Norwegian state-owned monopoly Norsk Tipping has announced further reductions in loss limits for younger players, with those aged between 20 and 24 to face tighter measures.
Norsk Tipping customers aged 20 to 21 will only be able to lose a maximum of NOK3,000 (£216/€256/$264) per month. Loss limits will be set slightly higher at NOK5,000 for players between the ages of 22 and 24.
Both new loss limits will come into effect from 1 February, the operator has confirmed. They will apply to all games available at Norsk Tipping.
The decision comes after loss limits were previously announced for younger players. In May 2023, a maximum monthly loss limit of NOK2,000 was set for users aged 18 to 20.
On top of this, players over the age of 25 can only lose up to NOK20,000 per month when gambling with Norsk Tipping. Higher-risk games such as online casino and slot machines have a loss lower limit of NOK5,000 per month.
Norsk Tipping aims to protect “vulnerable” younger players
Detailing its decision to set tighter limits for young players, Norsk Tipping flagged research from several parties that highlight the dangers gambling poses to those under the age of 25.
Data from the University of Bergen and Norwegian Gambling Helpline show young adults are more vulnerable to developing gambling problems. Norsk Tipping’s own surveys support this, revealing that one in five men between the ages of 18 and 25 are at risk.
“Young people generally have more vulnerable finances than older people,” Norsk Tipping said. “Higher living costs generally increase this vulnerability. Young people therefore end up in trouble more quickly if their losses are large and frequent.”
Bjørn Helge Hoffmann, head of responsible gaming at Norsk Tipping, welcomed the lower limits. He said the move would help prevent gambling-related harm and limit damage to those already experiencing difficulties.
“The most important accountability measure is that players must set their own limits before they play and, on average, players set their limit to NOK3,600 per month,” Hoffmann said. “For those who are unable to limit themselves, the maximum loss limit is an important safety net.
“When this limit is lowered, it will contribute to the prevention of problem gambling and it will limit the damage for those who still have problems.”
