News

The Ins and Outs of Online Gambling in India: Laws and Legislation Explained

Published

3 years ago

May 27, 2021

Needless to say, the online gambling industry has dominated the world by storm. In a nutshell, gaming industries from across the globe are thriving. In particular, the Indian market has experienced significant growth throughout the last couple of years. More and more players are trying their hand out at casino games and just in general experience what the gambling world has to offer.

Whether they’re raising their stakes at floating casinos in India, abroad or online, Indian players have expressed a keen interest in gambling. This is illustrated in some stats and figures; by the end of 2020, the Indian market generated over 90 billion in Indian Rupees.

Whilst all this sounds great, there is one issue that India has been dealing with for years. Even though we are living in 2021, Indian lawmakers still abide by ancient gambling laws, some of which are over 154 years old! So, what does this mean for players and casino operators?

An Insight into India’s Gambling Laws

With reference to the Indian Constitution, it is stated that all forms of gambling are regulated at state level. In other words, this mean that each Indian state has its own laws and legislations when it comes to gambling, particularly when it comes to online casino games. Needless to say, players and operators aren’t happy about this since it’s severely impacting the industry.

This all boils down to one thing. As mentioned in earlier sections of this post, India remains stuck in the past as far as gambling rules are concerned. A prime example of this is the Public Gaming Act of 1867. This 134 legislative document was published during the British role. Evidently, such documents don’t make sense now that most of us have witnessed the advent of the internet and the continuous developments made in the technological field.

But alas, Indian lawmakers beg to differ. Let’s take a look at some statements in the Public Gaming Act of 1867. For starters, the operation of Indian casinos is strictly prohibited. So, is the assisting and visiting of these venues. On top of that, financial gambling, devices and anything remotely related to gambling is also forbidden. In fact, you can face a ₹200 fine or even face up to 3 months in prison.

The Act also defines gambling into two separate categories – Games of Chance and Games of Skill. The problem with this lies here – one cannot completely class a casino game as a Game of Skill or Chance. This is because certain games have hints of both skill and chance.

At the time of writing, India has identified only 13 card games as games of skill, including rummy and poker. As far as online betting goes, horse racing and cricket betting also fall under this category. Without a doubt, lots of reforms are in order if lawmakers want to see the industry really thrive in the years to come.

The Problem with Online Gambling

All this brings us to the main topic of this discussion – online gambling in India. Evidently, there is a dire need for more sensible laws to be imposed. Since lawmakers are still adamant to stick to incredibly archaic laws, this is causing a lot of problems for casino operators who want to set up shop in India.

What’s even more surprising is that all these acts and laws don’t even given an appropriate definition to what online gambling is. As of now, only states like Nagaland, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have chosen to update their anti-gambling policies. On top of that, they have also stated where they stand with online gambling. So far, it’s not good news.

Very recently, the state of Andhra Pradesh published its Gaming Ordinance. Initially, casino operators thought this would benefit them, but once again they couldn’t be more wrong. In other words, if you’re an operator, you can rule out the possibility of having online casinos set up in this state for the time being. On top of that, the ordinance has also issued a ban on all online games including games of skill. Of course, casino operators aren’t very happy about this and rightly so. In fact, they plan on appealing this at the Supreme Court.

That said, there is some good news to report here. As of now, the Supreme Court of Andhra Pradesh has stated that games of skill aren’t really linked to gambling and operators who offer these services are allowed to do us under the Indian Constitution.

Still, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for casino operators who want to offer casino games and services in the country. In fact, operators have had to deal with more acts such as the Information Technology Act of 2000. Given that it’s all about gambling one would think that the government is actually thinking about adequate solutions that would make both parties happy.

But alas, we’re back in square one. This act caused more harm than good as the blocking servers restricted operators from offering their services to Indian players. What’s more, we also have yet another example where no appropriate definition is given to online gambling. Let’s face it, the world is living and breathing gambling at this point. After all the industry is worth billions nowadays – so how can one not explain what online gambling is? The mind boggles.

We understand that lawmakers want to curb the rise of unregulated gambling from dodgy casinos, however, sticking to ancient laws will cause more problems in the long run.

Players Can Still Enjoy the Online Casino World

That said, there is a silver lining. Whilst operators still have to long road ahead of them, players can still enjoy their time online. In fact, you’ll find lots of reputable providers listed on Casinos-india.in. Given that this is an affiliate partner, the games and bonuses are obviously not offered by them. Instead, you are offered trusted offshore casino partners that are legally allowed to offer their services to Indian players.

