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MGA Publishes its 2018 Annual Report and Financial Statements

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The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has published its Annual Report and Financial Statements for the financial year ending 31 December 2018 (can be found here). The report provides an overview of the activities and work performed throughout the year by the MGA. Furthermore, the report includes a detailed summary of the performance of the Maltese gaming industry during 2018 as well as a medium-term outlook into the future.

Throughout 2018, the MGA mainly focused on the implementation of the new Gaming Act which empowered the Authority to further strengthen its regulatory oversight. Furthermore, the MGA focused on the regulatory compliance through implementation of a number of innovative internal and external initiatives which improved overall governance and supervision of the gaming sector. In 2018, the Authority continued to further strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering/Combating Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) supervision, in order to ensure effectiveness in the mitigation of ML/FT risks relating to gambling services.

The Annual Report also looks at 2019 and beyond, with the MGA continuing to reinforce its compliance, risk and enforcement functions to ensure that it is equipped to achieve the regulatory objectives which the law requires it to pursue.

The following are the key highlights from the Annual Report:

  • In 2018, the MGA and the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) jointly issued the Remote Gaming Implementing Procedures – Part II that were directed toward the remote gaming sector. Throughout the year, both Authorities participated in cooperative initiatives to strengthen the oversight of the gaming sector;
  • Throughout 2018, the MGA conducted a total of 33 AML/CFT full-scope examinations, eight of which were conducted jointly with the FIAU;
  • During 2018, the Authority placed a strong emphasis on effective enforcement. To this effect, the MGA has issued 16 Notices of Reprimand and 73 Notices of Breach, suspended four licences and cancelled another eight. In addition, a total of 139 administrative fines were imposed on operators following various regulatory breaches;
  • In 2018, the MGA’s Fit & Proper Committee deemed 63 individuals or companies to be unsuitable for a licence, or for a significant role in a licensee, as the case may be. In particular, 37 of these were related to individuals or companies considered as not having satisfied the integrity and reputation pillars of the MGA’s fit and proper criteria due to possible connections to money laundering or funding of terrorism. Around 2,000 criminal probity screenings were conducted during the course of 2018;
  • In 2018, the Authority set up a Commercial Communications Committee as required in terms of the new regulatory framework, ensuring due process in the assessment of regulatory breaches stemming from the requirements relating to commercial communications. During the year, a total of 14 cases were evaluated, out of which seven decisions determined that there had been a breach of the regulations;
  • The Authority received 209 applications for a licence and issued 93 licences to gaming operators, with the remaining ones still going through the acceptance process. A total of eight licence applications were rejected during 2018;
  • During the year under review, the MGA continued its digitisation efforts, including further updates to the Licensee Relationship Management System to cater for the submission of the Monthly Licence and Compliance Contribution Report. Additional functionalities will be added on the portal throughout 2019; and,
  • In line with its vision to become an increasingly knowledge-driven organisation, the Authority conducted and published the results of two major surveys in 2018. The areas analysed by the MGA included the skills gap in the gaming industry and the threats and opportunities associated with the consumption of gambling and gaming services by Maltese residents.

In publishing this report, Heathcliff Farrugia, Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Gaming Authority, stated that: “2018 was a remarkable year for the Authority, predominantly because of the coming into force of the new law on the 1 August 2018. The new framework strengthened the MGA’s supervisory role, specifically in the areas of compliance and enforcement, enabling it to focus efforts on areas which present a higher risk profile.

The new regulatory regime has also been pivotal in ensuring the Authority could become more agile in its decision-making.

Last year was also the year when Malta adopted the EU’s 4th Anti-Money Laundering Directive, which saw online gaming companies in Malta becoming obliged entities for the first time. This was challenging, both for licensees and the MGA, which together with the FIAU, started conducting onsite AML inspections.

In 2019, the MGA’s focus will be that of consolidating what has been built so far, and continue building on its regulatory powers, to ensure holistic regulatory oversight focusing on the integrity of market participants and the protection of consumers, whilst also embracing technological innovation without prejudicing the attainment of its regulatory objectives.”


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: MGA Publishes its 2018 Annual Report and Financial Statements

George Miller (Gyorgy Molnar) started his career in content marketing and has started working as an Editor/Content Manager for our company in 2016. George has acquired many experiences when it comes to interviews and newsworthy content becoming Head of Content in 2017. He is responsible for the news being shared on multiple websites that are part of the European Gaming Media Network.

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James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub

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SolutionsHub is pleased to announce the appointment of James O’Kelly as Head of Corporate Development, a newly established role that underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth, innovation, and excellence in client service.

Since joining SolutionsHub, James has been instrumental in driving key initiatives across the organization. Over the past 18 months, James has headed high-impact growth intiatives, managed treasury and led sucessful licensing for clients. His contributions have also extended to representing SolutionsHub on the international stage, enhancing the company’s global presence.

In his new role, James will take the lead on a range of high-impact strategic initiatives in close collaboration with the Board of Directors. His primary focus will be on identifying and cultivating key partnerships, as well as spearheading the development of innovative product lines that align with the company’s long-term vision. To fully dedicate his efforts to these forward-looking priorities, James will be transitioning responsibility for day-to-day operations and compliance to other senior members of the leadership team. This shift will enable him to concentrate on shaping the company’s future growth trajectory and ensuring its continued success.

