SkillOnNet has obtained a Finnish gambling licence from the National Police Board, positioning itself as one of the first international operators ready to enter Finland’s soon-to-be regulated online casino and sports betting market. The company’s approval comes in advance of the country’s transition from a gambling monopoly to a licensing regime, which is set to take effect on 1 July 2027.
Finland Moves Towards Competitive Gambling Market
The Finnish government is preparing to end Veikkaus’s longstanding monopoly over online casino and sports betting. From July 2027, private operators that meet regulatory requirements will be allowed to offer their services to Finnish customers, under the oversight of the National Police Board. The new licensing framework is designed to foster competition while maintaining strong consumer protection and responsible gambling standards. By late September 2026, the regulator had received 75 licence applications, highlighting strong interest from international and domestic companies.
SkillOnNet’s Nordic Expansion Strategy
SkillOnNet, known for its PlayOJO brand, continues to expand into regulated markets across Europe and beyond. The Finnish licence aligns with its strategy of entering jurisdictions that introduce or update gambling frameworks. The company has emphasised its commitment to responsible gambling as it prepares to operate under Finland’s new regulatory regime. While it has not yet announced which brands or products it will launch in Finland, the early licence gives SkillOnNet a head start in preparing its local offering.
Significance for Industry Stakeholders
For operators, securing a Finnish licence ahead of the 2027 market opening provides a valuable window to ready their platforms, localise offerings, and build brand awareness. Affiliates and suppliers can anticipate new partnership opportunities as more international brands prepare for launch. Regulators, meanwhile, will be tasked with overseeing a larger and more diverse market, ensuring compliance and consumer protection as Finland shifts to a competitive model. The influx of applications signals heightened competition, but not all applicants are expected to receive approval.
Key takeaways
- SkillOnNet has secured a Finnish gambling licence ahead of the July 2027 market opening.
- Finland will end its online gambling monopoly, allowing licensed private operators to enter.
- SkillOnNet’s approval supports its strategy of expanding into regulated markets.
- The move signals increased competition and new opportunities for operators and affiliates.