At ICE Barcelona 2026, host Katie Goldfinch led a discussion featuring Ivan Filletti, CEO of Gaming Malta; Corinne Valletta, general counsel at Betsson Group; and Steven Myers, managing director at Praxis Consulting and Advisory, focusing on Malta's rise as a prominent iGaming hub.
The panelists emphasized that Malta's pioneering regulatory framework has been a key factor in its success. As the first European Union jurisdiction to regulate iGaming in 2004, Malta established innovative rules prioritizing player protection, which have influenced European regulations for years, placing the island ahead of both traditional and offshore jurisdictions.
Another significant aspect discussed was Malta’s collaborative regulatory culture. Operators noted that the Maltese authorities are proactive, readily engaging with industry stakeholders rather than adopting a reactive or overly political stance. “It has always opened dialogue with the operators,” said Valletta, highlighting the contrast with stricter regulatory frameworks found in other European countries.
Additionally, the panel pointed out that Malta's advantages stretch beyond mere licensing. Key elements such as banking access, skilled talent pipelines, education, and enterprise support create a comprehensive ecosystem. The growing intersection with esports, video game development, and immersive technologies further enhances this environment. “There’s all this value chain working to enhance operations on the island,” stated Filletti, emphasizing the significance of nurturing talent and ensuring long-term sustainability.
