The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has introduced its inaugural International Best Practice Guide, a crucial resource aimed at online casino operators and policymakers worldwide. Developed by Alvarez and Marsal, the guide outlines common regulatory objectives, including high channelisation, consumer protection, maintaining competition, preventing gambling-related crime, and raising tax revenue. 

As the online gaming sector has expanded from just a few jurisdictions in 1994 to over 100 today, the guide provides a comparative analysis of different regulatory approaches, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each. With 1.5 million people in the UK reportedly engaging in illegal gambling, the BGC emphasizes the importance of balanced regulations to mitigate the risks posed by the black market. 

Guide Aimed at Assisting Policy Makers

BGC CEO Grainne Hurst noted that the guide synthesizes valuable lessons from global experiences to assist policymakers in making informed decisions.  

BGC CEO Grainne Hurst said: “For the first time, the BGC has brought together the lessons, both positive and negative, that have been learned by operators and regulators around the world when it comes to the online gaming sector. 

“In the UK, we have seen that firsthand, where balanced regulations have created a sector that raises billions in tax and investment in the economy while supporting tens of thousands of jobs. But the risk posed by the wrong regulatory balance can undermine that good work, and give a foothold to the growing unsafe, illegal gambling black market, which is an ever-present threat in the UK."

Global View of Pitfalls and Benefits of Different Approaches 

Pierre Tournier, BGC International Director, underscored the guide’s role in bridging the evidence gap for regulators. 

He said: “The online gaming market is a complex landscape involving a huge range of potential regulatory choices and outcomes. But for too long there has been a crucial evidence gap when those choices are considered by policymakers. Our ambition for this new guide is that it finally offers a solution to that problem. 

“Drawing on the lessons from around the world, operators and policymakers, can take a global view of the pitfalls and benefits of different approaches, and make better policy decisions as a result.” 

Report Provides New Reference Point 

Adam Rivers, A&M's head of Betting and Gaming in EMEA, said: "A&M are proud to have worked with the BGC on this important project, which provides a new reference point and assessment of gambling regulation globally. 

“Effective regulation plays an important role in ensuring the safe and effective functioning of gambling markets, supporting positive outcomes for regulators, operators, and consumers." 

International Precedent and Best Practice was formally launched by BGC CEO Grainne Hurst at the G2E conference in Las Vegas.