The industry is leveraging AI risk management and data technology to enhance compliance capabilities. By 2026, the market is expected to enter an elimination phase where only well-capitalized and technologically advanced companies will survive.

Shift in Industry Risk Perception

The latest report from EvenBet Gaming indicates that the global gambling industry is transitioning from an expansion phase to a compliance-driven stage. According to the survey, 19% of industry respondents view regulatory pressure as the top risk, surpassing market competition (17%) and responsible gambling (13%), signaling a fundamental shift in industry priorities.

Industry experts generally believe that the focus of the gambling sector is shifting from market expansion to legal compliance, marking the end of the golden age of aggressive market growth.

Philippine Regulatory Case and Impact

The Philippines has become a focal point of global gambling regulation. Since 2024, the government has launched an extensive crackdown on POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators). Numerous platforms have been ordered to close or relocate, resulting in tens of thousands of foreign workers losing their jobs and a significant increase in office vacancy rates in Manila.

Analysts point out that the Philippines’ sweeping enforcement campaign reflects a global shift toward a “high-pressure” regulatory model, serving as a reference for other nations.

Global Regulatory Policy Trends

Regulatory policies on gambling are tightening worldwide: India has imposed a total ban on online gambling; the U.K. has implemented strict restrictions on gambling advertising and bonus terms; the Netherlands has prohibited gambling brand sports sponsorships; Brazil has introduced high taxes and advertising limits; and Colombia has imposed value-added taxes on betting companies.

These measures indicate a global trend toward stronger regulatory oversight, creating a more stringent compliance environment for the industry.

Policy Changes Among Tech Platforms

Tech giants are simultaneously tightening controls on gambling advertising. Platforms like Google, Meta, and Telegram have imposed broad restrictions on gambling ad placements. These policy changes have constrained traditional customer acquisition channels, rendering “traffic-driven” marketing strategies ineffective and forcing companies to rethink their marketing approaches.

The strengthened advertising controls have further increased operational difficulty and compliance costs for gambling companies.

Industry Response and Development Strategies

Facing rising regulatory pressure, industry leaders are turning to technological innovation as a means of breakthrough. Companies are investing in AI-based risk management systems, data-driven anti-fraud tools, and localized market strategies to strengthen operational resilience and compliance capabilities. These technologies help businesses remain competitive under strict regulatory conditions.

The report predicts that by around 2026, the global online gambling market will enter an “elimination phase,” where only financially strong, technologically advanced, and highly compliant companies will survive.

Market Adjustment and Future Outlook

The next two years are viewed as a critical window for determining the future of the gambling industry. The sector is expected to undergo deep restructuring, with markets from the Philippines to Europe facing more stringent regulatory scrutiny. The operational “grey zones” are shrinking significantly, and companies must adapt to new compliance requirements.

The market is moving toward greater standardization, transparency, and responsibility, with compliance capability becoming a key component of corporate competitiveness.

Regulatory Goals and Industry Impact

The primary goals of tightening global regulation are to protect consumers, prevent fraud and money laundering, and promote responsible gambling. While these regulatory measures increase operating costs for companies, they also help enhance the overall reputation and long-term sustainability of the industry.

Strengthened regulation is driving technological innovation and operational optimization, encouraging companies to explore more sustainable business models.

Regional Differences and Compliance Challenges
Regulatory policies vary significantly across regions, requiring companies to navigate multiple compliance frameworks. This complexity increases operational costs but also gives firms with strong compliance systems a competitive edge.
Localized compliance strategies are becoming increasingly important, requiring companies to thoroughly understand the specific regulatory requirements of each market.

Integration of Technology and Compliance

AI and data analytics technologies are increasingly being applied in compliance management, helping companies identify and mitigate risks more effectively. These technologies not only enhance compliance efficiency but also improve user experience, balancing regulatory requirements with business growth.
Technological innovation is becoming a key bridge connecting regulatory compliance with commercial value.

Path Toward Sustainable Development

Under tightening regulatory conditions, the gambling industry must explore more sustainable development paths. This includes strengthening responsible gambling initiatives, enhancing transparency, improving user experience, and building constructive relationships with regulators.

In the long run, only companies that can balance commercial interests with social responsibility will be able to thrive in an increasingly regulated environment.