The Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show (SNGS) 2026, set for October 22-23 at the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark, will serve as a critical gathering spot for regulators, operators, providers, and investors amid significant changes in gaming regulation across the Nordics and the broader European landscape. This year's show marks the 8th annual event, with an agenda focused on the evolving licensing frameworks, enhanced enforcement measures, and fresh market oversight approaches reshaping the industry.
Key regulatory shifts include Finland's initiative to transition to a new licensing system, Sweden's enhancement of its regulatory framework, Denmark's ongoing refinement of oversight practices, and Norway's intensified enforcement efforts. Similar reform discussions are taking place in Iceland and Ireland, prompting important considerations around market access, compliance, channelisation, and sustainable growth.
The agenda features notable discussions for each day. For Day 1, scheduled for Thursday, October 22, 2026, session topics include:
– "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"
On Day 2, Friday, October 23, 2026, sessions will cover:
– "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"
Prominent industry figures will contribute to the discussions. Antti Koivula, Chief Compliance Officer at Hippos ATG, will share insights on Finland's gambling reforms and the implications of the upcoming licensed market, stating, "I can’t wait to join the discussion and analyse the latest developments in Finland’s gambling reform alongside a great group of industry experts. With the opening of the licensed market fast approaching, there will certainly be no shortage of important topics to explore."
Gustaf Hoffstedt, Secretary General of BOS – The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling, will assess the Nordic regulatory model against the UK framework, adding, "No jurisdiction has influenced the way Nordic gambling license markets have been regulated and developed like the UK. … Will the UK continue to be Europe’s leading gambling market, or do the Nordics have the opportunity to take over the leadership role?"
Marko Arpiainen, Co-Founder & CEO of LVL UP LABZ, will focus on preparations for Finland’s market opening in 2027, stating, "I’ll share actionable insights on where to focus at both an operational and marketing level, including a realistic timeline for operators that haven’t yet taken major steps."
Uliana Korobeynikova, PR & Communications Executive, will delve into the role of AI in player support, noting, "I look forward to discussing how practical AI tools are reshaping player support today."
Mika Kuismanen, CEO of Rahapeliala Ry, will provide insights into the practical issues surrounding Finland’s market opening, highlighting, "The Finnish licence market will open in July 2027."
With opportunities for delegates, sponsorships, and exhibitions, SNGS 2026 aims to foster connections among the region’s gaming community and key industry stakeholders.