As you can see, things aren’t so bad for players. That said, there are still some regulations you should keep in mind. Whilst you are required by law to choose an offshore licensed platform, it’s still your safest bet. In this way, you can avoid getting scammed by dodgy providers that still manage to slip through the cracks even though the situation is heavily regulated. Trust us when we say that rogue casinos offer rigged games and you’ll probably never get your winnings. In other words, avoid at all costs.

You can sign up to platforms that clearly state that they are licensed by reputable gaming bodies such as the Malta Gaming Authority.

One also has to keep in mind the legal gambling age. In this case, it’s generally 18 and over. However, some online casinos will require to be over 21 years of age. So, make sure you read all the Terms and Conditions carefully when you track down your desired provider. Finally, you can also join an offshore casino if it is Rupee-friendly. You can also avail from alternatives that allow conversions.

The Benefits of Legalizing Online Casinos

At this point, it’s fair to say that Indian gambling laws are all over the place. We can only hope that the situation changes over time. At the end of the day, the market and India in general can benefit from the legalizing and regulation of online casinos.

Whilst we acknowledge that there is a problem with unregulated gambling, the right regulations can mark a significant change in the way things are carried out in the country. Strict laws that don’t make sense will not solve anything; on the contrary, these will cause of more uproars by casino operators and in general more confusion. Simply put, the country needs to stick to one legislation that is able to fully regulate and license games of skill. The laws in place can then be supported by further regulations created by gaming bodies.

Given that Indian players are allowed to sign up to offshore platforms, lawmakers should consider making it official in India. In this way, India will get more recognition, whilst players can get a taste of the best online casino games, bonuses and more. Above everything else, they’ll still be signing up to safe and secure platforms that do things by the book.

Of course, a complete reform is needed when it comes to online gambling. That said, some progress has been made. For example, in states like Maharashtra, casino operators and lawmakers are constantly in talks with regard to how they can legalize and regulate online gambling. At this point, nothing is confirmed, but it’s a start.

In the long run, we really think that India can benefit form a regulated market. In fact, some statistics suggest that the country is losing over $140 million per year due to unregulated gambling. This can be solved if both casino operators and lawmakers can come to an agreement on how to offer a licensed and regulated market.

At the time of writing, the growth behind India’s online gambling market is driven by the middle class and the continuous development of the internet and advanced technologies. With a 50% penetration rate, there are 560 million internet users in the country. Needless to say, this is great considering India is in second place after China.

All we’ll say is don’t understatement the Indian market even though it’s one of the smaller ones. Clearly, it’s making it’s mark on the world and it’s very obvious that casino operators and players are keen. Keep in mind that this is something that wasn’t available in the past. Of course, lifestyles became more comfortable over the years. This also meant that people started expressing an interest in different things – online casino is one of them.

Legalizing online casinos will also offer more jobs. Without a doubt, this would be extremely beneficial to India since the country can compete within this competitive market. This can open more doors to more start-up businesses within the e-Commerce and iGaming sectors. On top of that, the Indian economy will also benefit from all this. Other job opportunities can also crop up if this is done properly. Some of these include employment within software development companies and online payments.

At the end of the day, a regulated market will not only put lawmakers’ minds at rest, but it also creates a safe space for players and operators who just want to do things by the book. This can be achieved if one carries out regular audits of casino operators that have been approved and regulated by the government.

This is the only way that the situation can be monitored and one is able to distinguish a good casino from a bad one.

Without a doubt, the interest in the online gambling world won’t be dying away any time soon. So let’s hope Indian lawmakers can get on board with more adequate regulations that make sense in this day and age.

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Affiliate Success

Affiliate Roulette Scores Big with Dual Nominations at iGB Affiliate Awards 2024

Published

5 hours ago

December 5, 2023

George Miller

Affiliate Roulette Scores Big with Dual Nominations at iGB Affiliate Awards 2024

In the fast-paced world of iGaming affiliate marketing, one platform is causing quite a stir. Affiliate Roulette, a relative newcomer to the scene, has earned not one but two coveted nominations for the upcoming iGB Affiliate Awards 2024. This groundbreaking achievement positions them as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

A Vision Transformed into Reality

Affiliate Roulette was launched with a clear vision: to redefine the iGaming Affiliate industry. In just a short time, they have set a new standard by creating a unique space for Affiliates and Operators to interact, market, and build trustworthy relationships. Their innovative approach is inspired by the efficiency of Trustpilot but goes far beyond traditional review sites.

