Compliance Updates
The MGA Hosted GREF 2024 in Malta
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) hosted the Gaming Regulators European Forum’s (GREF) 2024 conference in Malta from May 20 to 22. This prestigious event united gaming regulators from over 25 countries, creating a dynamic platform to tackle pressing industry challenges and exchange invaluable insights.
This year was the first time regulators from other continents were present at the event, inviting a global outlook to the discussions held. Topics discussed ranged from the MGA’s ESG code, responsible gambling, digital and innovation, international perspectives on gambling regulation, anti money laundering and a geographical approach to gambling.
GREF chairperson Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin said she was honoured to open GREF’s 2024 Annual Conference. She underlined the growing maturity of GREF members in their gambling analyses and tools, the urgent need for cooperation between stakeholders, and GREF’s openness to international partnerships. She pointed out that: “European regulators cannot be isolated, apart from the other actors. Even if we have specific and unique responsibilities, we need to work with others to propose effective regulation”.
MGA CEO Charles Mizzi welcomed attendees to Malta for GREF’s 2024 Annual Conference, highlighting the importance of collaboration for effective regulation. He said: “The complexity of the industry demands collaborative efforts. With various stakeholders, including operators, technology providers, and government bodies – all playing critical roles – collaboration allows us to leverage the diverse expertise and perspectives to develop comprehensive and effective regulatory frameworks that address the complexities that are inherent to the industry.”
Additionally, Anna Grech, International Affairs & Policy Outreach Manager at the MGA, delved into the development of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Code as a means to acknowledge licensees’ commitment to sustainability, showcasing and building upon the positive initiatives already being undertaken by the gaming industry.
Rachel Bezzina, the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Manager at the MGA and co-chair of the GREF AML working group, also led a dialogue during the event. She delivered key updates on best practices for effective monitoring and supervision over ML/FT risks.
With over 90 participants representing regulatory bodies from various countries, the conference served as an excellent platform for networking and collaboration among international stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of a unified approach to gaming regulation.
The post The MGA Hosted GREF 2024 in Malta appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Compliance Updates
Merkur Group Strengthens Global Compliance Strategy
Under the theme “Perspectives,” a total of 43 compliance staff members from the Merkur Group across various countries gathered from 30 June to 1 July to further develop compliance processes in a sustainable manner. Colleagues from Germany, Spain, England, Malta, Australia and the US traveled to the two-day meeting at Benkhausen Castle, the in-house training centre of the Merkur Group. The workshop set the stage with expert presentations on global and digital topics such as cybersecurity, risk management and artificial intelligence. A panel discussion featuring representatives from various international companies within the Merkur Group, as well as a digital quiz, rounded out the programme.
In keeping with its guiding principle, the workshop focused on sharing experiences, fostering global networking and providing impetus for the further development of compliance processes. Because informal exchanges are also key to close cooperation, the evening programme created a relaxed atmosphere and gave participants the opportunity to continue their conversations, make new connections, and further strengthen team spirit across company and national boundaries.
“The ideas and diverse perspectives gained during the workshop will now be incorporated into our day-to-day work and help us to continuously improve collaboration and existing processes,” said Ludwig Beckmann, Chief Compliance Officer of the Merkur Group.
The concluding feedback session also highlighted just how valuable the international exchange is. The term “collaboration” came up particularly often, a clear indication of how highly the participants value working closely together within the international compliance network.
The post Merkur Group Strengthens Global Compliance Strategy appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Anne Marie Caulfield
GRAI Launches New Campaign Helping Parents to Spot the Signs of Underage Gambling
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is encouraging parents and guardians to be alert to the signs of gambling among young people and to intervene early to prevent gambling harm.
The signs of gambling aren’t always visible, the GRAI in partnership with the Health Service Executive Addiction Services have developed dedicated advice on www.grai.ie to equip families with the knowledge to recognise the signs, advice on how to start the conversation with their children about gambling, and where to seek help if required.
To support the guidance, the GRAI has launched a national public awareness campaign across video on demand, radio, digital audio, and social media platforms, bringing this message directly to families across Ireland.
