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State Lottery in Bulgaria Set for Privatisation

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The ruling parliamentary majority in Bulgaria, represented by Kostadin Angelov (GERB), Dragomir Stoynev (BSP), and Yordan Tsonev (DPS-New Beginning), has submitted a proposal to amend the Gambling Act within the transitional and final provisions of the State Budget Law. The submission, sent on November 24 to both the Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee and the Chairman of the National Assembly, aims to grant a long-term concession for the Bulgarian Sports Totalizator (BST), with the State Budget Law set for a second reading on Thursday, November 28.

The lawmakers argue that despite BST’s monopoly position, its revenues are lower than those of private gambling operators prior to the 2020 legal changes. They cite market analysis showing that the state lottery is not a leading operator in the gambling sector, and suggest that privatisation via concession is necessary to make it competitive. The concession would be overseen by the Minister of Youth and Sports, who would handle both granting and monitoring the contract.

Under the proposed framework, the concession could only be awarded to a Bulgarian-registered legal entity or to a foreign entity with an officially registered business in Bulgaria. A call for expressions of interest is required to be published by March 31, 2026, allowing operators to submit investment proposals. The concession would last at least 15 years, giving the private operator full rights to BST’s betting points, systems, equipment, valuable samples and intellectual property.

Financially, the concessionaire would transfer 10% of its corporate tax payments to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, to fund physical education, sports facilities, and related activities, with 10% of this sum earmarked for the National Culture Fund. Additionally, 30% of the concession fee would be allocated to sports clubs and federations. After the concession, BST would no longer organise gambling games, and any existing tickets, slips or coupons would be invalidated and destroyed.

The proposal has drawn controversy, particularly because the lottery was nationalized and granted monopoly status only a few years ago, following the revocation of licenses for Vasil Bozhkov’s private gambling companies. Proponents argue that the lottery lacks sufficient financial resources and operational know-how to compete with private online operators, pointing to its underperformance against budgeted revenues. In 2023, BST aimed for BGN 190 million (€96.9 million) but achieved BGN 170.034 million (€86.8 million), while the 2024 goal of BGN 188.701 million (€96.3 million) was not reached either, with actual revenues at BGN 182.640 million (€93.2 million).

Critics, including Ivaylo Mirchev of “Yes, Bulgaria” (party of WCC-DB) accuse the concession of being politically motivated, suggesting that it benefits DPS-New Beginning and the network surrounding Delyan Peevski. Mirchev noted that Peevski’s mother, Irena Krasteva, previously served as director of BST from 2002 to 2005, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and favoritism. Proposals for a parliamentary commission to investigate potential misconduct were reportedly blocked by affiliated MPs from GERB.

The move represents a significant restructuring of Bulgaria’s lottery system, transferring a state-controlled monopoly into private hands for a period of at least 15 years, with substantial financial and political implications.

The post State Lottery in Bulgaria Set for Privatisation appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Balkans

CT Interactive Expands its Certified Portfolio in Bulgaria

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CT Interactive has strengthened its presence in Bulgaria’s regulated iGaming market by expanding its certified portfolio with 20 new titles. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality and engaging gaming content tailored to the Bulgarian market.

As part of the expansion, CT Interactive introduces new games to its multicurrency, multi-game progressive Diamond Tree Jackpot, including HOT 7’s X2 Diamond Tree and Wild Clover Diamond Tree. These titles are also available as original versions without the Diamond Tree feature and have already demonstrated strong player engagement and retention across multiple international markets.

The company has also added new releases to its successful Clover-themed line, including Cave of Clovers and Lucky Clover 20, the latest addition to the beloved series. These games feature vintage-inspired graphics and nostalgic design elements that enhance player engagement while maintaining the charm that has made the Clover series a favourite among players worldwide.

Additionally, CT Interactive launches Win Storm Deluxe, the highly anticipated sequel to the internationally successful Win Storm. This new release builds on the original concept and introduces Free Games, delivering an even more dynamic and exciting gameplay experience.

A selection of fresh titles is also being introduced to provide new gaming experiences for Bulgarian operators. Games such as 100x Cherry Party, 40 Hell’s Cherries, and Hell’s Cherries each offer a unique approach, enriching the portfolio and providing players with a wider variety of engaging content.

“Certification in Bulgaria is an important part of our European growth strategy. By expanding our portfolio, we are not only strengthening our market presence, but also providing Bulgarian operators with a proven successful and more diverse content offering,” said Martin Ivanov, COO of CT Interactive.

“With every new certification, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening partnerships in regulated markets and to being a provider of high-quality content that performs well for every operator,” said Kiril Kirilov, Chief Customer Success Officer at CT Interactive.

