Bet365, Betsson and Kindred among first operators to receive Swedish licences
GVC, LeoVegas and Casumo given a licence for two years rather than five thanks to transgressions in other markets
The Swedish Gambling Authority has issued the first round of licences for the upcoming regulated market, with 12 firms including bet365, GVC, Kindred, Betsson and LeoVegas, receiving a licence.
Three firms – GVC, Casumo and LeoVegas – received a licence for two years rather than the maximum five, thanks to past transgressions in other markets. All three have been fined by the UK Gambling Commission.
“In cases where we estimate that we need to follow the company extra carefully, we can grant a license for a shorter period,” said Lotteriinspektionen director general Camilla Rosenberg. “For example, it may be about past offenses in other markets.”
Casumo said in a statement that the licence award was a testament to how far it had come on social responsibility.
Lotteriinspektionen said today’s awards marked the initial round of issues with other applicants likely to receive a decision in the “next few weeks”.
The regulator has so far received 95 licence applications, with at least 70 applying to compete in Sweden’s re-regulated online gaming market from January 2019.
State-owned behemoth Svenska Spel, UK bingo specialists Tombola and Malta-headquartered Casumo were also awarded a licence today.
Rosenberg added: “This is an historic day for Lotteriinspektionen.
“I am very proud that the Lotteriinspektionen staff under severe pressure, with a whole new legislation, worked out the first licence decisions,” she added.
Camilla Rosenberg
Nordic operator Kindred Group plans to launch five brands in the Swedish market including Unibet and Maria Casino, having gained a licence under the Spooniker Ltd company name.
Kindred Group CEO Henrik Tjärnström said: “Today is a historic day for Kindred.
“We have been pushing for a modern and sustainable gambling market in Sweden from the very start of Unibet in 1997, in which the focus is on consumer protection and harm minimisation.
“I am extremely proud and delighted that we have finally reached this point and look forward to a new and better future for Kindred, for local sport and for those who enjoy gambling in Sweden.”
Betsson Group also received a licence, with CEO Pontus Lindwall adding: “We look forward to operating on our Swedish home market as a recognised operator on equal terms.”