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Compliance Updates

Navigating the Complexities of Gambling Compliance: A Look at Recent Decisions and Regulations in California

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In the intricate and highly regulated world of gambling and betting, staying compliant with the myriad of rules and regulations is crucial for every entity involved. Recent developments in the regulatory landscape highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure fair and responsible gambling practices. This article delves into the latest decisions and requirements as outlined in a recent commission meeting of the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) held on January 25, 2024.

Ensuring Compliance in Cardrooms

A key focus in the meeting was the compliance of cardrooms with regulatory standards. Before opening for business, cardroom owners must submit a comprehensive Business Entity Supplemental Information form, including the new address of the gambling establishment. This requirement underscores the need for transparency and up-to-date information in gambling operations.

Additionally, cardrooms must adhere to specific relocation requirements, hold a valid business license, and have an approved Safety and Security Plan, alongside an Emergency and Evacuation Plan. These measures are not just bureaucratic formalities; they are vital for the safety and security of patrons and staff.

License Renewals and Considerations

The commission meeting also discussed several key employee and third-party proposition player services employee license renewals and applications. For example, the renewal application for Brandon Wong was put forth with two options – approval through January 31, 2026, or referral to an evidentiary hearing. This case illustrates the careful scrutiny applied to individuals involved in the gambling sector.

In another instance, the initial application of Devin Willis from Faros Unlimited, Inc., was recommended for approval, reflecting the commission’s confidence in the applicant’s ability to adhere to regulatory standards.

Addressing Individual Cases with Sensitivity

Particularly noteworthy were the individualized conditions and considerations given to various applicants. For instance, Johan Navarrete Rodriguez from Knighted Ventures, LLC, was required to provide proof of efforts to resolve a Failure to Appear fine. This level of detail in regulatory oversight ensures that each case is addressed with the appropriate level of scrutiny and consideration.

The Broader Picture: Ensuring a Safe Gambling Environment

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These decisions and regulations are part of a broader effort to maintain a safe, fair, and responsible gambling environment. By requiring detailed plans for safety, security, and emergency procedures, and by scrutinizing the backgrounds and activities of key employees and third-party service providers, regulatory bodies are working to uphold high standards in the gambling industry.

In conclusion, the decisions made in the January 25, 2024 commission meeting reflect the ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance in the gambling sector. By staying vigilant and adaptive to changing circumstances and challenges, the commission ensures that the gambling industry operates within a framework that protects all stakeholders involved.

Compliance Updates

Zimpler Becomes Certified Payment Institution in Brazil, Strengthens Local Open Finance Ecosystem

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Zimpler Becomes Certified Payment Institution in Brazil, Strengthens Local Open Finance Ecosystem

 

Zimpler, a leading Swedish company in Pay-by-bank solutions, has become a certified Payment Institution (PI) in Brazil, authorized by the Central Bank. Now Zimpler is allowed to facilitate payments and other Open Finance ecosystem resources, streamlining the checkout process and reducing friction by allowing direct transactions without redirecting users to bank apps. This movement solidifies Zimpler’s plans and structure in Brazil.

“We are thrilled to receive this authorization from the Brazilian Central Bank. The recognition of Zimpler as a payment initiator reinforces our commitment to this local market, which offers a great opportunity for growth and value in a very dynamic and competitive environment,” said Johan Strand, CEO of Zimpler.

The authorization, which also allows Zimpler to act as an electronic money institution, strengthens the Open Finance ecosystem in Brazil, one of the most advanced in the world and which now welcomes the leading payments fintech from Sweden. Businesses looking to thrive in the country can now benefit from the Zimpler’s seamless payment experience, giving them a competitive edge in a dynamic and fast-moving market.

“This milestone showcases the strength of Swedish innovation and the mutual benefits that come from closer economic collaboration between Sweden and Brazil. Sweden has long been a leader in financial technology, and we are proud to see companies like Zimpler bring their experience and trusted solutions to contribute to Brazil’s dynamic digital economy,” said Andreas Rentner, Trade Commissioner and Country Manager of Business Sweden in Brazil.

“With our experience powering over 80% of Sweden’s population through Swish, we’re bringing the same proven technology and approach to Brazil through Pix, one of the most successful real-time payment systems in the world. We’re looking forward to helping businesses unlock the full potential of Open Finance in Brazil with seamless, secure payments that drive market growth,” Strand said.

The authorization by the Central Bank is another step in strengthening Zimpler’s foundation in Brazil, following the opening of its São Paulo office in 2022. The company remains focused on expanding its footprint and deepening its partnerships across key verticals such as iGaming, where it sees strong growth potential.