The post CT Interactive Expands its Certified Portfolio in Bulgaria appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Balkans

Pasha Hotel & Casino Group and Platinum Casino Launch Pasha Platinum Casino at Grand Hotel Plovdiv in Bulgaria

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Pasha Hotel & Casino Group, one of the most recognisable brands in the gaming industry in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), and Platinum Casino – an established name on the Bulgarian market, have entered into a strategic partnership and launched a new premium casino brand in Bulgaria.

The new PASHA PLATINUM CASINO opened its doors at the prestigious Grand Hotel Plovdiv – located in the heart of the country’s second-largest city and one of the fastest-growing destinations in the region.

The PASHA PLATINUM CASINO has introduced its guests and the local fans of gaming an entirely new level of casino experience, combining international casino-resort style, high standards of service and a modern gaming environment.

A Blend of International casino-resort Style and Local Energy

Pasha Hotel & Casino is a brand associated with luxury, atmosphere and memorable experiences, attracting guests from across the Mediterranean region. Platinum Casino, on the other hand, is a well-known name in Bulgaria, with a loyal customer base and a strong market presence.

The combination of Pasha’s gambling concept, luxurious style and international expertise with Platinum Casino’s dynamics and deep understanding of the local market creates a unique project with the ambition to become a leading entertainment in one of the oldest cities in Europe. The city of Plovdiv is a cultural and social hub of international significance, located just 2 hours’ drive from both Turkey and Greece. Grand Hotel Plovdiv, a benchmark symbol of comfort and prestige, provides the ideal setting for the new casino.

PASHA PLATINUM CASINO is the most attractive part of the overall experience offered by the hotel complex – a combination of accommodation, gastronomy and high-end entertainment.

APEX Slot Machines

The casino features a selection of the best performing models of slot machines of Apex Pro Gaming, which have been ranked at the top among the most advanced and preferred gaming solutions in Europe. The installed Apex Pinnacle Slant top machines equipped with Clover Link Elements platform run at impressive, portrait J-curved displays are distinguished by outstanding design and ergonomics, dynamic and thrilling gameplay and a wide variety of games providing immersive features and high-adrenaline progressive jackpot prizes.

The game mix of Clover Link Elements is tailored both to experienced players and to new visitors seeking entertainment and an exciting experience.

The Grand opening of the Casino complex took place on 4 April 2026 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria and gathered thousands of guests for the weekend, who enjoyed the opulent atmosphere and the bespoken hospitality of two of the masters of entertainment in the region.

Sonya Nikolova, Global Sales Manager at APEX, said: “We’re grateful to both Pasha Hotel & Casino Group and Platinum Casino for the trust they have placed in APEX products, and we’re confident in the quality, competitiveness, and creativity behind the Clover Link Elements platform as it continues to evolve.”

Built on a flexible architecture and a distinctive design concept, Clover Link Elements further strengthens APEX’s position as a preferred partner for premium casino operators. APEX is already preparing the newest edition of Clover Link Elements—set to introduce additional titles and unique new features—and looks forward to bringing this next chapter to premium operators across the region.

The post Pasha Hotel & Casino Group and Platinum Casino Launch Pasha Platinum Casino at Grand Hotel Plovdiv in Bulgaria appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Amazons’ Wonders

SYNOT Games Enters into Partnership with Bulgarian Operator BETVAM

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SYNOT Games has entered into a partnership with Bulgarian operator BETVAM, expanding its presence in the regulated market as it continues to broaden its footprint across the Balkan region.

SYNOT Games and BETVAM are joining forces in a collaboration shaped by shared principles rather than big declarations. The partnership opens the door for BETVAM’s players to access a curated selection of SYNOT Games’ certified titles, including hits such as Zeus Wild Thunder, Amazons’ Wonders and Legend of Medusa, which will now appear in the operator’s expanding library.

Unlike many industry tie‑ups, this one focuses more on alignment. Both companies place high value on operating transparently and within strictly regulated environments – a standard that has defined SYNOT Games’ approach to market expansion for years.

Martina Krajčí, CCO at SYNOT Games, said the collaboration is a natural step: “What matters to us is working with partners who share our belief in clarity, responsibility, and regulated growth. BETVAM fits that mindset well, and we’re pleased to see our titles become part of their offering.”

Georgi Ganchev, CEO of BETVAM, said: “Our goal has always been to bring players reliable entertainment from providers who operate with integrity. SYNOT Games is a strong match for that philosophy, and adding their content helps us continue building a platform players can trust.”

The collaboration strengthens SYNOT Games’ presence in Bulgaria while reinforcing its commitment to safe, compliant entertainment. With BETVAM adding more regulated content to its platform, players can expect an expanded selection delivered under transparent and responsibly managed conditions.

Both companies see this partnership as a practical, value-driven step – one that supports sustainable growth without resorting to bold promises or corporate fanfare.

The post SYNOT Games Enters into Partnership with Bulgarian Operator BETVAM appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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