Q&A: Betsson AB's CEO lifts the lid on struggles in Sweden
Pontus Lindwall discusses opposing the recent limits on deposits and bonuses and how the Swedish regulator might end up working against the market
EGR Intel: You have added your support to the group of Swedish-licensed operators that have criticised the deposit and bonus limits for online casinos. Now that they have been brought into force, does this effectively end your opposition?Pontus Lindwall (PL):EGR Intel: Can you provide more information on Betsson’s work within BOS, and what does this involve on a day-to-day basis?PL:EGR Intel: Would Betsson ever consider leaving the Swedish market because of the increasingly tough regulations being imposed on operators?PL:EGR Intel: Do you think other operators will choose to leave the market?PL:EGR Intel: Channelisation rates are continuing to decline and will be impacted further by the new deposit limits. What actions would you take to restore them?PL:EGR Intel: Will the Swedish government reach its aim of 90% channelisation by 2022?PL:EGR Intel: Is the Swedish market diverging from the aims of the re-regulatory process?PL:EGR Intel: Betsson has said that it was surprised by last month’s fine of SEK20m from the SGA for offering unauthorised bonuses through branches of 7-Eleven and Pressbyrån. Do you feel that the Swedish Gambling Authority has ignored your cooperation and transparency in its decision?PL:EGR Intel: Do you think it’s due to a lack of knowledge?PL:EGR Intel: What actions has Betsson taken in response to the SGA’s decision?PL:EGR Intel: Based on your experiences with the SGA, is the Swedish Gambling Act allowing regulators to be too broad in dealing with operators?PL:EGR Intel: Does the Swedish Gambling Authority need to be overhauled?PL:EGR Intel: What does the future hold for Betsson in the Swedish market?PL:EGR Intel: Anything you want to add on deposit limits?PL:EGR Intel: Any further comments on the SGA fine?PL: