Day: 22 January 2026

Key Moments: President Alexander Stubb signed the Gambling Act reform package into law on January 16, 2026. Gambling companies can begin applying for licences on March 1, 2026. The competitive online gambling market is scheduled to launch on July 1, 2027. Legislative Changes Reshape Finnish Gambling Landscape Finland’s Gambling Act officially became law after President Alexander Stubb signed the reform package on January 16, 2026. This marks a major shift in Finland’s online gambling structure, as the country moves away from a single-operator system and toward a licensing model. Importantly,…

Key Moments: Legislation proposes raising both sportsbook and iGaming taxes in West Virginia to 25% of gross revenue Sports betting tax rate would rise from 10% to 25%, while online casino taxes increase from 15% to 25% Proposed changes align West Virginia with a national movement toward higher gambling tax rates Legislation Moves to Lift Gambling Tax Rates Two bills newly introduced by Delegate Adam Burkhammer call for a sharp increase in gaming taxes across West Virginia. Filed on January 16 and referred to the House Government Organization Committee, HB…

Key Moments Sports event contracts have pushed prediction markets into mainstream attention and triggered legal pushback from states. Major companies, including Kalshi, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Robinhood, have launched or expanded event contract offerings. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), under-resourced as of recent reports, faces industry and state pressure over regulation. Prediction Markets Collide With State Gambling Laws Prediction markets, once viewed as a niche financial tool for speculating on economic indicators or central bank moves, have gained momentum by venturing into sports. These platforms offer event contracts and currently…

Key Moments: The UAE has removed all gambling and betting provisions from its new Civil Transactions Law. The law will take effect on 1 June 2026. Meanwhile, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has already issued the country’s first internet gaming and sports wagering license. As a result, legal experts view this move as part of a broader transition toward dedicated commercial gaming regulation in the UAE. Revamp of Civil Law Removes Gambling References The United Arab Emirates has updated its civil legislation. Specifically, it has removed all references…