MGA’s 2025 regulatory update: Key changes for operators
After releasing its 2023 Annual Report, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has introduced new regulatory changes for 2025 designed to increase transparency, safety, and resilience within the online gaming sector. Going forward, operators must adapt to a data-driven supervisory model that will impact compliance processes and operational practices.
Key regulatory priorities for 2025
The centres on three core priorities:
- Risk-based resource allocation: Resources will be directed toward high-risk areas. Operators identified in these segments can expect more frequent and thorough inspections. Enhanced internal controls and comprehensive documentation will also be necessary to meet these higher standards.
- Enhanced collaboration: The MGA will work more closely with operators to ensure that business practices align with regulatory expectations. This means operators may be required to participate in regular consultations, provide additional operational data, and adjust internal policies based on MGA feedback.
- Proactive risk management: The Authority intends to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. For operators, this implies a need to continuously update risk management frameworks and monitor emerging threats to avoid regulatory breaches.
Impact on sports betting integrity and responsible gaming
- Sports betting: Operators, particularly those active in the local football betting market, will be required to report suspicious betting activities promptly. Systems must be in place to detect irregular patterns in betting behaviour.
- Responsible gaming: Stricter self-exclusion measures and improved detection systems will be enforced to identify and manage at-risk players. Operators must ensure their player protection tools are robust and fully integrated across all platforms.
The MGA’s new Supervisory Toolkit
The updated Supervisory Toolkit will now include several new and revised functions.
- Full-scope and focused inspections: Operators will face comprehensive document reviews and operational audits. Both scheduled and ad hoc inspections will scrutinise compliance with all regulatory requirements, emphasising areas of previously identified risk.
- Supervisory meetings and reviews: Regular meetings will be conducted to assess compliance status and review corrective actions. Operators should expect more detailed discussions regarding their internal controls and governance practices.
- Mystery shopping techniques: Undercover assessments will evaluate the real-world implementation of regulatory standards. This requires operators to ensure that their customer-facing operations meet all prescribed guidelines.
New reporting requirements for 2025
- Annual Financial Reports (AFR): Operators must submit detailed reports, including revenue, assets, equity, and liabilities. These reports are due within two months after the financial year-end, demanding that financial systems and record-keeping processes are up to date.
- Interim Financial Reports (IFR): Ongoing financial updates will be required throughout the year to maintain regulatory oversight. Companies will be required to establish processes that allow for timely and accurate interim reporting. Failure to comply with these reporting requirements could lead to penalties or increased regulatory intervention.
Next steps for operators
To align with the new regulatory environment, operators are expected to update their current framework, focusing particularly on:
- Strengthening compliance controls: Review and update compliance systems to meet the risk-based approach, ensuring that high-risk areas are adequately managed.
- Enhancing staff training: Train personnel on the updated requirements, particularly in monitoring sports betting activities and managing player protection measures.
- Preparing for increased inspections: Anticipate more frequent and detailed supervisory reviews. Engage with the MGA’s updated toolkit by ensuring all documentation and operational processes are audit-ready.
- Upgrading financial reporting systems: Modify accounting and reporting systems to comply with the new AFR and IFR deadlines and detail requirements.
Safety and resilience
The MGA’s 2025 regulatory update indicates a shift towards a more proactive and data-driven regulatory environment, aiming to maintain compliance and increase operational standards in Malta.
By strengthening compliance controls, enhancing staff training, preparing for increased inspections, and upgrading financial reporting systems, operators will stay aligned with the updated regulations, contributing towards a more transparent, safe, and resilient industry.
