Closing Holland Casino would have enormous consequences. According to a report by Atlas Research, tens of thousands of Dutch people would resort to illegal gambling every year. The research was commissioned by the Ministry of Justice and Security.
The report shows that Holland Casino’s physical casinos not only meet a demand, but also have a protective function. Players are better monitored and gambling behaviour can be controlled. In the illegal circuit, this supervision is completely lacking.
Researchers calculate with scenarios and hard figures
Atlas Research analysed more than 3.2 million visits to Holland Casino in 2023, spoke to hundreds of visitors and interviewed poker players. They looked at three scenarios: adjustment of the range of games on offer, closure of gaming halls and closure of casinos.
If all establishments were to close, between 77,000 and 110,000 Dutch people would switch to illegal gambling each year. Even in a mild scenario, this would mean tens of thousands of additional illegal players.
Younger players are most at risk of switching to illegal gambling
The researchers point out that younger players in particular are inclined to turn to illegal offerings. This group plays online more often and runs a greater risk of gambling problems.
This shows that closing or restricting legal casinos is not a simple matter. The danger is that vulnerable groups will get into trouble more quickly.
Poker players complain about lack of legal options
The report also addressed live poker. A striking finding emerged: many poker players feel that the legal options are too limited. Holland Casino has a monopoly, but according to players, this is insufficient.
They indicated that they are forced to play illegal home games or resort to foreign tournaments. Many players would prefer to play poker legally, but want more tables, tournaments and series.
In light of this, there are calls to give players more legal control.
Holland Casino is under financial pressure and points to tax burden
The reason for the survey is that Holland Casino is financially vulnerable. The increase in gambling tax also plays a role in this, which makes the situation even more complicated.The state casino previously warned that tax increases could weaken the legal market.