Gaming Industry

GAMING INDUSTRY

30 May 2019

Esports and Video Game Development

Malta proceeds to the next level Since its inception in the late 90s, esports has slowly but surely established itself as a new, unique form of sports and entertainment. However, it was only during the last couple of years that it has truly come into its own. Now poised to take over the world, esports, from its unique online streaming platforms where millions of players watch and participate, to the sporting venues filled with thousands of fans, it is a stimulating and fresh concept which is still relatively unexplored. ith a global spectatorship of some 292million made up of occasional viewers and esports enthusiasts worldwide, the esports industry has flourished into a multibilliondollar business which has seen unprecedented, exponential growth and this year is expected to generate some $1.5Bn in revenues. Globally, the market for video games and esports is growing to such an extent that it is now worth more than the thriving film and music industries combined.

But it is not the ‘just entertainment’ value which makes the industry so unique; games promote ground-breaking creativity, foster competition and bolster culture. Innovation has transformed the perception of games; from traditional games, solely associated with leisure and entertainment, into games which reach way beyond into other sectors, such as education and healthcare, providing wider social impacts and technology spill overs.

But what does this new phenomenon, in tangible terms, mean for our country? It is now highly apparent that the time is ripe for us to explore this new, intriguing digital frontier. Our commitment towards this new economic niche, has put Malta as one of the few countries in the world to support this sector on a governmental level and we are adamant that we shall continue in this vein.

Our ultimate vision is to position Malta as a hub for this sector which already attracts the attention of millions across the globe. We believe that with an already strong

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Our commitment towards this new economic niche, has put Malta as one of the few countries in the world to support this sector on a governmental level and we are adamant that we shall continue in this vein. Our ultimate vision is to position Malta as a hub for this sector which already attracts the attention of millions across the globe.

infrastructure in place, Malta serves as the ideal backdrop for esports tournaments and events.

As a government we are now in the final stages of formulating a holistic strategy for Esports and Video Gaming; a strategy which will also identify the ideal incentives and the skills required, as well as the establishing of a new niche within the tourism sector. Malta’s Vision for Video Games Development and Esports is a vision which will ultimately pave the way for the establishing of a strong infrastructure which will serve as the foundation for the ultimate Mediterranean and European central hub for the sector. The incentives that we will be rolling out are in line with EU rules and they complement other incentives.

Operators in this space are already looking into using the services provided by Malta in order to tap into European markets. Through this strategy we will identify and address the relatively untapped business potential and consequently the benefits emanating from game development and production. We anticipate the setting up of a substantial number of studios operating as digital manufacturing units, which will ultimately contribute to high skill, high value-added

employment.

Malta’s vision for the video games development and esports sector includes several strategical initiatives such as a European model for tax rebates and grants to firms, Direct Grant Schemes for Innovation, a fund for the development of video games with a cultural dimension and the development of a Venture Capital Investment Fund.

The launching of Esports events as well as the attracting of local and international Esports organisations, provide unprecedented global exposure opportunities.

These operations are similar to music festival tourism, events which attract a worldwide audience which is made up of a highly coveted demographic – the millennials; a younger, extremely tech savvy, uniquely interactive audience, consuming content in a completely new way compared to the regular, traditional, sports betting audience. On a global scale this market is expected to double in three years.

But it would be foolish and highly negligent on our part if we do not regard this exciting new sector as a unique opportunity to enhance the prospects of our workforce. With already over 200 new jobs created, these companies are providing stimulating career paths for young Maltese and exposing them to the latest platforms and practices to increase competitiveness.

To meet the demand for talent originating from the video game and esports sphere, we shall be implementing a number of policy measures which will cater for this and create the relevant supply of skilled employees. To this end, GamingMalta and EGIM are to organise and co-ordinate a number of scholarships and work placements for Maltese students, as well as International Masters classes in Malta to promote educational tourism and centres of excellence.

