Survey Reveals Concerns About Emerging Gambling Platforms

The International Association of Gaming Regulators’ (IAGR) report Gambling and gaming – blurred lines was recently released, revealing global concerns about emerging forms of gambling.

The report found social gaming, skins betting, loot boxes and esports betting have become increasingly prevalent internationally with regulators from across the world receiving complaints from consumers.

IAGR President, Paul Newson, said the survey, completed by representatives from 30 jurisdictions, reveals escalating concerns around the convergence of gambling and gaming.

‘IAGR’s latest report highlights the prevalence of consumer complaints and regulatory concerns arising from the confluence of gambling and gaming and agreement that gambling regulators should play an active role to monitor and contribute to better regulation of the sector.

‘The report also reveals the complexity in jurisdictional regulatory frameworks and associated challenges around establishing international standards and best practice. Perhaps best highlighted by the mixed views and approaches to regulating loot boxes.

Chair of the IAGR, Statistics Sub-Committee, James Green, said the survey highlighted common challenges and eagerness for gambling regulators to collaborate.

“With 80% of respondents agreeing that gambling regulators should work together to monitor these forms of gambling, very clearly our members see collaboration as essential to safeguarding their communities,” Mr Green said.

The full report is available from the IAGR Website.

IAG​R consists of representatives from gaming regulatory organisations throughout the world and aims to advance the effectiveness and efficiency of gambling regulation.

This survey is the first in a series of thematic reports intended to complement the annual Gambling Regulation Survey conducted by IAGR’s Statistics Sub-Committee. IAGR welcomes feedback on the content of this report, or ideas for future IAGR statistics work.