Latest News
UK Government launches review to ensure gambling laws are fit for digital age


The Culture Secretary has launched a major and wide-ranging review of gambling laws to ensure they are fit for the digital age as committed to in the manifesto.
Online restrictions, marketing and the powers of the Gambling Commission will be looked at as part of a call for evidence, to examine in detail how gambling has changed over the past 15 years.
Protections for online gamblers like stake and spend limits, advertising and promotional offers and whether extra protections for young adults are needed will all be explored.
The findings will be used to inform any changes to the Gambling Act 2005 to ensure customer protection is at the heart of the regulations, while giving those that gamble safely the freedom to do so.
The review will also look at evidence on the action customers can take where they feel operators have breached social responsibility requirements, such as intervening to protect customers showing clear signs of problematic play, and how to ensure children and young people are kept safe from gambling-related harm.
The Government recognises the need to balance the enjoyment people get from gambling with the right regulatory framework and protections.
It has also been announced today that the minimum age for playing the National Lottery will be raised from 16 to 18 from October 2021.
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden, said:
“Whilst millions gamble responsibly, the Gambling Act is an analogue law in a digital age. From an era of having a flutter in a high street bookmaker, casino, racecourse or seaside pier, the industry has evolved at breakneck speed.
“This comprehensive review will ensure we are tackling problem gambling in all its forms to protect children and vulnerable people. It will also help those who enjoy placing a bet to do so safely.
“This builds upon our clear track record of introducing tough measures to protect people from the risk of gambling harm – banning the use of credit cards, launching tighter age verification checks and cutting the maximum stake on fixed odds betting terminals.”
Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage Nigel Huddleston said:
“We’re committed to protecting young people from gambling related harm which is why we are raising the minimum age for the National Lottery. Patterns of play have changed since its inception, with a shift towards online games, and this change will help make sure the National Lottery, although already low-risk, is not a gateway to problem gambling.”
It follows a range of measures recently introduced by the Government to protect consumers from the risk of gambling-related harm. These include cutting the maximum stake on fixed odds betting terminals, bringing in tighter age and identity checks for online gambling, banning gambling using credit cards and expanding national specialist support through the NHS Long Term Plan.
In September the Government launched a call for evidence to explore young people’s experiences of loot boxes in video games. This will provide a clearer picture of the size of the loot box market in the UK and fully examine any evidence of harms or links to problem gambling.
The review of the Gambling Act 2005 will also consider the Gambling Commission’s powers and resources to ensure it can keep pace with the licensed sector and tackle the black market.
In October the Gambling Commission introduced new rules on VIP schemes, and has called for evidence around how to ensure operators identify and intervene where people are at risk of harm, including through carrying out affordability checks. The Commission will also soon set out new rules on safer game design for online slots and withdrawing winnings.
Alongside the launch of the review, the Government is announcing its decision to raise the minimum age to play the National Lottery from 16 to 18, to protect young people from gambling related harm.
Since it began in 1994 the National Lottery’s games portfolio has changed significantly and there has been a growing trend towards online play and instant win games like scratchcards. Following a consultation, from October 2021 it will be illegal to sell all National Lottery products to under 18s.
The Government is working with the Gambling Commission and Camelot to roll out the new age limit across the National Lottery products as quickly as possible and to ensure that it is in place by October. Under current plans, online sales to 16 and 17 year olds will stop in April 2021.
Source: gov.uk
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: UK Government launches review to ensure gambling laws are fit for digital age

Latest News
S8UL makes StarCraft II debut with the signing of veteran South Korean player GuMiho
S8UL strengthens its EWC roster following the announcement of their participation in multiple titles, including Chess, EAFC 25, Tekken 8, Call of Duty (COD): Warzone, and Apex Legends Mumbai, May 8, 2025: S8UL, a global force in esports and gaming content, is proud to announce its entry into the legendary world of StarCraft II with the signing of veteran South Korean player Pyung Jae Koh, better known by his iconic gamer tag GuMiho, a.k.a. “The Towel Terran.”
This marks S8UL’s first foray into the real-time strategy (RTS) genre and signals its continued commitment to global expansion across esports titles that have defined competitive gaming history.
A fan-favorite and master tactician, GuMiho is recognised across the global StarCraft community for his creative playstyle, unorthodox strategies, and trailblazing use of mech-based unit compositions. A staple of the Global StarCraft II League (GSL) since the Wings of Liberty era, GuMiho rose to global prominence after winning the GSL Code S
Championship in 2017, defeating soO in a 4–2 final that etched his name in StarCraft history. His unique style of playing with a towel draped over his hands to absorb sweat and maintain precision earned him the moniker “The Towel Terran,” while his dominance with mechanical Terran builds gave rise to another title: “The Mech God.”
