This week’s headlines in the gambling industry featured a wide range of regulatory proposals and strategic moves. U.S. lawmakers introduced a new bill targeting age verification for online sportsbooks, while the UK government is mulling a ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorships in sports. And meanwhile, Google announced a major policy change impacting prediction markets, and the EGBA released promising financial data amid rising regulatory challenges.
In This News
U.S. Bill Eyes Facial Recognition for Age Verification
Representative Josh Gottheimer has put forward the Facial Recognition to Protect Children Act. This legislation would require online sports betting platforms to implement facial recognition technology to ensure users are of legal age. Co-sponsored by several legislators, the bill aims to create a federal standard for age verification to tackle underage gambling, a recurring issue highlighted by states like Tennessee and Iowa’s reported incidents. Gottheimer stressed the critical need to protect minors from easy access to betting platforms. Despite concerns, the technology vows not to retain personal data, with support coming from advocacy group ParentsRISE.
UK’s Consultation on Banning Unlicensed Gambling Sponsorships
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport in the UK has launched a consultation regarding a proposal to ban unlicensed gambling sponsorships in the sports sector. This is a move to safeguard market integrity and lessen money laundering risks. The proposed legislation, if passed, could criminalize such sponsorships, imposing daily penalties for violations. Notably, white label agreements compliant with regulations may be exempt. The focus is specifically on in-stadium advertising, with plans to separately address illegal broadcast promotions. Interested parties have until September 9 to submit feedback on the potential impacts.
Google to Remove Prediction Market Extensions
Starting August 1, Google will ban browser extensions promoting real-money prediction markets from its Chrome Web Store. This policy change targets platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket but allows simulated markets without cash prizes if clearly indicated. Google’s move aims to clarify data use and maintain user trust, reflecting broader regulatory scrutiny on prediction markets both in the U.S. and internationally. The change will not affect the display of odds on Google Finance.
European Online Gaming Revenue Up, Says EGBA
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has reported large growth in its latest Annual Activity Report. Despite new taxes and stricter regulations, online gambling operators saw a 34% rise in gross gaming revenue, reaching €18 billion in 2025. EGBA’s members, spanning 22 jurisdictions with 401 licenses, are responsible for this surge, driven mainly by casino games and sports betting. The report also underscores the industry’s commitment to responsible gambling practices and the introduction of ethical standards.
UK Parliament Probes Gambling Financial Risk Assessments
The UK’s Culture, Media and Sport Committee has questioned the Gambling Commission over its new Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs). This inquiry seeks clarity on the data and methods supporting the FRAs and addresses stakeholder concerns. The horseracing industry, underrepresented, has criticized the FRAs for potentially harming the sector economically and socially. The commission has until July 24 to respond, as tensions continue to escalate.
Brazil’s Casino Legislation Outlook
In a recent discussion, five leaders in Brazil’s gaming industry shared insights on the prospects of legalizing land-based casinos. Despite online betting’s established economic benefits, legalization faces political hurdles, particularly from conservative factions. Some industry figures suggest 2027 as the earliest opportunity for change, as fiscal advantages and potential legal revisions are weighed. Brazil remains an outlier in Latin America without a regulated casino framework. And the upcoming months will reveal more about these initiatives. In particular, UK stakeholders should prepare feedback ahead of the September deadline, and U.S. operators must watch how age-verification legislation develops.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
