the state monopoly on online casinos, allowing domestic and foreign firms to seek a licence in the country.
The new proposed tax rate is 23% on revenue. This tax rate might tempt more applications for a licence than the Czech Republic did in 2017 with a 35% tax rate on revenue.
An important note on political risks to new gambling legislation
In general, Slovak political parties see anti-gambling laws as a big vote-winner.
In a further complication, Slovakia has a slightly unstable political climate, with coalition governments ruling almost exclusively since independence. These coalitions of two, three, four or more parties, all with different outlooks on gambling, mean that it’s very difficult to predict what the next government will actually do.
A perfect example of this instability is the recent disagreement between the Bratislava city council and the Bratislava regional government on the subject of banning land-based gambling in the Slovak capital. The next Slovak parliamentary election is due in 2020.
Frankly, basing an iGaming strategy on this proposed law being passed and then staying in place for more than a few months, is highly risky.
The iGaming market in Slovakia today
If you choose to enter this market, you should know what the current landscape looks like, particularly with regards to who the established competition is.
Apart from the state monopoly (Tipos), there are several betting operators with a physical presence in the country, who have a licence to also market a website to Slovak customers.
On top of this, there are plenty of international operators who continue to offer their sites in the Slovak language, including some big names.
Below are the main domestic, government-approved players with sites in the Slovak language.
– Tipos.sk – this is the state-owned monopoly, offering sportsbook, casino and lottery games. The betting odds are reasonably in line with the international market, but as the only licenced company offering online casino in the country, the selection of slot games looks dated and limited.
– iFortuna.sk – offering sportsbook only, this is the online version of a Czech gaming group which has land-based betting shops in Slovakia.
– Nike.sk – offering sportsbook only, the online version of a Slovak gaming group which has land-based betting shops in Slovakia.
– Tipsport.sk – Slovak sportsbook
– Doxxbet.sk – Slovak sportsbook, who also have sites in other countries e.g. Nigeria
On top of these domestic players, there are plenty of international operators which currently offer services in the Slovak language:
– bet365.com (licensed in Gibraltar and soon Malta, offering sportsbook & casino – they are currently on the blacklist)
– kajot-casino.com (licensed in Malta, casino only, currently on the blacklist)
– vulkanbet.com (licensed in Malta, sportsbook & casino, NOT mentioned on the blacklist)
– 1xslot.com (licensed in Cyprus, casino only)
– bohemiacasino.com (licensed in Malta, casino only, NOT mentioned on the blacklist)
– slotv.com (licensed in Cyprus, casino only)
Due to the similarities between Czech and Slovak, it’s easy for Slovak customers to read and speak the Czech language, making websites offering support in Czech a possible option for these customers.
Lots of international sites were scared off the Czech market, but a few still offer this language option, and presumably are of interest to Slovak customers.
Here are a couple you should be aware of: williamhill.com (licensed in Gibraltar, sportsbook & casino); ceskecasino.com (licensed in Curacao, casino only)
Affiliates offering content in the Slovak language
Of course, affiliates also play a key role in Slovakia. Here are the top 5 performing affiliate sites for the Slovak market: mistrcasino.cz; casino-online-sk.com (included on the blacklist); kasino-online-sk.com (included on the blacklist); najlepsiecasino.com; casino-hry.sk.
It’s interesting to note that none of these top-performing affiliates are working with any of the government-approved Slovak-based operators.
Written by: Ivana Flynn for Calvinayre.com. Ivana is a Malta-based SEO Consultant dedicated to helping iGaming operators and affiliates improve their organic search rankings. Her biggest professional passion is using SEO to break into new and tricky markets. In her spare time, she bakes, works out and plays with her cats.
Latest News
IAGR announces winners of 2025 Regulatory Awards
Reading Time: 2 minutes
The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has announced the winners of the IAGR International Regulatory Awards 2025, with regulators from Australia, Nigeria and Denmark taking home trophies during the IAGR Toronto conference.
IAGR President Ben Haden, who served on the judging panel, said this year’s winners demonstrate measurable progress and sustainable outcomes.
‘Our judges looked for clear problem definitions, robust interventions and evidence of impact. The 2025 winners show how thoughtful reforms, strong governance and targeted education can improve consumer protection and market integrity over the long term,’ said Haden.
