This is a guest contribution by Bruno Berlafa. If you would like to submit a contribution please contact Bill Beatty for submission details. Thank you. 

1.1 The background of the Swedish Gambling Act

It has been almost a year since the new Swedish Gaming Act came into force. And what a force it has been! What was once considered to be one of the prime online gambling markets in the world has turned into a more competitive market than ever before. It might turn out for the best, but for now, the situation has worsened whether you ask operators, affiliates or even game developers.

Over 200 gambling brands targeting casino and betting are not only facing each other but also market shares with the state-owned giant Svenska Spel and ATG. All while being monitored by big brother in the shape of the Gaming Inspection (Spelinspektionen) and Konsumentverket, the government authorities whose mission is: “To ensure that lotteries, casino games, and other gaming activities in Sweden are carried out legally, safely and reliably”.