Changing the Game for Operators and Affiliates

Affiliate Roulette isn’t just another review site; it’s a dynamic, community-driven hub. They’re transforming the landscape for both Operators and Affiliates:

For Operators:

Rate and Review Affiliates: Gain valuable insights from firsthand experiences.
KPI Analysis: Share and learn about key performance indicators like ROI and FTDs.
Efficient Searches: Find the perfect affiliate match from their extensive directory.
Scam Protection: Verify affiliate profiles and histories.
Interactive Features: Engage in live chatrooms for discussions and feedback.
Featured Positions: Increase visibility to potential affiliates.

For Affiliates:

Free Marketing: Showcase your brand directly to Operators.
Build Reputation: Encourage reviews to establish trust and credibility.
Direct Negotiations: Collaborate closely with Operators, bypassing expensive networks.
Affiliate Roulette Seal of Trust: A symbol of excellent performance and reliability.
Visibility Boost: Claim featured spots for enhanced exposure.

A Built on Experience and Trust

Affiliate Roulette’s founder brought over five years of iGaming industry experience to the table, aiming to bridge the gap between Operators and Affiliates. Their vision quickly became a reality, evident in their impressive launch figures: over 1000 Affiliate Profiles and 50+ rankings and reviews in just two months.

Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead

As part of their strategic approach to solidify their industry position, Affiliate Roulette proudly sponsored the Sigma Europe Summit 2023 from November 13th to 17th. This event provided them with a platform to showcase their innovative approach and connect with industry leaders.

Cost-Effective and User-Friendly

Affiliate Roulette offers free membership for Operators and their Affiliate Managers, with a basic company profile for Affiliates also available at no cost. For those seeking greater visibility, premium services and featured spots are available for a nominal fee.

Transforming the Industry

The dual nominations for the iGB Affiliate Awards are a testament to Affiliate Roulette’s commitment to transforming the iGaming affiliate industry. With a user-friendly interface, community-centric approach, and a presence at the Sigma Europe Summit 2023, Affiliate Roulette is not just bridging gaps but also paving the way for a new era of collaboration and success.

Join Affiliate Roulette in celebrating this remarkable achievement and stay tuned for more exciting developments from this rising star in the world of iGaming affiliate marketing.

Affiliate Announcements

iGB Affiliate announce One Hundred Shoreditch as new HQ Hotel

Published

11 hours ago

December 5, 2023

George Miller

iGB Affiliate announce One Hundred Shoreditch as new HQ Hotel

The organising team responsible for iGB Affiliate has announced One Hundred Shoreditch as its new HQ Hotel for February’s event (6-9 February, ExCeL London).

Located in a prominent position on fashionable Shoreditch High Street, One Hundred Shoreditch is an acclaimed independent 258 room hotel offering a choice of places to eat and drink including Seed Library, an attractive rooftop bar and terrace offering panoramic views of the London skyline, a coffee shop, and the Lobby Bar which hosts a curated programme of weekly DJs alongside £10 cocktails. The venue offers five meeting and event spaces including the floor-to-ceiling glass One Hundred Room.

Announcing the new HQ Hotel, iGB Affiliate’s Naomi Barton said: “We were looking for a hotel close to ExCeL and that would connect with the unique personality of the Affiliate community.

“I have to say that One Hundred Shoreditch could have been designed with affiliates in mind! It’s as sassy as hell with great facilities, a roof top bar with amazing views of East London and it’s situated in the social heart of the vibrant East End. The bedrooms and suites provide headspace and calm in contrast to the energy of the ultra-cool hotel bars.

“I am confident One Hundred Shoreditch will resonate with show attendees – it will allow guests to socialise, network and hang out together, continuing the unique iGB Affiliate experience. We have secured 150 rooms which will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, so book now and don’t miss out on the chance to be with your peers and friends!”

She added: “The 2024 edition of iGB Affiliate will be the last held in London prior to our relocation to Barcelona the following year. As a consequence, there will be an iGB Affiliate ‘Farewell to London’ party like no other and we will be celebrating alongside our sister show ICE to ensure that we deliver something exceptional. The farewell party, iGB Affiliate Awards and our new Hotel HQ are all part of the social and networking opportunities which are pivotal to the show experience and make iGB Affiliate so special”.

