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The MGA Publishes its 2020 Annual Report & Financial Statements
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/Authority) is publishing its Annual Report and audited Financial Statements for the financial year ending 31 December 2020. The report provides an overview of the work performed throughout the year and highlights major projects undertaken by the Authority throughout the same period. In addition, the report also outlines the performance of the Maltese gaming industry during 2020 as well as a medium-term outlook into the future, followed by a detailed report explaining key statistics for the land-based and online gaming sectors in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The full report may be accessed on this link.
The following are the key highlights from the Annual Report covering the year 2020:
- Between January and December 2020, following information which emerged from compliance audits, compliance reviews, and formal investigations, the Authority issued 69 warnings, suspended 3 licences, and cancelled another 12. In addition, the MGA issued a total of 24 administrative penalties.
- In 2020, 30 compliance audits were conducted by the Compliance and AML function, one of which related to a live studio, and 324 desktop reviews were carried out, of which 98 identified deficiencies which were accordingly escalated to the Compliance and Enforcement Committee.
- In 2020, 8 individuals and companies were deemed not to be up to the Authority’s probity standards by the Fit & Proper Committee, mainly on the basis of mitigating the risks of money laundering or funding of terrorism.
- During the twelve-month period of 2020, a total of 1,475 criminal probity screening checks were undertaken, an increase of 13.5% when compared to the year 2019.
- In terms of AML/CFT, during the twelve-month period of 2020, a total of 27 supervisory examinations on online gaming licensees were conducted by the MGA, of which 10 were full scope examinations, 3 were targeted examinations, 8 were thematic examinations, and 6 were supervisory meetings.
- In 2020, the MGA conducted a total of 65 interviews with prospective MLROs and key persons carrying out the AML/CFT function to determine the knowledge and suitability of each candidate, out of which 40 were approved, 17 were conditionally approved and 8 were rejected.
- The Commercial Communication Committee of the MGA took action against 10 adverts or promotions that, in the opinion of the Committee, inappropriately exploited the COVID-19 pandemic.
- During 2020 the Player Support Unit received a total of 5,625 requests for assistance, a 58% increase over 2019, potentially stemming at least partly from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on player behaviour.
- In its efforts to boost knowledge sharing and cooperation with international counterparts, the MGA hosted a delegation of members of the Lotteries and Gaming Board and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
- The Authority received 67 international cooperation requests from other regulators and sent 47 such requests, with the majority referring to requests for background checks as part of an authorisation process.
- During the year 2020, a total of 168 requests for information specifically relating to the manipulation of sports competitions or breaches in sports rules were submitted by enforcement agencies, sport governing bodies, integrity units, and other regulatory bodies. Additionally, a total of 288 suspicious betting reports from licensees and other concerned parties were received.
- During the period under review, the Authority was a direct participant in 20 different investigations across the globe relating to manipulation of sports competitions or breaches in sports rules.
- Recognising the importance of establishing data sharing agreements with relevant stakeholders, including sport governing bodies and other platforms whose function includes the detection of suspicious betting activities, the MGA signed a total of five agreements, namely a data sharing agreement with the International Cricket Council, the Swedish Football Association, the Darts Regulation Authority, the World Professional Billiards & Snooker Association, and the Slovak Football Association.
- During 2020, the MGA and the FIAU signed an updated version of the MoU which brought forth better cooperative instruments for the supervision of AML/CFT in the gaming sector.
- The Authority entered into an MoU with the Malta Business Registry with the aim of facilitating the ongoing close communication between authorities and the effective sharing of information.
- With the aim of increasing cooperation with our international counterparts, an MoU was agreed to by the MGA and the Dutch Kansspelautoriteit (the Dutch Gambling Authority) on the basis that the two authorities will support each other by sharing best practices and information in support of their responsibilities at law, whilst also engaging in discussions on policy matters of interest.
- The MGA also enhanced its collaboration with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations by creating a process whereby any entity that applies for a non-profit game is only issued with a permit if such an entity is a registered and compliant voluntary organisation.
- Recognising the importance of regular dialogue with stakeholders, throughout 2020, over 55 external communications were sent, providing a synopsis of various updates and developments within the Authority and industry.
In publishing this report, the CEO, Dr Carl Brincat said: “The year 2020 will undoubtedly be remembered for the challenges the pandemic presented us with, and I am proud of the Authority’s employees who worked tirelessly to ensure that we continued to perform the functions required of us at law. Keeping the ship steady during a challenging year serves as a strong foundation for us to look ahead with renewed commitment to keep building on the positives and improve on our shortcomings, to reach new heights in our regulatory approach.”