These policies will also seek to provide the necessary investment to support University of Malta and MCAST in upgrading their curricula and investment in new facilities required for game development related courses, a Bursary programme to attract local and foreign graduate students to further their studies with local institutions, whilst working in the industry to create a local startup, as

well as incubator space for games development startups. Esports and Video Gaming present an unprecedented opportunity for our younger generations and therefore we need to pre-empt the future demands from companies, ideally before they arise.

By incorporating esports, video gaming and game development into our already strong ecosystem, we envisage that Malta will be able to host thought leadership conferences and events to form collaborations and foster co-development with other international video games development regions, a stance which in itself, would be highly advantageous for our standing on the global digital stage.

To facilitate our efforts to help attract international esports tournaments to Malta and further endorse a forward-thinking agenda, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed just recently, between ESL and the Government of Malta through the GamingMalta Foundation. The MOU will serve as an intent for both parties to develop a multi-year programme to help the development of the local grassroot esport ecosystem, the organisation of local and international events, as well as the sharing of expertise in the sector. This serves as clear confirmation that our unstinting commitment and continuous nurturing of this fledgling industry is what makes Malta a crucial hub for operations, the natural choice for investors and for them to become main contributors to Malta’s economic growth.

Throughout this technological revolution, Malta has journeyed far, way beyond what was previously deemed possible, but there are other new frontiers to be scaled, which require our rigorous commitment and unfailing determination. Esports and video gaming are another exciting aspect of the technological evolution we are witnessing in our lifetime, but an aspect which, with the right vision, strategy and unstinting commitment, can bear valuable fruit for Malta, both in economic and in equally important, social terms.

Silvio Schembri is Parliamentary Secretary for Financial Services, Digital Economy and Innovation.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE GAMING INDUSTRY Malta – “The ideal place from iGaming Operators” The gaming industry in Malta has flourished over the past few years since most gaming companies are finding Malta the ideal place from which to operate.

The fact that Malta is an EU member state which has adopted the Euro as its currency, coupled with the fact that it is geographically positioned at the centre of the Mediterranean and is represented by a diverse, highly-skilled and multilingual workforce driven by a sound work ethic, makes Malta an irresistible location for thousands of iGaming companies. Malta offers the best ‘eco system’ for gaming companies; it has the right resources, legislation and infrastructure to support iGaming companies with their operations. The influx of iGaming companies has resulted in a variety of career opportunities, attracting both local and international talent.

Francesca Buhagiar writes.

he gaming industry in Malta has flourished over the past few years since most gaming companies are finding Malta the ideal place from which to operate. The fact that Malta is an EU member state which has adopted the Euro as its currency, coupled with the fact that it is geographically positioned at the centre of the Mediterranean and is represented by a diverse, highly-skilled and multilingual workforce driven by a sound work ethic, makes Malta an irresistible location for thousands of iGaming companies. Malta offers the best ‘eco system’ for gaming companies; it has the right resources, legislation and infrastructure to support iGaming companies with their operations. The influx of iGaming companies has resulted in a variety of career opportunities, attracting both local and international talent.

With the exponential growth of such an industry, attracting the best talent is of utmost importance since it is through its employees that a company is able to achieve its business objectives. In order to cater for this high demand for talent, a number of recruitment agencies have settled in Malta, using their network both locally and internationally to assist gaming operators in recruiting the right candidates. It comes as no surprise that with the rapid growth of such a sophisticated industry, iGaming companies are investing substantially in hiring

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It comes as no surprise that with the rapid growth of such a sophisticated industry, iGaming companies are investing substantially in hiring the right talent across all departments.

The iGaming industry has brought along a variety of roles which are all required for a company to operate effectively.

Career seekers from different walks of life, with different skill sets and competences are able to benefit from such an industry and are provided with a career path. the right talent across all departments. The iGaming industry has brought along a variety of roles which are all required for a company to operate effectively. Career seekers from different walks of life, with different skill sets and competences are able to benefit from such an industry and are provided with a career path.

