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	<title>iGaming | The Malta Business Weekly</title>
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	<title>iGaming | The Malta Business Weekly</title>
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		<title>Game Lounge disrupts iGaming affiliation with launch of Kiickr</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/game-lounge-disrupts-igaming-affiliation-with-launch-of-kiickr/28004/</link>
					<comments>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/game-lounge-disrupts-igaming-affiliation-with-launch-of-kiickr/28004/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:31:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=28004</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Kiickr ushers in a new era for iGaming affiliation, where data meets strategy and innovation drives success. Game Lounge has launched its latest platform, Kiickr, which promises to redefine the iGaming affiliation landscape. Kiickr is Game Lounge’s expert response to the iGaming industry’s struggles with fragmented data systems, outdated and often inefficient practices in affiliation [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/game-lounge-disrupts-igaming-affiliation-with-launch-of-kiickr/28004/">Game Lounge disrupts iGaming affiliation with launch of Kiickr</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Kiickr ushers in a new era for iGaming affiliation, where data meets strategy and innovation drives success.</h2>



<p>Game Lounge has launched its latest platform, Kiickr, which promises to redefine the iGaming affiliation landscape.</p>



<p>Kiickr is Game Lounge’s expert response to the iGaming industry’s struggles with fragmented data systems, outdated and often inefficient practices in affiliation management and increasing demands for compliance. Underscoring Game Lounge’s commitment to transparency and innovation, Kiickr reaffirms the leading iGaming affiliate’s vision to transform affiliation from a static, outdated model into a dynamic, data-driven experience.</p>



<p>The groundbreaking new platform leverages Game Lounge’s robust technical infrastructure and advanced in-house data solutions – built upon high-quality data sourced directly from partners – to streamline affiliation processes and empower affiliates and operators with holistic, reliable insights and control.</p>



<p>Setting Kiickr apart, its data-first approach not only simplifies decision-making for users but also ensures accuracy and efficiency. Early adopters will benefit from features such as seamless account management, clear ROI tracking and tools to optimise campaign performance.</p>



<p>“Changing the mindset of an entire industry doesn’t happen overnight. With Kiickr, we’re not just talking about innovation – we’re delivering it. By combining state-of-the-art technology with our extensive industry experience, we’re creating a platform that both meets the current needs of affiliates and operators and sets a new benchmark for the future,” says Mattias Gustafsson, Director of Kiickr at Game Lounge.</p>



<p>For operators, Kiickr offers insights into the performance of their affiliations while enabling access to traffic tailored to their specific needs. Publishers, meanwhile, will gain a centralised hub for data and insights, as well as opportunities to scale their traffic growth. This dual-purpose design ensures that both sides of the affiliation equation can achieve greater profitability and operational simplicity.</p>



<p>The roadmap for Kiickr extends well beyond its January 2025 soft launch, which coincides with the ICE Exhibition in Barcelona – a major fixture for the world of iGaming – where attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the platform. Kiickr’s phased rollout will initially focus on publishers, with advertiser-specific features expected by the second quarter of 2025.</p>



<p>Over the coming five years, Game Lounge envisions Kiickr’s evolution to become a comprehensive ecosystem where affiliates and operators can seamlessly manage, optimise and expand their strategies, positioning the platform as a game-changer in the international iGaming market.</p>



<p>“Kiickr represents more than just a platform; it’s a paradigm shift in how iGaming affiliation operates,” adds Richard Dennys, CEO of Game Lounge. “Our goal isn’t only to refine the process but to reimagine it entirely, blending transparency, innovation and actionable insights to create lasting value for our partners. Kiickr signals a new era for iGaming affiliation – one with efficiency and impact at the forefront.”</p>



<p>Kiickr also represents the latest innovation from GLX, Game Lounge’s dedicated centre of excellence for innovation and incubation. Launched in December 2024, GLX drives transformative projects in iGaming, using advanced technologies and data insights to create cutting-edge solutions. As one of GLX’s flagship initiatives, Kiickr fulfils its mission to drive growth, foster creativity and bridge critical gaps within iGaming affiliation.</p>



<p>“Kiickr is a prime example of how GLX is shaping the future of iGaming with innovation and collaboration,” says David Crowhurst, Managing Director of GLX. “We are proud to deliver a platform that doesn’t just address existing challenges in the industry but sets new standards for what effective affiliation can achieve. With Kiickr, we are empowering operators and publishers to unlock their full potential through unparalleled data and technology.”</p>



<p><em>Explore Kiickr’s potential by visiting </em><a href="https://www.kiickr.com"><em>www.kiickr.com</em></a><em> and find out more about Game Lounge at </em><a href="https://www.gamelounge.com/glx"><em>https://www.gamelounge.com/glx</em></a><em></em></p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/game-lounge-disrupts-igaming-affiliation-with-launch-of-kiickr/28004/">Game Lounge disrupts iGaming affiliation with launch of Kiickr</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">28004</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Driving new economic niches forward: Celebrating the growth of Malta’s Video Game Development and Esports Industries</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/driving-new-economic-niches-forward-celebrating-the-growth-of-maltas-video-game-development-and-esports-industries/27374/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Oct 2024 14:08:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=27374</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri officially opened Playcon 2024, Malta’s largest video game and esports expo, at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali. The event showcases the rapid growth of the video game development and esports industries, which have become key contributors to Malta’s economy. These industries are the result of [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/driving-new-economic-niches-forward-celebrating-the-growth-of-maltas-video-game-development-and-esports-industries/27374/">Driving new economic niches forward: Celebrating the growth of Malta’s Video Game Development and Esports Industries</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri officially opened Playcon 2024, Malta’s largest video game and esports expo, at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali. The event showcases the rapid growth of the video game development and esports industries, which have become key contributors to Malta’s economy.</p>



