British operators have begun to lower the RTP (Return to Player) percentage to cope with rising taxes. This reduction is one of the simplest and most feasible mechanisms for increasing operator profits.
Traditionally set at 95-96%, the RTP is now dropping in some cases to as low as 94-92%. Industry experts believe this move could have negative consequences.
Co-founder of G Games asserts that players can feel this decrease through reduced game time and a decline in chances for bonus features. The risk lies not in an immediate negative reaction, but in a gradual decline in player engagement.
Regulus Partners noted that in Germany, lowering the RTP to 90% or less over three years halved the legal slot market from €800 million to €470 million. Meanwhile, the black market grew to €2 billion during this period.
With an RTP of 90%, a player's deposit disappears 50% faster than with an RTP of 95%. This easily redirects the most valuable customers to gray operators.