Given the importance of such a booming sector, many job seekers are now looking to develop their career within the iGaming industry. Graduates and non-graduates are attempting to get into the gaming sector by taking on customer service roles and then working their way up the ladder gradually. Apart from offering customer service job openings, which allow people with different language skills to use their knowledge, the industry also offers a number of job opportunities for candidates with specific skill sets. People with experience and qualifications in; Marketing, Business Development & Sales, HR, Product Development and Design, Computing & Programming are all essential for the running of the iGaming business.

Although the technical and marketing skills are extensively sought after, this industry also relies

heavily on the expertise of legal and financial professionals in order to operate effectively.

With the latest GDPR Law, the 4th AML Directive as well as the upcoming new Malta Gaming law, which will come into effect shortly, many gaming companies are resorting to legal expertise, now more than ever. Apart from outsourcing legal advice, the changes in the regulatory framework have opened the doors to many legal and financial professionals, who seek to develop a career within this industry. Gaming companies are now resorting to recruiting in house lawyers and building up their legal team in a stronger and more effective manner.

Furthermore, gaming companies are now claiming to be strong advocates for Responsible Gaming. With the importance given to such a concept, such companies are seeking to recruit individuals who hold a psychology or counselling background and who are able to take on roles such as that of a Responsible Gaming Analyst.

What is so remarkable about this industry is that it provides opportunities for job seekers with diverse talents; the creative individuals, individuals with technical expertise, as well as those with problem solving and analytical skills, all have a place within this industry. Apart from job seekers with the above-mentioned skill sets, certain soft skills within the workplace such as personal flexibility, versatility, interpersonal negotiation skills and self-awareness are also sought after. Furthermore, the iGaming sector is also a volatile industry, creating an important niche for job seekers who are resilient and who adapt to change easily.

Apart from the roles within the iGaming sector, the growth of this industry has opened up career opportunities within other businesses operating from different industries. Business support services such as corporate service providers, law firms and accountancy and audit firms are seeking to recruit professionals with iGaming expertise, to assist iGaming operators in their business needs.

Without a shadow of a doubt, iGaming companies have created extensive career opportunities. As Malta continues to embrace more gaming companies, our island needs to continue evolving in order to remain relevant and retain its strong position in this sector.

Francesca Buhagiar – Recruitment Consultant at Vacancy Centre

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GAMING INDUSTRY iGaming: Recognizing key potential weakness is key to lasting success he gaming industry has become firmly rooted in the heart of our economy. The great strides we have made in this area have allowed us to consolidate Malta as the undisputed European destination for the iGaming industry.

However, our symbiosis with the gaming industry does not stop there. The industry also serves as a gateway for growth and further expansion into the digital economy. Through the knowhow and infrastructure built around the industry we are now prepared to take a leap further and turn our country into a leader in digital industries and innovation.

The success of this industry is a testament to Malta’s agility to meet market demands and our commitment to provide the highest standards in the service industry. Today, we can boast that we have the capability, the infrastructure and more importantly the talent to really aim for more.

The myriad of companies of all sizes that have and still are choosing Malta as their base is clear evidence of the great success story that iGaming has had in Malta, and we welcome such a rapidly growing technology business to continue seeking expansion and growth on our shores.

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The success of this industry is a testament to Malta’s agility to meet market demands and our commitment to provide the highest standards in the service industry.

Today, we can boast that we have the capability, the infrastructure and more importantly the talent to really aim for more.

Whilst the industry is characterized by a heavy intake of foreign workers it is pleasing to note that the Maltese are playing ever-growing roles both in terms of carriers and as innovators, taking the industry forward and into new territory.

That being said we recognize that the industry is prone to misuse and abuse. That is why in 2017 a new Gaming Act which was tabled in Parliament. The

new Gaming Act, seeks to enhance the regulatory framework by strengthening regulator’s role, specifically its compliance and enforcement functions to better achieve regulatory objectives in line with current developments relating to anti-money laundering and combating the funding of terrorism. Recognizing key potential weakness is key to lasting success and Malta has once again risen to the occasion.