<p>These industries are the result of a strategy launched back in 2019, which has successfully taken root and is driving Malta’s digital transformation. “These new economic niches started from an ambitious strategy that we believed in and worked hard on. Playcon is proof that this industry is flourishing in Malta.&nbsp; These are the type of industries that we want to see continue to grow as part of the Malta 2050 Vision,” stated Minister Silvio Schembri.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-attachment-id="27377" data-permalink="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/driving-new-economic-niches-forward-celebrating-the-growth-of-maltas-video-game-development-and-esports-industries/27374/pr241741a/" data-orig-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?fit=2048%2C1422&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="2048,1422" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;2.8&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;Omar Camilleri&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;Canon EOS-1D X Mark II&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;1729756012&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;DOI MALTA&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;61&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;6400&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0.00625&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}" data-image-title="pr241741a" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?fit=300%2C208&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?fit=696%2C483&amp;ssl=1" width="696" height="483" src="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=696%2C483&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-27377" srcset="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=1024%2C711&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=300%2C208&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=768%2C533&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=1536%2C1067&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=100%2C70&amp;ssl=1 100w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=218%2C150&amp;ssl=1 218w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=696%2C483&amp;ssl=1 696w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=1068%2C742&amp;ssl=1 1068w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=605%2C420&amp;ssl=1 605w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=600%2C417&amp;ssl=1 600w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?resize=1200%2C833&amp;ssl=1 1200w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741a.jpg?w=1392&amp;ssl=1 1392w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></figure>



<p>Malta’s videogame industry has seen remarkable success, with local studios playing a key role in driving innovation. During recent visits, the minister highlighted their role in enhancing Malta’s reputation by producing internationally recognized games, strengthening the island’s position in the global gaming industry.&nbsp; We have grown to host many international esports events such as ESL Pro League with an audience of over 800,000 concurrent viewers showcasing Malta’s ability to bring world-class esports to our shores. Another significant achievement is the announcement that Talon Esports will be opening its European office in Malta.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-attachment-id="27375" data-permalink="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/driving-new-economic-niches-forward-celebrating-the-growth-of-maltas-video-game-development-and-esports-industries/27374/pr241741c/" data-orig-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?fit=1600%2C1066&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="1600,1066" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="pr241741c" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?fit=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?fit=696%2C464&amp;ssl=1" width="696" height="464" src="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=696%2C464&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-27375" srcset="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=1024%2C682&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=1536%2C1023&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=696%2C464&amp;ssl=1 696w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=1068%2C712&amp;ssl=1 1068w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=630%2C420&amp;ssl=1 630w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=600%2C400&amp;ssl=1 600w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?resize=1200%2C800&amp;ssl=1 1200w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pr241741c.jpeg?w=1392&amp;ssl=1 1392w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></figure>



<p>“These two new economic niches are not only strengthening Malta’s position in the digital innovation sector and contributing to sustainable economic growth but are creating high-quality jobs, many of which are filled by Maltese workers,” said the minister.&nbsp;</p>



<p>He emphasised that investment in education, including Unity courses at MCAST and the University of Malta, has been key in preparing students for these new opportunities.&nbsp; The minister also noted Playcon’s educational component, as more than 3,000 students from 20 schools across Malta and Gozo are expected to attend between today and tomorrow, to learn about career opportunities in these fast-growing industries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, a business-to-business conference will take place between today and tomorrow morning, with over 20 local and international speakers, and an indie studio showcase featuring 15 international participants.&nbsp; The event also includes an accelerator program, offering startups the chance to pitch their ideas to international partners.</p>



<p>This year’s Playcon is the largest yet, featuring 60 exhibitors, including local game developers, international publishers such as Ubisoft and Kwalee, and prominent figures in the esports industry. Playcon will be open to the general public on Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, with interactive games, free-to-play areas, and a highly anticipated cosplay competition.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/driving-new-economic-niches-forward-celebrating-the-growth-of-maltas-video-game-development-and-esports-industries/27374/">Driving new economic niches forward: Celebrating the growth of Malta’s Video Game Development and Esports Industries</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">27374</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>IZI Group reports record financial results, marking a year of exceptional growth</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/izi-group-reports-record-financial-results-marking-a-year-of-exceptional-growth/27365/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:01:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sponsored Content]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=27365</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Group registered Gross Gaming Revenue in FY2024 of €86.5m an increase of &#160;25% from the same period last year.&#160; EBITDA in FY2024 increased by 68% to €23.2m. The Malta Business Weekly met with JOHANN SCHEMBRI, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of IZI Group at the Quad Central, a few days after the Group announced [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/izi-group-reports-record-financial-results-marking-a-year-of-exceptional-growth/27365/">IZI Group reports record financial results, marking a year of exceptional growth</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Group registered Gross Gaming Revenue in FY2024 of €86.5m an increase of &nbsp;25% from the same period last year.&nbsp; EBITDA in FY2024 increased by 68% to €23.2m.</strong></h2>



