As a result, the supplier will now have full control of its own technology development and delivery schedule thanks to a game host licence in the United Kingdom and a B2B licence in Malta.

This is set to help foster platform feature innovation and new in-game mechanics, while also enhancing bespoke support for operators. Moreover, it will also provide overall systems reliance and security, as it transitions to a fully-fledged B2B provider.

Mario Petraglia, director of legal and compliance at Push Gaming, commented: “We are delighted to see our efforts recognised by two of the leading authorities in the online gambling industry. We’ve managed to set up a bespoke operational toolkit to support our award-winning gaming content in record time, propelling us from boutique game developer to the ranks of full-service supplier.

“Compliance is at the core of Push Gaming’s operations and we take great pride in spearheading the development of responsible gaming products in the industry. We look forward to bringing further innovation across all regulated markets in Europe and beyond.”

As well as its acquiring of regulatory approval, Push Gaming has also partnered with BMM Test Labs, with the platform and game content already certified in accordance with the technical requirements of the UKGC and MGA, as well as Sweden, Denmark, Latvia and Estonia. The company also supports operations in Gibraltar, Alderney and Isle of Man.

The announcements build on the deal signed that saw Push Gaming agree to acquire GSI in an attempt to scale up its delivery of products directly to operator partners.

Regarding the acquisition, Push Gaming stated that the purchase will deliver added flexibility and control over its technology, as well as the development of platform functionality, game design and industry distribution.

At the time, James Marshall, CEO and co-founder at Push Gaming, added of the deal: “The acquisition of GSI is a real game changer for us and we’re confident it will help us to become a key player within the industry.

“The launch of our own platform gives us full control of our game development, delivery and operator integrations. We will now also benefit from GSI’s extensive industry knowledge and experience, as well as their fantastic technical team ”

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In the initial phase, the Maltese Gaming Authority will accept applications for the use of DLT assets by its respective licensees, both directly or via third-party service providers.

In phase two, the framework will be extended to include applications for the use of Innovative Technology Arrangements within the key technical equipment of licensees, to coincide with developments launched by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority.

Announcing the new framework in October, MGA chief executive Heathcliff Farrugia commented: “The MGA’s strategic mission is to be at the forefront of gaming regulation whilst embracing innovation.

“This, coupled with the rapid rise in interest from gaming operators to incorporate VFAs and DLT into their operations, were the main drivers behind the proactive approach taken by the Authority to issue a sandbox framework for the use of these technologies within a controlled regulatory environment.”

The Mediterranean nation began to style itself as the ‘blockchain island’ in 2018 after introducing new regulatory framework for the use of DLT, cryptocurrencies and blockchain.The island subsequently held its inaugural Malta Blockchain Delta Summit, which established opportunities to solidify Malta’s position as a regulated virtual currency and ICO Centre, and as the perfect platform for the Authority to outline details of its sandbox framework to all interested parties.

Approval to participate in the framework is conditional on applicants possessing the correct licensing issued by the MGA. It is expected to run until October this year but, if fit for purpose, may be subject to an extension by the Authority.

Farrugia added: “This framework is intended as a live document and will therefore be subject to feedback and potential updates during its duration, whilst also keeping in consideration any technological or regulatory developments which may occur.”

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As a result, Digitain not only extends its global player reach but is also now set to supply a wide array of Tier 1 B2C operators across the jurisdiction. Moreover, the provider is now authorised to form strategic commercial partnerships in the region. 

Suren Khachatryan, Digitain CCO, stated: “This new licence deepens our access to a key market, giving further recognition to a market-leading portfolio that received a host of prestigious industry awards last year.

“As well as being an important milestone for the company, the news affords more operators the chance to take advantage of our best-in-class sportsbook and casino technology.

“From highly advanced turn-key and white-label solutions to our premium quality in-house game collection, we’re on track to deliver another record-breaking year.”

The deal is Digitain’s latest expansion and builds on the December 2019 announcement that saw it granted a class 2 licence certification from the Romanian National Gambling Office (ONJN).

The class 2 certification allowed Digitain to roll out its full range of services across Romania’s regulated space, while licensed digital and retail operators in Romania also gain full access to Digitain’s entire product portfolio and software.

At the time Khachatryan concluded: “This new licence grants us deeper access to the Eastern European market, affording more and more sports fans the opportunity to enjoy our innovative sportsbook and play our exciting stable of games.

“Requests for proposal from licensees in the market have been strong and we expect to announce a raft of partnership deals in due course.

“Class 2 certification from Romania marks another important milestone for the company, enabling us to bring our award-winning platform to even more operators and their players across the planet. Approval from the ONJN bolsters Digitain’s ability to enter new markets with assurance as part of our wider expansion strategy.”

