Why the gambling industry cannot do without problem players
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5 May 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Many gambling companies get their biggest profits from a small group of players who spend too much money. This is no accident. The industry has quietly adjusted to this for years.
According to French regulator ANJ, this is not sustainable. Players become addicted, lose control and drag their surroundings into trouble. On average, six people are affected by one player’s addiction.
The industry needs to scrutinise its revenue model
The growth of sports betting and online gambling creates increasing risks. Companies earn from players who often go over their limit. This is not a healthy system.
The French regulator wants to better recognise and help this group of players. This can be done through new rules, tighter controls and cooperation with other bodies.
The pressure on the sector is increasing and it is needed
The ANJ has made it clear in its strategic plan that player protection comes before profits. It wants to reduce addiction and crack down on illegal supply.
As long as gambling companies continue to make profits from excessive players, little will change. But with data, monitoring and clear fines, the balance can shift.
Addiction is not an afterthought, but the foundation of the problem
Many people think addiction is an exception. But in practice, the business model revolves around precisely this vulnerable group. That makes it extra dangerous.
If companies really want to change, they must say goodbye to profit on broken lives. That requires guts, rules and, above all, honesty.