“James has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep understanding of our business and industry,” said Lee Hills, CEO of SolutionsHub. “His appointment as Head of Corporate Development is a natural evolution that aligns with our long-term strategic goals and further reinforces the strength of our leadership team.”

James will continue to play a pivotal role in advising and supporting clients through increasingly complex regulatory, licensing, and jurisdictional considerations. Leveraging his extensive experience and strong track record of delivering innovative, compliant, and forward-thinking solutions.

 

The post James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Week 19/2025 slot games releases

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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

CryptoSlots, a leading cryptocurrency casino, is celebrating its 7th birthday this May with exciting new game launches and player rewards. To mark the occasion, CryptoSlots is unveiling a brand-new slot: Safari Sunsets, taking players on a breathtaking journey through the African savannah at golden hour. With swaying acacia trees, and a sky glowing in sunset hues of orange and purple, the game immerses you in the wild beauty of the grasslands. Majestic animals like zebras, lions, buffalos,and the powerful elephant Scatter symbol bring the reels to life!

PG Soft has unleashed its latest big-hitting title, Knockout Riches. The new addition is a 5-reel (1 to 3 rows in reel 1 and 5, 4 to 20 rows in reels 2, 3 and 4) slot that delivers an action-packed slot experience with grit, determination, and big rewards. Ruby, known as the ‘Flaming Rose’, steps into the ring as a rising star in the boxing world whose fists must do the talking.

Relax Gaming, the iGaming aggregator and supplier of unique content, is challenging players to tame Fang the dragon in its fiery new release, Fang’s Inferno. The dragon with an insatiable appetite for riches returns in this 5×4 slot where big wins can come via Blazin’ Wilds, Flamin’ Respins, Fang’s Bonus Picks, Fiery Free Spins and Fang’s Bonus Picks.

FBMDS is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest slot game of Asian inspiration – “Panda Treasure – Sublime Series”. This is the inaugural title in its ambitious plan to reinvent its slots portfolio with new, rewarding online casino game releases throughout the year, that speak to different players’ profiles and competitive operator’s demands. The release of a new slot game aligns with FBMDS’s 2025 narrative, focusing on market expansion, innovation, and leadership in key iGaming segments.

Spinomenal has released its latest game to join the Wildlife series, Majestic Silverback. Players are welcomed to the untamed, lush jungle for an adventure. Verdant fauna surrounds the 5×3 reel frame, brought to life by an array of jungle animals, including jaguars, parrots, crocodiles, and iconic silverback gorillas.

Push Gaming has launched Olympus Unleashed, a futuristic take on a mythological-themed slot that combines the timeless appeal of classic slots with bold, modern gameplay. Created for players who enjoy the familiar rhythm of traditional titles but crave something fresh, Olympus Unleashed delivers a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Play’n GO’s latest 6×4 slot, Crabby’s Gold, washes ashore with gold-grabbing mechanics, evolving Wilds and a crustaceous companion who’s got more attitude than treasure maps. Set in a sun-bleached pirate cove where coins glint beneath the waves, Crabby’s Gold brings comic chaos to the high seas. With its curmudgeonly mascot Crabby hoarding multipliers and heckling from the reels, this 4096-ways slot isn’t just another maritime theme – it’s a tidal wave of personality.

Inspired Entertainment, Inc., a leading B2B provider of gaming content, systems, and solutions, is thrilled to announce the release of Piggy Winner™ – a pig-themed descendant of Inspired’s popular omni-channel slot Gold Winner™. This 10-win line slot game is packed with thrilling features including Wild Symbols, Cash Collecting Free Spins, a gamble option and Fortune Spins mode, designed to deliver slick gameplay and endless excitement.

Booming Games turns up the temperature with Inferno Fortune Power Hit, the explosive first title in the brand-new Power Hit Series. Set on a blazing 6×4 grid with 4096 ways to win, Inferno Fortune Power Hit is designed for players who crave nonstop action and high win potential. At the core of the game lies the powerful Power Hit feature, which can be triggered in both the base game and Free Spins.

 

The post Week 19/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards

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The studio is shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category

ELA Games, an innovative game development studio, has been shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category at the upcoming EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025.

The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards is an event that celebrates key figures and innovative brands within the iGaming industry. The ceremony recognises companies that demonstrate commercial success through game-changing creativity and contributions to the improvement of the industry. It gathers the brightest and most influential minds to reward those who have helped the online gaming sector grow.

ELA Games’ nomination for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category highlights the company’s efforts in creating a portfolio that balances operator-centric growth with player-friendly gaming experiences. The studio has demonstrated a commitment to helping operators improve player acquisition and retention metrics through data-backed performance, making it a beneficial partner.

Marharyta Yerina, ELA Games’ Managing Director, commented on the nomination, “The ELA Games team is proud to receive a nomination for a significant category at a prestigious event. We’ve made considerable strides in 2025 to develop our portfolio and create games that both help operators grow and provide fun for players. We look forward to networking with all our peers at the ceremony, and congratulations to all nominees!”

The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025 will take place on June 19, 2025, at The Mermaid, London. The ELA Games team will attend the ceremony for a night of excitement, networking, and celebration.

The post ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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