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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
Spinomenal has released its latest title, Queen of Oasis. Set against the rolling ancient Egyptian dunes and lush, palm-lined oases, Queen of Oasis immerses players in an elegant world of riches. Camels, vultures, antelopes, snakes, and the powerful Queen herself bring this 5-reel slot to life. The reels sit within two ornate marble pillars where the bejewelled Queen represents the Wild symbol.
TaDa Gaming has released Golden Bank 2, a sequel to the popular Golden Bank slot. With a 10,000x max win and exciting features, Golden Bank 2 engage players with its immersive gameplay and the potential for substantial payouts. Set in a golden vault, Golden Bank 2 combines the simplicity of classic slots with the thrill of modern mechanics. With vibrant graphics and a dynamic soundtrack, the game immerses players in an exciting, high-stakes atmosphere.
Evoplay has launched Belfry Bliss Hold and Win, a fiery 5×3 slot that blends retro-inspired visuals with a darker twist on the fan-favourite Hold and Win mechanic. Set against a backdrop of flames and ringing bells, the game reintroduces Evoplay’s mischievous Devil character, not as a foe, but as a Wild symbol, lighting the way to potential wins. Classic slot icons like sevens, bars and cherries return, but the real action begins when the bells drop.
Brute Force: Alien Onslaught reunites the original Brute Force members… with a surprise addition. Joshua and Jason have recruited the help of Jade, a fearless mercenary, who doesn’t know defeat. This game joins the ranks of signature Nolimit City slots like Fire In The Hole 3, Highway To Hell and most recently Flight Mode. It’s time to lock and load, once again! Unlike the prequel, Brute Force: Alien Onslaught features a 6 reel setup, wilds and a new baddie, Xylox, who can steal multipliers from Joshua, Jason and Jade.
Push Gaming has returned to the deep blue with Fish ‘n’ Nudge Big Catch, a reimagined follow-up to one of its most beloved recent titles. Building on the charm and success of the originalFish ‘n’ Nudge, Big Catch brings fresh energy to the series with a new take on free spins and added layers of excitement designed to engage both loyal fans and new players.
Play’n GO unveils Rise of Orpheus, a mythical slot that takes players deep into the Underworld in pursuit of love, light, and powerful gameplay features. Following in the footsteps of mythology-inspired favourites like Gates of Troy and Rise of Olympus, Rise of Orpheus brings the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice to life through emotionally charged mechanics and immersive storytelling.
Playson welcomes the return of its mischievous trickster in Super Pink Joker: Hold and Win, who features as a Wild during base play before shapeshifting into a lavish Multiplier for the renowned Hold and Win Bonus. Set in a dazzling pink world full of energy, the release cranks up the heat with dynamic animations and upbeat audio, with the jester taking his place on the enlarged 5×3 grid alongside electrified coins and cartoon-style fruits.
Blueprint Gaming™ reignites the prehistoric fun in its latest major branded IP release, The Flintstones™ Bedrock Riches, led by two lavish bonus games and an intriguing base play trail. The series’ original, The Flintstones™, enjoyed a strong initial uptake in users following its launch in May 2024, with players gravitating towards the familiarity of the brand and series. The renowned slot studio now feels confident the latest offering has built on key features and aims to retain players long term.
ELA Games, a dynamic game development studio, announces the release of John’s Book, its modern take on timeless themes and mechanics. The game invites players to join John the Explorer to hunt for ancient treasures buried in a Pharaoh’s tomb. Rich with iconic symbols and familiar mechanics, John’s Book is a tribute to the well-loved “Book Of…” format that’s prevalent in the industry while adding its twists. With high replayability, easy-to-understand features, and an immersive design, this title appeals to both veteran and casual players.
Players get to dig deeper with every spin as they search for gems and big wins in Wild Gold Mine, the latest slot release for iGaming content provider, ICONIC21. Wild Gold Mine promises a glistening player experience thanks to a cart-load of features, including a unique bonus that makes an appearance for the very first time in an ICONIC21 slot.
“Hellish 7 Hold & Win”, (Höllische 7 Hold & Win in German) is now live, a spicy Classic Series slot from the Berlin-based developer Hölle Games. This is a new summer edition in the Hellish Seven franchise, known for its high volatility, hellishly good payouts, and hard rock riffs. The new entry features Hold & Win, where, if players can fill the reels with (any) cash symbol, they will win the impressive 7777x main prize!
