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The MGA publishes its 2023 Annual Report and Financial Statements
The Malta Gaming Authority has published its Annual Report and audited Financial Statements for the 2023 financial year. The report provides insights into the Maltese land-based and online gaming industries, and outlines their performance in 2023. The report further provides an overview of the Authority’s accomplishments and offers a medium-term outlook for the future.
Supervisory Activities
• In 2023, the Authority conducted 21 compliance audits, and 125 desktop reviews The Commercial Communications Committee took five decisions regarding possible breaches of the Gaming Commercial Communications Regulations (S.L. 583.09). The Authority also issued 28 warnings, suspended nine licences and cancelled 11 licences. Furthermore, the MGA issued a total of 19 administrative penalties and one regulatory settlement, which amount to a total financial penalty of €172,900.
• A total of 28 AML/CFT Compliance Examinations were carried out; 13 were carried out by MGA and 15 by FIAU. During the same period, the FIAU imposed remediation and/or administrative penalties on seven licensees, based on violations discovered during examinations carried out in previous years, which amounted to €994,000.
• During 2023, the Authority received 24 applications for new gaming licences and issued 15 licences. A total of 13 applications were either rejected or withdrawn.
• Almost 1200 criminal probity screening checks were undertaken on individuals, shareholders, ultimate beneficial owners, key persons, employees and businesses from both the land-based and online gaming sectors. Applications of a more complex nature were escalated to the Fit & Proper Committee. In total, 64 decisions were taken by the Committee, including 14 decisions to reject individuals and entities who did not meet the Authority’s fit and properness criteria. The Supervisory Council reviewed 19 licence applications of which 14 were approved and four were rejected. One application was sent back to the applicant for further clarification.
• In 2023, 38 interviews with prospective MLROs and key persons carrying out AML/CFT functions were conducted with the aim of assessing their competence and understanding of the Maltese AML/CFT legal framework.
• The Authority, in its efforts to safeguard players and promote responsible gambling, assisted a total of 4483 players who requested assistance (including spill-over from 2022). Furthermore, 72 responsible gambling themed website checks were carried out, and 41 observation letters were issued to licensees outlining the responsible gambling issues and identifying areas of improvement.
• The Authority examines the financial standing of its licensees to ensure the continued viability of the business but also to safeguard the player funds. In 2023, 2059 Player Funds Reports were received and 24 player data extractions were carried out.
• A total of 49 websites were found to have misleading references to the Authority. In 23 instances, the information was not removed following notification, and notices are published on the MGA’s website with the aim of preventing the public from falling victim to such scams.
• In 2023, the Authority carried out just over 2300 inspections on Gaming Parlours, National Lottery Outlets, Bingo Halls and Non-Profit Tombola, in addition to another 7275 inspections, which were carried out to licensed casinos with the aim of having 24/7 inspectorate presence in such gaming establishments. Furthermore, the Authority was present during all the National Lottery licensee’s drawing operations. This is done to ensure compliance of the land-based licensees with the relevant rules and regulations.
• In 2023, following a consultation period, the Authority published the “Policy on the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) by Authorised Persons”. This policy supersedes “Guidance on the use of Innovative Technology Arrangements and the acceptance of Virtual Financial Assets and Virtual Tokens through the implementation of a Sandbox Environment”.
• In 2023, the Authority published amendments to the Player Protection Directive (Directive 2 of 2018), introducing five markers of harm. These are designed to help operators identify early signs of problematic gambling behaviour, enabling them to intervene in a timely and effective manner.
• In 2023, the Authority also published its voluntary ESG Code of Good Practice for the Remote Gaming Sector. The Code seeks to serve as an instrument for self-regulation, helping remote gaming companies align with best practices and maintain a position that allows them to effectively meet the evolving expectations of key stakeholders in the sector.
National and International Cooperation
• In 2023, the Authority received 255 suspicious betting reports from licensees and other interested parties. The Authority collaborated with enforcement agencies, sports governing bodies, integrity units and other regulatory authorities on 34 requests for information in relation to the manipulation of sporting events or violations of sporting regulations. Subsequently, these requests resulted in 44 data exchanges. In addition, a total of 235 alerts on suspicious betting were shared with the licensees. The Authority also contributed to 22 investigations into sports rules violations or manipulation of sporting competitions in 2023.
• The Authority sent 42 requests and received 77 requests for international collaboration. In both cases, most requests related to background checks as part of authorisation processes, or requests for information about the local regime.