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As a result of the decision, the tender has been extended until 18 November, with Maltese officials highlighting potential compliance requirement issues. 

Key to the case put forward by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) was that there are ‘unnecessary barriers’ on B2B businesses. 

In response, the MGA warned the EC: “Member States should recognise that B2B operators may already hold licences in other Member States and may be subject to myriad requirements and checks, which could easily be mutually recognised if a cooperation framework is set up for this purpose.”

In order to ensure that the new framework isn’t “an obstacle to both the freedom of establishment and the freedom of the provision of services within the internal market”, Italian authorities have been told to provide ‘sufficient justification’ for imposing additional technical requirements on B2B businesses licensed in Europe. 

Off the back of this, Italy’s government is set to put forward a response prepared by the Treasury addressing Malta’s concerns and affirming the legal requirements for new online gambling concessions.

Upon the conclusion of the ‘standstill period’, ADM, Italy’s Agency of Customs and Monopolies, will launch the new licensing regime.

As specified by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), the new Italian online gaming concessions will last for nine years, priced at €7m per individual licence.

Additionally, licensees will pay an annual 3 per cent licence fee on gross gaming revenue (GGR), net of gambling taxes and winnings. MEF will allow current licences to be extended for an additional year until 31 December, in line with Italy’s Budget 2024 rules.

The B2C rules will restrict licensed operators to “one app per gambling product type and one website”. The ADM will strictly prohibit and penalise the use of skin websites promoting branded products.

The ADM expects around 50 operators to apply for new licences, with projected revenue from concessions totalling €350m and fixed annual concession fees generating €100m.

All online gambling licences must implement new responsible gambling controls, including options for users to set limits on time and spending, as well as notifications to alert users when these predefined limits are exceeded.

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There is set to be a renewed focus as a result of the updated handbook as to the steps operators are required to take when it comes to monthly ADR reports. 

Furthermore, the new manual also places a strengthened focus on what is expected in monthly ADR reports through the MGA website’s Licensee Portal.  

ADR reporting is in line with Directive 5 2018 of Malta’s ADR submission policy, under which B2C licensees are obliged to communicate with the gambling regulator on every dispute that has been referred to the ADR entity, as well as the entity’s resolution of said disputes. 

The new guidelines entered into force this June, and the first report submissions are expected to be handed over by no later than 20 June, covering all disputes from May. 

At the end of last year, the MGA appointed Charles Mizzi as its Chief Executive Officer, concluding a search that began back in October 2023. 

Mizzi replaced Carl Brincat as CEO and will be joining the MGA after spending five years at Residency Malta Agency.

After entering the role in  January, Mizzi shadowed Brincat to ensure a smooth transition, bringing with him experience in operations management.

Commenting on his new role, Mizzi said: “I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead the authority.

“I am keen to build on past successes and, together with the team under the guidance of the minister responsible and the Board of Governors, to strategically steer the authority forward so that Malta’s already robust position in the field may be further strengthened while delivering value to all stakeholders.”

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Both regulators share the same objectives and values regarding the gaming sector, including “protecting the public interest, safeguarding of vulnerable individuals from gambling harm and consumer protection”.

The MGA stated that the new MoU aims to strengthen the collaboration between the two regulators, helping to enable the sharing of vital information and best practices, as well as “mutual operational assistance concerning gaming operators” and create a safer and more secure gaming environment in both jurisdictions.

“Our ongoing collaboration with AGCO has yielded tangible results in the past, and through this MoU, we are committed to further bolstering our inter-jurisdictional relationship,” commented Charles Mizzi, CEO of the MGA.

“Our focus remains on fostering the exchange of information, with the overarching goal of improving our regulatory practices and addressing mutual challenges effectively.”

Earlier this year, the MGA renewed its MoU with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.

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The removal of Betago from Malta’s regulated online gambling sector comes shortly after the regulator demanded fellow online casino operator Rush Gaming to cease operations, acting on the Gaming and Enforcement Regulations. 

Under that same legislation, Betago has been ordered to settle all outstanding fees that are due to the MGA within a period of seven days, while being told to remove any reference to the MGA within the organisation. 

Despite naming no specific reasons for the cancellation of Betago’s MGA authorisation, the gambling firm has also been ordered to refund all player balances accordingly, in line with the island nation’s Gaming Act. 

While Betago retains the right to appeal the decision, the MGA has demanded that the operator submits ‘a transaction report extracted from their back-end system together with the supporting bank statements,’ allowing the regulator to ensure that all player funds are remitted appropriately. 
Further action by the MGA to remove companies from Malta’s gambling sector follows the regulator’s recent strategy of creating a safer gambling environment, after it renewed its Memorandum of Understanding with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.

