UK and Germany Collaborate in Pivotal Roundtable on Gambling Challenges

Last updated: October 4, 2023 by Leon Marshall

UK and Germany, two significant players in the European gambling landscape, have come together for a crucial roundtable discussion. This collaboration aims to address the pressing issues and challenges faced by the gambling industry in both nations.

UK and German flag


A Meeting of Minds in Berlin

The roundtable, a noteworthy highlight of this year’s Federal Congress on Gaming and Gambling in Germany, is scheduled to convene in Berlin at the Maritim Hotel proArte on 4-5 October. Orchestrated by iGB’s esteemed partner Glueckspielwesen.de, this assembly promises to be a melting pot of ideas and insights. The agenda is comprehensive, with a keen focus on the UK’s Gambling Act review, its ramifications for the industry, and the subsequent repercussions for operators and stakeholders. Additionally, the roundtable titled “UK & Germany: The Hot Issues” will be conducted in English, ensuring a broader reach and understanding.

The discussion will also touch upon the challenges faced by licensed operators in Germany, especially after more than two and a half years of the GlüStV 2021 coming into effect. For enthusiasts and professionals keen on delving deeper into the gambling realm, a quick exploration of the licensed betting sites in the UK can provide a wealth of knowledge and perspective.


Regulatory Repercussions and Challenges Beyond Borders

Both the UK and Germany are pivotal players in the European gambling landscape, and their regulatory decisions have ripple effects across the continent. These nations have been proactive in implementing regulatory changes, primarily aimed at ensuring safer gambling practices. While the primary objective is to shield consumers from potential harm, these regulatory shifts have inadvertently introduced a level of unpredictability in the market, affecting revenue streams and overall industry dynamics. The roundtable is poised to offer a deep dive into these shifts, providing a comprehensive understanding of their implications.

The UK, currently navigating the intricacies of its Gambling Act review, is not alone in its challenges. Germany, too, is grappling with its unique set of hurdles. The German panel, during the roundtable, will elucidate the challenges faced by its licensed operators, particularly post the implementation of GlüStV 2021. These discussions are expected to shed light on the broader challenges faced by the gambling industry, from regulatory constraints to market dynamics.

It’s essential to note that while both countries have their distinct challenges, there’s a shared undercurrent of striving for a balanced approach. An approach that ensures consumer protection without stifling industry growth. The roundtable serves as a platform for these nations to share, learn, and collaboratively devise strategies that could shape the future of the European gambling sector.


Key Figures Take the Stage

Dr Wulf Hambach, a distinguished figure from the esteemed law firm Hambach & Hambach, has been chosen to moderate the roundtable. His vast experience and deep understanding of the gambling landscape make him an ideal choice for steering this crucial discussion. Joining him at the table will be notable industry leaders such as Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Games; Emma Stevenson, CEO of BetUK; and Klaus Dietrich, a prominent figure in the German gambling regulatory board. Each of these figures brings a wealth of knowledge, insights, and a unique perspective from their respective domains.

With such a diverse panel of experts, attendees are set to receive a comprehensive overview of the current challenges, opportunities, and potential future directions of the gambling sector. As the dialogue unfolds, participants can anticipate gaining a clearer understanding of the intricacies of the gambling ecosystems in both the UK and Germany, and the collaborative efforts required to navigate the evolving challenges.


Wrapping Up

The collaboration between the UK and Germany in this roundtable, scheduled to convene on 4-5 October in Berlin at the Maritim Hotel proArte, signifies the importance of a unified approach to address gambling challenges. Emphasising a collaborative approach, both nations have come together for a comprehensive discussion on the pressing issues in the gambling sector. The roundtable is poised to offer deep regulatory insights, dissecting the changes and understanding their broader impact on the industry. As both the UK and Germany present their unique challenges, attendees will gain a panoramic view of the gambling landscape.

Furthermore, the presence of key industry figures ensures that expert opinions will be at the forefront, providing attendees with invaluable insights and takeaways. As the industry continues to evolve, such discussions will play a crucial role in shaping its future. Stakeholders, industry experts, and enthusiasts will keenly observe the outcomes of this roundtable, hoping for solutions that ensure a thriving and responsible gambling ecosystem in both nations.