MRG targets regulated markets with EGBA membership

MRG chief executive Per Norman has set out plans to use the company’s new membership of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) to support its efforts to expand into more regulated markets across the European Union.

The EGBA industry body represents established, licensed and regulated online gaming operators within the EU. The Brussels-based organisation works with national authorities, EU authorities and various other stakeholders to champion regulation in the industry.

MRG will support the EGBA with its efforts, but also draw on the organisation’s knowledge of the wider European market to enhance its own expansion plans.

Norman (pictured) told iGamingBusiness.com: “When we expand geographically, we want to target well-regulated, transparent markets. The more well-regulated, open markets we get in Europe, the better for us of course which are an established, licensed European operator with a strong focus on Green Gaming.

“EGBA also holds broad knowledge about the different European markets which can be beneficial to us when we continue to deliver on our strategy to expand geographically.”

In August, MRG was one of 22 companies that filed for a new gambling licence in Sweden on the opening day of applications. This month, the firm also launched its sports betting services in Denmark under a new domestic licence.

MRG has made its intentions clear that it intends to pursue further expansion in Europe and Norman said it will work with the EGBA as part of this initiative. He cited the Netherlands as one market where MRG is keen to acquire a licence upon regulation.

Earlier this month, the company was fined €312,000 (£277,243/$361,827) by the Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) for failing to block Dutch players from gambling on its platforms. The Dutch are currently considering a ‘bad actor’ clause that could delay entry for companies such as MRG that have been penalised for operating illegally in the Netherlands. MRG is in the process of appealing the fine.

Norman told iGamingBusiness.com: “We still do not know when the Netherlands will become regulated, however, we intend to apply for a licence there when the regulation is in place.”