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It bolsters the group’s ambition for global growth as it expands its presence into Malta through the new licence. 

Imagine Live Games emphasised, off the back of the news, its ‘commitment to providing a diverse range of innovative gaming experiences while prioritising user safety and regulatory compliance. This permit allows the company to enhance its offerings further and extend its reach to new markets, benefiting existing and prospective users’.

The licence agreement comes after a spell of new launches for the group, with it unveiling a 1920s Great Gatsby-themed studio for its new title – American Roulette.

The American Roulette live casino game will take place in a dedicated studio with graphics and dealers dressed in costumes from that era in history.

Commenting on the game launch, Hovhannes Tadevosyan, Head of the Marketing Department of Imagine Live, said: “The launch of ‘American Roulette’ is a celebration of the elegance and allure of the roaring twenties. 

“All aspects of the game are combined with the detailed elements within this dedicated studio. The result pays homage to the icon era of extravagance and sophistication. Get ready to transport your players into the past and enjoy this new experience.

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Furthermore, the regulator has also stressed that the “diverse perspectives” of fellow entities across the continent are “crucial” in shaping future “robust and inclusive policies”.

After René Jansen, Chair of Kansspelautoriteit, reflected on his participation earlier in the week, the MGA has hailed a “pivotal platform” in fostering engagement, discussion and knowledge sharing regarding the latest trends and challenges facing European regulators.

Kinga Warda, Chief Officer for Policy & International Affairs at the MGA, a GREF board member, commented: “The exchange of ideas and insights during the conference reinforced the importance of collaboration in further strengthening a responsible and enjoyable environment whilst protecting the interest and well-being of individuals.

“The diverse perspectives of our fellow regulators are crucial in the process of shaping robust and inclusive policies. By embracing these varied viewpoints and collaborating effectively, we can collectively address the evolving landscape of the gaming industry and ensure its long-term sustainability”.

Joining Warda at the event, held in Bergen, Norway, between June 5-7, were the MGA’s Martina Cilia, Senior Legal Counsel, and Peter Spiteri, Chief Officer for Finance & Business Transformation.

The latter, who is also the Co-Chair of the GREF’s InfoStat Working Group, spoke of current work and future ambitions following the latest GREF get together.

“The InfoStat working group serves as a crucial platform for regulators to discuss how to leverage data to improve gambling policies and decision-making processes,” he said.

“As the chair of the Infostat group, I am committed to harnessing the power of data to foster innovation and responsible gambling practices”.

Reflecting on his own participation, Jansen enhanced the calls for international regulatory cooperation, in addition to reflecting on four key trends emanating from Europe’s online gambling space.

These include a “clear movement” for enhanced player protections and prevention of excessive behaviour, reduction in gambling advertising and sponsorship was cited, importance of “firm enforcement” and impacts of new technological and market developments.

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Made following feedback received through its dedicated consultation process, the amendments made by the authority will require licensees to monitor selected markers of harm when creating procedures to detect and address instances of problem gambling.

The Authority also noted the changes are intended to strengthen and clarify the current player protection framework.

Under the new changes, B2C licensees will be required to employ effective measures and processes to identify those most at risk of problem gambling, which must be achieved using analytic tools or behaviour monitoring systems, alongside trained staff.

Once identified, the licensee is required to take “effective steps” to address problem gambling and, or, prevent players from developing such problems.

Moreover, licensees who offer online services must display an array of information “prominently” on its homepage, including the B2C licensee details, which identify the licensee and ensure that the licensee can be contacted; a sign which indicates that underage gaming is not permissible amd a ‘responsible gaming’ message which provides: information explaining that gaming can be harmful if it is not controlled.

Furthermore, the homepage must include information about the player support measures on the website – provided that this is without prejudice to any disclosure requirements laid down in other regulatory instruments and other applicable requirements.

Licensees offering its gaming services online should also ensure that it offers players the option to exclude themselves from gaming, and that it be no more than “one click away” from the responsible gaming information page.

Once excluded, B2C licensees may only remove exclusions upon request of the relevant player or upon expiry of the set duration. The request must be accompanied by an explanation from the player to further explain circumstance changes that have led to the request. It will then be up to the licensees whether to accept or reject.

In the retail space, B2C licensees offering gaming services in gaming premises must display its licence status at the entrance of the property.

This framework will support the Authority’s initiatives moving forward and facilitate the MGA’s plans to continuously improve the player protection framework, including the eventual publication of detailed player protection guidelines for licensees.

Moving forward, the MGA is in the process of conducting detailed research and gathering “expert experience” to serve as the foundation for the eventual publication of such guidelines.

Provisions relating to real-money reinforcement and staff training have also been addressed via the amendments.

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