Zona de Azar Brasil – EGBA Warns About the Increase in Illegal Markets

Brazil.- July 23, 2024 www.zonadeazar.com The Sostenibilidad Report 2024 of the European Asociación de Juegos y Puestas (EGBA) has been published, which highlights significant advances and persistent challenges in the online gambling sector.

Most highlighted was the record of 21 million customers who used security tools in 2023. However, the report also highlights the worrying growth of the illegal online betting market, which requires decisive action on the part of regulatory bodies.

Greatest security tools in online betting

In 2023, more than 65% of EGBA member customers will use security tools, which represents an increase of 14% compared to the previous year. Bettors sent 67.6 million safe gaming messages, an increase of 49% compared to the previous year. Of these messages, 23 million were personalized depending on the behavior of the players.

Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the EGBA, commented: “We are pleased to publish our latest sustainability report, highlighting the significant progress of our members in many areas of safer online operations.” Haijer highlighted that these results demonstrate a strong commitment to responsible gaming practices.

The EGBA Sustainability Report for 2024 includes several key highlights:

• Use of Security Tools: 70% of customers use deposit limits voluntarily.
• Promotion of safe gaming: 70% of personalized messages will be delivered through emerging sales and 25% via electronic mail.
• Training of employees: 80% of more than 45,000 employees received training on safer online betting.
• Proven improvement: 65% of customers with potentially problematic gaming behavior improved or stabilized their game after receiving security messages.

Challenges and concerns

The report includes a joint letter from executive directors of leading companies in the online gambling sector, which addresses concerns about the illegal gambling market.

Executives, such as John Coates of bet365 and Peter Jackson of Flutter Entertainment, warned that the growth of the gray market could alleviate the urgent need for more effective regulation.

The letter highlights that the lack of basic regulation in many countries contributes to the growth of this illegal market. “We urge national policymakers to create regulatory frameworks that balance solid consumer protection with a competitive and innovative environment.”

The report also reveals the social and environmental impact of EGBA members. It invested 61.2 million euros in investigating and addressing questions related to online betting and donated 151.4 million euros to beneficial organizations and community initiatives. Furthermore, 71.8% of energy consumption in operations comes from renewable sources.

The EGBA 2024 Sustainability Report reflects both significant progress in terms of safer online gambling and the persistent challenges posed by the illegal market.

The data demonstrates the need for effective and balanced regulation, with the main objective of protecting players and promoting a responsible and sustainable gaming environment.

Edit: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com