Regulated Markets Strengthen Licensing and Player Protection

Key Takeaways

• Emerging markets like Brazil advance B2B supplier certification to ensure compliance in newly regulated environments.
• European regulators enhance responsible gambling through AI tools and joint efforts against illegal operators.
• Established jurisdictions refine frameworks to balance innovation with player safety and market integrity.

Brazil Advances B2B Supplier Certification in New Regime

Brazil's regulated online gambling market, launched on January 1, 2025, under the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), continues to evolve with a focus on B2B suppliers. Following the initial operator licensing phase, authorities are developing certification requirements for platforms, systems, and gaming technology providers. This addresses earlier compliance gaps, particularly with uncertified live casino equipment. The framework requires companies to meet technical standards and local incorporation rules, including minimum Brazilian shareholding. This milestone supports the market's projected revenue growth while enhancing oversight in a jurisdiction attracting major international operators. Implications include greater transparency for players and reduced risks from unregulated content in Latin America's largest market.

Source: iGaming Express, Online Casino Reports

European Regulators Issue Joint Statement on Illegal Gambling

Regulators from Austria, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal, and Spain released a joint institutional statement calling for stronger measures against illegal online gambling. Announced on November 25, 2025, the initiative emphasizes coordinated enforcement, information sharing, and barriers to unlicensed operators targeting players in these jurisdictions. The UK Gambling Commission highlighted the effort as part of ongoing collaboration to protect consumers and maintain market integrity. This development reflects broader trends in mature, regulated markets, where cross-border cooperation is prioritized amid rising unlicensed activity. For new entrants, it underscores the need to comply fully with local licensing requirements to avoid sanctions.

Source: Gambling Commission (UK)

AI-Driven Responsible Gambling Tools Gain Traction Globally

Operators worldwide are increasingly adopting AI for real-time monitoring and player protection, moving beyond traditional data-driven limits. Reports indicate widespread use of behavioral analytics to detect risky patterns, with proactive alerts significantly reducing harm indicators. In regulated European and Canadian markets, integration of such tools aligns with stringent responsible gambling mandates, including mandatory self-exclusion and session reminders. Partnerships with organizations like GamCare and BeGambleAware remain central, supported by regulatory requirements for helpline access. This shift strengthens compliance for operators entering or expanding into jurisdictions that demand advanced harm prevention, benefiting players through early intervention and fostering sustainable industry growth.

Source: SOFTSWISS Report, UK Gambling Commission Insights

Netherlands and Sweden Prepare Tighter Responsible Gambling Rules

The Netherlands Gambling Authority is consulting on universal loss and deposit limits, alongside enhanced affordability checks, set for potential implementation soon. Meanwhile, Sweden plans to ban credit cards for online gambling from April 2026. These changes build on existing frameworks, requiring operators to bolster duty-of-care protocols. In competitive markets like these, new and established brands must invest in compliant technology platforms to facilitate market access. The updates signal a continued emphasis on player protection in Nordic and Dutch jurisdictions, influencing strategic partnerships with responsible gambling tech providers.

Source: Regulatory Trends Reports (Various Industry Sources)