Spelinspektionen to Supervise Svenska Spel’s Land-Based Venues
Introduction to Supervision of Svenska Spel’s Physical Locations
The Swedish Gambling Authority, known as Spelinspektionen, has announced plans to intensify oversight of Svenska Spel’s land-based gambling establishments. Svenska Spel, the state-owned gambling company in Sweden, will soon experience increased regulatory inspections across all its physical gaming venues.
Details of the Upcoming Regulatory Review
The authority will conduct comprehensive evaluations focusing on key elements such as revenue streams and the positioning of cash dispensing machines at these gaming sites. This process will include on-site visits and requests for official reports from Svenska Spel, with the outcomes scheduled for public release after the review concludes.
Background: Previous Actions and Industry Reactions
This announcement follows a recent series of disciplinary measures issued to Svenska Spel by Spelinspektionen. Notably, during the summer, the regulator criticized Svenska Spel for failing to adequately protect players displaying signs of gambling harm, particularly those who were engaging in high levels of spending.
Interestingly, Svenska Spel has been proactive in suggesting stricter gambling regulations, especially within the online gambling sphere. However, these proposals have often faced opposition from other Swedish gambling organizations. For instance, the Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling, also known as BOS, recently contested Svenska Spel’s proposed tighter iGaming regulations, arguing that such measures might unfairly benefit Svenska Spel over its competitors.
Context: Changes Within the Swedish Gambling Authority
The timing of this supervisory review coincides with significant organizational changes within Spelinspektionen. Camilla Rosenberg, who has served as the Director General for eight years, will be stepping down. Her departure has been officially confirmed by the authority.
Reflecting on her leadership, Rosenberg highlighted the challenging yet rewarding nature of her tenure, emphasizing the rapid advancements made within the authority due to the high level of expertise among its team members. She described Spelinspektionen as a relatively small entity operating within a challenging and extensive regulatory landscape.
Looking ahead, Rosenberg is preparing to assume a new position as director and head of the Swedish Estate Agents Inspectorate, carrying forward the knowledge and experience she gained during her time overseeing Sweden’s gambling regulation.
