Q2 2025 saw a decline in the German gambling market, with total stakes dropping to €3.22 billion (£2.78 billion).

According to the most recent data published by the German gambling regulator, the Gemeinsame Glucksspielbehorde der Lander (GGL), this is a decrease from the €3.5 billion (£3 billion) wagered in the first quarter.

Online poker declined from €204 million (£176 million) to €184 million (£159 million) during the same period, while virtual slot stakes increased marginally from €1.1 billion (£950.6 million) in Q1 to €1.12 billion (£967.9 million) in Q2.

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The report also suggests that the State Treaty on Gaming 2021 (GluStV), which imposed more stringent regulations on online gaming and sports betting, has had a mixed overall impact on the gambling industry.

Regulatory Impact and Market Transparency

In an effort to increase transparency and inform the public and policymakers about market developments, the GGL has started releasing quarterly gambling market reports.

Reforms accompanying these developments include strict advertising restrictions, a €1 stake limit on online slots, a €1000 (£864) monthly deposit cap per player across all online casino platforms and a 5% stake-based tax on operators.

The black market in Germany, which GGL estimates makes up 25% of all gambling activity, though other sources put that figure closer to 50%, has grown as a result of these policies, according to the report. Regulators intend to make the market safer by implementing these measures.

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Germany’s legal gaming industry brought in €14.4 billion (£12.4 billion) in 2024, a 5% year-on-year increase. However, as per GGL, the size of the black market suggests that the industry as a whole is even larger.

There are 858 German-language websites operated by 212 unlicensed operators, according to the GGL’s 2024 Activity Report.

231 illegal websites were taken down and 657 others were blocked using automated geo-blocking as part of efforts to stop illegal gambling.

GGL CEO Richard Benter highlighted ongoing challenges, such as the use of “cloaking” tactics that allow unlicensed operators to evade restrictions by showing different websites to users and search engines alike.

He emphasised that combating these issues requires stronger international co-operation and uniform legal frameworks across Europe to protect players and all licensed providers equally.

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“This fight requires close cooperation with international partners. Equally crucial are clear and uniform frameworks for the legal market that ensure the protection of players and apply equally to all permitted providers,” the GGL stated in the report.

Indonesia is preparing to introduce new rules targeting the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), to crack down on the broader access to illegal online gambling. The move signifies a stronger push by authorities to tighten internet oversight amid growing concerns over unregulated digital activity.

While officials have not really explicitly mentioned gambling platforms, the intention seems to be clear. The aim of the move is to restrict tools that allow Indonesians to bypass government firewalls and access banned content. As the country battles a surge in illegal online gambling, VPNs have become a major target in the regulatory issue.

Indonesia currently ranks as the third-highest user of VPN services worldwide, behind only the UAE and India. A 2024 report by Windscribe, a global VPN provider, found that roughly 41% of Indonesian internet users use VPNs. This tool is largely used to bypass state-enacted censorship and access geo-blocked websites.

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Online gambling, is strictly banned under Indonesian law, but is still thriving via VPN-enabled access to international platforms. These tools allow users to hide their digital footprints, and makes it challenging for authorities to enforce law.

“VPNs are being misused to reach sites and apps that are clearly illegal. We are developing a framework to ensure their usage aligns with the law,” said Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan, Director General of Informatics Applications at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, in a recent statement.

The upcoming regulations, which are currently under ministerial review, aim to restrict VPN use by requiring providers to register with the government. Unregistered VPN services could be blocked outright. Officials are also considering legal consequences for users found accessing restricted services via unlicensed VPNs.

As for now, no timeline has been officially announced. But local media has reported that draft rules may be finalized by the end of the year.

The current online gambling environment in Indonesia is vast, and mostly hidden. Users often access offshore platforms hosted in regions with lenient enforcement. These platforms promise anonymity, instant payouts, and enticing rewards, thus driving a cycle of addiction and financial ruin for many.

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For the UK’s vibrant online gambling sector, rebuilding and maintaining consumer confidence is not merely a regulatory compliance issue; it is the fundamental pillar for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

You stand at a pivotal moment in the evolution of the online gambling industry, particularly within the UK. While digital platforms have revolutionised accessibility and choice, they have also placed an unprecedented spotlight on an industry asset more valuable than any marketing budget or technological innovation: trust.