GuMiho’s recent achievements reaffirm his elite status in the competitive StarCraft II scene. In December 2024, he edged out Protoss standout Clem in a tense 3–2 series at HomeStory Cup XXVI, building on the momentum of his nail-biting 4–3 grand final victory over ShoWTimE (also Protoss) at HomeStory Cup XXV just months earlier. Earlier in the year, he delivered a commanding run to the finals of WardiTV 2023, ultimately finishing second after a hard-fought series against Zerg titan Dark. These standout results reinforce GuMiho’s reputation as one of the scene’s most resilient and inventive players, proving that even after years at the top, he continues to evolve and compete at the highest level.
Speaking about his new journey with S8UL, GuMiho said: “Joining S8UL feels like stepping onto a new playing field with the same hunger to win. Their drive to break barriers in esports matches my own competitive spirit. I’m ready to give it my all and compete at the highest level again, this time with S8UL by my side.”
Animesh Agarwal a.k.a. 8Bit Thug, Co-founder and CEO of S8UL, commented on the signing: “GuMiho is a living legend, and we’re beyond thrilled to welcome him to the S8UL family. Our journey into StarCraft II is about paying homage to the roots of esports and competing with the best. GuMiho’s legacy of innovation, consistency, and competitive spirit embodies everything S8UL stands for. This is a proud moment for Indian esports as we strengthen our EWC aspirations with one of the game’s all-time greats.”
As S8UL prepares to compete across multiple titles at EWC 2025, including Apex Legends, EAFC 25, Call of Duty: Warzone, Tekken 8, Chess, and now StarCraft II, the organization continues to demonstrate that excellence in esports knows no borders, no genres, and no limits.
With three consecutive ‘Esports Content Group of the Year’ wins at the Esports Awards and global recognition through initiatives like the MOBIES Global Impact Award, S8UL is now writing a new chapter in the global esports story.
The post S8UL makes StarCraft II debut with the signing of veteran South Korean player GuMiho appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
FBMDS Elevates Video Bingo with New Jackpot System, Boosting Player Engagement and Operator’s Success
FBMDS, the industry leader in Video Bingo, is raising the stakes with a never-before-seen jackpot dynamic in the industry designed to enhance engagement, increase player retention, and drive profitability for online casino operators.
This exclusive jackpot system, available only in FBMDS’ video bingo gaming portfolio, creates a more immersive and rewarding experience, reinforcing the company’s influence in this category. With more prize opportunities and an adaptive jackpot that grows with player bets, the new system introduces an unmatched level of thrill to online Video Bingo in the industry. The new FBMDS Video Bingo jackpot system offers:
- Exclusive Jackpot – FBMDS is the only casino gaming provider that offers jackpots in the video bingo segment, offering innovative solutions which will make your portfolio standout.
- Higher Player Engagement – Players stay more engaged with dynamic jackpot growth and frequent prize opportunities.
- Proportional Betting Impact – The more players bet, the more exciting the jackpot becomes, increasing anticipation and excitement.
- Stronger Operator Performance – Enhanced retention and player satisfaction drive longer play sessions and revenue growth.
- Leading Video Bingo – FBMDS solidifies its leadership with the only Video Bingo jackpot of its kind.
“We are committed to continuously innovating in Video Bingo, and this new jackpot system is a game-changer for both operators and players,” said Renato Almeida, Director at FBMDS. “By delivering a more interactive and rewarding experience, we’re reinforcing our market leadership and giving operators a powerful tool to attract and retain players like we haven’t yet seen happening in the market”.
FBMDS has always been at the forefront of Video Bingo innovation, and this new jackpot system is proof to its commitment to elevating player experiences. These jackpots create a more immersive, dynamic, and engaging gameplay, ensuring more thrilling moments and increased loyalty.
As part of its global expansion strategy, FBMDS is entering key markets like Brazil, where Video Bingo has a passionate player base, and where it has taken a part on SBC Summit Rio’s event. The company is also preparing to reveal new game releases, further strengthening its diverse and engaging portfolio.
For operators looking to attract and retain Video Bingo players with the most exciting jackpot mechanics on the market, now is the time to partner with FBMDS.
The post FBMDS Elevates Video Bingo with New Jackpot System, Boosting Player Engagement and Operator’s Success appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Golden Matrix Posts Strong Q1; Eliminates Debt and Accelerates Market Expansion
Golden Matrix Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GMGI) (“Golden Matrix” or the “Company”), a developer, licensor, and global operator of online gaming platforms, today announced financial and operational results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. The quarter reflects the Company’s strong group execution, platform innovation, and continued expansion across regulated gaming markets.
Brian Goodman, CEO of Golden Matrix, commented, “We entered fiscal 2025 with elevated operating efficiency and diversified revenue streams that continue to scale across high-growth markets. Our raffle segment reached all-time highs, our debt profile strengthened meaningfully, and our B2B and B2C businesses are both operating from positions of renewed financial and strategic strength.”
