Clarifying the Credit Card Ban Discussion in Sweden: Insights from Maria McDonald, Partner at Nordic Gambling

In the ever-evolving landscape of Swedish gambling regulations, Maria McDonald, Partner at Nordic Gambling, offers insightful perspectives on the ongoing discussions surrounding the potential extension of the credit ban in the Gambling Act.

Maria McDonald clarifies that a government-commissioned report in July 2023 recommended broadening the credit ban to encompass referrals to third parties facilitating gambling on credit (e.g., payment made via mobile, with the cost added to the phone bill later). However, she emphasizes that the report explicitly states that gambling with credit cards should not be prohibited. This subtle distinction could represent a crucial departure from the speculative ban on credit cards suggested by the media.

As the industry eagerly awaits further developments, operators relying on credit cards can find a sense of reassurance for the time being. According to Maria McDonald, in light of the government report, a credit card ban is currently improbable. Although the Spelinspektionen has expressed a preference for a different assessment, it remains to be seen how regulatory dynamics will unfold.