<p>The <em>Malta Business Weekly</em> met with <strong>JOHANN SCHEMBRI</strong>, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of IZI Group at the Quad Central, a few days after the Group announced its financial results for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. IZI Group, a leading gaming operator, announced record results across all its businesses, including the National Lottery, the Dragonara Casino and iGaming.</p>



<p><strong>The financial results attained in FY2024 are quite remarkable. What are the key elements leading to such remarkable growth?</strong></p>



<p>These exceptional results are the outcome of the strategy adopted by the Group over a number of years which has always been deeply customer-centric, with a keen focus on closely monitoring local market trends to stay attuned to evolving market needs. Given our diverse customer base, it is crucial for us to remain vigilant and adaptable, making changes that truly add value. Our comprehensive digital adoption and strong degree of innovation have always been at the heart of our Group’s approach. The enhancements we’ve made and continue making to our product portfolio, coupled with our commitment to improving product accessibility, are two of the main drivers behind the success we achieved in FY2024.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-attachment-id="27367" data-permalink="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/izi-group-reports-record-financial-results-marking-a-year-of-exceptional-growth/27365/hhr-image-1/" data-orig-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?fit=1772%2C1180&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="1772,1180" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="HHR-Image-1" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?fit=696%2C464&amp;ssl=1" width="696" height="464" src="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=696%2C464&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-27367" srcset="https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=1536%2C1023&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=696%2C463&amp;ssl=1 696w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=1068%2C711&amp;ssl=1 1068w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=631%2C420&amp;ssl=1 631w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=600%2C400&amp;ssl=1 600w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?resize=1200%2C799&amp;ssl=1 1200w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?w=1772&amp;ssl=1 1772w, https://i2.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HHR-Image-1.jpg?w=1392&amp;ssl=1 1392w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></figure>



<p><strong>What are in your view the most salient achievements of the Group in FY2024?</strong></p>



<p>There is no doubt that the one word that epitomizes our year in review is GROWTH. From a financial perspective the Group has managed to attain Year-On-Year (Y-O-Y) growth across all its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). We attained a total turnover of €569 million a notable Y-O-Y increase of 23%, while ensuring a very strong return to players as player winnings reached €481 million, an increase of 24% when compared to the same period last year. Our Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) reached record levels of €86.5 million, exceeding our own projections and the forecasts we had shared with the Capital Markets, representing an increase of 25% over the previous year. This material growth in revenue was also complemented by a strong focus on cost optimisation and improved margins, leading to a record EBITDA for the year of €23.1 million, constituting a growth of 68.2% on the previous year.</p>



<p>The Group’s impressive growth must also be seen with the context of our ever-increasing and equally unprecedented commitment to Responsible Gaming and the rolling out of a robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy, focusing predominantly on ethical practices, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and transparent governance, aligning the Group’s expansion with sustainable, responsible operations.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img data-attachment-id="27368" data-permalink="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/izi-group-reports-record-financial-results-marking-a-year-of-exceptional-growth/27365/nl-flagship-outlet/" data-orig-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?fit=709%2C343&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="709,343" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="NL-Flagship-Outlet" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?fit=300%2C145&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?fit=696%2C337&amp;ssl=1" width="696" height="337" src="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?resize=696%2C337&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-27368" srcset="https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?w=709&amp;ssl=1 709w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?resize=300%2C145&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?resize=696%2C337&amp;ssl=1 696w, https://i1.wp.com/maltabusinessweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NL-Flagship-Outlet.jpg?resize=600%2C290&amp;ssl=1 600w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></figure>



<p><strong>The Group has been operating the National Lottery of Malta for just over 2 years now, transforming the national lottery in the process. Can you highlight some lottery specific achievements that you are mostly proud of?</strong></p>



<p>National Lottery plc constitutes a key subsidiary of the Group. Facts speak louder than words and the easiest way to depict the achievements of National Lottery plc would be to highlight the remarkable financial results, starting from a 23% increase in turnover, 34% increase in player winnings, and 30% increase in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR). However, aside from the financial achievements, as the custodian of the national lottery of Malta we are also very pleased with some very important non-financial achievements. We are mostly proud that our efforts and commitment to security, integrity and responsible gaming practices have been recognised by the two (2) most important international lottery bodies, the World Lottery Association (WLA) and European Lotteries (EL), as National Lottery plc successfully achieved Responsible Gaming (RG) certification. Furthermore, we are pleased to announce that earlier this month, we were also awarded the prestigious ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, a globally recognized standard, highlighting the company’s and Group’s commitment to operational excellence and security, amongst other.</p>



<p><strong>Finally, as you continue to lead this Group forward, can you highlight your aspirations for the coming years?</strong></p>



