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Tag: BOS

  • BOS Asks Sweden to Allow Private Casinos as Casino Cosmopol Closure Looms

    BOS Asks Sweden to Allow Private Casinos as Casino Cosmopol Closure Looms

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    The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS), a body representing 18 Swedish gambling companies, has weighed in on the proposed closure of the state-owned Casino Cosmopol in Stockholm.

    BOS Wants the Government to Greenlight Private Casinos

    The BOS supported the closure, agreeing with the government’s argument that governments should not operate casinos. However, since Casino Cosmopol is the last land-based property in Sweden, closing it would effectively end traditional casino gaming in the country.

    Because of that, the BOS expressed its belief that the government should greenlight private land-based casinos in the country. For context, Sweden currently prohibits such properties, only allowing the state-owned Casino Cosmopol to serve as a monopoly.

    Sweden, as of now, has no actual plans to allow commercial casinos operated by private companies. The BOS therefore expressed concern about this stance, saying that if Casino Cosmopol closes, Sweden will not have a single legal land-based casino.

    Casinos Are Important to the Overall Gambling Ecosystem

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, secretary general of the BOS, commented on the matter, highlighting the importance of land-based casinos. While he conceded that such properties have a very small role when it comes to turnover, he noted that they play an important part in the overall gambling ecosystem.

    Additionally, Hoffstedt argued that land-based casinos attract tourists, solidifying Sweden as a tourist country. Finally, he said that the existence of legal casinos deters illegal gambling clubs.

    Because of that, Hoffstedt is firm that Sweden should legalize privately owned casinos.

    We propose that the government, at the same time as they close their own government casino, open up for private companies to offer land-based casinos in Sweden.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, secretary general, BOS

    This is not the first time the BOS has disagreed with the Swedish government’s decisions. Earlier, the industry body expressed its dismay at Sweden’s gambling tax hike. Hoffstedt, who previously called the measure a “gift to the black market,” argued that it would make legal operators less competitive, allowing their offshore counterparts to thrive.

    Speaking of gaming regulation in Sweden, the country’s regulator, the Spelinspektionen, recently banned Small House BV for targeting the market despite lacking a license. Earlier, the authority issued a warning and a financial penalty against Folkspel, which violated the country’s regulations by employing insufficient routines for the prevention of underage gambling.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • Swedish Scratch Card Game Trisskrapet Draws Controversy

    Swedish Scratch Card Game Trisskrapet Draws Controversy

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    The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) has backed the Swedish Consumer Agency’s (KV) and the Consumer Ombudsman’s (KO) evaluation regarding the daily scratch card commercial “Trisskrapet” featured on TV4. The consensus is that the segment should be recognized as advertising rather than an editorial feature, marking a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding the program.

    Most Industry Stakeholders Reached a Consensus

    “Trisskrapet” has long been a prominent feature on TV4 Nyhetsmorgon, offering viewers the chance to participate in scratch card activities with the potential to win substantial prizes. However, questions arose regarding the segment’s classification, prompting scrutiny from regulatory authorities. This case has caused concern among industry stakeholders who fear that improper categorization could cause gambling harm.

    A recent Supreme Court ruling agreed with points raised by the Swedish Consumer Agency, affirming the importance of transparency in distinguishing advertising content. Gunnar Wikström, litigation counsel at the Swedish Consumer Agency, expressed relief at the ruling, emphasizing the significance of accurately identifying advertising to ensure robust consumer protection measures.

    We are relieved by the Supreme Court’s ruling because a prohibition would have had devastating consequences for the authority’s ability to review companies’ marketing.

    Gunnar Wikström, Swedish Consumer Agency litigation counsel

    BOS echoed the sentiments of KV and the KO, highlighting the importance of clarity in distinguishing between advertising and editorial content. Gustaf Hoffstedt, representing BOS, stressed that consumer protection lies at the core of the gambling industry’s integrity. Clear identification of advertising content is essential to prevent any confusion among viewers and ensure a safe gambling environment.

    Svenska Spel Must Abide by Strict Advertising Standards

    The association urged Svenska Spel, the operator behind “Trisskrapet,” to adhere to advertising regulations promptly. Failure to comply with the provisions outlined in the Marketing Act and the Gambling Act could jeopardize consumer trust and undermine efforts to foster a secure gambling environment. Such measures align with Sweden’s mission to be a global leader in customer safety.

