Leo Vegas Advertising Ban: NZ Herald Reports Online Gambling Crackdown
- Leo Vegas, a Maltese licensed online casino, has been instructed to cease advertising in New Zealand.
- The NZ Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) is aggressively enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, targeting both operators and influencers.
- The global online gambling market is projected to reach $185.17 billion by 2033, smartphone access and regulation are key market drivers.
The online gambling market is booming, projected to reach $185.17 billion by 2033. However, increased regulation is also on the rise. The NZ Herald reports that Leo Vegas, a Malta-based online casino provider, has been ordered by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to stop advertising its online gambling services in New Zealand. This action underscores the ongoing efforts to regulate offshore gambling and protect New Zealanders from potential harm related to illegal online gambling.
DIA Enforces Interactive Gambling Act 2001 Against Leo Vegas
The DIA is actively enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which prohibits advertising of offshore gambling in New Zealand. Leo Vegas, an operator licensed in Malta, is the latest target. This move is part of a broader crackdown, with several offshore bookmaker sites receiving formal notices since 2023. The regulator is actively monitoring Leo Vegas’s compliance.
Crackdown on Influencers Promoting Offshore Gambling
Beyond targeting operators, the DIA is also focusing on influencers who promote offshore casino games and betting services. Infringement notices totaling $60,000 were issued to Spinbet for sponsoring social media posts by New Zealand influencers. Several influencers, including Millie Elder-Holmes, faced $5000 fines for publicising online gambling. This serves as a stern warn to others who promote offshore gambling, and promotes code complience.
Key Data Comparison
| Year | U.S. Online Gambling Market Size (USD Billions) |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 2.5 |
| 2023 | 20 |
| 2029 (Projected) | 40 |
The Global Online Gambling Market Boom
Despite regulatory challenges, the global gaming industry is experiencing rapid growth. The online gambling market is projected to reach $185.17 billion by 2033. Smartphone usage and increased internet access are major drivers. Europe currently dominates the market, accounting for approximately 49.1% of the global share. The American gaming association and other regulators attempt to regulate and monitor this growth.
Online Casino Games and Sports Betting
Online sports betting and casino games are significant contributors to the gambling market’s growth. Casino games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, bingo and slots are popular choices. Sports betting attracts a large audience, with the global sports betting and lottery market valued at over $235 billion in 2022. The DIA is particularly concerned about entities other than the TAB offering sports and race betting in New Zealand, issuing over 20 withdrawal notices to companies suspected of transacting with New Zealand customers. This prohibition took effect at the end of June 2023.
Comparison of Online Gambling Market Data (2018-2029)
Here’s a comparison of the online gambling market’s growth in the U.S.:
Deep Dive: Market Analysis
The crackdown on Leo Vegas and other offshore gambling operators reflects a broader trend of increasing regulation in the online gambling sector. While the global market continues to expand, driven by mobile gaming and technological advancements like immersive interfaces, governments are stepping up enforcement to protect consumers and control revenue streams. This creates both challenges and opportunities for investors. Companies that prioritize compliance and responsible gaming practices are likely to thrive in the long run, while those that operate in regulatory gray areas face increasing risks. The investigation found many companies in breach of the regulations. This will trigger market consolidation as smaller, less compliant operators are forced to exit. Competitor companies and brands are paying close attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to LeoVegas?
LeoVegas was instructed by the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to stop advertising its online gambling services in New Zealand due to violations of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
What’s the best offshore gambling site?
There is no single ‘best’ offshore gambling site, as it depends on individual preferences and location. However, it’s essential to choose licensed and regulated providers to ensure fair play and security. Always verify the legitimacy of an online casino before wagering real money.
How to gamble online in another country?
Gambling online in another country requires understanding and adhering to local laws and regulations. Use a VPN. Ensure the online casino or sportsbook is licensed and regulated in that jurisdiction. Be aware of potential penalties for illegal online gambling.
What countries is LeoVegas available in?
LeoVegas is available in several countries, primarily within Europe. Please consult their website for accurate information.
Conclusion
The future of online gambling hinges on the balance between innovation and regulation. As the market for mobile casino and leovegas mobile gaming continues to grow, governments worldwide will likely increase their scrutiny and enforcement efforts. Gambling operators that embrace compliance and prioritize responsible gaming are best positioned to succeed in this evolving landscape. The market for mobile gaming is increasing with Yggdrasil and similar companies releasing new slots and table games for mobile interface.