<p>The Group has always managed to grow over the years by adopting what is essentially a strategy that focuses on the local gaming market. Over the years we have nurtured our intellectual property and gained considerable experience across a very diversified portfolio of gaming operations. Within the context of the local market, we will sustain the work undertaken thus far to widen and strengthen the reach of our distribution network thus making our offering more accessible in the marketplace. We are also very excited about the prospect of adding a pan European lottery to our current lottery product, enriching the lottery product portfolio in the process. We also have major plans for the Dragonara Casino, more specifically an expansion project through which we would be in a position to offer a more holistic and diversified casino experience.</p>



<p>The flawless transition of the National Lottery from the previous concessionaire, our extensive experience operating the Dragonara Casino, our experience in creating and nurturing the IZIBET brand that over a few years has become Malta’s favourite sports betting brand, and very recently the launch of the first Historical Horse Racing (HHR) installation outside the USA, gives us the right set of tools to think about future international expansion. Pursuing international business development opportunities is part of our broader growth strategy. To this end, we have been actively pursuing opportunities in other European jurisdictions as well as in Latin America. Our aim is to leverage our established relationships in the industry to replicate the local business models on lucrative international opportunities, while being grounded in our approach of doing business.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/izi-group-reports-record-financial-results-marking-a-year-of-exceptional-growth/27365/">IZI Group reports record financial results, marking a year of exceptional growth</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">27365</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>bet365 becomes official global partner of the UEFA Champions League</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bet365-becomes-official-global-partner-of-the-uefa-champions-league/26783/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:46:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=26783</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>• First-ever sports betting brand to sponsor the UEFA Champions League • Three-year partnership with exposure on media backdrops, LEDs and UCL digital channels • Immersive activations include huge free-to-enter ticket giveaway for fans bet365, one of the world’s leading online betting companies, is delighted to announce a historic sponsorship agreement, becoming the first official [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bet365-becomes-official-global-partner-of-the-uefa-champions-league/26783/">bet365 becomes official global partner of the UEFA Champions League</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>• First-ever sports betting brand to sponsor the UEFA Champions League</em></p>



<p><em>• Three-year partnership with exposure on media backdrops, LEDs and UCL digital channels</em></p>



<p><em>• Immersive activations include huge free-to-enter ticket giveaway for fans</em></p>



<p>bet365, one of the world’s leading online betting companies, is delighted to announce a historic sponsorship agreement, becoming the first official sports betting partner of the UEFA Champions League (UCL).</p>



<p>The three-year global partnership covers sponsorship of the men’s competition, with brand exposure on in-game perimeter LED boards, media backdrops and UEFA Champions League digital channels.</p>



<p>The partnership will be launched with one of the largest ticket giveaways in the competition’s history. Thousands of football fans in some of the biggest UCL nations will be given the opportunity to experience a UEFA Champions League match day, with bet365 providing access to some of the most sought-after seats in football.</p>



<p>Guy-Laurent Epstein, director of marketing at UEFA, said: “We are thrilled to welcome bet365 as an official global sponsor of the UEFA Champions League, uniting the world’s most prestigious club football competition with millions of passionate fans around the globe.</p>



<p>“As one of the leading online sports betting brands, with over 100 million customers, bet365 is dedicated to enhancing the excitement of sport while promoting responsible gaming practices. We look forward to a successful partnership that not only elevates the experience for our fans but also supports efforts to protect the integrity of the sport.”</p>



<p>bet365 Global chief Marketing officer Alex Sefton, said: “As the first sports betting brand to sponsor the UEFA Champions League, we’re delighted to be joining a roster of high-profile premier brand partners at such an exciting time for the competition.</p>



<p>“bet365 has a long and successful football heritage and this prestigious partnership reflects our commitment to giving fans Never Ordinary experiences.”</p>



<p>The global sponsorship agreement covers the UEFA Champions League men’s competition from the 2024/25 season through to the 2026/27 season. The partnership provides a unique opportunity for bet365 to unlock access to elite European club football on a global scale with a range of immersive activations, including a free-to-enter ballot to give away thousands of tickets to fans in select countries.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bet365-becomes-official-global-partner-of-the-uefa-champions-league/26783/">bet365 becomes official global partner of the UEFA Champions League</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">26783</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>MGA launches voluntary ESG code for remote gaming sector</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/mga-launches-voluntary-esg-code-for-remote-gaming-sector/24324/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Andre Camilleri]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Nov 2023 07:32:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=24324</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Malta Gaming Authority on Wednesday launched a voluntary ESG code for the remote gaming sector. The Economy Ministry said in a statement that this code will serve as a reference point for operators to evaluate, report, and enhance their practices when it comes to implementing principles of environmental protection, social responsibility, and good governance. [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/mga-launches-voluntary-esg-code-for-remote-gaming-sector/24324/">MGA launches voluntary ESG code for remote gaming sector</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Malta Gaming Authority on Wednesday launched a voluntary ESG code for the remote gaming sector.</p>



<p>The Economy Ministry said in a statement that this code will serve as a reference point for operators to evaluate, report, and enhance their practices when it comes to implementing principles of environmental protection, social responsibility, and good governance.</p>



<p>During a press conference, where this code was unveiled, the Minister for the Economy Silvio Schembri highlighted how the environment, social responsibility, and good governance were fundamental pillars in the 2024 Budget.</p>