Financial and Strategic Highlights
-
Record Raffle Segment Performance: The Company’s raffle businesses reported all-time highs in revenue, ticket sales, and prize values. User growth surged 146% year-over-year, with 26,000 new registrations in Q1.
-
Strategic Balance Sheet Optimization: GMGI eliminated approximately $9.6 million in Lind Global debt and converted over $9.5 million in Meridianbet acquisition-related debt into equity this year, enhancing financial flexibility.
-
Revenue Growth: Q1 2025 consolidated revenue was $42.7 million, up 72% year-over-year, partially impacted by a negative 4% FX headwind
-
Gross Profit: Gross profit reached $24.2 million, with a consolidated gross margin of approximately 57%. Meridianbet gross margin improved to 72%, while the combined GMAG and Rkings/CFAC segments improved to 29%.
-
The Company had a net loss of $300,000 or a 0-cent loss per share. This was a decline of $4.2 million, or 5-cents a share, from the same period last year. The decline was due to an increase in acquisition-related amortization of $1.7 million, interest expense of $1.5 million, and stock-based compensation of $1 million.
-
Adjusted EBITDA(1) declined by $0.3 million, or 5%, to $5.6 million, as increased gross profit was offset by an operating spend increase to expand our business geographically, improve our market share, and advance our gaming technology in support of full-year growth initiatives.
Meridianbet Performance
Zoran Milosevic, CEO of Meridianbet, commented, “Our Q1 results demonstrate focused execution across regulated markets, bolstered by operational efficiency and continuous innovation. We are deepening user engagement, expanding licensing coverage, and strengthening our position as a global operator of choice.”
-
Brazil: Secured a permanent online betting license, unlocking full national access in a projected $5.6 billion gross gaming revenue market for 2025.
-
Africa: Launched B2B operations in Nigeria through a fully licensed local entity, entering one of Africa’s most dynamic gaming economies.
-
Serbia: Renewed a 10-year online license, preserving regulatory continuity in a mature and profitable core market.
-
User Metrics: First-time deposits grew 56%, new registrations rose 22%, and total deposits increased 12% compared to Q1 2024.
-
Expanse Studios: Meridianbet’s proprietary game development arm expanded its North American footprint with five new integrations into U.S.-based sweepstakes casinos. The studio also advanced its in-house content roadmap, including an enhanced crash games portfolio and anticipates licensing in Romania for Q2.
Financial Outlook
Golden Matrix expects full-year 2025 revenue to range between $190 million and $195 million, reflecting a growth rate of 26% to 29% over 2024. The Company continues to invest in technology, content, and international licenses to drive long-term shareholder value.
Rich Christensen, CFO of Golden Matrix, added, “We’re executing on disciplined capital allocation and long-term strategic investments. Our improving net leverage, healthy free cash flow, and scalable platform position us to accelerate growth across 2025 and beyond.”
(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See also “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Earnings excluding Interest Expense, Interest Income, Tax, Depreciation Expense, Amortization Expense, Stock-based Compensation Expense and Restructuring Costs”, included in the tables at the end of this release.
In terms of GAAP accounting and Meridianbet being the accounting acquirer, the comparisons presented are correctly stated and are reflective of our new structure. Comparisons presented in terms of GAAP are the consolidated Company’s results against Meridianbet Group historical results and not against Golden Matrix Group’s, historical results.
The full visual presentation and the earnings call can be accessed at 8:00am ET on the Golden Matrix Group IR website at goldenmatrix.com/events-presentations/.
For more information, please visit goldenmatrix.com.
The post Golden Matrix Posts Strong Q1; Eliminates Debt and Accelerates Market Expansion appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Latest News4 weeks ago
Exclusive Q&A With Bar Konson, Chief Business Development Officer at NuxGame
-
Latest News2 weeks ago
Week 17/2025 slot games releases
-
Latest News1 month ago
SARA TENDULKAR JOINS JETSYNTHESYS’ GLOBAL E-CRICKET PREMIER LEAGUE AS MUMBAI FRANCHISE OWNER FOR SEASON 2
-
Latest News2 weeks ago
Fortuna Partners with 2025 UEFA Under-21 EURO
-
Latest News3 weeks ago
Esports World Cup Foundation Confirms Full Game Lineup, Schedule, and Club Championship Rules for EWC 2025
-
Latest News1 month ago
DreamPlay consolidates its status as a global player in the iGaming industry and opens an office and campus in Cyprus
-
Latest News3 weeks ago
ACR POKER’S NEXT HIGH STAKES ADVENTURE TAKES PLAYERS TO MONTENEGRO FOR PRESTIGIOUS SUPER HIGH ROLLER SERIES
-
Latest News2 weeks ago
Bojoko.com Surpasses €100 Million in All-Time Deposits Milestone
You must be logged in to post a comment Login