The Week’s iGaming News with WA.Technology

February 23, 2024

WA.Technology’s weekly collection of interesting iGaming news bites, noteworthy events, and exciting developments is ready to welcome you into your weekend. Treat yourself to a ten-minute iGaming catch-up with WA.Technology.

Brazil’s José Francisco Manssur Departs Lula Government

José Francisco Manssur has stepped down from his role within the Lula government, where he was a key figure in the sports betting sector. Despite some speculation, the Ministry of Finance confirmed his departure was voluntary. Magnho José, a prominent figure in the Brazilian gambling industry, highlighted Manssur's contributions to regulating sports betting and online games. Further delays in the regulatory timeline are now anticipated.

The Ministry of Finance stated it appreciates Manssur's efforts in overseeing the drafting of regulations for the fixed-odd betting sector, ensuring its continuity under the ministry's jurisdiction. Minister of Finance Fernando Haddad emphasised the professional handling of the betting project under Manssur's guidance. The responsibility of selecting Manssur's replacement falls to the Secretary of Economic Reforms, Marcos Pinto, with the assurance that the Treasury will maintain oversight of the financial aspects of betting regulation.

Columbia to Establish First Latam Responsible Gaming Policy

Coljuegos, Colombia's gaming regulator, recently announced its plan to establish Latin America's first public policy on responsible gaming. The policy will focus on public health, highlighting prevention, education, and treatment strategies to combat gambling disorders. Coljuegos President Marco Emilio Hincapié emphasised the importance of cultivating a culture of responsible gaming and increasing player awareness of gambling risks. Measures such as betting limits, warning messages, and self-exclusion tools are under consideration. 

The policy's development has seen broad support from operators, with a shared goal of protecting consumers. The three main principles that will lead the new initiative are protecting the community from the harms of uncontrolled gambling, providing accurate information to ensure safe gambling decisions, and offering educational tools to prevent excessive gambling. This aim is to safeguard players and promote gambling as a healthy leisure activity, ensuring the well-being of players and their communities.

Chile’s GGR Increase as it Heads Towards Regulation

Chile's casino industry reported a 9.1% increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for 2023, totalling CLP$513.68 billion. The increase is due to a 12% rise in visitor numbers reaching 7.1 million. The positive increase comes after a drop in year-on-year revenue and individual spending in December last year.

Concurrently, Chile is progressing towards establishing a regulated iGaming market, with legislation moving through the senate, aiming for a provisional system by November. A study by the iDevelopment and Economic Association (iDEA) and Eilers and Krejcik Gaming (EKG) indicates that iGaming positively or neutrally impacts land-based casino revenues, dispelling related fears.

Peru Advances in Online Gaming Regulation

Peru has initiated a regulatory framework for online gaming and sports betting, mandating operators to apply for permits by March 13. The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) states this step is essential for formalising the industry, responsible gaming, and protecting players. The introduction of a 12% tax on operators' net profits is included. 

Mincetur has already accredited four certification laboratories and twenty suppliers. Accreditation is seen as a positive start to the process. Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) is the first accredited lab certifying gaming services, showing a commitment to regulatory compliance and the sector's integrity. This regulatory move aims to enhance economic benefits, increase security for Peru’s people, and contribute to tourism.

WSOP 2024 Las Vegas Schedule Announced

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has revealed its 2024 tournament schedule from 28 May to 17 July in Las Vegas. Returning to the Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas, the 55th edition will feature nearly 700 tables and introduce several new events. The WSOP Main Event begins on 3 July with four starting flights and will conclude with the Final Table on 16-17 July. 

Daniel Weinman, last year's champion, will participate in the Champions Reunion No-Limit Hold’em Freezeout, marking the series opener. Several new additions will include the Seniors High Roller No-Limit Hold'em and Mixed No-Limit Hold'em/Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot. The series aims to surpass last year's record attendance.

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