- Regulatory Excellence Award: NSW Independent Casino Commission (Australia)
For leading a three-year, milestone-driven remediation of Crown Sydney following the Bergin Inquiry — eliminating junkets, strengthening financial-crime controls, enhancing harm-minimisation and reforming governance.
- ‘The NSW Independent Casino Commission is proud to be recognised for its dedication to restoring the expected standards at Crown Sydney. This has included three years of intense remediation which has completely transformed the casino’s governance, culture, safety and compliance functions.
- ‘The NICC has proven that it is possible to enact long lasting change and in doing so has set a new standard for Australian casino operations.’ – Murray Smith, Acting Chief Commissioner, NSW Independent Casino Commission
- Regulatory Innovation Award: Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority (Nigeria)
For SAFEPLAY, Africa’s first regulator-led, multi-operator self-exclusion platform — centrally managed by the regulator and integrated with operator systems — creating a consistent, replicable model for consumer protection.
- ‘We are honoured to receive the IAGR Regulatory Innovation Award for our SafePlay initiative. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to responsible gambling, player protection, and data-driven regulation that puts the welfare of Lagos residents at the heart of our innovation.’ – Bashir A. Are, Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority
- Best regulatory campaign: Danish Gambling Authority (Denmark)
For an interactive, school-based education programme that engages young people with practical demonstrations and surveys evidencing shifts away from gambling ‘to make money’ towards safer play and awareness of help services.
- This marks the second consecutive year that the Danish Gambling Authority has received the Best regulatory campaign award. ‘I’m very proud that IAGR has bestowed The Danish Gambling Authority with this award. It’s crucial that young people understand that gambling is designed so the player always loses in the long run. By conveying this message, we hope to promote a balanced attitude toward gambling and I’m extremely honoured that our efforts are recognised internationally.’ – Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority
These awards underscore the importance of collaboration, innovation and dedication in the global regulation of gambling.
The post IAGR announces winners of 2025 Regulatory Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Yaspa named among CB Insights’ most promising fintech startups for 2025
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Yaspa, an award-winning company specialising in iGaming payments and identity solutions, has been named among the 100 most promising fintech startups by CB Insights, a leader in predictive intelligence on private companies.
Now in its eighth year, the 2025 list showcases the most promising private fintech companies in the world.
Yaspa’s Intelligent Payments solution combines real-time open banking payments with AI-driven insights to help provide operators with broader and deeper player intelligence to optimise LTV, reduce fraud and promote responsible gambling.
This year has seen Yaspa celebrate a series of key milestones, including attracting $12m investment led by Discerning Capital, the opening of a new tech hub in Leeds and the formation of a US entity in Atlanta.
In 2025, the Yaspa team has grown to more than 70, including the addition of Chris Lowe as CFO and Renuka Rawlins as Head of Public Policy and Affairs. Earlier this month, Yaspa unveiled its new brand identity as it prepares to accelerate global growth.
Yaspa co-founder and CEO, James Neville, said: “It’s an absolute delight to be recognised by CB Insights for our work. “We’re listed alongside some impressive companies on the Fintech 100. From the foundation of Yaspa in 2017 we’ve been driven by a desire to explore the intersection between identity and money, and it’s rewarding to have this focus – and the value we can bring – recognised both by our growing customer base and the CB Insights analysis. Congratulations to everyone on the list.”
The list features early- and mid-stage startups driving the evolution of fintech. Utilising the CB Insights Strategy Terminal, the 100 winners were selected based on several factors, including CB Insights datasets on deal activity, industry partnerships, investor strength, hiring momentum, and private company signals such as Commercial Maturity and Mosaic Scores.
CB Insights also reviewed Analyst Briefings submitted directly to us by startups and leveraged Scouting Reports, powered by CB Insights’ Team of Agents.
Laura Kennedy, principal analyst at CB Insights, said: “This year’s Fintech 100 showcases a new generation of companies turning Al, automation and digital assets into the backbone of financial infrastructure.”
“This year’s winners are building the infrastructure that will shape the future of financial services.”