News

Navigating the Challenges: The Impact of UKGC Regulations on UK Casino Affiliates

Published

1 week ago

November 28, 2023

TheVoice

The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of gambling in the UK, including the realm of online casinos and their affiliates. While the primary aim of UKGC regulations is to ensure safe and responsible gambling, these regulations have presented significant challenges for casino affiliates in the UK. This article explores how the UKGC’s regulations have affected UK casino affiliates, focusing on the experiences of platforms like Fruity Slots.

Stricter Advertising Guidelines

One of the key areas where UKGC regulations have impacted casino affiliates is in advertising. The UKGC has implemented stringent guidelines to ensure that gambling advertising is responsible and does not mislead or exploit vulnerable individuals. For casino affiliates, this means adhering to strict standards in terms of the content and presentation of promotional materials, which can limit the scope and creativity of marketing strategies.

Enhanced Due Diligence Requirements

The UKGC requires casino affiliates to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure that the casinos they promote are compliant with licensing requirements. This increased scrutiny means affiliates must invest more time and resources into vetting casinos, a process that can be both time-consuming and complex.

Responsibility in Promoting Safe Gambling

Casino affiliates are also required to promote safe gambling practices actively. This includes providing clear information on the risks associated with gambling, as well as links to resources for help and support. While promoting responsible gambling is crucial, it adds an additional layer of responsibility and complexity to the operations of casino affiliates.

The Challenge of Compliance

Keeping up with the constantly evolving UKGC regulations poses a significant challenge for casino affiliates. Compliance requires ongoing monitoring and adaptation, which can be resource-intensive. Affiliates must stay abreast of regulatory changes and adjust their operations accordingly, often necessitating legal expertise and increased operational costs.

Impact on Revenue Streams

The UKGC’s regulations have also impacted the revenue models of casino affiliates. With tighter controls and increased compliance costs, the profitability of affiliate marketing in the gambling sector has been affected. Affiliates must find a balance between compliance and commercial viability, which can be a delicate and challenging endeavour.

The Burden of Compliance and its Impact on Innovation

One significant impact of the UKGC’s stringent regulations on casino affiliates is the potential stifling of innovation. The need to remain compliant often requires affiliates to prioritise regulatory demands over creative marketing and innovative strategies. This focus can limit the ability of affiliates to experiment with new and engaging ways to attract and retain players, ultimately impacting the diversity and richness of the online gambling experience.

Increased Operational Costs

The stringent regulations set forth by the UKGC have led to increased operational costs for casino affiliates. Compliance requires not only a significant investment of time but also financial resources to ensure all aspects of the affiliate’s operation meet regulatory standards. These costs can be particularly burdensome for smaller affiliates, who may struggle to allocate the necessary resources towards compliance while maintaining profitability.

Enhanced Player Protection – A Double-Edged Sword

While the primary objective of UKGC regulations is to enhance player protection, this focus also presents a complex scenario for casino affiliates. On the one hand, these regulations help build a safer and more trustworthy online gambling environment, which can attract more players in the long run. On the other hand, the stringent rules can limit the ways affiliates interact with and engage players, potentially impacting the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and player acquisition strategies.

The Challenge of Maintaining Competitive Edge

In an industry as competitive as online gambling, maintaining a competitive edge is crucial for survival and growth. The UKGC’s regulations have created an environment where casino affiliates must continuously innovate within the confines of compliance to stay ahead. This necessity for balancing innovation with regulation demands a strategic approach and often requires affiliates to be more agile and adaptable in their operations.

Navigating the Evolving Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory landscape overseen by the UKGC is not static; it evolves in response to industry trends, technological advancements, and societal concerns. Casino affiliates, therefore, face the ongoing challenge of adapting to these changes. Keeping abreast of new regulations, understanding their implications, and implementing necessary changes in a timely manner are critical for continued operation and success in the UK market.

Fruity Slots: A Model of Compliance and Adaptation

In the midst of these challenges, Fruity Slots stands out as a model of compliance and adaptation. By continuously updating their practices in line with UKGC guidelines, they manage to offer a comprehensive platform that recommends slots and the best UK lottery sites, keeping the player’s safety and enjoyment at the forefront. Their ability to adapt and evolve in this regulated environment is commendable and serves as a benchmark for other casino affiliates in the industry.

The impact of UKGC regulations on UK casino affiliates is profound, encompassing increased compliance burdens, higher operational costs, and the challenge of maintaining innovation and competitiveness. Despite these hurdles, affiliates like Fruity Slots demonstrate that it is possible to navigate this complex landscape successfully. Their commitment to compliance, coupled with a focus on player safety and satisfaction, ensures that they continue to provide valuable services to both casinos and players in the UK gambling market.