The Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP), Greece's independent regulator overseeing gambling, is implementing measures to eliminate loopholes that permit players to register multiple accounts under different names on various platforms. This initiative was highlighted during a recent EEEP meeting.
In this context, the EEEP is increasing its oversight of VIPs and high-value customers (HVCs), who can wager hundreds of thousands of euros per year.
The Commission has requested detailed information from all 18 licensed operators regarding their registration, retention, and incentivization methods for these top-tier players, particularly examining their use of bonuses and hospitality. While the EEEP claims this data is for statistical analysis, insiders believe it aims to gain better control over a traditionally less regulated sector.
There are concerns that appealing perks for VIPs could unintentionally shift gambling activity from regulated markets to unlicensed foreign platforms, which poses challenges for tax compliance and regulatory oversight.
Regarding player identification, the current system allows online gambling providers to verify users individually. However, this fragmented method is now seen as inadequate for Greece's needs. As a result, regulators are advocating for a unified identity verification system.
A primary goal is to establish a single access point for player certification, possibly integrating it with the state’s e-Gov platform. Currently, this platform manages licenses for individuals in affiliate promotion and other crucial gambling industry roles, yet it lacks a comprehensive verification system for all players.
An earlier proposal to utilize banks as a certification hub was discarded after the General Secretariat for Information Systems indicated it lacked the legal jurisdiction to implement such a system.
Greece’s gambling industry has been on a steady growth trajectory, with market expansion evident in recent years. Ed Birkin, managing director at H2 Gambling Capital, noted earlier this year, "Greece is an attractive market as it’s growing strongly still [15% year on year growth] and is about a €1.2 billion market in terms of gross win, forecast to reach €1.5 billion in the next couple of years."
The rise of online gambling channels has been particularly pronounced, with regulatory clarity and stability being pivotal factors in consolidating gaming activities in Greece.