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Compliance Updates

MGCB Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders to Six Illegal Online Gambling Operators

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In a continued effort to safeguard Michigan residents and uphold the integrity of its regulated gaming environment, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to six online gambling operators unlawfully offering services in the state.

The named entities—Bonus Blitz Casino, DomGame, Royal Ace Casino, Slots Capital, Supernova Casino, and Wins Mania—have been found providing internet-based gambling without obtaining the necessary state authorization, violating Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.

“These illegal operators often masquerade as legitimate gaming platforms, but they exist entirely outside the legal safeguards that protect consumers. When Michiganders play on unlicensed sites, they’re placing their personal and financial security at risk—with little to no recourse if things go wrong,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB.

Unlike Michigan-licensed gaming platforms—which undergo rigorous vetting, continuous monitoring, and must comply with strict state regulations—these unlicensed operators are not authorized to offer gaming services in the state. Some are based outside the US, operating beyond the reach of U.S. regulatory oversight, while others may claim domestic ties but still fail to meet Michigan’s legal and licensing requirements.

Because they operate without state approval, these entities do not follow Michigan’s consumer protection standards, responsible gaming mandates, or transparent dispute resolution procedures designed to ensure fair play and data security.

“This action sends a clear message to illegal operators: Michigan is not a place for rogue gambling. We are committed to preserving a safe, legal, and accountable gaming landscape—and that includes rooting out bad actors who threaten the trust we’ve built with consumers,” Williams said.

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Compliance Updates

Responsible Online Gaming Association Releases Guidelines for Operator VIP Programs

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Responsible Online Gaming Association Releases Guidelines for Operator VIP Programs

 

The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA), an independent association representing 90% of the legal U.S. sports betting industry by handle, published its guidelines for operator VIP programs. These evidence-based recommended practices are intended to support members’ VIP policies to further incorporate robust responsible online gaming. These can help players maintain a balanced, enjoyable gaming experience within their own personal limits.

“Like in many sectors of entertainment, leisure and hospitality, sportsbook’s VIP programs aim to reward and retain loyal players, and it is essential that these programs are operated with a strong commitment to responsible gaming. These programs should support a shared understanding between hosts and players on the value of responsible gaming that fosters long-term loyalty and player well-being. There is a robust conversation ongoing regarding VIP programs, which is why we have prioritized this issue, as it is essential to provide research-driven guidance to adequately support these programs to help keep VIP players’ experience fun and recreational,” said ROGA Executive Director, Dr. Jennifer Shatley.

Guided by existing evidence, ROGA found that the most effective VIP programs combine proactive education, personalized engagement, and periodic program evaluation. Pursuing these objectives, ROGA identified the following recommended practices for operating VIP programs, many of which have already been implemented by some operators:

• Role-specific Training for VIP Hosts: Provide ongoing education specifically tailored to the unique needs of VIP Hosts.

• Automated Review: Operators will take advantage of technology to attempt to detect potentially risky behavioral patterns among VIP players, such as increased deposit frequency, extended play sessions, or repeated failed withdrawal attempts.

• Escalation Process: Operators will implement measures to escalate to a responsible gaming specialist when the operator identifies that a player might be exhibiting potential signs of problematic play. The specialist should conduct a review of the player’s behavior and take appropriate action on a case-by-case basis, such as connecting with trained behavioral health personnel.

• Integrate RG Messaging into VIP Communications: Communicate responsible gaming messages to VIP players using a range of tailored engagement channels.

• VIP Engagement Protocols: Establish protocols to guide interactions between VIP hosts and VIP players, with a focus on transparency, support, and responsible gaming.

• Promotions, Bonuses, and Incentives: VIP Hosts should not offer any VIP promotions, bonuses, or incentives to VIP players who are on a cool-off period, have self-excluded, or have a suspended or banned account, and must also provide all VIP players with the ability to opt out of receiving such incentives.

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• Making Data Available: Provide VIP players with access to player data that show player activity, including deposits, wagers, and withdrawals.

• Confirm Awareness of Tools: Require VIP players to confirm their familiarity with responsible gaming tools and resources upon onboarding.

• RG Education for VIP Players: Regularly provide VIP players with responsible gaming educational materials to support responsible gaming behavior.

• Regular Program Evaluation: Conduct annual reviews of the VIP program. This can include feedback from both VIP players and VIP hosts, as well as tracking the success of engagement strategies.

• Development and Updates: Operators should keep apprised of new tools and methods for responsible gaming as they are developed.

This non-exhaustive list of recommended practices is a critical step toward further supporting these programs. ROGA’s members have independently made the decision to commit to implementing these guidelines within a commercially reasonable timeframe.

With its members’ support, ROGA continues to identify and publish research-based recommended practices for responsible gaming across a variety of priority topics.

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