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As gaming evolves and reaches an unprecedented level worldwide, some issues surrounding gaming, like security, are becoming alarming.
The American Gaming Association (AGA), European Casino Association (ECA), and the Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work on key issues such as illegal gambling, security, innovation and responsible gambling.
“This partnership marks a new chapter in our shared vision to build a world-class, trusted, and sustainable betting and gaming industry,” Betting and Gaming Council Chief Executive Officer Grainne Hurst said in a news release. “BGC members are rightly proud of their reputation as global leaders, and they know the power of collaboration.
“Working together with the AGA and ECA, I am confident our shared knowledge and expertise will be vital to bolstering safer gambling standards while tackling the threat of the growing and unsafe unregulated gambling black market in the UK.”
The 2024 results of the AGA’s yearly study on the public perception of gaming indicate a growing acceptance of gambling in the US that is also likely worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- The AGA, ECA, and BGC have signed a memorandum of understanding to address key issues facing global gaming. The partnership was announced in an Oct. 9 AGA news release.
- Some of the major issues to be addressed include illegal gambling, security, innovation and responsible gaming.
- A law enforcement roundtable will be held in January to begin combatting these issues.
Law enforcement roundtable to tackle illicit gaming
The partnership will create a platform for research projects, allowing staff and members of the groups to pool their expertise.
“This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe. By sharing our unique resources, we will expand our fight against illegal gambling to new fronts, work together to strengthen responsible gaming, and innovate around business best practices,” AGA President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Miller said.
“By fostering dialogue and cooperation across borders, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are taking a proactive approach to safeguarding the integrity of the legal gaming industry and ensuring its continued growth and success.”
To execute this project, a law enforcement roundtable, planned for January, will first be on the agenda. Industry regulators and law enforcement officials will gather to brainstorm strategies to combat illicit gaming.
Gaming industry funds efforts to promote responsible gaming
A closer look at the gaming industry’s finances reveals a $471.8 million investment in responsible gaming in 2023, according to AGA research. But will this significant spending truly make a difference in combating problem gaming?
Joe Maloney, AGA’s senior vice president, said the latest figures show the industry’s commitment to safe and informed sports betting. He added that it’s not just about writing checks for taxes; gaming companies are voluntarily investing hundreds of millions of dollars to give customers the tools and knowledge they need to bet responsibly.
Erwin van Lambaart, chairman of the European Casino Association, added that the groups will be rendering their full support to take safe gambling to the next level.
“The ECA fully backs this initiative and supports the ongoing efforts to rigorously combat illegality within our industry, continuously strengthen player protections and security, and ensure the creation of an environment that fosters innovation and growth within the gaming community,” he said. “On behalf of the ECA, I look forward to participating in the forthcoming law enforcement roundtable and to sharing the benefits of these learnings with our members.”