Quick facts on the 2025 Fintech 100:
- The 100 winners include 20 companies across digital assets solutions, 16 in financial operations and HR, 14 payments companies, and 13 in wealth management.
- 60+ companies on the list deploy Al in their solutions, and Al agents in particular are moving from workflows to financial infrastructure.
- $5.6B in equity funding raised over time, including more than $2B in 2025 so far (as of 10/22/2025).
- 60 companies from outside the United States, across 26 countries on 6 continents
- 640+ business relationships since 2021, including with industry leaders like Mastercard, Visa, Worldpay, Coinbase, and Circle.
The post Yaspa named among CB Insights’ most promising fintech startups for 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
All Roads Lead to the Helicopter — N1 Partners Turns SiGMA Central Europe 2025 into a Pit Stop for Deals
Reading Time: 2 minutes
N1 Partners is heading to SiGMA Central Europe 2025 with Booth 5056 G, charged with drive, precision, and the spirit of being first — presenting its top offers, products, and entering the final lap of the N1 Puzzle Promo before the grand finale.
After hitting the road in London and conquering the waves in Lisbon, N1 Partners is taking off to the sky — straight to SiGMA Central Europe 2025 in Rome. This time, all roads truly lead to the helicopter.
Inspired by Italian sports car engineering and the spirit of competition, with a true vibe of drive — from Ferrari and Maserati to Formula 1 — the N1 Partners stand merges speed, precision, and style in every detail, creating a space where affiliates can recharge, connect, and explore new opportunities.
Step Up to the HeliRun Challenge
Visitors can take on the HeliRun Challenge — a mechanical time-trial maze where accuracy and focus are key and winners will receive branded mini-helicopters and other limited prizes.
Win a Ferrari
One lucky guest will drive away with a Ferrari — in LEGO form, but full of prestige.
Simply collect a branded card at the booth, follow N1 Partners on social media, and drop your entry into the prize drum.
The draw will take place on Day 3 at 16:00, with results announced on Instagram.
What Awaits at Booth 5056 G
- Meet the N1 Partners team to discuss insights and top-tier deals.
- Enjoy aperol & gelato sessions and exclusive giveaways.
- Take part in interactive activations and surprise drops throughout the event.
- Get exclusive N1 merch featuring the Puzzle Piece — your link to future N1 Puzzle Promo prizes.
Every detail is designed for speed, style, and engagement — making the booth a must-visit destination in Rome.
Why Meet N1 Partners in Rome
For more than eight years, N1 Partners has been accelerating affiliate growth, uniting 14+ licensed casino and betting brands across Tier-1 markets.
The program offers:
- Flexible deals: RevShare up to 45% / Hybrid / CPA up to €700 for partners with top-performing traffic
- Transparent terms: no shave, no delays, guaranteed payouts
- Exceptional performance: Reg2Dep up to 70%
At Booth 5056 G, the team will present personalized offers and partnership opportunities for affiliates working with SEO, PPC, FB, or mixed traffic.
With N1 Partners, you don’t just work with the number one — you become one.
Don’t wait — book your meeting now and take off with N1 Partners.
Next Lap: Helicopter.
The post All Roads Lead to the Helicopter — N1 Partners Turns SiGMA Central Europe 2025 into a Pit Stop for Deals appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Latest News3 months ago
Light & Wonder to Participate in the 2025 Australasian Gaming Expo
-
Latest News2 months ago
ReferOn Shortlisted for Acquisition & Retention Partner of the Year at SBC Lisbon 2025
-
Latest News3 months ago
Gavin Hamilton Joins Sports & Wellbeing Analytics as Chairman to Accelerate Global Expansion
-
Latest News2 months ago
Duels for Friends in Trophy Hunter. Invite your friends and create a shared space for fun and competition.
-
Latest News2 months ago
BC.GAME Launches “Nezha” Slot with Up to 46,656 Ways to Win and 10,000x Max Payout
-
Latest News3 months agoUzbekistan Introduces Penalties for Illegal Gambling Operations
-
Latest News4 weeks ago
Announcement: 25th September 2025
-
Latest News2 months ago
NODWIN Gaming Acquires Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Stake in Evo; Becomes Majority Holder




You must be logged in to post a comment Login