    BOS called upon the KO to enforce mandatory consumer protection labeling for “Trisskrapet,” emphasizing the urgency of implementing stringent measures to safeguard consumers. The absence of such labeling could compromise the integrity of the gambling market and hinder efforts to promote responsible gambling practices in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

    Every day and every “Trisskrapet” that does not contain the mandatory consumer protection label is another lost day for a safe and secure gambling market.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS general secretary

    Moving forward, Svenska Spel must prioritize compliance with advertising regulations while authorities remain vigilant in upholding consumer protection standards. The resolution of the “Trisskrapet” controversy underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in gambling advertising, ensuring that consumers can make informed decisions in a regulated environment.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • BOS Weighs In on Sweden’s Anti-Match-Fixing Initiative

    BOS Weighs In on Sweden’s Anti-Match-Fixing Initiative

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    The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS), representing 18 prominent gambling companies in the Swedish market, has voiced its opinion on the Swedish government’s latest initiative to combat match-fixing. In a statement released today, BOS expressed its support for increased cooperation between gambling operators, sports associations, and law enforcement authorities to maintain the integrity of the gaming market.

    Match Fixing Hurts the Entire Sector

    BOS emphasized the importance of a transparent and trustworthy gaming environment, which remains vital for consumer confidence and industry sustainability. While BOS member companies already employ effective measures to prevent match-fixing, the association acknowledged the need for collaborative efforts to combat illegal activities effectively. BOS general secretary Gustaf Hoffstedt stressed that integrity was vital to consumer trust.

    No game consumer, except the game consumer who has a criminal agenda, wants to place its bets on a market whose integrity cannot be trusted.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS general secretary

    The memorandum proposed by the government offers an enhanced framework for information sharing regarding legal violations, a move welcomed by BOS and its members. Transparency and cooperation among stakeholders are crucial in identifying and addressing instances of match-fixing, thus safeguarding the integrity of sports events and betting markets.

    Furthermore, BOS stressed the significance of channelization in the gaming market, urging the government to uphold the target of at least 90% channelization to licensed gambling operators. Channelization ensures that data sharing occurs exclusively among licensed entities, enhancing oversight and accountability in the industry. Failing to meet this benchmark could lead to the proliferation of black market operators, threatening consumer safety.

    Improved Channelization Remains a Priority

    Despite initial progress following the introduction of the gambling license market in 2019, BOS noted a decline in channelization rates in recent years. The association urged the government to reaffirm its commitment to the initial channelization target and implement strategies to crack down on unregulated entities and educate consumers on making informed decisions.

    BOS emphasized that achieving the channelization goal requires a comprehensive approach, including measures to enhance the competitiveness of licensed operators relative to unlicensed counterparts. The association called on the government to prioritize initiatives that promote channelization and deter illicit gambling activities. While Sweden regularly issues IP bans on offending companies, violators often find ways to circumvent these restrictions.

    The government must intensify its work for strengthened channelization, as it will never be enough to focus solely on so-called repressive measures.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS general secretary

    In conclusion, BOS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a secure and transparent gaming environment in Sweden. The association remains actively engaged in collaborative efforts to combat match-fixing and uphold the integrity of the gaming industry, advocating for policies that support responsible gambling and channelization and urging the government to take a more proactive stance.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • BOS: Sweden’s New Gambling Tax Is a Gift to the Black Market

    BOS: Sweden’s New Gambling Tax Is a Gift to the Black Market

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    Sweden’s online gambling association, Branschföreningen för Onlinespel (BOS) is not happy with the government’s plan to increase the gambling tax. According to its general secretary, Gustaf Hoffstedt, this move would be a huge Christmas present to the black market.

    For reference, Sweden just proposed to raise its gambling tax from 18% to 22%. The new tax rate would be applied from July 1, 2024, but is already attracting the industry’s hostility. BOS, which has previously critiqued the government of not understanding the market and its vulnerabilities, expressed its disagreement with the measure.

    According to BOS, the new measure will undermine the legal market at a very bad time as more and more players are now playing with black market companies.

    Spelinspektionen, Sweden’s gambling regulator, previously said that it doesn’t have firm objections to the measure but highlighted possible repercussions. BOS, on the other hand, scrutinized the Ministry of Finance’s decision, saying that it was counterproductive.

