Swedish Supreme Court Orders Betsson to Repay €500,000 to Problem Gambler

Sweden.- July 4th 2025 www.zonadeazar.com Landmark Ruling Highlights Risks of VIP Schemes and Aggressive Marketing

Sweden’s Supreme Court has upheld a pivotal ruling against BML Group Ltd, a Malta-based subsidiary of Betsson Group, ordering the operator to repay approximately €500,000 to a former Swedish customer diagnosed with gambling addiction.

The ruling, issued on 1 July, confirms a December 2023 decision by the Patent and Market Court of Appeal, which found that Betsson exploited the player’s known addiction through personalized bonuses and aggressive marketing.

VIP Status and Direct Promotions Under Scrutiny

The customer gambled on Betsson’s platform between 2009 and 2014, well before Sweden’s new Gambling Act came into force in 2019. In 2012, the company elevated him to VIP status, intensifying its targeted promotions.

From 2012 to 2014, the customer lost €527,395 before voluntarily self-excluding. The court declared that gambling agreements during this VIP period were invalid, citing “a violation of good faith and honour.”

Betsson was also ordered to cover legal costs amounting to SEK718,750 (€64,500).

Use of Behavioral Data Raises Ethical Concerns

The Supreme Court emphasized that BML Group had used extensive behavioral tracking to identify the player’s habits and vulnerabilities, deploying tailored marketing and communication strategies that worsened his condition.

While the emotional damages claim was overturned, the court found “no doubt” that the player had met clinical criteria for gambling disorder prior to diagnosis.

Betsson Responds to the Verdict

Betsson AB CEO Pontus Lindwall expressed disappointment but emphasized that the decision involved “very specific circumstances” and is unlikely to have wider financial impact on the company.

“Betsson has long implemented strict responsible gaming procedures,” Lindwall added. “We do not allow individuals with known gambling problems to access our services.”

Edited by: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com