Based on these achievements it has become evident to us that we can start to export this success

CSB Group exhibits once again at G2E Asia SB Group has recently returned from another successful participation in Macao’s G2E Asia, the largest and the most extensive marketplace in the Asian gaming industry. The Group was one of the 200 international exhibitors that occupied an impressive area of 34,000 square meters of a bi-level expo hall. G2E Asia is all about providing companies and their gaming products the ideal platform where gaming stakeholders can launch or promote their latest solutions.

Roger A. Strickland Jr represented CSB Group at the well-attended show and welcomed visitors who showed interest in setting up or relocating their iGaming business to Malta, which was proudly promoted as an established and wellregulated European gaming jurisdiction.

CSB Group is a Malta based leading

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corporate services provider with iGaming as one of the areas of specialisation. Other areas include; Corporate, Trust, Tax, Accounting, Fintech, Immigration, Relocation, Recruitment and Real Estate. The Group’s reputation stems from the long years of experience and is backed by a team of qualified professionals who always strive to provide tailor-made solutions aimed at exceeding clients’ expectations.

The Group’s iGaming team endeavours to be present in major iGaming shows globally to meet their esteemed clients and keep abreast of new developments within the industry’s sphere. Upcoming events to be attended or sponsored by CSB Group are iGB Live! in Amsterdam and SiGMA in Malta.

Should you require any assistance from one of our experts, kindly contact us on gaming@csbgroup.com.

story to other shores, allowing the innovations that the industry has brought with it to brand the Maltese product, and what we can share with other economies, both those that are nascent or well advanced.

As a Government, we remain committed to ensure that Malta remains a prime jurisdiction for the industry. We shall ensure that we provide the highest regulatory standards making the industry safe for consumers, rewards responsible operators and provides governments with oversight.

We commit to remain agile enough to meet the industry’s demands and emerging trends within the market. It is our belief that the industry will continue to flourish and grow in Malta if we remain close and honest partners to all stakeholders. More importantly to remain at the forefront we need to remain vigilant and not allow complacency to seek in. Sitting on our laurels has never been our way but have always been driven to build on our successes widening our reach and furthering our targets.

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Attracting new entrepreneurs due to our legislative and technological innovation As the first EU country to regulate online gaming, Malta today has an outsize influence in the world of iGaming and the rapid expansion of the sector shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, iGaming has grown into one of Malta’s most important economic contributors.

oday, the industry accounts for 11% of the island’s GDP and employs more than 6,000 people. Not to mention the ancillary services such as security, auditing work and webhosting which employ an additional 4,000 persons.

Malta’s open arm attitude to iGaming companies has seen some of the largest gaming companies and innovative startups set-up operations on the island. Industry heavyweights such as Betsson, Bet 365, GiG, Betfair, Paddy Power, GVC, Kindred, LeoVegas, Evolution, Stars Group, Draftkings, Evolution, Tipico and SKS365 all have a huge base in Malta. But why are they coming? Today, Malta offers a thriving ecosystem where gaming companies can find anything they need to manage their business and a dedicated regulatory framework which provides them with the security and stability they need to operate properly. The country’s competitive tax corporate tax system certainly helps, but companies insist that this is not the primary attraction which convinces them to choose Malta over other EU countries. Our competitive edge lies in the fact that a Malta license is an international one that does not restrict an operator to the Maltese market but gives companies the opportunity to exploit business ventures in the rest of the world.

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Start-up support Malta is stepping up its efforts in helping to create new businesses and we have also expanded the scope of support for innovators.

As a government, we are constantly striving to nurture talent and it is for this reason that we have established incubators to support start-ups that have the potential to develop innovative services in the gaming industry.

