GGL Appoints New Chairman Amid German Gambling Treaty Review

Christian Hochgrebe has assumed the rotating chairmanship of the Administrative Board of the German gambling regulator, the GGL, effective July 1. This appointment precedes a statutory review of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021), the first comprehensive assessment since its 2021 implementation. The review is expected to evaluate key regulatory provisions impacting licensed operators and responsible gambling measures in the German market.

Key Takeaways

• Christian Hochgrebe has become the new Chairman of the GGL Administrative Board as of July 1.
• The GGL is preparing for the statutory review of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021).
• The review will examine advertising rules, deposit limits, and customer protection obligations.

GGL Leadership Transition and Regulatory Review

The annual transition of the GGL Administrative Board chairmanship, reflecting Germany’s constitutional model, has seen Christian Hochgrebe succeed Sandro Kirchner. Hochgrebe takes on this role as the GGL prepares for the first comprehensive assessment of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021) since its entry into force in 2021.

Focus on Regulatory Framework and Responsible Gambling

The statutory review of the GlüStV 2021 is anticipated to examine the treaty’s provisions concerning gambling advertising, deposit limits, customer protection obligations, and broader responsible gambling measures, including those impacting casino bonus offers. This evaluation will assess the suitability of these frameworks after five years of implementation. However, the review is not expected to revisit the €1 stake limit on online slot games or the broader product restrictions within the regulated online German gambling market.

Enhancing Market Supervision and Enforcement

During his tenure, former Chairman Sandro Kirchner focused on strengthening the GGL's institutional foundations, including personnel appointments and advancing digital capabilities for improved supervision. Kirchner noted a significant intensification of enforcement against illegal gambling, targeting hosting and payment service providers, while refining the regulatory framework for licensed operators to enhance the attractiveness of legal offerings, a trend across new casino launches. Christian Hochgrebe's priorities include overseeing the Interstate Treaty review, continuing the development of supervision for licensed operators, and combating illegal structures within the market.

“Well prepared for a year full of challenges’ with Hochgrebe assuming the chairmanship as the regulator commits to delivering consistent and effective supervision of Germany’s gambling market.”

Sources: Berlin takes charge of German gambling oversight as regulations up for review