Austria is returning to discussions on comprehensively reforming its gambling sphere: the ruling ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS coalition is discussing a bill that could be presented by the end of the year. It aims to determine what the market will look like after the current state licences, which have created a long-standing monopoly, expire.
For operators, this initiative creates a window of various opportunities. They could access regulated segments, develop new partnership models, and enter fair tenders.
Potential Changes in the Local Industry
The main question regarding the reforms is what to do with the system of national concessions, which has been strengthening over the decades.
The market situation is as follows:
- Casino Austria (CASAG) manages 12 physical gambling halls;
- Österreichische Lotterien (OL) is responsible for raffles;
- Win2Day is the only licensed iGaming operator (owned by OL).
The existing permits of the latter 2 enterprises expire in the autumn of 2027. Meanwhile, the 1st firm’s certification will end between 2027 and 2030. After that, new conditions must be agreed upon to continue offering amusement services in the country.
Amid upcoming changes, global studios are increasingly interested in the Austrian gambling licence. Nevertheless, many potential investors are already working in a grey area, using permits from other EU jurisdictions, or are operating illegally.
Complicated Ownership Structure
The reform is considered challenging due to the intertwined nature of public and private interests:
- The national holding ÖBAG controls 33% of CASAG, while 59% belongs to the Czech corporation Allwyn.
- ÖLG, another state giant, has a whopping 74% of OL and its subsidiary Win2Day.
- ÖLG is wholly managed by CASAG, meaning Allwyn indirectly influences lottery assets and iGaming shares.
Therefore, any changes will automatically affect large global companies. If the authorities decide to abolish the current monopoly, many operators and providers will likely try to debut on the market.
Unusual Competition in the Country
In addition to Allwyn, Brightstar, an international corporation formerly known as IGT, is also expressing interest in the lottery concession. Marco Tasso, a member of the firm’s Board, revealed plans to participate in the upcoming tender and noted the impressive potential of Austria’s gambling sector.
Local media also report that Brightstar’s experts are in talks with the domestic Österreichische Post, regarding a possible collaboration. The situation is complicated by the fact that the institution is 53% owned by ÖBAG. This peculiarity positions the 2 state assets on opposite sides of the competition, leaving Allwyn caught in the middle.
The draft law is expected to be presented in the coming weeks, and the updated regulatory system could enter into force in H1 2026. The bill has the potential to significantly alter the industry structure and shape fresh licensing requirements.
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