<p>Through this budget, he said, the government will continue to incentivise the economy of tomorrow through a strategy targeting new sectors such as the creative industries, including the growing areas of eSports and video game development.</p>



<p>The Minister pointed out that the gaming sector has seen significant growth, generating €1.5 billion last year and providing high-quality employment. He mentioned that up till the end of 2022 this sector employed around 11,200 people directly and around 16,000 when considering the indirect jobs it created.</p>



<p>He explained how Malta is expanding toward new economic niches, such as eSports and video game development, with a particular mention of the ESL Pro League Season, which sees Malta placed as a significant centre in this industry.</p>



<p>Regarding video game development, he stated that prominent names like Dorado games, Narc, Anvil, and Keyword Studios are already established in the country. Malta has 250 people working in this sector, and the government’s goal is to increase its contribution to 1% of the GDP by 2028.</p>



<p>The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Malta Gaming Authority for its regulatory work and commended the authority&#8217;s diligent work in not just monitoring the gaming industry but also understanding and offering a framework in which licensed operators can grow while adhering to good practices.</p>



<p>On his part, the CEO of the Malta Gaming Authority Carl Brincat explained that as industries grow, there is a growing need for more transparency and accountability, particularly when addressing social and environmental concerns. The new voluntary ESG code will play a role in helping the industry meet these requirements, he said.</p>



<p>Kinga Warda, Head of Policy and International Affairs at the Malta Gaming Authority, outlined how the ESG code was developed through extensive collaboration with the gaming industry to ensure that it reflects the sector&#8217;s needs in Malta, along with the authority&#8217;s role as a regulator in the same space.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/mga-launches-voluntary-esg-code-for-remote-gaming-sector/24324/">MGA launches voluntary ESG code for remote gaming sector</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">24324</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Watch: Robert Abela visits large Gaming conference in Malta with 4,000 delegates</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/watch-robert-abela-visits-large-gaming-conference-in-malta-with-4000-delegates/23204/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:28:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=23204</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Prime Minister Robert Abela visited iGaming NEXT, a large international iGaming conference, which hosted 4,000 delegates in Malta. The conference was held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC) and it was recorded as being the largest ever conference that the MCC ever held, the government said.. There were 200 speakers and people from over 70 [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/watch-robert-abela-visits-large-gaming-conference-in-malta-with-4000-delegates/23204/">Watch: Robert Abela visits large Gaming conference in Malta with 4,000 delegates</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Prime Minister Robert Abela visited iGaming NEXT, a large international iGaming conference, which hosted 4,000 delegates in Malta.</p>



<p>The conference was held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC) and it was recorded as being the largest ever conference that the MCC ever held, the government said.. There were 200 speakers and people from over 70 countries who attended the conference.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="embed-vimeo" style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/838272671" width="696" height="392" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>During the visit, Abela said that the conference, supported by the foundation Gaming Malta, continued to strengthen Malta&#8217;s position in the field of gaming and helps to improve the already recorded strong economic results in the field of hospitality and entertainment.</p>



<p><a href="https://ads.independent.com.mt/www/delivery/ck.php?oaparams=2__bannerid=7245__zoneid=84__cb=4b6cc623bb__oadest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apsbank.com.mt%2Feveryday-banking%2F%3Fmtm_campaign%3Dfee%2520removal%26mtm_source%3Dindependent%26mtm_medium%3Dvideo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>Abela added that this event promotes the government&#8217;s economic vision and celebrates the positive reputation it holds in this sector.</p>



<p>Abela, accompanied by Economy Minister Silvio Schembri, met with the founder of the company Matin Petterson and with several representatives of different iGaming companies.</p>



<p>Over the last three years, the number of employees in this sector has increased by 34%, from 11,747 in 2019 to 15,774 by the end of 2022. 50 new companies within this field operating actively from Malta have also emerged over the past three years. Over the last two years, the gross value added in this sector has increased by 5.8%.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/watch-robert-abela-visits-large-gaming-conference-in-malta-with-4000-delegates/23204/">Watch: Robert Abela visits large Gaming conference in Malta with 4,000 delegates</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">23204</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>German Federal Government to &#8216;monitor&#8217; developments of Maltese Gaming Bill</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/german-federal-government-to-monitor-developments-of-maltese-gaming-bill/22904/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 May 2023 12:58:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=22904</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The German Federal government is aware of a draft law titled &#8220;Bill 55: Gaming Bill” which was discussed in the Maltese Parliament on 24 April and “it will closely monitor developments in this area,” German State Secretary in the Department of Justice Benjamin Strasser said. This comes after an Austrian law firm and a German [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/german-federal-government-to-monitor-developments-of-maltese-gaming-bill/22904/">German Federal Government to ‘monitor’ developments of Maltese Gaming Bill</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The German Federal government is aware of a draft law titled &#8220;Bill 55: Gaming Bill” which was discussed in the Maltese Parliament on 24 April and “it will closely monitor developments in this area,” German State Secretary in the Department of Justice Benjamin Strasser said.</p>



<p>This comes after an Austrian law firm and a German lawyer claimed that the Maltese government is &#8220;attempting to stop Maltese-licensed gaming companies from paying back the millions they have illegally appropriated from players&#8221; located in Germany and Austria.</p>