Venture capital firms have also started moving to Malta, providing promising start-ups with another avenue to access financing. We believe that access to finance is one of the biggest hurdles any start-up may face and that is why we have introduced the Seed Investment Scheme. The scheme, administered by MIMCOL, offers incentives in the form of tax credits to investors in return for investment in a qualifying Maltese start-up or early stage companies.

In this way, we are offering young entrepreneurs a route to vital funding in the initial stages of their project by effectively minimising the risk to investors.

The power of rapid scaling is also a huge competitive advantage for companies setting up in Malta.

Gaming start-ups find Malta as a particularly attractive place due to the concentration of industry players, talent and suppliers which are based on the island. They aim to scale fast and are able to do so as they enjoy access to the knowledge of some of the biggest players in the industry.

The power of rapid scaling is also a huge competitive advantage for companies setting up in Malta. Gaming start-ups find Malta as a particularly attractive place due to the concentration of industry players, talent and suppliers which are based on the island. They aim to scale fast and are able to do so as they enjoy access to the knowledge of some of the biggest players in the industry.

Seeking new opportunities Quality of infrastructure is a decisive factor when investors are planning future business investments. Malta’s transport network has failed to keep up with the exceptional growth of our economy and it is for this reason that as a government we have embarked on the biggest infrastructural overhaul the country has ever had. This €700 million investment will place Malta in a better position to compete with other countries for the highest value investment and position itself as one of the world’s largest business hubs.

Should the UK leave the European Union, Brexit may provide Malta with an array of new opportunities. As a government, we have adopted a co-location approach which has resonated with

businesses seeking an address in the European Union.

Sustaining growth Malta is pushing itself as an innovation driven economy and as a government we are aware that raising our productivity and increasing our efficiency is critical if our economic growth is to be sustained. I strongly believe that our success as a country is built on our ability to constantly attract new entrepreneurs due to our legislative and technological innovation. To ensure that Malta retains its competitive edge we must continue to work hard to maintain all these right elements in place.

Chris Cardona is Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses

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iGaming Talent Insights from Boston Link alta has become widely viewed as the global home of the booming iGaming sector. And in an industry that puts so much emphasis on talent acquisition and retention, insights about salaries are critical. Every year Boston Link undertakes an annual survey, taking a deep dive into what changes we see across the industry and sharing that information with our clients and candidates in our attempt to promote a more transparent insight.

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Here are some of the key changes we have seen over the past year: Executive Level Salaries at the Executive level have not shown any significant change from last year’s report. As in previous years, the lower to midrange C-Level salaries tend to reflect start-up or early-stage companies that are currently being run by their founders. Such remuneration tends to include equity and bonus tied to successful exit (IPO / trade sale) and will often be across the C-Suite. The mid to upper-range is indicative of medium-sized

operators or suppliers working across a number of markets. The upper limit is less absolute than for the other salaries in this report and the most well-remunerated executives are earning significantly higher numbers with 100%+ performance-related bonuses and share options.

There is still a general reluctance in the industry for executives to operate on a ‘fly-in, fly-out’ basis. Therefore companies looking to attract C-level talent from abroad will often include significant relocation and housing allowances.

Tech & Analytics Roles With the rapid changes taking place in technology worldwide, a wealth of techrelated positions have become available, with many firms creating new roles that combine data analytics, tech and marketing, that have brought with them a consistently growing demand for different tech professionals.

Considering this, it should come as no surprise that the largest increases in salaries of all job types in the industry have been in Tech & Analytics roles. 2018 saw a particularly strong demand for data analytics experience.

Julian Perigo

Management Positions Such positions have also seen a significant increase in salaries. This demonstrates the growing demand for high-quality industry expertise and leadership skills, with Head of Affiliates and Head of SEO departments being great examples. Firms have also tended to expand their social marketing teams and offer higher salaries for more specialised positions in these areas.

