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The MGA publishes its 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statements

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The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA/Authority) is publishing its Annual Report and audited Financial Statements for the financial year ending 31 December 2022. In addition to outlining the performance of the Maltese gaming business in 2022, the report gives a broad summary of the Authority’s accomplishments during the year under review and offers a medium-term outlook for the future. A thorough report outlining key statistics for the land-based and online gaming industries is then presented.

Supervisory Activities

  • 28 compliance audits were conducted and 228 desktop reviews were carried out during 2022, accompanied by additional AML/CFT compliance examinations that are carried out by the FIAU, or by the MGA on its behalf. Following information which emerged from compliance audits, compliance reviews and formal investigations, the Authority issued 10 warnings and cancelled six (6) licences. In addition, the MGA issued a total of 16 administrative penalties as well as three (3) regulatory settlements, with a collective total financial penalty of €179,150.
  • A total of 25 licensees were subject to remediation and/or administrative measures by the FIAU, ranging from written reprimands to administrative penalties, based on the breaches identified during examinations carried out in previous years, including by the MGA. In total, these amounted to just over €738,000.
  • Six (6) individuals and companies were deemed by the Fit & Proper Committee to not be up to the Authority’s probity standards due to various factors, including due to the risks of money laundering or funding of terrorism.
  • Forty-one (41) gaming licence applications were received during 2022. Thirty-one (31) licences were issued, while twenty-one (21) were unsuccessful.
  • Over 1,500 criminal probity screening checks were undertaken on individuals, shareholders and ultimate beneficial owners, key persons and other employees, and companies from both the land-based and online gaming sectors.
  • The Authority conducted 48 interviews with prospective MLROs and key persons carrying out the AML/CFT function to determine the knowledge and suitability of each candidate.
  • The Commercial Communication Committee of the MGA issued a total of nine (9) Letters of Breach following breaches of the Commercial Communications Regulations (S.L. 583.09).
  • In its efforts to protect players and encourage responsible gambling, the Authority supported a total of 5,280 players who requested assistance, covering most of the cases received during 2022 and the spill-over from 2021.
  • The MGA conducted 85 responsible gaming-themed website checks, through which 38 URLs were found to have misleading information. This led to 17 notices being published on the MGA website, and 30 observation letters that were sent out reflecting responsible gaming issues.

Improvements in Efficiency and Effectiveness

  • The Authority commissioned a sectorial skills strategy to address the gaming industry’s challenges with respect to the ongoing demand for qualified and skilled human capital, which increased significantly as the economy grew and diversified into numerous sectors.
  • Consultation exercises were conducted with industry stakeholders regarding the bets offered by licensees – with a focus on sports integrity and player protection considerations – on the proposed amendments to the Player Protection Directive (Directive 2 of 2018), and on the proposed policy on the use of Innovative Technology Arrangements (ITAs) and the acceptance of Virtual Financial Assets (VFAs) and Virtual Tokens, which led to amendments and a finalised Policy, respectively.
  • The Authority streamlined the approval process of appointing an MLRO in collaboration with the FIAU while, at the same time, ensuring that the industry is kept updated on any changes affecting this process and on any best practices that are intrinsic to the role of the MLRO.
  • The concept of Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUPs) Reports was introduced, covering player funds and Gaming Revenue. Audit firms are drawing up these reports in compliance with the ‘International Standard on Related Services (ISRS) 4400 (Revised) Agreed-Upon Procedures Engagements’.
  • The MGA kickstarted a process for possibly implementing a voluntary Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Code of Good Practice for the industry to showcase and increase the positive social and environmental impacts of the gambling sector.

National and International Cooperation

  • Throughout 2022, the Authority issued 43 news items on its website and 26 external communications, providing a synopsis of various updates and developments at the Authority and across the industry.
  • A total of 224 alerts were sent to the industry, 167 of which were also sent to the appropriate Sports Governing Bodies.
  • A total of 44 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. As a result of such requests, data was exchanged in 25 instances. Additionally, a total of 475 suspicious betting reports from licensees and other concerned parties were received.
  • During the period under review, the Authority was a direct participant in 15 different investigations across the globe relating to the manipulation of sports competitions or breaches in sports rules, as well as an indirect participant in 3 such investigations.
  • The Authority received a total of 83 international cooperation requests from other regulators and sent 97 such requests, with the majority referring to requests for background checks as part of an authorisation process.
  • A total of 177 official replies were issued providing feedback on the regulatory good standing of our licensed operators to the relevant authorities asking for this information.
  • The MGA works together with other local regulating authorities and governing bodies. This is reflected through responses furnished by the MGA to requests for information made by the Asset Recovery Bureau (ARB), the FIAU, as well as the MPF on the gaming sector. Additionally, the relevant information is provided to the Sanctions Monitoring Board (SMB) to assist in issuing penalties in instances of non-compliance with sanctions screening obligations.

