Gibraltar Pioneers Prediction Market Licensing
In a significant development for European gambling regulation, Gibraltar has licensed its first prediction markets operator, Predict Street Ltd. The move, announced by Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry Nigel Feetham, is seen as a strategic effort to diversify the territory's economy. This comes as a direct response to financial pressures arising from policy changes abroad.
A Strategic Response to UK Tax Hikes
Minister Feetham noted that he has taken a more direct role in promoting Gibraltar's regulatory offerings following the recent UK gambling tax increases. The new license was issued in record time under the existing 2005 Gambling Act. Predict Street's website claims it is the official prediction market partner for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and is powered by Abu Dhabi-based blockchain provider ADI Chain.
A Controversial Move in Europe
The licensing of a Gibraltar prediction market is potentially controversial, as many European nations have taken a hard-line stance against the vertical. Germany, the Netherlands, and France have blocked leading operator Polymarket, viewing such platforms as either illegal gambling or unlicensed financial instruments. In contrast, Malta is also actively exploring a regulatory framework for prediction markets, signaling a potential new trend among iGaming hubs.
UK Market Feels the Squeeze from New Taxes
The new UK tax duties are having a tangible impact on operators. Evoke Plc announced plans to permanently close approximately 200 of its William Hill retail shops, representing about 15% of its UK estate. The closures are scheduled to begin in May and are part of a broader strategic review that may include asset disposals.
An Evoke spokesperson cited "increased cost pressures on the regulated sector including significant tax increases" as the primary reason for the decision. Other major operators, including Betfred and Entain, had previously warned that the tax hike could lead to closures. Flutter already closed 57 of its shops in 2025 due to retail declines.
Financial analysts are closely watching Evoke's next steps. Deutsche Bank cut its EBITDA forecasts for the company, while Robin Chhabra of Tekkorp Capital suggested the best play would be to sell off its international divisions in markets like Italy and Spain, which are unaffected by the new UK duties.
Regulatory Impact Across the Continent
Belgium and the Netherlands are also navigating the effects of new regulations. The Belgium gambling market recorded its first full-year decline since 2020, with total GGR falling 4.86% to €1.61 billion in 2024. The regulator attributes this to new measures including an increased gambling age of 21, a ban on bonuses, and stricter advertising rules.
In the Netherlands, the regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) reprimanded JOI Gaming Limited, operator of JACKS.NL, for breaching the ban on untargeted advertising. The violation involved a link from the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) website to the operator's online gambling platform. The KSA also reminded sports betting licensees that offering bets on non-sports outcomes, such as MVP awards, is outside the scope of their license.
North American Markets Continue to Evolve
Across the Atlantic, regulated markets are expanding. The province of Alberta in Canada has confirmed it will launch its regulated iGaming and sports betting market on July 13, 2026. This will make it the second Canadian province with a commercial online gambling market, following Ontario's launch in 2022.
In the United States, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has approved FanDuel for multi-state poker. Operating under Flutter's PokerStars brand, FanDuel can now offer shared player pools across Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, thanks to Michigan's participation in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).
Casino Sector Innovation and Financial Maneuvers
Amidst regulatory shifts, casino operators are also making strategic moves. Australia's Star Entertainment Group has secured a binding A$590 million refinancing facility from WhiteHawk Capital. This move is intended to refinance existing debt and provide liquidity as the company faces pressure from AUSTRAC over alleged breaches of AML/CTF laws.
The Enduring Appeal of Table Games
Meanwhile, insights from the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention reveal that casino table games remain a strong and vibrant part of the casino floor. Experts from Galaxy Gaming and Light & Wonder noted that side bets, which add slot-like volatility, have been crucial. Games like Light & Wonder's Double Down Madness, described as "blackjack on steroids," are increasing house hold and attracting a new generation of players who also play slots.
Electronic Table Games (ETGs) serve as a vital bridge, providing a non-intimidating way for new players to learn traditional games before moving to the live pit. Panelists also discussed how AI and data collection could further enhance game protection and marketing efforts for live tables.
| Feature | Traditional Table Games | Electronic Table Games (ETGs) |
|---|---|---|
| Player Experience | Social, tactile, dealer interaction | Non-intimidating, individual experience, speeds up decisions |
| Key Function | Energy center of the casino, social hub | Learning tool for beginners, solves labor issues for operators |
| Game Features | Focus on traditional rules with added side bets for volatility | Supports complex math, progressives, and bonus features |