• In 2023, a total of 75 letters of good standing were issued, providing feedback on the regulatory standing of the MGA’s licensed operators to the relevant authorities asking for this information.
• Additionally, in 2023, the Authority collaborated with other local regulating authorities and governing bodies on 124 requests for information.
MGA CEO Charles Mizzi said: “It is not a coincidence that the theme for the Annual Report is ‘sustainability’. The MGA’s ability to strike the right balance between allowing the industry to thrive and grow in a sustainable manner, while also protecting consumers, is key to Malta’s continued success.”
The post The MGA publishes its 2023 Annual Report and Financial Statements appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Bragg
Bragg Gaming Group Announces Record Third Quarter 2024 Revenue of Eur 26.2 Million (USD 29.3 Million)
Bragg Gaming Group, a global B2B content-driven iGaming technology provider, reported record revenue for the third quarter of 2024.
Summary of 3Q24 Financial and Operational Highlights
| Euros (millions)(1) | 3Q24 | 3Q23 | Change |
| Revenue | € 26.2 | € 22.6 | 15.9 % |
| Gross profit | € 14.0 | € 11.9 | 18.1 % |
| Gross profit margin | 53.5 % | 52.5 % | 99 bps |
| Adjusted EBITDA(2) | € 4.1 | € 3.8 | 7.1 % |
| Adjusted EBITDA margin | 15.6 % | 16.9 % | (129) bps |
| Operating Income (Loss) | € (0.4) | € (2.1) | (81.0) % |
(1) Bragg’s reporting currency is Euros. The exchange rate provided is EUR 1.00 = USD 1.12. Due to fluctuating currency exchange rates, this reference rate is provided for convenience only.
(2) “Adjusted EBITDA” is a non-IFRS measure. For important information on the Company’s non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” below.
Chief Executive Officer Commentary
Matevž Mazij, Chief Executive Officer for Bragg, commented, “The third quarter marked another period of strong growth and record results for Bragg. Revenue grew 16% year-over-year, gross profit increased 18%, and Adjusted EBITDA rose 7%. In the U.S., strong third quarter revenue gains from content distribution helped drive a 40% global increase in proprietary online content revenue year-over-year.
“Additionally, we announced today that the Board of Directors has unanimously decided to conclude its review of strategic alternatives for Bragg. After extensive evaluation and deliberation, the Board determined that the ongoing execution of the Company’s strategic plan is the best way to maximize value for shareholders at this time.
“Since stepping in as Chairman 16 months ago and then as CEO 14 months ago, we’ve transformed our executive team, restructured commercial operations, and sharpened our sales strategy with a targeted, jurisdictional approach. These decisive actions position us to drive growth and capture market opportunities with greater precision and impact. Under new leadership, we’ve built a strong pipeline of tier 1 opportunities across key markets and key products, positioning Bragg for accelerated top- and bottom-line growth.
“With the strategic review process now complete, Bragg is now fully focused on commercialization and unlocking profitable growth, without the need for significant new investment in product development. Our decade-long investments in technology and talent, combined with a robust leadership team, have built a scalable platform that uniquely positions us for aggressive growth in 2025 and beyond. With significant operating leverage now within reach, we’re poised for an exciting, high-growth, and profitable future.”
Third Quarter 2024 and Recent Business Highlights
- Launched its newest games and Remote Gaming Server (RGS) technology with Caesars Digital in Pennsylvania and Ontario. The launch marked the expansion of Bragg’s existing partnership with Caesars Digital, following earlier launches in New Jersey and Michigan respectively, doubling the number of states/provinces in which Bragg content is offered on Caesars Palace Online Casino and Caesars Sportsbook & Casino.
- Launched its newest games and RGS technology with FanDuel in New Jersey, adding to its existing distribution with the leading North American operator in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Ontario
- Post-quarter end, the Company additionally launched its newest games and RGS technology with bet365 in New Jersey, following on from its second quarter launch in Pennsylvania, and an earlier launch in Ontario with the major global iGaming operator
- Launched HardRockCasino.nl in the Dutch market, supplying its cutting-edge player account management (PAM) software to the brand. The agreement is Bragg’s 6th PAM customer in the Netherlands, reinforcing Bragg’s status as the leading technology and content supplier in the Dutch market
- Launched the Kambi sportsbook on 711.nl, adding an additional revenue-generating product stream to a key PAM customer in the Netherlands
- Management is pleased to announce the appointment of Robbie Bressler to CFO of Bragg, effective immediately. Robbie had been serving as Bragg’s interim CFO since July 1, 2024.