<p><a href="https://ads.independent.com.mt/www/delivery/ck.php?oaparams=2__bannerid=7159__zoneid=84__cb=2109c22a91__oadest=https%3A%2F%2Flava.mt%2F%3Futm_source%3Dtmi%26utm_medium%3Dvid%26utm_campaign%3D2023_04_lava_mt_tmi_vid_30s" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>Bill 55 went through its first reading in Parliament on 24 April, and is currently being passed through Parliament.</p>



<p>Tabled last month, the aim of Bill 55 is written as being &#8220;to codify in law the longstanding public policy of Malta encouraging the establishment of gaming operators in Malta who offer the local and cross-border supply of their services in a manner compliant with local legislation, in an effort to encourage private enterprise in line with article 18 of the Constitution of Malta.&#8221;</p>



<p>The bill has been described by the lawyers as &#8220;attempt by the Government of the Republic of Malta to blatantly undermine European rule of law by blocking the fundamental rights of EU citizens and residents.&#8221;</p>



<p>The letter sent by the German lawyer to Economy Minister Silvio Schembri, PN MP Ivan J. Bartolo and others, accuses the Maltese government of wanting to introduce provisions in Maltese law which would prevent Maltese courts from enforcing sentences handed down against Maltese gaming companies in foreign jurisdictions.</p>



<p>In Parliament, Economy Minister Silvio Schembri who is responsible for tabling the bill, said that the &#8220;value added to Maltese economy from the gaming sector amounts to €1.5 billion yearly, which represents 9.6% of the GDP. This economic activity is very important, and doesn&#8217;t even take into account the second-order economic effects that this sector brings to the country,&#8221; said Schembri.</p>



<p>&#8220;The laws in this country stipulate that gaming companies are able to operate from our country and offer their services outside of this jurisdiction, provided they abide by regulatory obligations and protect vulnerable individuals from predatory practices,&#8221; he continued.</p>



<p>&#8220;The online gaming sector was never harmonized on a European level, meaning that various member states enacted contradictory laws in a fragmented way, leading to a situation where Maltese-based companies cannot legitimately offer their services in other jurisdictions.&#8221;</p>



<p>These restrictions on the European single market are not justified, said Schembri.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;That which we&#8217;re doing today should serve as a strong message that this government, and country, will always be a shoulder to lean on for Maltese families and businesses that operate on our shores,&#8221; he concluded.</p>



<p>PN MP Ivan J. Bartolo was in agreement with Schembri and said that, with the implementation of this law, &#8220;we&#8217;re trying to protect an industry that adds a lot of value to this country.&#8221;</p>



<p>In reference to a letter that he had received explaining the situation, written by the aforementioned lawyers, he said that &#8220;there are two sides to the coin, and we need to look at both. I want whoever wrote this letter to understand that it&#8217;s not the winners of these online games that started proceedings against the country; it&#8217;s only the losers that did so.&#8221;</p>



<p>What most worried me about the letter were the &#8220;subtle attacks&#8221; that were made with regards to my country, said Bartolo.</p>



<p>&#8220;They&#8217;re attacking the integrity, reputation, and rule of law of our country. It&#8217;s evident that certain things that have been reported on outside of Malta have created a reputational problem, according to the letter that I&#8217;ve received.&#8221;</p>



<p>&#8220;Having said that, we need to do everything possible to fix the problems that we&#8217;re currently facing in this country, including our reputation on the international stage, our integrity, and our rule of law problems.&#8221;</p>



<p>In a response to a question posed in the German Federal Parliament to the Federal Government, State Secretary in the Department of Justice Benjamin Strasser was asked what measures the federal government was taking bilaterally or at the European level to address the Maltese &#8220;Gaming Act&#8221; which aims to prevent the enforcement of German judgments in Malta.</p>



<p>The recognition and enforcement of German judicial decisions in other member states are generally governed by the Brussels I Recast Regulation, which &#8220;stipulates that a decision rendered in one member state is enforceable in other member states without the need for a declaration of enforceability,&#8221; Strasser said.</p>



<p>&#8220;The federal government is aware of the draft law titled &#8220;Bill No. 55: Gaming (Amendment) Bill,&#8221; which was discussed in first reading in the Maltese Parliament on 24 April&#8221; and &#8220;it will closely monitor developments in this area.&#8221;</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/german-federal-government-to-monitor-developments-of-maltese-gaming-bill/22904/">German Federal Government to ‘monitor’ developments of Maltese Gaming Bill</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">22904</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>All MGA licensees ‘subject to player protection laws, no matter where players reside’</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/all-mga-licensees-subject-to-player-protection-laws-no-matter-where-players-reside/22584/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Apr 2023 07:58:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=22584</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) said it is “unable to comment in specific terms” on the claims made by the NGO Young Africans Fighting Online Gambling &#160;(YAFOG) that “Malta-based gaming companies are targeting millions of African youths”. This is because the article in which this story was broken, authored by The Shift, “lacks specifics that [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/all-mga-licensees-subject-to-player-protection-laws-no-matter-where-players-reside/22584/">All MGA licensees ‘subject to player protection laws, no matter where players reside’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) said it is “unable to comment in specific terms” on the claims made by the NGO Young Africans Fighting Online Gambling &nbsp;(YAFOG) that “Malta-based gaming companies are targeting millions of African youths”.</p>



