Global Gambling Market Updates: Alberta Launch, EU Revenue, New Levies

The global gambling sector recorded several regulatory and market developments across five regions in early July. Alberta officially opened its competitive iGaming market on July 13, while European and African authorities implemented new licensing and taxation measures.

Market Launches and Licensing Updates

Alberta became the second Canadian province after Ontario to permit private gambling operators. The provincial government projects C$76m in revenue for the first year. Fifty-one licensed platforms entered the market, including BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel and Bet365. Meanwhile, Angola’s ISJ established a 30-working-day transitional licensing window under the new Gaming Activity Law. The July 1 Circular allows eligible operators to maintain services while comprehensive regulations are drafted.

European Revenue and Tax Proposals

Unlicensed gambling platforms generated an estimated €91.6bn across the European Union in 2025, representing a 14% increase from the previous year. The European Casino Association reports that more than 6,200 unauthorized sites currently target European players, resulting in €22.9bn in lost government tax revenue. In Italy, a Senate bill introduces a 2% levy on domestic football wagering. The legislation allocates funds to youth development, women’s football and problem gambling prevention, while maintaining revenue neutrality through a reduction in the existing PREU tax.

Digital Asset Integration

Türkiye’s largest digital asset platform, Paribu, integrated Polymarket into its application. The update provides Turkish users with direct access to prediction markets through a dedicated DeFi section.