Compliance An interesting observation we’ve made is a decrease in the lower banding for some specialist functions such as Compliance and Responsible Gaming. This might indicate companies’ willingness to hire junior talent into key areas and train them accordingly, particularly in areas that they view as critical for the future of their business. This opens up opportunities for job-seekers with less experience looking to get their foot in the door.

Thinking of Relocating Within the iGaming Industry?

Packing up your life and leaving everything you know to head off to uncharted territory is a big step, but relocating is sometimes your

best bet for long-term career opportunities, a higher salary, and a much-needed change of scenery. iGaming is a truly international industry and many leading companies are setting up in locations such as Barcelona and Estonia. Boston Link has recruited and relocated hundreds of iGaming professionals in over 20 countries and is familiar with the best companies in each iGaming jurisdictions.

Boston Link is one of the fastest growing multidiscipline recruiters in Malta, and has expanded to 15 staff since it was first launched less than 5 years ago. Julian Perigo, Managing Director, says: “Since establishing our business in Malta we have had a clear aim: we want to outperform the market and raise the bar when it comes to recruitment as a service and partnership.”

As it has grown, Perigo is clear that Boston Link remains true to its original vision of being a specialist recruitment boutique. He explains: “Being boutique enables us to have more touchpoints with the client, and provide a more consultative service, rather than a transactional one. We want to continue building our business as a boutique in each country, with a footprint globally.” Boston Link also has offices in the U.K. and Isle of Man.

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iGaming & Anti-money laundering – implementing a risk-based approach n May of 2015, the introduction of European Union Directive 2015/849 of 20 May 2015 (“4th AML Directive”) brought the online gaming industry within the scope of anti-money laundering and combatting the funding of terrorism (“AML/CFT”) legal obligations and responsibilities. Significantly, this Directive, transposed to Maltese law through the Prevention of Money Laundering and Funding of Terrorism Regulations (“PMLFTR”) effective as from 1st January 2018, introduced a mandatory risk-based approach.

But what does this mean, exactly? This means that AML/CFT policies and procedures adopted by subject persons must be commensurate to their risk appetite and to the risks that they are exposed to. Businesses continuously face a balancing act between risk and reward. Online gaming operators are

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no exception to this. The level of risk that an entity is willing to accept is referred to as the risk appetite. An entity’s risk appetite varies between different operators, both as a result of their attitude towards acceptance of risk, and also as a result of differences in business models. The risk-based approach mentioned above allows subject persons the flexibility to draw up policies and procedures in the light of the inherent risk that they are exposed to, accompanied by a suitable control framework drawing up in the light of the relevant regulatory frameworks. Essentially, operators need to find a balance which would avoid a mismatch between inherent risk and controls.

Such a mismatch would result in a high residual risk exposure that would expose the entity to a high money laundering risk.

Many will say that this is a positive measure, and certain operators may welcome the flexibility that a risk-based approach brings

Businesses continuously face a balancing act between risk and reward.

Online gaming operators are no exception to this. The level of risk that an entity is willing to accept is referred to as the risk appetite. about. However, others may struggle in applying a risk-based framework, both due to their unfamiliarity with risk management models, and a lack of resources. The business risk assessment (“BRA”), a mandatory requirement emanating from the PMLFTR, lays down the important parameters to assess the inherent risk, both in terms of likelihood and impact, that an entity’s business model is exposed to.

Subsequently, entities should take measures

to document and draw up policies (including a Customer Acceptance Policy) and procedures, and employ quality assurance measures to ensure that its risk management policy is being adhered to. These should be backed by appropriate systems and tools, including IT solutions that constantly profile customer risk and monitor customer activity and behavioural patterns, including the identification of high risk / suspicious activity. Naturally, these should be implemented by sufficient and adequately trained personnel.

Both the EU and Malta have upped their game in combatting financial crime over the past years. Licensed B2C online gaming operators are expected to follow suit with respect to money laundering, and invest in the necessary systems and human resources to ensure that AML/CFT risk is adequately managed. While one may argue that these changes have placed additional burdens on online gaming operators, it is also true to say that, in the medium to long term, it will provide an opportunity for the industry to improve its perception and image with various stakeholders, including financial institutions, with respect to exposure to criminality and money laundering.

