### Betsson Faces Payment Block in Finland for the Second Time
Betsson has been placed back on Finland’s payment blocking list following a failed appeal in the Supreme Administrative Court.
On November 28, Betsson’s subsidiary, BML Group, was re-added to the list, updated by Finland’s National Police Board. This list obliges payment providers, banks, and financial institutions to halt transactions from Finland to the companies it names.
This development follows a €2.4 million fine imposed on Betsson in May 2023 for breaching advertising regulations. The National Police Board initially listed BML Group on the payment blocking roster in February. The order was temporarily halted in April after Betsson lodged an appeal.
Nevertheless, Betsson finds itself back on the list after the case’s resolution. A Betsson representative commented to EGR, stating they are aware of recent events but have no further comments at this time, promising to provide updates if necessary.
Antti Koivula, a legal advisor from Legal Gaming Attorneys at Law, commented on the potential regulatory implications of Betsson’s situation. He explained that the issue stemmed from BML Group’s marketing strategies in Finland that contravened Finnish law. With all appeal avenues exhausted, the legal matter is settled, and the Police Board’s order, including the €2.4 million fine and placement on the list until October 19, 2025, remains active.
Koivula suggested that Betsson’s case might set a standard for future regulatory actions. He speculated on which company might face similar scrutiny next. Meanwhile, Finland is transitioning from a monopoly model to a multi-licensing system, expected to commence in early 2026.
Previously, EGR analyzed Finland’s potential move to a multi-licensed framework. EGR attempted to contact the National Police Board for further comments.
The full article “Betsson placed on Finland’s payment blocking list for the second time” initially appeared on EGR Intel.