Berlin is buzzing as the Gaming in Germany Conference gears up for a major shake-up in the iGaming world. Set for November 11, this event just added powerhouse speakers who promise to tackle hot issues like black market threats and regulatory tweaks. With experts from regulators and top operators, attendees will dive into what could reshape Germany’s gambling scene. Get ready for insights that might change the game.
The conference has locked in Sebastian Buchholz from the GGL to kick things off with a keynote. As head of licensing and market supervision, he’ll spotlight the fight against unlicensed operators and the ongoing review of the 2021 State Gambling Treaty.
This move comes at a pivotal time. Germany’s gambling market has seen big changes since the treaty rolled out, aiming to boost player safety and fair play. Buchholz’s talk could reveal fresh data on how well these rules are working.
Other big names include Christian Heins from Tipico, Alex Green from ZEAL Network, and Ewout Keuleers, who used to counsel Kindred Group. These pros bring real-world views on running licensed ops in a tough market.
Trade groups are jumping in too. Dr. Dirk Quermann from DOCV, Mathias Dahms from DSWV, and Maarten Haijer from EGBA will join panels. Their input might push for better ways to make the market more competitive and sustainable.
The threat of the black market remains a top worry, with licensed firms losing ground to illegal sites. Recent stats from the GGL show unlicensed gambling pulling in billions, hurting legal revenue and player protections.
Agenda Tackles Real-World Challenges
Breakout sessions will zero in on nuts-and-bolts issues like data protection and responsible gambling. These smaller groups let folks dig deep into tech and rules shaping online slots, sports betting, and more.
One session focuses on game certification, ensuring everything meets strict German standards. Another looks at live casino trends, where real dealers stream games to players’ screens.
eSports betting gets its own spotlight, as this fast-growing area draws younger crowds. Experts will discuss how to regulate it without killing the fun.
The event’s founder, Willem van Oort, calls it timely. He notes operators are eager to fix flaws in the current setup.
With the treaty evaluation underway, talks could influence future laws. That means better tools to curb problem gambling and boost tax income for the state.
Van Oort shared that past events sparked real changes, like tougher ad rules.
Networking and Insights in Berlin
Set at the DoubleTree Hilton Ku’damm, the conference runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s just steps from Berlin’s lively shopping strip, making it easy for pros to mix business with a bit of city vibe.
Attendees can expect networking breaks to swap ideas. This setup fosters deals and partnerships in Germany’s evolving iGaming space.
Why does this matter to everyday players? Stronger regs could mean safer bets and more choices, cutting risks from shady sites.
For businesses, it’s about survival. A 2023 study by the University of Hamburg found the black market grabs 40% of online gambling spend in Germany, based on surveys of over 5,000 users done that year.
Here’s a quick look at the day’s flow:
- Morning: Keynote and main panels on market threats.
- Afternoon: Breakouts on compliance and tech.
- Evening: Wrap-up networking.
This structure keeps things moving and focused.
Broader Impact on Europe’s Gaming Scene
Germany’s moves ripple across Europe. As a big player, its rules often set trends for neighbors.
The EGBA’s involvement highlights cross-border concerns. Haijer might push for unified EU standards to fight illegal ops.
Back home, associations like DOCV and DSWV advocate for tweaks to level the field. They argue high taxes and strict limits drive users underground.
A report from the European Commission last year warned that fragmented regs boost black markets, citing Germany’s case as key evidence. That study, released in 2024, analyzed data from 27 member states.
Players might see better protections soon, like deposit limits and self-exclusion tools.
Industry watchers say events like this build trust between suits and regulators.
| Topic | Focus Area | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Black Market Fight | Regulatory strategies | New enforcement ideas |
| Treaty Evaluation | Policy review | Recommendations for changes |
| Responsible Gambling | Player safety tools | Best practices sharing |
| eSports Integration | Emerging markets | Growth opportunities |
This table breaks down core sessions, showing how they link to bigger goals.
In wrapping up, the Gaming in Germany Conference stands as a vital spark for positive change in a market hungry for fairness and growth. By uniting top voices to battle black market woes and refine rules, it offers hope for a stronger, safer iGaming future that benefits players and businesses alike. It’s a reminder that smart talks can turn challenges into wins, leaving us all a bit more optimistic about what’s next.
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