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ANJ: Summary of the Online gambling market for the first quarter of 2021: business continues to grow in all gambling segments

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After a singular year in 2020, which ended with a 22% increase in the sector’s turnover, the first quarter of 2021 confirms the very dynamic growth of the online gambling market, with a 35% increase in turnover compared to the same period in 2020. Sports and horse racing betting once again recorded record stakes, while poker, still on the rise, began to return to normal.

In the first quarter of 2021, the turnover of the online gambling sector is up 35% and amounts to 587 million euros. The business was driven by 3.1 million players on accounts, a player base that is up 19% compared to 2020. Each segment of online gambling opened to competition have seen further strong growth in activity this quarter. These performances illustrate the acceleration of the digitalisation of gambling practices, which is a consequence of the health crisis and whose structuring character will have to be confirmed over the long term. As such, the levels of growth recorded in the first quarter of 2021, which are measured in relation to the first quarter of 2020, should be viewed with a certain amount of caution since, on the one hand, they are influenced upwards, for the two online betting segments, by the loss of business linked to the suspension of French sports betting and horse racing betting and, on the other hand, they are oriented downwards for the online poker market, due to the peak of business recorded at the same period last year.

 

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Online sports betting: record stakes and new players

The online sports betting segment, which was the most affected by the first period of lockdown, is the one that has seen the most spectacular growth in stakes this quarter. 2.2 billion euros (+79%[1] compared to Q1 2020) were approximatively bet by the players on the competitions of the quarter, which corresponds to the highest amount of stakes recorded in a quarter. The number of sports bettors in the quarter increased by 29% to almost 2.5 million active player accounts (APA). It is very likely that the growth in activity will continue at a high rate this year due to the two major competitions, the European football championship and the Summer Olympic Games.

The FDJ reports a volume of sports betting stakes recorded on the two distribution channels equal to 1.1 billion euros in the first quarter of 2021, which corresponds to an increase of 46% compared to its results for the first quarter of 2020.

 

Online horse racing betting: growth continues and expands

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The growth dynamic of the online horse racing betting market observed in 2020 is also continuing at a very steady pace. The horse racing stakes, which amount to 481 million euros, increased by 60% compared to the first quarter of 2020, again the highest volume of stakes recorded in a quarter. At the same time, the turnover of the six licensed horse racing betting operators reached 110 million euros, an increase of 48% compared to the first quarter of 2020. Online horse racing betting also recorded a 13% increase in players, with a total of 402,000 active player accounts (APA) over the quarter.

The horse racing betting offer at points of sale remains affected by the health restrictions which, as revealed by PMU, led to the closure of almost 40% of the points of sale for several consecutive months. As a result, the operator posted a 23% drop in stakes placed in its network of sales outlets for a total of 1.3 billion euros.

 

Online poker: lower growth marks the beginning of a return to normality

Online poker, which recorded the highest turnover increase in 2020, continues to grow at a sustained rate but at a lower rate than in previous quarters. Thus, the sector’s turnover grew by 23% to 120 million euros. The number of online poker players grew by 9% (991,000 active player accounts, (APA)). The results of online poker for the next quarter should however interrupt this dynamic, since they will be calculated with regard to the 2nd quarter of 2020, which had shown an exceptional level of activity due to the first lockdown.

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Q1 2020
Q1 2021
Variation
TOTAL
 
 
Actives player accounts
2 598 000
3 078 000
+ 19%
Gross Gambling Revenue
435 m€
587 m€
+ 35%
Sports betting
Actives player accounts
1 915 000
2 466 000
+ 29%
stakes
1 220 m€
2 181 m€
+ 79%
Gross Gambling Revenue
263 m€
357 m€
+ 36%
Horse racing betting
 
 
Actives player accounts
357 000
402 000
+ 13%
stakes
300 m€
481 m€
+ 60%
Gross Gambling Revenue
74 m€
110 m€
+ 48%
Poker
 
 
Actives player accounts
906 000
991 000
+ 9%
Gross Gambling Revenue
98 m€
120 m€
+ 23%

 

For Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, ANJ’s Chairwoman“The online gambling dynamics goes on and is accelerating this quarter. It calls for a certain vigilance and must be accompanied in order to guarantee the protection of players, especially in the run-up to major sport events such as the EURO football tournament or the Tokyo Olympic Games. As such, the ANJ reminded operators of the need for their commercial communications to emphasise the importance of maintaining a moderate and controlled gambling practice and for bonuses or welcome offers to be sufficiently clear, enabling players to understand the commitments they underlie. Additionally, the ANJ will pay particular attention to tipsters’ Websites which have recently strongly developed. Some of these Websites are in fact involved in misleading practices and present a real danger for players.”