<p>This is because the article in which this story was broken, authored by The Shift, “lacks specifics that shed light on and corroborate the claims being made”.</p>



<p>YAFOG are quoted as saying that “online gambling, orchestrated by companies in Malta, are actively targeting Africa and creating the conditions that will lock millions of generational treasures into a lifetime of poverty”.</p>



<p>The NGO goes on to say that “our children are not &#8216;prospects&#8217; for the online gambling industry to profit from”.&nbsp;</p>



<p>YAFOG states that “online gambling is now recognised to be the new entry point for radicalisation, no longer to an ideology but to a lifestyle marketed by the industry”.</p>



<p>“That is why the online gambling industry is assessed by the European Union to be a high risk sector for money laundering schemes and the financing of terrorism,” YAFOG said.</p>



<p>They further state that what’s occurring is an “unthinkable deception” on behalf of the Maltese people and that “if the people of Malta don’t ask their government to stop, they can expect more mass migration problems in the near future”.</p>



<p>According to The Shift article, “Malta’s public coffers make millions of euros in tax revenue from the roughly €2 billion in annual turnover the local industry sees yearly”.</p>



<p>Indeed, according to audited financial statements, published by the MGA, for the year ending on 31 December 2021 (the latest date for which data was available), “the Authority registered a surplus of €69.6 million” in 2021.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to The Shift article “Malta hosts over 10% of the world’s online gaming companies, which, in turn, provide the country with around 10% of its gross domestic product, significant tax revenues and over 10,000 well-paid jobs”.</p>



<p>In response to these allegations, the MGA, answering to questions by <em>The Malta Independent on Sunday,</em> said that the article on The Shift includes “a number of statistics … without the backing evidence that would enable us, in turn, to analyse and compare them to the data that we hold”.</p>



<p>“All gaming companies operating under an MGA licence must be fully compliant with the regulatory and legislative requirements imposed by Maltese law, wherever their customers may reside,” the MGA went on.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In relation to measures of protection, the MGA said that “the requirements relating to player protection are robust, evidence-based and subjected to audits by the MGA and by independent external service providers”.</p>



<p>When pressed whether this also includes players who happen to fall outside of Malta’s jurisdiction, the MGA replied in the affirmative, stating that “all gaming companies operating under an MGA licence must be fully compliant with the regulatory and legislative requirements imposed by Maltese law, wherever their customers may reside”.</p>



<p>The MGA went on to say that “licensees are required to have strong controls, policies and procedures in place which cater for all aspects, from basic elements such as age verification to ensure that minors do not avail themselves of the gaming services, to more advanced requirements such as monitoring players for potential markers of harm which may indicate that they have developed – or are likely to develop – a gambling problem”.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These detection obligations are complemented by legal requirements for licensees to have in place the means to offer self-help tools to players, as well as to refer them to external organisations which may assist them where required.&nbsp;</p>



<p>MGA licensees take these obligations very seriously and we continuously drive a culture of care for players, encouraging them to gamble sustainably and within their means, the Authority said. That said, one must also emphasise the importance of players cultivating self-management strategies and making use of the help and support available.</p>



<p>YAFOG highlighted that this very issue was also put to the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola during the Mabel Strickland Memorial Lecture in March earlier this year.</p>



<p>An audience member said that “we applaud ourselves on the contribution of the gaming sector to our GDP but to me this is a very big worry as gaming is spreading the exploitation of African children who are being introduced to gaming at a young age; we have to make sure that gaming companies are not the destruction of future economies”.</p>



<p>Metsola demurely responded by saying that “sometimes the due diligence of our companies or organisations, established all over the EU, only focus on their bottom line and their economic impact rather than the direct or indirect consequences”.</p>



<p>“I would always be concerned and I think that there’s a huge emerging problem with the way we dialogue with third countries and we did discuss with the African Union for many months last year.”</p>



<p>YAFOG also spoke about the Pope’s recent comments earlier this year at a speech in Kinshasa wherein he denounced the oppressive political and economic shackles which were subjugating the continent.</p>



<p>“What do the people of Malta want for Africa? Ruination fuelled by this targeting or ‘Hands off Africa’ as the Pope has asked of the people of Malta?” YAFOG concluded.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/all-mga-licensees-subject-to-player-protection-laws-no-matter-where-players-reside/22584/">All MGA licensees ‘subject to player protection laws, no matter where players reside’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">22584</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>Bankrupt gaming company has its Malta Gaming Authority licence suspended</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bankrupt-gaming-company-has-its-malta-gaming-authority-licence-suspended/21535/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Galea]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:43:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=21535</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The now defunct Genesis Global Limited has had its licence to operate in Malta suspended by the Malta Gaming Authority. In a communication on Tuesday, the MGA said that it was suspending the authorisation awarded to Genesis Global Limited effective as of 16 January 2023. The authority said that the sanction is being imposed because [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bankrupt-gaming-company-has-its-malta-gaming-authority-licence-suspended/21535/">Bankrupt gaming company has its Malta Gaming Authority licence suspended</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The now defunct Genesis Global Limited has had its licence to operate in Malta suspended by the Malta Gaming Authority.</p>