Seek help against your gambling addiction. Call: 1777.

According to the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), in 2017 the gaming industry made a direct contribution to the Maltese economy of €1.1 billion, with approximately 9,800 full time jobs among operators and associated businesses.

Kayne Said writes.

tatistics presented from the same authority show that the Maltese population spent €128 million in gaming services during 2017. It was estimated that 53% of the gaming population spent money on some form of gaming. Out of those 53%, 1% or 2% (1,800-3,900 individuals)

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reported having some sort of gambling problem.

This is where the Responsible Gaming Foundation (RGF) steps in, where the social downsides of gaming/gambling are tackled. As the Parliamentary Secretary Hon. Silvio Schembri puts it: ‘‘besides every number there is a story and we need to start hearing those stories’’.

The RGF was set up in 2014. The requirement for an independent foundation emerged following a debate in Parliament on the amendments of the Lotteries and Other Games Act to introduce regulations governing land-based gaming parlours.

The RGF’s aim is to; strengthen recognition about responsibility in gambling/gaming, provide alternatives, support training & research and offer a helping hand to compulsive and pathological gamblers.

When a person gambles, one is taking part in a risky activity, where one risks losing their money. On the other hand gaming does not involve risk but a person can become a problematic gamer all the same.

The foundation is not against gaming or gambling, as long as these activities are conducted in a controlled and responsible way. A gambler needs to stick, not only to the rules of the game, but also to his financial and time limits.

When these limits are surpassed,

gambling starts to take over important matters and this may lead to compulsion. In this case gambling will no longer be considered as a social, fun activity, but starts to evolve into a serious problem. The urge to gamble becomes so controlling that the only way to ease the tension would be to gamble further.

All this, can lead to pathological gambling which is something that develops slowly over time. If the problem is not treated immediately it may lead to; financial crisis, habitual gambling, family breakdowns and criminal behaviour. In short, gambling should only be perceived as a form

of entertainment. Gamblers should refrain from drinking excessively while playing and ask for help when they need it.

The RGF offers its own helpline: 1777, where people who are suffering from a gambling problem, or people in close contact with gamblers, can phone our trained staff on a 24 hour basis. It is a Freephone service; every caller can rely on his or her anonymity and our confidentiality.

One can also access our anonymous chat line through our revamped website: www.rgf.org.mt.

The foundation also processes self-exclusion requests, where gamblers can contact us through

our helpline: 1777 and book an appointment in full confidentiality in order to exclude themselves for a period of 6 months, 1 year or for an indefinite period from land based gaming parlours licensed by the MGA. Understanding that you have a problem and wanting to seek help are the first two most important but difficult steps to solve gambling problems. Know only, that help against problem gambling is just a phone call away. Call: 1777. We are always there to help.

Kayne Said, Promotions Executive (Responsible Gaming Foundation)

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GAMING INDUSTRY MoU signed between police and MGA to strengthen training and information sharing A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the police force and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). he MoU will strengthen the level of information sharing between the MGA and the police, while it will also see new training provided by the MGA to police recruits with regards to the gaming sector, and training by the police to MGA officials with regards to cyber crime.

Home Affairs and National Security Minister Michael Farrugia said that the MoU is a step in the right direction and part of the continuous reorganisation of the police corps which is seeing it adapt to new means of criminality.

He noted that the force has been proactive in dealing with economic crimes, which have been increasing as the gaming sector – which generates around €1.2 billion of Malta’s economy, or rather 12% of the country’s GDP – has taken root in the country.

Farrugia also spoke of the importance of data sharing, saying

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that with the help of EU funding and of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), the police corps was carrying out an extensive data centralisation exercise called Hercules 3. Through this project, data held by both the police and by other authorities will be centralised and amalgamated so it would be

easier to analyse and act upon when necessary.

