Stake Italy is adapting to significant changes in the country’s online gambling landscape, as a newly reformed concession regime reduces the number of licensed domains and imposes tighter compliance requirements on operators. Fabio Angeli Bufalini, Country Director at Stake Italy, outlined the evolving competitive environment and the ongoing challenge posed by unregulated operators during an interview at the SBC Summit.
Market Restructuring and Stricter Compliance
The Italian online gambling market has undergone a major overhaul, with the number of licensed domains dropping from around 300 to just 52, now operated by 46 companies. This shift, which became effective in November 2025, is intended to make it easier for authorities and consumers to identify legitimate operators. New compliance obligations include stricter self-limits, deposit limits, and player verification measures, some of which are set to take effect later this year. These changes are expected to reshape the market, but their full impact is still to be seen.
Challenges from Unregulated Operators
Despite the new framework, unregulated operators remain highly visible, especially on social media, and are not subject to the same advertising restrictions as licensed companies. Bufalini noted that licensed operators face limitations on advertising and promotional activities, making it harder to compete for player attention. Investments in the regulated market are substantial, with costs including licensing fees, compliance, and mandatory spending on responsible gaming advertising. However, operators say these investments need to be matched by effective protection from authorities.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
For operators, the new regime means adapting to a more tightly controlled environment and focusing on long-term sustainability. The market is expected to favor well-structured companies prepared for ongoing compliance and responsible gaming commitments. Affiliates and suppliers will also need to navigate stricter regulations and a smaller pool of licensed partners. Regulators are called upon to enhance enforcement, not only by blocking illegal domains but also by targeting payment channels and improving consumer awareness of the differences between regulated and unregulated offerings.
Calls for Stronger Enforcement and Consumer Awareness
Bufalini emphasized that enforcement should extend beyond domain blocking to include payment restrictions and greater oversight of social media. He suggested that coordinated responsible gaming campaigns, possibly led by the regulator, could help educate consumers about the reliability and protections offered by licensed operators. This, he argued, would help make the regulated market the preferred choice for players.
Key takeaways
- Italy’s online gambling market now has fewer licensed domains and stricter compliance requirements.
- Unregulated operators remain a significant challenge due to fewer advertising restrictions and high visibility.
- Operators face increased costs and responsibilities, but seek more effective protection and support from regulators.
- Industry stakeholders must adapt to a more competitive and highly regulated environment.