Latest News
New ESRI Research Commissioned by the GRAI Suggests Gambling Offers Lure People to Bet More, Particularly People at Risk of Problem Gambling
A new study commissioned by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) /Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and undertaken by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) shows that betting and gambling companies offering special offers or inducements encourages people to gamble more than they would otherwise, even when the odds offered are “bad”.
Special offers or inducements, such as free bets and moneyback guarantees are regularly used by gambling companies in their marketing campaigns. The study found that vulnerable people such as those at higher risk of becoming problem gamblers, were most at risk of gambling more, and losing more, as a result of being offered inducements.
In a controlled experiment run with a sample of 622 men under 40, participants, were given money to place up to six realistic bets on the Euro 2024 football tournament.
Half of the participants were randomly selected and shown offers of free bets and moneyback guarantees on some bets. which caused these participants to spend over 10% more than those who were not given inducements. The inducements also reduced the number of participants opting not to bet by nearly half. Even inducement bets that were designed as “bad”, showing odds far below market rates, were undertaken by participants in this group, who were three times more likely to spend money on “bad” bets.
These findings illustrate the harm inducements cause, particularly to those who are susceptible to gambling harm.
Under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, the legislation which underpins the work of the GRAI, inducements or encouragement to gamble further will soon be an offence and licensed operators will no longer be allowed to offer free bets which are targeted at individuals and specific groups. Multiple European countries have also begun to regulate inducements.
Participants were surveyed after the study on their knowledge and understanding of inducements. Even amongst regular betters, most did not know that there were restrictions on free bets and that they would not receive their stake back if they won a free bet.
Paul Quinn, Chairperson of the GRAI, said: “I very much welcome this research from the ESRI examining the impact of inducements to gamble on gambling behaviours. Having a clear evidence base is critically important to the GRAI as we commence our work in regulating the gambling industry. This latest research will help inform that work and in educating the public on this matter.
“This study clearly indicates the damaging effect of certain practices around inducements. It underlines the importance of the provisions of the Gambling Regulation Act in limiting a person’s exposure to inducements to gamble. We look forward to working with Minister O’Callaghan in addressing the issue as we implement the new regulations.”
Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the GRAI, said: “The ESRI’s findings confirm that not only is the general public not aware of the dangers associated with inducements to bet, but also that the impact of these inducements go beyond simple marketing by betting companies.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that gambling operators do not encourage excessive or compulsive gambling behaviour, and that we protect vulnerable people in our society, such as children and young people and those more likely to experience gambling harm.
“The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 sets out obligations for licensees in the way in which inducements can be offered, including a ban on targeted inducements, and the findings of this study affirm these measures.”
Diarmaid Ó Ceallaigh, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Behavioural Research Unit, ESRI, said: “Our findings imply that gambling offers aren’t merely marketing tools, but pose a real risk of financial harm, particularly among vulnerable groups.
“The results support the case for stricter regulation of gambling offers in Ireland, following steps already taken in other European countries, such as banning sign-up bonuses, restricting offers to at-risk individuals, and capping their value.”
The post New ESRI Research Commissioned by the GRAI Suggests Gambling Offers Lure People to Bet More, Particularly People at Risk of Problem Gambling appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News
Gamblers Connect Launches Dedicated ‘Game Providers’ and ‘B2B Providers’ Sections to Strengthen Industry Partnerships and Visibility
Gamblers Connect, the award-winning iGaming affiliate and media platform, officially announced the launch of two new partner-focused destinations on its website: the Game Providers section and the B2B Providers section.
These hubs are designed to give verified partners richer exposure, clearer positioning, and a single home for comprehensive company profiles, reviews, and work highlights.
Gamblers Connect has specially curated profiles for official Game Provider partners, featuring company history, entertainment categories, flagship titles, and direct links to online casinos where their games are available. Profiles also showcase notable projects and media mentions, with direct navigation to games, categories, and live operator placements. To extend reach, partners enjoy ongoing amplification through Gamblers Connect’s media network and communications channels.
The B2B Providers Section provides in-depth profiles and reviews for official B2B partners—covering background, core services, market presence, and notable projects—built to help operators, studios, and peers evaluate capabilities at a glance. Unlike standard directories, these hubs serve as an exclusive showcase, designed to provide clarity, context, and visibility for partners while helping decision-makers connect with the right collaborators.
Gjorgje Ristikj, Founder of Gamblers Connect, said: “These hubs for Game Providers and B2B Companies are not just pages, they are powerful tools that help partners tell their story and reach decision-makers. Our goal is simple: to make it easier for the industry to discover, compare, and connect.”
