Gem Party

About Gem Party

On Thursday, the Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) reported eight online gambling licences had been reissued as part of its five year-renewal plan for the sector.

This will enable them to continue legal operations in the Netherlands from 1 October 2026 through to 30 September 2031. 

It is the first time since the market was launched in 2021 that licences have come up for renewal and whomever is on the final list will indicate how many operators have decided not to remain in the market.

About Gem Party

What the president does not acknowledge is that the government relies on revenue from the sector. In just the first seven months of 2026, BRL8.747 billion generated by sports betting has already flowed into public coffers. The Federal Revenue Service estimates the total could reach BRL16 billion by the end of the year. In 2025, nearly BRL9 billion was collected from sportsbooks.

The burning question is where such funds will come from if Lula shuts down the betting industry. Yet, no one points out to him that players will simply migrate to the illegal market. Betting will continue to exist, but without formal tax revenue, oversight or player protections.

It will be up to the government to effectively curb the illegal market so the regulated sector continues to generate taxes and jobs while upholding responsible gambling practices. By riding the wave of criticism against betting companies, the government is diverting attention from the true cause of household indebtedness.

About Gem Party

He [Konstakis] knows our business, our customers and our technology inside out, and has played a central role in shaping our priorities and how we execute against them. Furthermore, Nikos has been a true confidante and partner in the business since coming on board over eight years ago.

Levin added that he is looking forward to supporting the company and the wider team from his new chair role.

Konstakis thanked OpenBet for its trust and lauded Jordan’s incredible contributions to the company. He said that he was looking forward to taking on the new role and helping OpenBet enter its next phase of growth.