Parliamentary Secretary for Financial Services, Digital Economy and Innovation Silvio Schembri said that this MoU is a clear sign of the importance of synergy between various authorities in the country.

He said that such agreements are

key to strengthening Malta’s jurisdiction in the gaming sector, which is one of the largest in the world, and would put both sides in a better position to share information between them.

He said that MGA’s work had recently resulted in the arrest of several people in Italy on charges of

money laundering, and also announced that new measures relating to cyber crime will be announced in the coming days.

MGA CEO Heathcliff Farrugia spoke of the contents of the MoU and said that it not only consolidates but also confirms the very good relationship between the MGA and the police.

Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar said that the nature of criminality has changed drastically over the years, principally because of today’s technological innovation.

He spoke of investment made in the force’s economic crimes unit both in human resources and physical resources, saying that the unit was now led by an assistant commissioner and was made up of two superintendants and over a dozen investigators. The cyber crime unit, he said, has also seen similar investment and improvements. Both these units will be moving to new premises by the end of the year, Cutajar said.

Cutajar said that he is sure that this MoU will facilitate work more and help to continue to obtain good results in the fight against this new type of criminality, and added that it is only one of a number of initiatives that the corps is embarking on with a number of separate authorities.

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iGaming Invitational – A golfing and networking success he inaugural iGaming Invitational event, held on the 8th of May 2019, at the Royal Malta Golf Course has proved to be an unprecedented success.

Based on a new, innovative, networking concept within the industry, iGaming Invitational is a premium golf event for the industry’s C-level and senior managers and builds on the winning formula of combining quality networking with social events at the magnificent Royal Malta Golf Club.

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Million-dollar swing Divided into three segments, the event kicked off with a sumptuous breakfast for participants, followed by an energetic golf tournament in the Texas Scramble format. An award ceremony lunch followed, with prizes supplied by the Royal Malta Golf Club and iGaming Idol, presented by GamingMalta’s Head of Operations and Business Development, Ivan Filletti.

And the winner is… iGaming Invitational has managed to strike a balance between networking and the sporting aspect of the event, with players split in teams of four, starting from different holes but playing all round eighteen holes.

Heartfelt congratulations go to the winners of our first batch of golfing awards, including the overall winner Jay Jay Micallef, Neill Simpson in second place, and Sam Brown rounding off the top three.

Michael Pedersen, CEO of iGaming Idol, commented, “We couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of our first iGaming Invitational event. We had a great number of senior executives from

the industry out on the course and there were smiles all around, as the 18-holes were played. Big thank you goes to all our sponsors as well as the Royal Malta Golf Club for all their hard work in making this a great day for our guests. We look forward to the 2nd edition of this event - watch this space!”

Valuable support Altogether, iGaming Invitational has proved to be an inspirational

success for all attendees and sponsors, without whose support, the event would have simply remained a pipe dream. The valuable endorsement of such companies as Playson, GamingMalta, BetConstruct, Laferla, Bolt, Officerfinder.com.mt, NetEnt, Ambassadör Events, iGaming Idol and iGaming NEXT has breathed life into the cuttingedge concept that is iGaming Invitational, which seeks to enhance the important networking

capacity within the industry through entertaining sporting events.

About iGaming Idol Since its inception in 2016, iGaming Idol has grown exponentially into one of the most anticipated awards shows within the iGaming industry. Led by original co-founder Michael Pedersen, together with the team behind Ambassadör Events, the iGaming Idol concept is based on three pillars: Recognition of

individuals, Charity and Entertainment. Year after year, the iGaming Idol team strives to expand the original concept to better serve both the industry and the community within which it operates. The portfolio of events now also includes iGaming NEXT as well as iGaming Invitational.

Get to know more about iGaming Idol: https://igamingidol.com/ Press Contact: gerda@igamingidol.com