Additional September 30, 2024 Key Financial Metrics
- For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, Cash flow generated from operations was EUR 8.4 million (USD 9.4 million), compared to EUR 6.2 million (USD 6.9 million) for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023.
- Cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2024 was EUR 11.6 million (USD 13.0 million) and net working capital, excluding deferred consideration, loans payable, and convertible debt, was EUR 11.3 million (USD 12.7 million)
Strategic Alternatives Process Concluded
The Bragg Board announced the strategic alternatives process in March 2024 with the formation of a Special Committee, comprised solely of independent members of the Board. The Committee, together with its advisors Oakvale Capital LLP and Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, evaluated a wide range of strategic alternatives for maximizing shareholder value including a potential sale or merger of the Company. Bragg solicited interest from a significant number of potential counterparties and received multiple non-binding proposals.
After careful consideration, the Board, on recommendation from the special committee, unanimously determined that none of the proposals received reflect the Company’s intrinsic value or current and projected financial performance, and therefore elected to conclude its review and disband the Special Committee.
Don Robertson, independent Board member and Chair of the Special Committee, said, “After a comprehensive and exhaustive process, the Committee recommended, and the Board unanimously agreed, that continuing to execute Bragg’s strategic plan as an independent public company is the best approach for maximizing shareholder value. Although the process has now concluded, Bragg’s Board will continue to be open to and consider all opportunities for enhancing shareholder value.”
“Over the past year, our financial performance, cashflow generation and revenue outlook have significantly improved. We remain extremely confident about our business plan, operating strategy, and financial prospects” said Matevž Mazij, Chairman and CEO of Bragg.
Reiterates Full Year 2024 Guidance and 2025 Outlook
Bragg reiterates its 2024 full year revenue guidance range of EUR 102.0-109.0 million (USD 114.2-122.1 million) and its full year Adjusted EBITDA range of EUR 15.2-18.5 million (USD 17.0-20.7 million), noting that the Company is currently tracking to the lower end of guidance.
Bragg is actively advancing a robust pipeline of opportunities that is anticipated to drive strong momentum as we enter 2025. The outlook for 2025 remains positive, with expectations of sustained double-digit top line growth, expanding bottom line margins, and increased operational leverage, further strengthening Bragg’s position in the market. The preceding guidance and outlook constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, and is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a number of risks.
BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, announced an extension of its partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights through the 2026-27 season. As part of the agreement, BetMGM will continue as an Official Betting Partner of the Vegas Golden Knights with prominent signage on the Knight Tron and throughout T-Mobile Arena as well as co-branded content and exclusive promotions. The partnership also features multiple fan engagement opportunities including watch parties and Toshiba Plaza activations.
“BetMGM is proud to continue our partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights, giving us the opportunity to create memorable moments alongside one of the world’s most passionate hockey fan bases. Las Vegas is BetMGM’s hometown and an integral part of our DNA, so the Golden Knights are a natural fit for our brand.” – Matt Prevost – BetMGM, Chief Revenue Officer.
Throughout the season, BetMGM will host watch parties featuring team mascots at various MGM Resorts destinations. The operator also will plan activations in Toshiba Plaza during select Golden Knights home games where fans can begin the BetMGM mobile app registration process for the chance to win prizes.
“BetMGM is a long-standing partner with the Golden Knights and a brand synonymous with this great city,” said Vegas Golden Knights President and CEO Kerry Bubolz. “We look forward to continue working together on events and activations that we know entertain our fans.”
Lance Evans, SVP Sports and Sponsorships, MGM Resorts, said, “The Vegas Golden Knights play a core role in the Las Vegas sports and entertainment experience and it’s a privilege to welcome both local and visiting fans to our properties before, during and after games. Together with BetMGM, we look forward to co-hosting events that will allow guests to engage with their favorite teams in new and exciting ways.”
BetMGM users can take advantage of the robust offering of prop markets for Golden Knights games this season, frequent in-app odds boosts and the interactive same game parlay betting feature. New BetMGM customers who download the BetMGM app and verify at one of BetMGM’s nine retail sportsbooks within walking distance of T-Mobile Arena will receive a first bet offer of up to $250 paid back in bonus bets if their first bet loses (offer only available in Nevada; bonus bets are non-withdrawable and expire in seven days.) Through the recently launched single account and wallet app upgrade, BetMGM users who sign up in Nevada and reside in other BetMGM U.S. mobile markets can continue to wager upon returning home.
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