In the first half of 2026, Veikkaus, the state-owned gambling operator in Finland, reported a sales increase while gearing up for the country’s shift to a partially liberalized gambling market. Revenue reached €471.3 million, reflecting a 1% rise from €466.4 million the previous year. The company’s profit also grew, climbing to €234.2 million—an increase of 2% compared to the same period in 2025.
As part of a new arrangement, Veikkaus is set to pay approximately €1 billion over the next decade for an exclusive lottery license, with a significant portion due at the start of the year. CEO Olli Sarekoski commented on the positive financial results, stating, “It is great to see that our investments in digital business and technical capabilities are delivering results.”
To better adapt to increased competition and the related costs of the license, Veikkaus is restructuring its data and artificial intelligence department. This will involve eliminating 15 existing positions while creating 17 new ones. Reija Airas, EVP of people, culture and communications at Veikkaus, emphasized that the focus of these roles will evolve. She noted, "What is essential in this change is that the focus and content of work will change: while some current roles are planned to end, more new roles are being created in terms of number. We want to ensure that we are ready to meet future requirements with our strong expertise. The new market situation requires us to be able to renew our capabilities and ways of working."
Additionally, Veikkaus has restructured into two branches: one to focus on the exclusive lottery and the other on the gambling and betting markets under the license. The company will also join the newly formed Rahapeliala ry, the Gambling Industry Association of Finland. CEO of the trade body, Mika Kuismanen, remarked, “Veikkaus is a significant operator in Finland, and its membership strengthens the representativeness and expertise of our industry advocacy.” In response, Sarekoski noted that this membership would enable Veikkaus to collaborate with other operators to further industry advocacy and assist in the evolution of Finland’s gambling system.