With the lines between entertainment and gambling increasingly blurred, especially online, what may look like harmless fun can still involve risk, money and chance in ways that affect young developing brains. Research commissioned by the GRAI and conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) found that children who gamble are twice as likely to develop a gambling problem as adults.
Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the GRAI said: “We have launched this campaign to help parents start an important conversation about the risks of underage gambling. Children and young people are among the most at-risk members of Irish society when it comes to gambling exposure and harm. Children’s brains are still developing the judgement and impulse-control systems used to weigh up risk, which makes gambling appealing to them.
“With online gambling available at any time of the day, it is easy for the warning signs to be hidden. The guidance the GRAI developed with the HSE Addiction Services sets out some of the key behavioural signs to look out for in your child.”
The post GRAI Launches New Campaign Helping Parents to Spot the Signs of Underage Gambling appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Australia
NSW: EOI Opens for Candidates to Replace Retiring NICC Chief Commissioner and Commissioner
The NSW Government has announced the opening of an expression of interest process for Chief Commissioner and Commissioner roles on the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC).
On 20 May 2026 the Governor of NSW, on the recommendation of the Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris, re-appointed the NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford, and Commissioner Stephen Parbery for additional six-month terms to 24 November 2026.
The reappointments will ensure stability in the NICC’s leadership in coming months and an orderly transition to new commissioners.
Mr Crawford and Mr Parbery have announced they will retire from public service when their tenures expire in November.
Both were inaugural members of the NICC when it was established in September 2022 in response to the Bergin Inquiry recommendations to strengthen casino regulation and oversight in NSW.
Prior to appointment to the NICC, Mr Crawford served as Chairperson of the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA), while Mr Parbery served as an ILGA board member.
Both Mr Crawford and Mr Parbery played crucial roles in the NICC’s response to the two Bell inquiries into The Star and have contributed to strengthening oversight and accountability across the casino sector including the transition of Crown Sydney to an unrestricted licence.
The appointment process for the NICC Commissioner vacancies is being undertaken in accordance with requirements under the Casino Control Act 1992.
This includes establishment of a selection panel to prepare a list of recommended candidates for consideration by Minister Harris, as well as the appointment of a probity adviser.
The expression of interest process is open until Monday 3 August.
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said: “I thank Philip Crawford and Stephen Parbery for their service and leadership, particularly during a critical period for casino regulation in NSW.
“As Chief Commissioner, Philip Crawford has played a key role in ensuring both casino operators meet strict regulatory requirements, following the various casino inquiries.
“His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing complex probity assessments, remediation programs and contingency planning during a period of significant regulatory reform and scrutiny.
“Stephen Parbery has also made a substantial contribution as Commissioner, bringing considerable expertise and judgement to the Commission’s work.
“Both Commissioners have helped drive important regulatory improvements that have restored public confidence in the integrity of casino regulation in NSW, and I thank them for their dedicated service.”
The post NSW: EOI Opens for Candidates to Replace Retiring NICC Chief Commissioner and Commissioner appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
-
Compliance Updates6 days agoArizona Department of Gaming Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders to Multiple Operators Linked to Underage Gambling and Illegal Activity
-
Compliance Updates6 days agoKONAMI GROUP’s Konami Gaming Inc. First to Submit Manufacturer License Application in Japan’s Emerging IR Market
-
Latest News6 days agoEnjoy Gaming Builds on Slot success with Diamond Slam: Xtra Power
-
Latest News6 days agoWeekend Reels | Week 28: Slot Drops & Trends
-
Compliance Updates6 days agoSpillemyndigheden Publishes Report on Illegal Gambling
-
Canada6 days agoHigh 5 Games Expands Across Alberta’s Open iGaming Market Following AGLC Supplier Approval
-
Compliance Updates6 days agoArizona regulator orders five operators to stop alleged illegal gambling activity
-
Compliance Updates6 days agoTaDa Gaming Accelerates LatAm Growth with Peru Licence Approval



