The latest data from the Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) shows that a series of player protection measures implemented in the second half of 2024 significantly reduced the average loss of players by 31%. These measures include stricter deposit limits and affordability assessments, aimed at minimizing gambling-related risks and harms.
According to new regulations from the Ministry of Justice and Security, players must communicate directly with licensed operators to set monthly deposit limits, with limits of 150 euros for young players aged 18 to 24 and 350 euros for players aged 24 and above. This policy significantly reduced the number of players choosing high deposit limits to less than half of the previous amount.
Additionally, operators must conduct affordability checks on players who deposit more than 300 euros (young users) or 700 euros (older users) per month. If they fail or are not checked, the deposit permissions for the remainder of the month are frozen. This led to a reduction in the proportion of players exceeding the deposit threshold from 3.8% to 2.2%, and the proportion of adolescent players from 2.8% to 1.9%.
Data shows that the average monthly net loss of players decreased from 116 euros to 80 euros, but the number of gambling accounts remained at an average of 2.4, indicating that players did not bypass restrictions by opening multiple accounts. Meanwhile, the total gambling revenue of legal operators decreased by 8% year-on-year, and the proportion of high-risk players losing more than 1000 euros per month dropped from 4% to 1%.
However, stricter regulation also brings concerns. Some high-spending players may turn to unlicensed gambling platforms, and although the channelization rate remains at 93%, the rising search traffic for unlicensed gambling websites is causing concern. Market regulator Renske Fikkers stated that the gambling industry's compliance is insufficient and the continuous illegal advertising prompts authorities to consider further strengthening restrictive measures.