 

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Conferences in Europe

EGT Digital to Showcase AI-Enhanced X-Nave Platform and New Gaming Content at SBC Summit Lisbon

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At this year’s SBC Summit Lisbon, EGT Digital will present its proprietary AI core integrated into the X-Nave platform, setting a new benchmark for personalization, compliance, and responsible gaming in the iGaming industry.

Unlike off-the-shelf tools, the AI core has been built from the ground up by EGT Digital’s own data science team, combining custom hardware, software, and in-house expertise.

“We’re excited to demonstrate how our AI core elevates X-Nave at SBC Summit Lisbon,” said Mr. Mihaylov, Deputy CEO of EGT Digital. “It’s more than a tech upgrade – it’s a new framework for building safer, smarter, and more engaging iGaming experiences.”

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What does the Platform Deliver?

EGT Digital’s AI core, integrated into X-Nave, transforms the platform from a standard toolkit into an intelligent ecosystem.

The core capabilities include:

  • Proactive Player Protection – Detects risky patterns in real time and auto-adjusts limits on the fly.
  • Smarter QA – Simulated behavior speeds testing and boosts product quality.
  • Intelligent Campaigns – Dynamic segmentation and live personalization, driven by real-time data.
  • Predictive Churn Prevention – Identifies players at risk of leaving and provides value towards targeted retention campaigns with personalized offers.
  • AI-Powered Lifetime Value Forecasting – Combines multiple predictive models to accurately estimate each player’s long-term value, enabling smarter acquisition and retention strategies.
  • Intelligent Game Recommendations – Learns individual player preferences and delivers personalized game suggestions that boost engagement and session duration.
  • Automated Bonus Optimization – Uses machine learning to determine the most effective bonus types and values for each player segment, maximizing ROI.

Together, these capabilities make X-Nave more than a technology platform. Operators benefit from it ensuring long-term competitiveness in the fast-evolving iGaming market.

What to Expect at Booths A100 & A130?

Visitors to booths A100 and A130 will discover a full spectrum of innovations from EGT Digital and the wider EGT Group, including the following.

Upcoming slot titles

Two highly anticipated titles will be unveiled:

  • Power & Glory Athina – slot game with Cascades paymode, delivering dynamic, fast-paced play.
  • SugarVille 1000 – slot game with Cluster Pay, immersing players in a sweet world of bonuses, where the Clover Chance Jackpot can be randomly triggered at any time.

 

Rich gaming diversity

EGT Digital will also present a portfolio of 150+ in-house developed titles across diverse themes, plus top-performing jackpots such as: Bell LinkClover ChanceSingle Progressive, and the latest Gods & Kings Link.

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X-Nave platform versatility

The modular X-Nave platform includes four main components: 

  • Sport Product
  • Gaming Aggregator
  • CRM Engine
  • Payment Gateway

Each can operate independently or as part of the turnkey solution. Key upgrades, such as the new Sports Recommendation Engine, enhanced Aggregator bonus management tools, and flexible Payment Gateway deposit and withdrawal options will also be on display.

 

VLT solutions from EGT

The EGT will showcase its established P 24-24 Up and P 27-27 St Slim cabinets, alongside with its newest VLT product –  the Self-Service Betting Kiosk (SSBK).

With compact dimensions and a QR code payment option, the SSBK is designed for maximum convenience and will feature the Gold VLT multigame with 50+ titles, including proven favorites like Keno Universe and exciting new releases.

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Together, these highlights demonstrate how EGT Digital and EGT combine innovation with responsibility to deliver value for operators and engaging experiences for players worldwide.

 

About EGT Digital

EGT Digital is a next-generation technology provider for the global iGaming industry. With a strong focus on innovation and responsibility, the company delivers scalable, secure solutions that empower operators worldwide.

The post EGT Digital to Showcase AI-Enhanced X-Nave Platform and New Gaming Content at SBC Summit Lisbon appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Gaming

Valicy Gaming Launches as New Brand in Land-Based Gaming, Evolving from Grover Gaming

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The former Founder and CEO of Grover Gaming has officially launched a new brand in land-based gaming. Named by combining the names of his daughters, Valicy Gaming was unveiled during a recent company launch party held in Greenville, North Carolina.

Evolving from Grover Gaming—which was recently sold to Light & Wonder for a total consideration of $1.05 billion —Valicy will now focus on becoming a major manufacturer in land-based gaming across North America. Retaining a majority of the employees from the acquisition, Valicy will continue forward with a veteran team that will have a sharper focus on game development and hardware design.

Despite the name change, Valicy continues under the same experienced executive leadership team and remains dedicated to providing best-in-class customer service and technical support—qualities customers have come to depend on. The company’s values, represented by its CARE triangle—People, Company, and Work—are deeply rooted in its culture and will remain central to its mission moving forward.

The public debut of the Valicy brand will take place at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, October 6–9, at the Venetian Expo, Booth #1623, where the team will showcase its new identity and game offerings to casino partners and operators from across the industry.