In publishing this report, the CEO, Dr Carl Brincat said: “This report is testament to our collective efforts in promoting a fair and sustainable gaming ecosystem. Through proactive measures and leaner regulation processes, we strive to ensure a level playing field that nurtures innovation while safeguarding against any potential risks.

“As the global gaming landscape evolves, our role becomes even more critical. We embrace this responsibility with utmost determination, working tirelessly to stay ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and challenges.  We remain steadfast in our pursuit of robust frameworks that inspire confidence, protect vulnerable individuals and render Malta the home for gaming operators of good will.”

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Andrew Pink Head of Brand & Communication at Play’n GO

Reactoonz 100 Crowned Game of the Year

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Play’n GO, the world’s leading casino entertainment provider, is proud to announce that Reactoonz 100 has been named Game of the Year at the SBC Europe Awards 2026, held last week in Malta.

The award recognises the outstanding creative ambition, commercial performance and cultural impact of Reactoonz 100, which has quickly established itself as one of the most significant releases in Play’n GO’s history. Building on the legacy of the much-loved Reactoonz series, the title has delivered exceptional engagement across regulated European markets since launch.

Reactoonz 100 was supported by a record-breaking launch campaign as part of Play’n GO’s 20th anniversary celebrations, most notably sending the series’ iconic character Garga into space – a first for the iGaming industry, since copied. The activation captured attention far beyond traditional industry channels and reinforced Play’n GO’s reputation for creativity that extends well beyond the game itself.

Andrew Pink, Head of Brand & Communication at Play’n GO, said: “Winning Game of the Year is a huge moment for Reactoonz 100 and for everyone across Play’n GO who brought this project to life.

Reactoonz is one of the most important franchises in our history, and with Reactoonz 100 we set out to push both the creative and cultural boundaries of what a game launch could be. This award is a powerful validation of that ambition, and of the belief that bold ideas, executed properly, still cut through in this industry.”

Since its release, Reactoonz 100 has achieved near-universal rollout across Play’n GO’s partner network in more than 35 regulated markets, delivering strong and sustained performance well beyond launch. Its success reflects both the enduring appeal of the Reactoonz brand and Play’n GO’s continued focus on innovation within a responsible, regulation‑first framework.

The Game of the Year win at the SBC Europe Awards further strengthens Play’n GO’s position as the leading supplier of premium casino entertainment, following a year defined by landmark launches, creative ambition and industry recognition.

The post Reactoonz 100 Crowned Game of the Year appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Cafrino Gaming

Cafrino Gaming Appoints Stephen Crystal as Chief Commercial Officer

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Cafrino Gaming is entering a new phase of commercial expansion, and it starts with leadership.

We’re excited to welcome Stephen A. Crystal as Chief Commercial Officer of Cafrino Gaming, a move that brings one of the most experienced and globally connected leaders in the gaming industry directly into our growth strategy.

With more than three decades at the forefront of gaming innovation, Stephen has played a pivotal role in shaping everything from tribal and riverboat gaming to modern iGaming and sports betting ecosystems. His career spans the ownership of iconic Las Vegas properties, the development of U.S. operations for major international bookmakers, and the execution of over $3 billion in project finance, M&A, and gaming technology initiatives.

As Founder of SCCG Management, Stephen has built one of the most respected advisory firms in the industry, supporting more than 120 client partners across 100+ countries. His work has consistently focused on scaling emerging technologies, unlocking new markets, and building high-impact partnerships across the global gaming landscape.

Now, he brings that experience directly to Cafrino.

A Leadership Move Built for Scale

Stephen’s appointment marks a strategic step forward as Cafrino accelerates its global commercial efforts.

In his role as Chief Commercial Officer, he will lead:

  • Global commercial strategy and revenue growth
  • Strategic partnerships and market expansion
  • Key account development and deal execution

His experience building large-scale distribution networks and navigating complex gaming markets positions Cafrino to expand faster, partner smarter, and execute at a higher level across regions.

This is not just about adding leadership, it’s about embedding proven global execution into the core of Cafrino’s growth engine.

Aligning Vision with Opportunity

Throughout his career, Stephen has consistently been at the center of industry evolution, from early casino development to today’s rapidly expanding digital gaming ecosystem.

He has secured major partnerships with professional sports organizations, helped establish sports betting frameworks within tribal markets, and worked across both emerging and regulated jurisdictions worldwide.

That perspective is critical as Cafrino continues to scale its poker platform across:

  • Social and free-to-play environments
  • Sweepstakes and promotional models
  • Crypto and Web3 gaming platforms
  • Real-money gaming operators

With a deep understanding of both legacy gaming infrastructure and next-generation technology, Stephen’s leadership helps bridge where the industry has been with where it’s going.