Tom Horn Gaming is kicking off July with Panda Rica, a fast-paced 3×3 video slot that delivers simple yet captivating mechanics and vibrant visuals. From expanding wilds and multiplier wins to Star Gamble Ladder, the game is a standout addition to the supplier’s growing portfolio of slot titles. Designed for quick sessions and high engagement, Panda Rica combines classic slot appeal with clever gameplay that elevates the player experience.
Prepare for an unforgettable summer as Endorphina announces the highly anticipated release of Sticky Lips, its latest captivating slot. This visually striking title invites players into a vibrant world where Endorphina’s Joker makes a remarkable return, blowing irresistible kisses to make their winnings truly stick. She’s wild, she’s wicked – and her lips are ready to stick you with luck! Dare to stare into her eyes in this 5-reel 4-row slot with 50 fixed paylines and prove your worth to get a lucky, juicy kiss. With every spin, her lips glow and tempt, hungry to lock in golden wins.
The post Week 28/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
All-Cash Transaction Unlocks Significant, Unrealized Value for Boyd Shareholders
Boyd, FanDuel Extend Market-Access Agreements through 2038
Boyd Gaming Corporation announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell the Company’s 5% equity interest in FanDuel Group to Flutter Entertainment plc for cash consideration of $1.755 billion.
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. The Company intends to use net proceeds to reduce debt.
Keith Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boyd, said: “This transaction unlocks the tremendous unrealized value that our investment in FanDuel has created for our Company. As a result, we are in a significantly stronger financial position to continue executing our strategy of investing in our properties, pursuing growth opportunities, returning capital to our shareholders, and maintaining a strong balance sheet.”
In addition to purchasing Boyd’s equity interest in FanDuel, Boyd and FanDuel will terminate certain existing market-access agreements between the parties and enter into new agreements to provide, among other things, for an extended term through 2038. The agreements will also provide Boyd with a fixed fee per state from FanDuel’s mobile sports-betting operations in Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana and Pennsylvania, as well as FanDuel’s online casino operations in Pennsylvania, upon the close of this transaction. FanDuel will also continue to operate Boyd’s retail sportsbooks outside of Nevada through mid-2026, after which time Boyd will assume responsibility for these operations.
Under terms of the revised market-access agreements with FanDuel, the Company now expects its Online segment will generate $50 million to $55 million in operating income and Adjusted EBITDAR for the full year 2025, and approximately $30 million in 2026.
Smith added: “The partnership between Boyd and FanDuel has been a remarkable success for both companies. FanDuel has emerged as the nation’s clear leader in online sports-betting, while Boyd has been able to leverage this partnership to profitably participate in the rapid growth of sports betting across the country. It has been a privilege to work with the Flutter and FanDuel teams, and we look forward to supporting FanDuel’s continued growth and success through our market-access agreements across the country.”
Moelis & Company LLC served as exclusive financial advisor to Boyd Gaming on the transaction. Morrison & Foerster LLP served as legal advisor to Boyd Gaming on the transaction, with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP advising on the commercial agreements.
The post BOYD GAMING TO SELL FANDUEL INTEREST FOR $1.755 BILLION appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Pioneering the next chapter of regulated iGaming in Germany, Spielbanken Bayern and leading live-casino specialist Stakelogic have gone live with brand-new online live casino solutions.
On 28 May 2025, spielbanken-bayern-online.de rolled out a set of Automatic Roulettes. The launch marks the inaugural step in a phased roadmap that will soon see more Roulette and Blackjack.
Bavaria became Germany’s first state to introduce online live-casino games in April 2024. Since beginning 2025, Spielbanken Bayern has worked hand-in-hand with the Bavarian regulator and Stakelogic to craft a best-in-class solution that combines strict compliance with an engaging, secure, and reputable gaming offering.
Stephan van den Oetelaar, CEO at Stakelogic, added: “It is both an honour and a privilege to develop further with Spielbanken Bayern on Germany’s first legal online casino. The timeline was ambitious, but our combined teams delivered. In the coming months, we will continue to optimise and enrich the portfolio with additional premium content.”
This landmark collaboration cements Spielbanken Bayern’s position as Germany’s online live-casino trail-blazer while underscoring Stakelogic’s reputation for marrying regulatory rigour with next-generation player experiences.
The post Spielbanken Bayern and Stakelogic Launch brand new Live-Casino Offering appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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