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“This is an exciting time for our teams,” said Garrett Blackwelder, Founder and CEO of Valicy. “We have the opportunity to do big things in new markets, which gives us energy and enthusiasm. As we grow Valicy, we will focus on relationships, excellence, and innovation.”

The post Valicy Gaming Launches as New Brand in Land-Based Gaming, Evolving from Grover Gaming appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Compliance Updates

California Gambling Control Commission Reviews Licensing and Ownership Transfers at September 18 Meeting

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The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened for its scheduled public meeting to deliberate on a wide range of licensing and regulatory matters related to cardrooms, third-party providers, tribal gaming, and key individuals in the gambling industry. The Commission addressed ownership transfers, license renewals, regulatory compliance, and findings of suitability for tribal gaming employees and suppliers.

Highlights from the Meeting


Cardroom Licensing and Ownership Transfers

Commerce Casino (California Commerce Club, Inc.)

  • Initial License Approval: The Commission recommended approving an initial cardroom owner license for James Murray, Director of the Commerce Casino, through March 31, 2027.
  • Ownership Transfer: The Commission approved a share transfer from Marsha Gold to the Marsha L. Gold Revocable Trust, subject to the transaction closing within 180 days and written confirmation of compliance with imposed conditions.
  • Successor Trustee Licensing: The license for Jill Anter Wieder, Successor Trustee of the trust, was also approved through March 31, 2027, pending the completion of the ownership transaction.
  • Additional Conditions: The Commission imposed a detailed list of conditions on the license, including certification requirements, written transaction confirmations, and mandatory legends on stock certificates to ensure regulatory compliance.

Napa Valley Casino (BVK Gaming, Inc.)

  • Ownership Transfer: Similar to Commerce, the transfer of shares from Von Altizer to the Von Altizer 2017 Revocable Trust was conditionally approved.
  • Successor Trustee Licensing: Applications from Christopher and Bobby Huang, successor trustees and contingent beneficiaries, were approved through May 31, 2026, contingent upon the transaction’s completion.
  • Interim License Conditions: The Commission imposed a set of conditions mirroring those required for Commerce Casino, ensuring the integrity of ownership transitions.

Renewal and Interim Licenses

Seven Mile Casino (Stones South Bay Corp.)

  • A new interim renewal license was approved through September 30, 2027, with prior licensing conditions officially removed.

Commerce Casino Directors

  • Rick Contrucci: The Commission opted to abandon the renewal application.
  • Lysa Grigorian: The application was referred to an evidentiary hearing, and an interim license was issued through March 31, 2027.

Other Cardrooms

  • Limelight Card Room: License renewed through March 31, 2027.
  • Lucky Chances Casino: A 90-day extension was granted through December 31, 2025, with strict restrictions on property access and communications for Rene Medina, tied to a 36-month probationary period.
  • North Coast Casino and The River Card Room: Both granted 60-day extensions with multiple compliance conditions required prior to opening or continuing operations.

Third-Party Proposition Player Services

Renewals and Initial Licenses Approved

  • Owner-Type Licenses for Global Player Services and Players Edge Services were renewed through 2027.
  • Employee-Type Licenses: Dozens of third-party proposition player service employees were approved or renewed, including workers from Knighted Ventures, Blackstone Gaming, and Acme Player Services.
  • Conditions on some licensees, such as Glenn Kaboua, included proof of fine resolution every 90 days.

Tribal-State Compact Licensing

Gaming Resource Suppliers

  • Everi Games Inc. and LNW Gaming, Inc. received approval for initial and renewal suitability findings, with licenses valid through early 2026.

Key Tribal Employee Licensing

  • A significant number of tribal casino employees across the state received initial or renewed findings of suitability. These included employees from:

    • Chumash Casino Resort

    • Thunder Valley Casino Resort

    • Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

    • Graton Resort & Casino

    • Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento, among many others.

  • The Commission emphasized continuous monitoring of suitability, especially for applicants under conditional approval like Tatianna Wren, who must provide quarterly updates on efforts to resolve outstanding fines.


Key Individual Decisions

  • Huy Dang: The Commission approved the renewal of Dang’s Key Employee License through September 30, 2027, removing prior conditions related to court-mandated classes and debt resolution.


Consent Calendar Items

  • Items 15 through 21 included approvals for initial and renewal licenses for various employees, work permits, and tribal key employees. All items were approved per staff recommendations.


Conclusion

The September 18, 2025, meeting of the California Gambling Control Commission underscored the Commission’s ongoing role in maintaining transparency, accountability, and integrity in the state’s gambling industry. With careful review of ownership changes, key personnel, and operational compliance, the CGCC continues its commitment to fair and responsible gambling practices in California.

For full details and future updates, visit the California Gambling Control Commission website

The post California Gambling Control Commission Reviews Licensing and Ownership Transfers at September 18 Meeting appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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