UK

AI chatbots operated by major technology companies have been found recommending illegal online casinos and advising users how to bypass gambling safeguards. The findings have prompted concern from regulators, campaigners and addiction experts in the UK.

Curious Games has launched its entry into the iGaming sector through a new partnership with Relax Gaming. The studio will distribute its upcoming titles through Relax’s Silver Bullet programme, gaining access to regulated markets and tier-one operators worldwide.

Edinburgh is rapidly establishing itself as one of Europe’s leading iGaming technology hubs. Industry figures say the city’s fintech expertise, world-class universities and growing network of operators and suppliers are attracting companies seeking engineering, data science and AI capabilities.

Outgoing Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes is reportedly preparing to join a consultancy created by gambling law firm Harris Hagan after leaving the regulator, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.

The Betting and Gaming Council has launched a new “Spot the Black Market” campaign aimed at helping players identify illegal gambling sites as concerns grow about the size of the UK’s online black market.

New data from Nationwide shows gambling spending rising in the UK, with the top 10% of gamblers wagering an average of £745 per month. The findings come ahead of a busy year of major sporting events expected to drive further betting activity.

A new bookmaker has entered the UK market just weeks before the Cheltenham Festival, promising a data-driven approach inspired by the medical sector.

Ealing Council has launched a consultation on its draft 2026 Gambling Licensing Policy, covering 148 premises across the borough and introducing a new local area profile to assess gambling harm risks. Residents and businesses have until 22 March 2026 to respond.

New data from the UK Gambling Commission shows Gross Gambling Yield reached £4.3bn between July and September 2025, driven primarily by online casino activity.

Tim Miller told BGC members the Commission is preparing for fee increases, expanding its illegal market crackdown and exploring a regulated pathway for crypto payments.