Powering the Next Phase of Cafrino Gaming

Cafrino’s poker platform has already reached more than 2 million players, supporting experiences for globally recognized brands including WWE, Hustler Casino, South Point Casino, and CardPlayer Poker.

As demand for flexible, scalable poker solutions continues to grow, Cafrino is focused on expanding its reach and strengthening its position as a leading provider of poker technology for operators worldwide.

Bringing Stephen Crystal into the organization is a clear signal of that direction.

Looking Ahead

This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Cafrino Gaming.

With Stephen leading commercial strategy, we are positioned to accelerate growth, deepen partnerships, and expand into new markets with greater precision and impact.

We’re excited for what’s ahead, and we’re just getting started.

The post Cafrino Gaming Appoints Stephen Crystal as Chief Commercial Officer appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

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“90s”

BETBY launches “90s”, a new retro-inspired genre within BETBY Games

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BETBY,  the leading sportsbook supplier, has announced the launch of “90s”, a new genre within its proprietary esports feed, BETBY Games, bringing exclusive retro-inspired content to operators and players.

Designed around the look and feel of classic 90s video games, the new genre introduces a lineup of e-sims that take players back to the pixel era, combining retro-inspired visuals with the simplicity and high-frequency betting mechanics that define BETBY Games. While many modern esports products focus on realism and

advanced graphics, 90s takes a different approach by returning to the roots of gaming, transforming familiar retro aesthetics into a fully optimised betting experience.

The launch responds to a growing demand for greater content variety within sportsbook environments, particularly products that can deliver constant engagement beyond traditional live sports schedules.

With 1-minute match formats, 24/7 availability, and quick settlements, “90s” is designed to offer operators a new layer of always-on entertainment while maintaining the speed and betting intensity that define BETBY.Games.

One of the key strengths of “90s” lies in its distinctive positioning within the modern iGaming market.

By bringing retro-inspired game formats into a fully betting-ready environment, BETBY is offering operators access to a type of content that is rarely available today, creating a differentiated experience inspired by the iconic titles and visual style that shaped a generation of players.

The first wave of titles includes eBasketball’98, eBaseball’95, eTennis’89, and eFighting’93, each bringing its own distinctive retro identity while being fully integrated with modern betting mechanics.

The collection covers a mix of major sports and fighting content, combining familiar retro gaming cues with formats built specifically for sportsbook performance.

eFighting’93 introduces a format that complements BETBY Games’ existing eFighting portfolio, offering fast-paced matchups and simple winner markets across 6,000 monthly matches.

eBasketball’98 delivers a dynamic format featuring a high-speed 1v1 shootout between two players at a single hoop.

Bettors can place wagers on the top scorer, point handicaps, total points, and individual point counts, with the title delivering 6,000 matches per month. eBaseball’95 condenses baseball into a

high-intensity 1-inning format, offering 5,000 monthly events across 1×2, handicap, and totals markets. Completing the lineup, eTennis’89 brings an ultra-fast tennis format focused on single-game action, with 6,000 monthly matches and winner markets.

Inspired by the visual identity of the 8-bit and 16-bit eras, “90s” creates a product that feels instantly recognisable to players who grew up with this style of gaming, while also offering younger audiences a distinctive and visually engaging alternative to conventional esports content.

“90s is an exciting new direction for BETBY Games because it brings something completely different to sportsbooks,” said Kirill Nekrasov, Head of Innovation & R&D at BETBY.

“There is still a very strong emotional connection around retro games, from the pixel art to the sounds and the simplicity of the gameplay.

We wanted to take that nostalgia and transform it into a product that works for modern betting: fast, clear, engaging, and available around the clock.”

“Our goal was to increase content diversity for our partners. Operators need engagement tools that work 24/7, and the “90s” genre provides a unique, fast-paced solution.

This initial launch is just the start, as we will continue to expand the portfolio with a wider mix of 90s-themed sports and casual titles,” he added.

The launch of 90s further strengthens BETBY.Games’ position as one of the most innovative proprietary esports feeds in the market, offering operators a broad portfolio of fast-betting content designed to drive engagement, increase event volume, and deliver a differentiated sportsbook experience.

BETBY

 BETBY is a leading B2B provider of top-tier sports betting services, renowned for its groundbreaking technology and dedication to excellence.

BETBY’s team of industry veterans tap into their knowledge and expertise to deliver a premium, adaptable, and scalable sportsbook platform tailored to meet the varied demands of operators across the globe.

From dynamic in-play betting options to robust risk management tools and ground-breaking AI tools, BETBY is committed to propelling the success of its partners in the rapidly evolving landscape of online sports betting.

The post BETBY launches “90s”, a new retro-inspired genre within BETBY Games appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

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