concern over Analyse Master, clears licensees of wrongdoing

The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gambling regulatory body, has recently cleared two of its licensed operators concerning their affiliations with Analyse Master, a provider of sports betting tips. However, the KSA has voiced significant concerns regarding the operations of the Analyse Master platform, particularly in relation to its marketing practices.

In the fall of last year, investigative journalism platform Pointer published an in-depth analysis of Analyse Master and its linked Telegram channel, emphasizing the platform’s controversial use of influencers and role models to promote online gambling.

Pointer pointed out that licensed operators in the Netherlands are strictly prohibited from featuring role models in their gambling advertisements. This prompted the KSA to initiate an investigation into Analyse Master, the findings of which were disclosed on March 11.

During the investigation, the KSA engaged with two Dutch licensees referenced in the Telegram channel, although it opted not to reveal their identities. The findings revealed that while one company had a partnership with Analyse Master, it swiftly terminated this relationship upon discovering the latter’s use of role models in its promotions. The other operator had merely purchased advertising space on the Telegram channel without any formal collaboration with Analyse Master; it promptly retracted its advertisements upon learning about the role model endorsements aimed at young adults.

Ultimately, the KSA concluded that both operators acted appropriately and did not violate any regulations. Nonetheless, the regulator took the opportunity to remind its licensees to remain vigilant in their advertising practices, ensuring full compliance with legal standards.

KSA Raises Concerns Over Analyse Master’s Marketing Practices

Since Analyse Master is not a licensed gambling operator, the KSA lacks the authority to impose sanctions against the platform. However, the regulator has expressed apprehension over the business model adopted by Analyse Master, especially regarding its appeal to younger demographics through social media channels.

KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen emphasized the risks associated with such targeting, stating, “The presence of channels on social media promoting sports betting to young adults is highly undesirable and alarming, as this demographic is particularly vulnerable to developing gambling addictions.”

While the current advertising restrictions predominantly apply to gambling service providers, there is an indication from State Secretary Teun Struycken that the government may consider adjusting these regulations to enhance the KSA’s oversight capabilities. Groothuizen welcomed this prospect, remarking, “I am encouraged by State Secretary Struycken’s recent announcements regarding adjustments to advertising regulations, which would empower the supervisory authority to take active measures against such platforms.”

KSA Launches Crackdown on Illegal Poker Activities

In a separate development, KSA announced on March 10 its efforts to combat illegal poker operations within the Netherlands. During a series of enforcement actions last autumn, the KSA successfully dismantled multiple unauthorized poker tournaments, seizing tens of thousands of euros in cash. Notably, one raid resulted in the recovery of €40,000 (£33,689/$43,548) at a single location.

Furthermore, last month, the KSA issued a €110,000 fine to an unidentified entity for orchestrating poker activities without a valid license. It is important to note that Holland Casino remains the sole licensed operator authorized to conduct live poker tournaments for monetary prizes, a situation that has persisted since 1975, aside from games played among a closed group.

These developments underscore the KSA’s ongoing commitment to regulating the gambling sector effectively, ensuring compliance from licensed operators while addressing potential threats posed by platforms like Analyse Master. As the industry evolves, so too must the regulatory frameworks to foster a safe and fair gambling environment.