The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has shuttered several illegal poker tournaments in Autumn 2024.
Although the figure is unspecified, the regulator has reported that “tens of thousands” of Euros in cash were found at various locations. The KSA also announced a new potential penalty of up to €110,000 for anyone found guilty of organizing poker without a license.
The KSA release stated: “illegal poker tournaments are often part of undermining crime, with criminals engaging legal companies (such as catering establishments), or citizens for criminal activities.”
Poker players are at risk of gambling-related harm, suggests the regulator. This is exacerbated when playing in an unregulated environment for high stakes.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, KSA inspectors, in collaboration with police and municipalities, sanctioned illegal poker tournaments six times. Enforcement action was taken in Amsterdam, Asten, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Tilburg.
Large amounts of cash were found at each location, including up to 40,000 euros in one unspecified location. In addition, one of the ‘catering establishments’ found to be facilitating the illegal poker was shut down as a result of the enforcement action.
Under Dutch legislation, the only entity allowed to operate poker tournaments is Holland Casino. There are small exceptions, where games are played within a close circle, such as family, friends or colleagues.
The law has been in place since 1975 and includes a broader definition of “money, or things of equivalent monetary value.” Although this is likely a reference to playing poker for property or valuables, it could also be construed to apply to digital currencies. Although playing poker for crypto (in person) is different from playing online crypto poker, both would likely fall foul of the KSA’s rules and regulations.
The Dutch Regulation Shift: Less Freedom, Further Restriction
This year is set to see a seismic shift in gambling legislation in the Netherlands after the State Secretary promised a revamp. Teun Struycken believes that the current vision, established 15 years ago, is outdated and unfit for purpose.
Expansion of policy to potentially pave the way for digital currencies as a payment method will have to wait. The State Secretary for Legal Protection has placed the protection of players against the risks of gambling-related harm as his top priority.
His proposals include raising the minimum gambling age in the Netherlands to 21 if people wish to use a “high-risk” online gaming product. He is also proposing a statutory defined deposit limit and mandatory affordability checks. Operators who hold a Dutch license will face tighter restrictions on gambling advertising and will also be required to adhere to tighter rules surrounding consumer protection.
A draft bill is expected to be introduced to lawmakers by the end of 2025.
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