<p>In a communication on Tuesday, the MGA said that it was suspending the authorisation awarded to Genesis Global Limited effective as of 16 January 2023.</p>



<p>The authority said that the sanction is being imposed because the company is being wound up.</p>



<p>“The Authorised Person is thus no longer authorised to carry out any gaming operations, register new players or accept new customer deposits, and must continue collaborating with the Authority,” the MGA said of Genesis.</p>



<p>The suspension comes exactly a month after Genesis Global Ltd and its parent company Genesis Holdings Ltd filed for insolvency.</p>



<p>Court filings show though that Genesis Global Ltd and its main shareholder Genesis Holdings Ltd both filed for bankruptcy with Malta’s courts on 16 December – a whole week before employees were advised that the company was no longer solvent and the last day that the courts were open before going into their Christmas recess.</p>



<p>The company told its workers in the email that it may not be able to fulfil payments it is owed to its employees, including any outstanding salaries for the month of December or other sums which may have been due.</p>



<p>Employees who were made redundant as a result of the insolvency have told The Malta Independent of how the matter has caused a lot of stress on employees, not least due to the timing of the announcement but also because many need to keep up with loan repayments, rents, and children school expenses amongst other things.</p>



<p>There were even employees who had just applied and begun their maternity leave in the same month as being made redundant.</p>



<p>It is believed that around 150 employees – 130 who were made redundant on 23 December and another 20 to 25 who had served their notice but were waiting for their final pay cheque – are still be paid their December salaries.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/bankrupt-gaming-company-has-its-malta-gaming-authority-licence-suspended/21535/">Bankrupt gaming company has its Malta Gaming Authority licence suspended</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">21535</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>Gaming stakeholders worry about ‘over-regulated’ industry as a result of FATF measures</title>
		<link>https://maltabusinessweekly.com/gaming-stakeholders-worry-about-over-regulated-industry-as-a-result-of-fatf-measures/18995/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[The Malta Business Weekly]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 May 2022 11:36:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iGaming]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://maltabusinessweekly.com/?p=18995</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Stakeholders from the iGaming industry have expressed their worry that Malta’s implementation of the measures imposed onto it by the Financial Action Task Force will lead to an “over-regulated” industry.&#160; During a panel discussion organised by the Chamber of Commerce as the gaming industry celebrated 20 years in Malta, it was discussed how despite Malta [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/gaming-stakeholders-worry-about-over-regulated-industry-as-a-result-of-fatf-measures/18995/">Gaming stakeholders worry about ‘over-regulated’ industry as a result of FATF measures</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Stakeholders from the iGaming industry have expressed their worry that Malta’s implementation of the measures imposed onto it by the Financial Action Task Force will lead to an “over-regulated” industry.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During a panel discussion organised by the Chamber of Commerce as the gaming industry celebrated 20 years in Malta, it was discussed how despite Malta needing to implement the FATF recommendations, these should not let the industry become “over regulated” as this can very well hinder the country’s competitiveness. <a href="https://ads.independent.com.mt/www/delivery/ck.php?oaparams=2__bannerid=6480__zoneid=84__cb=340f696bde__oadest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pkfmalta.com%2Fcareers%2Faudit-senior%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a></p>



<p>The panel was made up of five stakeholders in the gaming industry: Malta Gaming Authority CEO Carl Brincat, Playtech Head of Regulatory Affairs Charmaine Hogan, William Hill Group Regulatory Senior Counsel Yanica Sant, Play’n Go Head of Government Affairs Jessica Maier, and iGEN Chairperson Enrico Bradamante.&nbsp;</p>



<p>WH Partners Co-Managing Partner Olga Finkel moderated the panel.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The speakers, engaging in a discussion, noted that the formula which brough the industry’s success in Malta for the past 20 years cannot be a guarantee for the future as it now needs “an innovative plan”, since other countries are catching up.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another subject touched upon was the increase rent prices in the property market; it was noted that as rents continue to increase, so does the probability that companies choose other to take their offices elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Discussing Malta’s greylisiting, the panel noted that despite Malta trying to recover its reputation by implementing the FATF recommendations, there are still other national scandals which still need to be addressed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The President of the Chamber of Commerce Marisa Xuereb said that the gaming industry has over the years kept growing and that its employees make up four per cent of the whole country’s workforce.&nbsp;</p>



<p>She added that although during 2020 and 2021 there have been many sectors negatively affected by the pandemic, the iGaming sector has made up 12% of Malta’s GDP.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Speaking about Malta’s current legal framework which regulates the gaming industry, she said that although many countries have tried to duplicate it proving its excellence, Malta is currently facing bigger challenges as now teleworking is being used by other companies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Xuereb said that this is creating a problem for Malta’s own industry as now it has to compete to attract the needed highly skilled labour.</p><p>The post <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com/gaming-stakeholders-worry-about-over-regulated-industry-as-a-result-of-fatf-measures/18995/">Gaming stakeholders worry about ‘over-regulated’ industry as a result of FATF measures</a> first appeared on <a href="https://maltabusinessweekly.com">The Malta Business Weekly</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
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