Regulations

India’s evolving tax framework for gaming and betting services is entering a transformative phase, with state finance ministers backing a proposal to impose a 28 percent GST on casinos, racecourses, and online gaming platforms. The move is designed to bring uniformity and increase tax revenues from a rapidly growing sector. However, uncertainty over whether the tax will apply to gross transaction value or operator earnings remains unresolved.

A recent investigation has revealed that Swiss-Georgian software provider Upgaming is connected to at least eight unlicensed online casinos, including Velobet, Mystake, and Goldenbet, which operate in Europe without valid local licenses. Many of these platforms were run by Santeda International under a Curaçao license, unrecognized in the UK and most European nations, exposing players to heightened financial and addiction risks. The unregulated sites even targeted self-excluded British gamblers enrolled in Gamstop.

In October 2025, media reports falsely suggested a nationwide ban on online casino gambling in South Africa, sparking confusion and debate across the industry. The controversy originated with Supabet (Portapa Pty Ltd), which introduced a roulette-style game in physical betting shops, allowing fixed-odds wagering on outcomes. The Casino Association of South Africa challenged the offering, arguing it breached licensing laws. The Supreme Court of Appeal clarified that under the Gauteng Gambling Act, casino games and sports betting are legally distinct and require separate licences.

A major compliance breach in Chile has exposed nearly 910 government employees engaging in illegal casino gambling, collectively wagering over Rs. 11.49 billion pesos. The revelations have triggered a nationwide response, with 371 agencies ordered to take disciplinary action and prosecutors evaluating potential criminal charges. The case highlights systemic lapses in oversight and raises concerns about ethical conduct among officials managing public funds.

Finland’s gambling sector is entering a transformative phase as it transitions from a state-controlled monopoly to a regulated licensing framework. With applications opening on March 1, the reform is set to become one of Europe’s most significant regulatory developments in 2026. Global operators are accelerating compliance efforts to meet strict local standards, including data-sharing, responsible gaming protocols, and system integration requirements. The move aims to replace grey market activity with a transparent, sustainable ecosystem.

The rapid rise of crypto casinos is reshaping the global gambling industry, driven by shifting regulatory pressures and evolving consumer preferences. As traditional operators face increasingly strict compliance frameworks, crypto-based platforms have capitalized on reduced friction, faster transactions, and broader accessibility. This growth reflects deeper structural changes rather than a temporary trend. Players are gravitating toward platforms that prioritize speed, anonymity, and user experience, even in loosely regulated environments.

Switzerland has taken another step in the evolution of its tightly controlled online gambling sector by awarding a tenth digital casino licence to Casino Locarno. The approval, issued by the Eidgenössische Spielbankenkommission, authorizes the launch of the operator’s online platform, CasiNeo.ch. Operating under the stringent provisions of the Federal Gambling Act, the Swiss market continues to expand cautiously, permitting only established land-based casinos to enter the online space.

Casino regulations vary widely across the globe, with some cities enforcing particularly stringent rules to control gambling activity, prevent money laundering, and safeguard social welfare. These regulations impact licensing procedures, operational requirements, tax obligations, and responsible gaming measures. Cities such as Singapore, Las Vegas (Nevada), Monaco, and Macau are known for their comprehensive legal frameworks, which balance economic growth with social responsibility.