Proposed Swedish Legal-Compliance Measures: Enhanced Ad Controls and Permanent Slot Stake Cap

The report was commissioned in June 2018 to examine additional measures for legal compliance regarding gambling activities. The scope of the inquiry was then amended in April 2019 to explore solutions for limiting gambling advertising. Led by special investigator Anna-Lena Sörenson, the report also considered fair returns to horse racing and other sports through potential levies. However, mandatory levies on operators for horse racing and sports were dismissed. The inquiry concluded by recommending stricter controls on the market, including measures to stamp out unlicensed gambling and to strengthen controls on offshore businesses operating in the country. It also proposed a risk classification for gambling products, a ban on advertising high-risk games during specific hours, and a permanent deposit cap on casino games. The report suggested that the country’s gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, develop clearer guidelines for operators regarding their duty of care towards customers. Additionally, the report proposed passing a new law to enhance reporting requirements for operators and support better tracking of developments in the regulated market. It also argued for relaxing bonus requirements for gaming businesses contributing to good causes. The report touched upon loot boxes, but suggested that regulatory restrictions for this video game mechanic be developed at the European Union level. Minister for Social Security Ardalan Shekarabi emphasized the government’s responsibility to protect consumers and stated that this report would help shape future measures. Operator association Branscheforenigen för Onlinespel expressed concern regarding new restrictions on the licensed sector, given their contributions to consumer protection, taxes, employment, sports sponsorship, and technological advancements in Sweden. Banning licensed gaming companies from marketing while allowing unlicensed companies to continue offering their services was seen as detrimental to both consumer protection and the Swedish gaming market.