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Bacta submit compelling evidence-based case for stake and prize increase
Bacta has fired the starting gun on its engagement with DCMS regarding an uplift in the maximum permitted stake and prize levels which for some categories have remained at their current levels since 2011 and as a consequence undermined the land-based sector’s ability to compete with other forms of gambling entertainment.
The lead body representing the UK land-based gaming entertainment sector has submitted proposals to Secretary of State the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC MP outlining an evidence-based case for stake and prize increases across Categories C, B3, B3A and B4. For Category D cranes bacta is proposing no change in stake but an increase in maximum prize levels from £50 to £75.
For Category C which last experienced an increase a decade ago, bacta is arguing for a stake/prize of £1.50/£150; for B3 and B3A the proposed uplift is to £2.50/£750 and B4 £2.50/£750.
Explaining the importance of securing an uplift and continuing the industry’s ability to continue to invest across economies at local, regional and national levels bacta National President John Bollom stated: “Bacta member operators were extremely disappointed that the reintroduction of the Triennial Review which served the industry so well, was not included in the White Paper.
“Bacta is mindful of the importance of prioritising the White Paper consultations and for reforms to be delivered during this Parliament but we must also keep stake and prize levels and the mechanism to determine them firmly on the agenda.”
Using the Bank of England inflation calculator, the levels proposed by bacta are below the cumulative impact of inflation over the past decade. Bacta’s submission argues: “It should be noted that whilst these proposed maximums reflect a less than inflationary increase, this will not reduce the pay-out percentages for the player, and therefore regardless of the stake selected the player is not disadvantaged in any way. It should be noted that any amounts retained by the machine will not increase by the same percentage amounts as a large proportion of any stake is returned to the player as a prize. It should be further noted that players do not all stake at the maximums. The average stake for a machine is circa 60 percent of the maximum permitted.”
In relation to crane grabbers bacta stated: “We feel at this stage that a maximum permitted £1 stake is sufficient. The cost of the prizes used in these machines however, has risen significantly and their value to players has been correspondingly eroded by inflation. We are therefore proposing an uplift to recapture that value proposition for what is a relatively small number of machines in the market (3,000). It should be noted that Government agreed to raise the maximum permitted prize on these machines to £60 in 2013 but didn’t enact the necessary legislation.”
Addressing the central importance of maintaining the industry’s exemplary commitment to player protection bacta’s submission points out that restoring stake and prize levels to what they were cannot logically increase the risk of harm, stating that “players will always have the option of playing at a lower stake and prize if that is what they wish to do and many will, as we know from current player behaviour. This was not the case in the past when multi-staking was not available. The machines are not going to change, just the maximum permitted price and prize.”
Underlining the unique set of challenges which face the industry John Bollom noted: “Unlike any other business, we cannot pass our costs on to the consumer and our proposals are required to simply keep better pace with inflation. Without regular increases in the maximums permitted, the industry’s ability to bring jobs and economic benefit to the high street and to coastal communities will be severely undermined.”
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Following two years operating as iGaming Wise, and more than three years previously as Affluck, the company is entering a new chapter under its new name: Wise Connections.
The rebrand reflects the company’s continued evolution and its commitment to delivering clear value, stronger matchmaking, and more direct, effective connections for partners across the iGaming sector.
Wise Connections is built on a simple idea: quality beats quantity. Instead of pushing generic introductions or relying on outdated directories, the platform focuses on personal, vetted, and direct connections. Every introduction is made manually through trusted channels like Telegram, LinkedIn, or email, ensuring that both sides meet with full context, purpose, and confidence.
The core services remain the same: Marketing & PR, Consulting, Affiliate Management, but they are now tied together under a stronger single identity. And the biggest focus moving forward is the B2B Matchmaking, which has already proven to be one of the most effective ways to help operators, providers, affiliates, and service companies expand into the right markets.
Founder & CEO Gjorgje Ristikj describes the change as a natural step in the company’s growth: “We wanted a name that reflects what we really do. We connect companies with people who matter, and we do it the right way, personally, transparently, and with purpose.”
Wise Connections is not just a new name, it’s a clearer direction. A more structured approach. And a stronger commitment to building long-term partnerships that actually move businesses forward.
The post iGaming Wise Officially Rebrands to Wise Connections appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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The Balkan Gaming and Entertainment Expo (BEGE) is excited to announce the official dates for its 2026 edition: 25–26 November 2026. Following another remarkable year, BEGE is already preparing an even bigger and more innovative event that will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the region.
“BEGE 2025 was an outstanding success,” said Nino Berezhiani, Marketing Manager of BEGE. “The energy, innovation, and connections we saw over two days were truly inspiring. From the engaging conferences to the vibrant exhibition halls and the unforgettable BEGE Awards Night, it was incredible to witness our community come together to share knowledge, celebrate achievements, and drive the industry forward. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for BEGE 2026 – it’s going to be even bigger and bolder!”
BEGE 2026 promises two days filled with cutting-edge insights, networking opportunities, and top-tier conferences, continuing the tradition of delivering an unmatched platform for collaboration and growth in the gaming industry.
Organizers encourage participants, sponsors, and partners to save the dates and stay tuned for announcements regarding conference programs, speakers, and special highlights for the next edition.
The post BEGE Announces Dates for 2026 Edition: 25–26 November appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has promoted Vasilena Mantsiou to Chief Financial Officer (CFO), recognising her outstanding contribution to the company’s growth and operational excellence.
Vasilena joined Evoplay in May 2022 and was promoted to Head of Accounting Department in January 2024, where she played an instrumental role in strengthening the company’s financial processes and supporting its continued expansion across global markets.
As CFO, she will oversee Evoplay’s financial strategy, planning, and operations, ensuring the studio continues to deliver sustainable growth and stability as it scales its presence worldwide.
The appointment highlights Evoplay’s ongoing commitment to nurturing internal talent and promoting from within, ensuring a strong leadership team that reflects the company’s core values and ambition.
Ivan Kravchuk, CEO at Evoplay, said: “Vasilena has been an integral part of Evoplay’s journey, demonstrating exceptional leadership and deep financial expertise.
“Her promotion to CFO is a natural step forward, and we’re confident that her strategic vision will continue to support our long-term goals as we expand into new markets.”
Vasilena Mantsiou, CFO at Evoplay, said: “I’m incredibly proud to take on this new role and grateful for the trust placed in me by the Evoplay team.
“Over the past few years, I’ve witnessed the company’s remarkable growth and innovation, and I look forward to contributing further to its success in this new capacity.”
The post Evoplay appoints Vasilena Mantsiou as Chief Financial Officer appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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