Foundation of Focus Gaming News:
The media outlet is launched with the mission to cover the iGaming industry professionally and globally. Early support comes from key companies including BetConstruct, Evolution, FBM, and Ortiz Gaming.
Colombia regulates online gambling:
Coljuegos established the first robust regulatory framework for online gambling in Latin America with Agreement 04 of 2016, becoming the role model for the entire region.
Japan passes the IR Promotion Bill:
In December, the National Diet of Japan passed the historic bill legalising land-based casinos under the integrated resort model.
Latin America coverage begins:
Focus Gaming News expands its reporting to LatAm, featuring its first international reports and interviews.
Pennsylvania legalises online gambling:
In October, Governor Tom Wolf signed a massive gambling expansion bill, making Pennsylvania the fourth US state to legalise online casinos and poker.
Regulatory shift in Australia:
The Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill is passed, banning "in-play" betting and tightening the market for offshore operators.
The End of PASPA:
On May 14, the US Supreme Court overturned PASPA, allowing states to legalise sports betting. This is undoubtedly the most consequential event of the decade.
Re-regulation in Sweden:
Sweden approved its new Gambling Act, dismantling the state monopoly and creating a competitive licensing system.
Key partner at international events:
Focus Gaming News starts prominent collaborations at ICE, iGB L!VE, SiGMA, and G2E Las Vegas.
Buenos Aires moves forward:
Both the Province and the City of Buenos Aires approved their respective online gambling laws, opening up one of the most coveted markets in Argentina.
Growth and influence:
The brand strengthens its position as a go-to source for global iGaming news.
Impact of COVID-19:
While land-based casinos in Las Vegas, Macau, and Europe temporarily closed their doors, the online sector experienced unprecedented growth.
Digital innovation:
Introduction of video interviews and podcasts, expanding storytelling formats and audience reach.
Opening of the Netherlands:
On October 1, after years of delays, the regulated online gambling market in the Netherlands officially launched under the Remote Gambling Act (KOA).
New State Treaty in Germany:
In July, the GlüNeuRStV (State Treaty on Gambling) came into force, legalising online poker and slots at a federal level.
Global influence:
Focus Gaming News becomes one of the most influential and widely read iGaming media outlets in the world.
International recognition:
Receives its first “Best iGaming Media” award at the SiGMA Awards.
Launch of Ontario (Canada):
On April 4, Ontario launched its regulated iGaming market, immediately becoming one of the largest jurisdictions in North America.
Renewal of concessions in Macau:
The six incumbent operators (MGM, Sands, Wynn, SJM, Galaxy, Melco) signed the renewal of their licences for another 10 years.
Expansion and recognition in LatAm:
Launch of Focus Gaming News Brasil. Recognized as Best iGaming Media in LatAm at SiGMA Americas in Brazil.
Betting Law in Brazil:
In December, President Lula da Silva sanctioned Law 14,790, finally establishing the legal framework for sports betting and iGaming in Brazil.
First licences in the UAE:
The newly created GCGRA awarded the first lottery licence and commercial gaming facility operator licence (Wynn Resorts), marking the legal beginning of gaming in the Persian Gulf.
Peru regulates:
The law regulating the exploitation of remote games and sports betting came into force in February.
Ireland establishes new authority:
Ireland passed the historic Gambling Regulation Act 2024, creating the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).
Regulated Market in Brazil (January):
January 1 marked the official start of the regulated betting market in Brazil with over 100 operators under the new .bet.br domain.
Social and regional growth:
Launch of Focus Africa. Focus Gaming News reaches 10,000 LinkedIn followers.
Thailand postpones:
Analysts now estimate that the regulatory framework and licence tenders in Thailand will not materialise until 2027.
10th Anniversary and Vision Focus 2030:
Celebrates a decade with a clear roadmap for growth, including greater investment in the team, and enhanced technology and editorial offerings.
The game has just begun.