GGL, the German gambling regulatory body, has introduced a tiered system for bet limits in certified digital slots instead of the previous flat one (€1 per round). The new initiative came into effect this July, and now, game caps depend on demographic groups.
Key Changes in Setting Max Stakes
According to the updated rules, players' age and behaviour determine the top wager per spin:
- For those under 21, the €1 limit remains in place.
- Older customers (21+) can bet up to €3 per round in online slots.
- Users with no signs of risky gambling for 90+ days are allowed to stake €5.
The initial €1 cap was introduced in 2021, when the licensed web gambling business in Germany was officially launched. Since then, operators have continuously expressed their discontent with the limitation. Platform owners claimed that such a low barrier decreases the interest of website visitors in legal offers, making some of them turn to illicit competitors.
Combating the Shadow Economy
Simon Priglinger‑Simader, Entain’s Snr Regulatory Affairs Manager and the DOCV’s VP, welcomes the introduction of the tiered alternative enthusiastically. He believes that adjusting the caps is a positive sign for the certified iGaming segment in the state.
Still, the local situation evokes disputes. The GGL’s 2025 report estimates the share of the legal market at 77%. Nevertheless, national operators argue over the figure, claiming that the real number is smaller. Also, the authority is now reviewing the 2021 Interstate Treaty’s impact on the sphere.
At the same time, the DOCV, the country’s association of online casinos, calls for updates to the Criminal Code for targeting the illicit sector. The union’s members note that the current provisions in the law are outdated, as they were introduced before rapid iGaming growth. In terms of cross-border digital services, the document is not effective enough.
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