Schleswig Holstein issues sports betting licences

In a curious sequence of events, the German State of Schleswig-Holstein has granted six-year online sportsbetting licences to Victor Chandler International Ltd. (Gibraltar), bet90 (Malta) and Interwetten Gaming Ltd. (Malta) despite its new Government’s intent on re-joining the Federal State Gaming Treaty.

Along with the award of the licences, the Ministry launched a player loyalty card on Monday that will be mandatory for players to identify themselves whether playing online or through terrestrial venues.  Cards will be distributed via bookmakers and provide a card-based identification guarantee and player authentication.

“Schleswig-Holstein sets exemplary standards for the security and transparency of gambling.  With the launch of the card, we eliminate the potential for anonymous gambling and thereby avoid money laundering”, said Interior Minister Andreas Breitner.

Two other firms belonging to the Novomatic-owned Admiral Group, with offices in Germany and Austria, were also awarded authorisation to offer sports betting in retail betting venues in addition to its existing online licence.

Fifteen sports betting licences have been awarded to date, eleven months after the entry into force of the breakaway Schleswig-Holstein Gambling Act.  The Ministry said it currently has another 23 sports betting provider applications under review.

Related and similar