‘This is historic’ – Finland ends state monopoly on online gambling
The Finnish Parliament has approved a law opening up the gambling market by a large majority. The state monopoly will end in January 2026.
By pointing out legal inconsistencies between private games of chance and certain National Lottery offers, the country’s highest court is now forcing the legislature to review its copy. In this sensitive context, the National Lottery states that it is at the disposal of the competent authorities to contribute to the development of a more coherent, protective and legally sound legal framework.
Gambling problems often start silently. That is precisely why it is important to recognize them early. The new Collaborative Association for Early Detection of Gambling Harm (Samenwerkingsverband Vroegsignalering Schade door Gokken – SVSG) wants to change this.
As the festive season approaches, the ANJ is warning that the practice of giving scratch cards to children is still too widespread. Through an educational campaign broadcast on social networks, the regulator insists that gambling is not child’s play.
They did not receive a fine, but a clear warning. Three fellow policymakers have left after decisive action by the Kansspelautoriteit. According to the regulator, they did not meet the integrity requirements.
For several years now, Belgium has been actively combating unauthorised online gambling websites. On 04 November 2025, the Gambling Commission (GC) announced the update of its blacklist, with the addition of twelve new sites deemed illegal.
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