GiH Conference: Insights to beat the black market

The Netherlands' regulated gambling market is under siege from unlicensed operators who have captured more than half of the country's total online gross gaming revenue, according to estimates from the Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA).

The dramatic shift has been driven by mounting regulatory pressure and increasing tax rates, which have pushed players toward black market alternatives in recent months. The scale of the problem has prompted industry leaders to dedicate significant attention to combating illegal gambling at this year's Gaming in Holland Conference, scheduled for Thursday, June 5.

The conference will feature high-profile speakers addressing the black market challenge head-on. Nederlandse Loterij CEO Arjan Blok will discuss his company's civil proceedings against Costa Rica-based operator LalaBet, while KSA's Head of Market Supervision Renske Fikkers will outline the regulator's strategy for fighting illegal gambling operations.

Industry analysts will also provide critical market intelligence, with H2 Gambling Capital COO Josh Hodgson presenting the latest estimates on offshore online market size and growth projections. Investigative journalist Henk Willem Smits from Follow the Money will expose the ownership structures and operational methods of popular black market operators.

Licensed operators seeking to fight back will hear from Tipico's Director of iGaming Christian Heins, who will explain how legitimate companies can damage illegal competitors by pressuring business-to-business suppliers.

Beyond the black market focus, the conference will address broader industry concerns including political developments, tax increases, mergers and acquisitions, artificial intelligence applications, and marketing strategies.

The event will also feature five specialized breakout sessions covering practical business concerns, from B2B licensing requirements to compliance testing and platform technology specific to the Dutch market.

Traditional networking opportunities include a canal boat tour through Amsterdam and drinks at Holland Casino Amsterdam, providing attendees access to key decision-makers in the Dutch regulated gambling sector.

The conference highlights the urgent need for coordinated action as the Netherlands' gambling market grapples with an unprecedented challenge to its regulated framework.

Check out full program here: https://bit.ly/GiHC2025_Agenda.  

Or click here to register now: https://bit.ly/GiHC2025!