Companies interested in being officially featured and reviewed on Gamblers Connect can request inclusion. [email protected] [email protected] | Telegram: @lukadimitrijevic
The post Gamblers Connect Launches Dedicated ‘Game Providers’ and ‘B2B Providers’ Sections to Strengthen Industry Partnerships and Visibility appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Gamblers Connect Shortlisted for Prestigious Affiliate Awards at SiGMA EURO-MED and SBC Summit 2025
Gamblers Connect, the award-winning iGaming media and affiliate platform, is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for two major industry accolades: Best Affiliate 2025 at SiGMA EURO-MED and Affiliate Traffic Source of the Year at the SBC Summit Affiliate Leaders Awards.
These nominations highlight Gamblers Connect’s continued commitment to transparency, innovation, and delivering meaningful value to both players and partners across the global iGaming landscape.
Gjorgje Ristikj, Founder of Gamblers Connect, said: “Being shortlisted for two such prestigious awards is a true recognition of the hard work and dedication our entire team has invested over the past year. It reinforces our mission to stand out not only as a trusted affiliate partner but also as a key driver of visibility and sustainable growth within the industry.”
In 2025, Gamblers Connect expanded its ecosystem with dedicated Game Provider and B2B Provider sections, introduced exclusive PR collaborations and interviews, and strengthened its role as a reliable traffic source for operators and providers worldwide.
With a focus on SEO excellence, responsible gambling practices, and long-term partnerships, Gamblers Connect has cemented its reputation as one of the most influential affiliates in the sector.
These nominations showcase the strength of Gamblers Connect’s dual identity — both as a trusted content hub for players and as a strategic growth partner for B2B companies, operators, and providers.
The post Gamblers Connect Shortlisted for Prestigious Affiliate Awards at SiGMA EURO-MED and SBC Summit 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Favbet × Spinner: An Exclusive Live Studio That Has Already Gained Recognition in Ukraine
Ukraine now has its first full-fledged Ukrainian-language live product, created by local specialists for local players.
The format combines modern technology with national identity, turning gameplay into a space where native language is heard from the very first moment.
Favbet opened a new opportunity for the market in the live segment. Without waiting for audience demand, the company shaped it itself, introducing its own branded live studio powered by Spinner. This proactive step secured Favbet’s reputation as an innovator that sets standards and creates trends.
The project was entrusted to Spinner — a modern and ambitious B2B provider with Ukrainian DNA and technological expertise, capable of delivering a fully branded studio in the state language. The partnership united shared values, high standards, and a clear understanding that players choose content closest and most relatable to them.
The studio’s atmosphere reflects Ukrainian character and hospitality. Hosts communicate in a relaxed manner, respond in real time, keep conversations flowing, and add light humor. It is a place players come not only for the game but also for live interaction and a sense of community.
Deep customization, Ukrainian-speaking hosts, and instant support create the comfort level every Favbet user deserves. Demand has grown so rapidly that in just one year the number of tables doubled from six to twelve.
Most importantly, these games are available exclusively on Favbet’s website and mobile applications.
Favbet × Spinner made Ukrainian the foundation and raised the quality bar to the level of global best practices.
PARTICIPATION IN GAMBLING CAN LEAD TO ADDICTION. PLEASE FOLLOW RESPONSIBLE GAMING PRINCIPLES.
License for online casino operations dated 20.04.2021 issued to LLC “BC Favbet” under CRGL Decision No. 137 of 05.04.2021 (as amended), and license for bookmaking operations dated 28.12.2022 issued to LLC “BC Favbet” under CRGL Decision No. 433 of 13.12.2022.
The post Favbet × Spinner: An Exclusive Live Studio That Has Already Gained Recognition in Ukraine appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Latest News3 months ago
HIPTHER Movement Launched: Fitness Community & Summer Run-Off Challenge Powered by GameOn
-
Latest News3 months ago
New Resort & Casino Selects IvedaAI for Intelligent Video Surveillance Ahead of Grand Opening
-
Latest News2 months ago
Brand-new projects debuting at iGB L!VE: Casino&You and Win&You Partners!
-
Latest News3 weeks ago
Light & Wonder to Participate in the 2025 Australasian Gaming Expo
-
Latest News2 weeks ago
ReferOn Shortlisted for Acquisition & Retention Partner of the Year at SBC Lisbon 2025
-
Latest News3 weeks ago
Gavin Hamilton Joins Sports & Wellbeing Analytics as Chairman to Accelerate Global Expansion
-
Latest News2 months ago
2025 PUBG MOBILE WORLD CUP KICKS OFF WITH GROUP DRAW AHEAD OF ESPORTS WORLD CUP
-
Latest News3 months ago
Meridianbet Seals Sponsorship Deal with Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA)
You must be logged in to post a comment Login