The gaming regulation landscape across the Nordics and the broader European market is undergoing substantial transformation, with new licensing structures, enhanced enforcement, and evolving market oversight practices. These pivotal changes will take center stage at the 8th annual Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show (SNGS) 2026, scheduled for October 22-23 at the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark. The event will bring together regulators, operators, providers, and investors to delve into the implications of these developments for the industry.
Key changes across the region include Finland's efforts to introduce a new licensing framework, Sweden's fortifying of its regulatory measures, Denmark's ongoing adjustments to its oversight policies, and Norway's increased enforcement activities. Additionally, reform discussions are active in Iceland and Ireland, leading to new considerations related to market access, compliance, effective channelisation, and sustainable growth in the industry.
**Highlights on the Agenda**
**Day 1 | Thursday, 22 October 2026**
– The Future of iGaming in Europe: Trends, Tensions, and Game-Changing Opportunities
– Regulation in Motion: UK Fees, Global Tax Shifts, and Platform Controls
– Sweden and Denmark: Two Neighbours, Two Regulatory Paths
**Day 2 | Friday, 23 October 2026**
– From Land-Based to Online: Sweden’s Casino Exit
– Winning Early in Finland’s New Regime
– The Nordic Vision: From Channelisation Gaps to Global Leadership
**Insights from Industry Leaders**
Antti Koivula, Chief Compliance Officer at Hippos ATG, will share insights on Finland’s gambling reform and its implications for the forthcoming licensed market. He expressed anticipation for the discussions, emphasizing the importance of examining critical issues as the market opening approaches.
Gustaf Hoffstedt, Secretary General of BOS – The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling, will draw comparisons between the Nordic regulatory framework and the UK's model. Hoffstedt aims to explore whether the Nordics can position themselves as frontrunners in regulatory leadership despite the UK's longstanding influence.
Marko Arpiainen, Co-Founder & CEO of LVL UP LABZ, will focus on how gaming operators can adapt for Finland's market launch in 2027. He plans to provide strategic insights for operators that have yet to take significant preparatory steps, highlighting aspects of local partnerships and customer experience.
Uliana Korobeynikova, PR & Communications Executive, will address the increasing role of AI in player support. She will examine how automation and behavioral monitoring can enhance operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Mika Kuismanen, CEO of Rahapeliala Ry, will offer practical guidance regarding the opening of Finland's license market, slated for July 2027. He intends to outline key regulatory issues set by the National Police Board that stakeholders must consider.
Attending organizations can explore sponsorship and exhibition opportunities at SNGS 2026, aimed at increasing their visibility and establishing connections within the regional gaming community.
