SkillOnNet and Bet-at-home get German slots licences as new regulator takes over
The licence issued to SkillOnNet enables the provider to offer online slot games across all of its brands in Germany.
Bet-at-home, meanwhile, was granted a licence for online slot games alongside an extension of its sports betting licence.
SkillOnNet has said that it will be focusing on using its German-facing brand, DrueckGluek.de, which has been an established presence in the country since 2015 since gaining a licence to operate in Schleswig-Holstein under the old regulation system.
Michael Golembo, sales and marketing director for SkillOnNet said: “Having the official German licence means SkillOnNet players will be part of a fully regulated experience, feeling more confident, safe and secure, many for the first time.
“It’s also a recognition that we meet the high standards of the German licensing regime and are prepared to work with regulators to meet those standards, reinforcing that responsible gaming is the cornerstone of everything we do.”
Bet-at-home, which is part of the French Betclic Everest SAS Group, said the licence is an important step for future planning for the company.
“With the obtaining of permissions for all product categories offered, Bet-at-home will now create complete legal and planning security for the group, their investors and business partners in Germany,” said Bet-at-home chairman, Marco Falchetto.
The pair join recent German licensees such as Tipico, Rootz, Solar Operations and Crazy Buzzer in being allowed to offer online slots.
New German regulator
The recent approval of licences comes after some sizeable changes within Germany regarding gambling regulation.
In July 2021, the country launched the State Treaty on Gambling (GlüNeuRStv), which enabled operators to apply for nationwide online slot licences. Before this only sports betting was allowed outside of Schleswig-Holstein.
The treaty was accompanied by a law that established a tax on online slots and poker stakes at 5.3% and set a €1 per spin stake limit for online slots.
The tax has proved highly controversial, especially with operator association, der Deutsche Sportwettenverband (DSWV).
Within the same treaty, the country also established plans to change the system of responsibility for gambling regulation. Previously, states within Germany held certain powers for issuing gambling licences.
The Glücksspielbehörde (GGL), a federal regulator, was established and in July 2022 took over national enforcement of illegal gambling laws. As of 1 January, it has now assumed responsibility for licensing as well.