The Trust Deficit in Online Gambling

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For too long, the online gambling industry has grappled with a significant trust deficit. You may have observed headlines detailing hefty regulatory fines, concerns over problem gambling, or criticisms regarding advertising practices. This cumulative narrative has fostered a degree of skepticism among the public and policymakers alike. Individuals often question the fairness of games, the security of their personal and financial data, and the genuine commitment of operators to player welfare. This skepticism, while sometimes rooted in misinformation, is nonetheless a potent force that can deter new users and erode the loyalty of existing ones.

The perception of an industry primarily driven by profit, sometimes at the expense of player protection, has led to increased scrutiny. You, as a consumer, need to feel secure that the platforms you engage with are operating with integrity, transparency, and a genuine concern for your well-being. Without this foundational belief, the immense potential of the digital gambling landscape remains constrained by doubt and caution.

Why Trust Matters More Than Ever in a Digital Economy

In today’s digital economy, trust is the new currency. For the online gambling sector, where transactions are virtual and interactions often impersonal, trust becomes an even more critical differentiator. When you entrust a company with your money and personal data, you expect an impermeable shield of security and an unwavering commitment to fair play. If this trust is breached, or even perceived to be vulnerable, the consequences extend far beyond a single lost customer. Negative experiences travel fast in a hyper-connected world, amplified by social media, leading to reputational damage that can take years, if not decades, to repair.

Consider the long-term ramifications: a trusted brand attracts and retains customers more efficiently, reducing the substantial costs associated with acquisition. It fosters loyalty, encouraging repeat engagement and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Moreover, a high level of consumer trust can alleviate regulatory pressure, as a self-regulating, responsible industry is viewed more favorably than one perceived to be exploiting its customers. Ultimately, for you to choose an online gambling platform, the assurance of integrity must outweigh any lingering doubts about its operations.

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Technology and Cybersecurity: Building a Safer iGaming Experience

At the heart of rebuilding trust lies a robust commitment to cutting-edge technology and impenetrable cybersecurity. For instance when you choose to play live roulette safely at trusted UK casinos, you are implicitly relying on a complex web of technological safeguards designed to protect your data, ensure fair outcomes, and provide a secure transactional environment. Leading operators invest heavily in advanced encryption protocols, such as SSL (Secure Socket Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security), which encrypt all data transmitted between your device and their servers, making it virtually impossible for unauthorised parties to intercept sensitive information.

Beyond data security, the integrity of the games themselves is paramount. Reputable UK casinos utilise certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) for their slot machines and virtual table games, which are independently audited to ensure genuinely random and unbiased outcomes. For live dealer games, transparent displays, professional croupiers, and state-of-the-art streaming technology allow you to observe every action unfold in real-time, replicating the authentic casino experience with added layers of digital verification. Furthermore, robust KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures, multi-factor authentication, and sophisticated fraud detection systems protect both you and the operator from illicit activities. These technological foundations are non-negotiable in fostering the confidence you need to engage safely — a goal further reinforced by the UK Government’s High stakes: gambling reform for the digital age, which sets out planned reforms to strengthen player protection and industry transparency.

Responsible Gambling as a Business Advantage

Your commitment to responsible gambling isn’t just a regulatory checkbox; it is a profound business advantage that directly contributes to trust. An industry that prioritises player welfare demonstrates a long-term vision and an ethical compass, appealing to a broader, more discerning customer base. Responsible gambling initiatives, such as self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, reality checks, and accessible links to support organisations, empower you to manage your play effectively and seek help if needed.

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When operators proactively promote these tools, provide clear information on the risks associated with gambling, and train their staff to identify and assist vulnerable players, they are not just complying with regulations; they are building a healthier, more sustainable customer relationship. This approach transforms the perception of the industry from one that merely offers entertainment to one that genuinely cares for its patrons’ well-being. Ultimately, a player who feels supported and protected is far more likely to remain loyal and advocate for the brand.

Source: thelondoneconomic.com