Sports Betting Licenses Issued in Schleswig-Holstein After All

The latest news from the German State of Schleswig-Holstein include reports of an interesting decision of the lander to grant six-year online sportsbetting licenses to Victor Chandler International Ltd. (Gibraltar), bet90 (Malta) and Interwetten Gaming Ltd. (Malta), even though it was previously announced that its new Government plans to rejoin the controversial and restrictive Federal State Gaming Treaty. Also, in addition to the existing license, two companies from the Novomatic-owned Admiral Group, which have offices in Germany and Austria, were awarded authorization to offer sports betting in retail betting venues. The ministry added that at the moment it is reviewing another 23 sports betting provider applications. Apart from the licenses, the lander's Ministry also launched a player loyalty card which will be mandatory for players to identify themselves whether playing online or through land-based venues. Players will be able to get the cards via bookmakers, it was specified. In addition, Interior Minister Andreas Breitner said: "Schleswig-Holstein sets exemplary standards for the security and transparency of gambling. With the launch of the card, we eliminate the potential for anonymous gambling and thereby avoid money laundering.”