Wildz Group has announced it has secured the first license to provide online gambling services in Finland, ahead of the market opening on July 1, 2027. This marks a significant milestone as Wildz Group is the first operator to publicly reveal the acquisition of a local license.
Finland is currently undergoing a substantial transformation of its gambling regulations. Traditionally, online gambling has been under a state-owned monopoly, but a shift towards liberalization is set to allow private operators into the market starting July 2027.
The window for licensing applications opened in March of this year, with a processing period estimated at six months. By September 22, a total of 75 applications had been submitted, significantly higher than expected.
Based in Malta, Wildz Group operates several online casino brands around the world. A representative from the group shared their pride in being the first to obtain the online gambling license, noting the effort put forth by their team throughout the application journey.
"Being the first operator to receive a gambling licence in Finland is a fantastic milestone for Wildz Group and a well-deserved reward for the hard work and dedication of our entire team throughout the application process," the spokesperson remarked. "We look forward to working closely with the Finnish regulator to achieve the highest possible level of channelisation, ensuring that the new licensing regime is a success and delivers on its objectives."
The National Police Board, which manages the licensing functions, has not yet confirmed the approval of Wildz’s license or those of other applicants. It remains uncertain when this information will be made public.
There is no cap on the number of licenses available, although each application comes with a €29,000 ($33,500) processing fee. Notable interest in acquiring licenses has been expressed by several major operators, including Finland’s current monopoly provider, Veikkaus.
Despite the popularity of gambling in Finland, market analysts have previously warned that an influx of successful applications could lead to oversaturation given the country’s relatively small population.
Finland joins other European nations in moving away from a state-owned monopoly system, a trend that was exemplified by Sweden's full liberalization in 2019. Lasse Rantala, a member of Wildz Group’s board, highlighted the license's effective date of July 1, 2027, praising his team as preparations continue for the eagerly awaited market launch.