    The Ministry of Finance Is Giving a “Christmas Gift” to the Black Market

    In an official press release, Hoffstedt said that his team rejected the proposal and slammed the Ministry’s decision.

    The government can hardly time its proposal to raise the gambling tax to a worse time. We are in a situation where fewer and fewer players choose to play on the safe licensed market, and more and more on the unregulated, unlicensed gambling market.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, general secretary, BOS

    Hoffstedt added that the industry would only benefit the unlicensed market and further undermine the legal operators. He concluded that the proposal was “the best Christmas present” the Ministry of Finance could have given to the black market.

    That the government proposes to raise the tax for licensed gambling is the best Christmas present you can think of – to the unregulated and unlicensed gambling market.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, general secretary, BOS

    Consumers Misunderstand the Market Too

    In other news, BOS recently released a new study, highlighting the public’s misconceptions about the industry. Its findings showed that many players believe problem gambling to be a much more prevalent issue than it actually is. In addition, consumers across the country believe that operators keep most of the players’ money, which is also incorrect.

    Hoffstedt highlighted the importance of correcting these misconceptions since they are the reason the public has been okay with tougher gambling regulations. This, he says, is hurting the industry and threatening its health.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • JetBlue Announces Seasonal Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh from $399 Round-Trip

    JetBlue Announces Seasonal Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh from $399 Round-Trip

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    JetBlue Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh

    JetBlue today announced entrance to two new transatlantic destinations, Dublin and Edinburgh. These new flights are already available on sale starting today.

    Daily seasonal service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Dublin Airport (DUB) will begin March 13, 2024, and continue through September 30, 2024. Daily seasonal service from New York’s JFK to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) will begin May 22, 2024, and is scheduled through September 30, 2024. These mark JetBlue’s fourth and fifth transatlantic markets. The carrier currently offers daily nonstop service to London, Paris and Amsterdam from New York and London and Amsterdam from Boston.

    “The success of our transatlantic service proves customers don’t have to choose between great service and low fares and can have them both with our award-winning Mint and core products,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue. “Our summer seasonal service to Dublin and Edinburgh will bring a new level of service and affordable fares to these markets that have been dominated by high-fare legacy carriers for decades. We look forward to introducing the JetBlue experience to business and leisure customers traveling this summer to and from Ireland and Scotland.”

    Schedule between New York (JFK) and Dublin (DUB)

    Daily seasonal service starting March 13 (Eastbound) & March 14 (Westbound)

    (through September 30, 2024)

    *all times local

    JFK- DUB Flight #841

    DUB- JFK Flight #842

    9:30 p.m. – 8:15 a.m. (+1)

    11:45 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.

    Schedule between Boston (BOS) and Dublin (DUB)

    Daily seasonal service starting March 13 (Eastbound) & March 14 (Westbound)

    (through September 30, 2024)

    *all times local

    BOS – DUB Flight #353

    DUB – BOS Flight #354

    10:30 p.m. – 8:45 a.m. (+1)

    11:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

    Schedule between New York (JFK) and Edinburgh (EDI)

    Daily seasonal service starting May 22 (Eastbound) & May 23 (Westbound)

    (through September 30, 2024)

    *all times local

    JFK- EDI Flight #73

    EDI- JFK Flight #72

    10:15 p.m. – 10:25 a.m. (+1)

    12:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

    Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh will operate daily on JetBlue’s Airbus A321neo with Mint® aircraft with 16 redesigned Mint Suite® seats, 144 core seats and the sleek and spacious Airspace cabin interior. The A321neo with Mint features a 20 percent increase in fuel efficiency and up to 500 nautical miles in additional range.

    Seats on the Dublin and Edinburgh routes are on sale starting today with low fares for U.S.-originating travelers starting at $399 and $599 roundtrip for the airline’s award-winning core experience and starting at $1,999 and $2,499 for JetBlue’s premium Mint experience. Ireland and Scotland originating travelers can enjoy special introductory roundtrip fares starting at €399 ($423) and £399 ($485) for core and €1,499 ($1,588) and £1,499 ($1,822) for Mint available on jetblue.com.

    Growth in Paris

    Following the successful entry into Paris this summer, JetBlue will be launching its highly anticipated year-round service from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) starting April 3, 2024, and will add a second daily flight from New York’s JFK to CDG on June 20, 2024.

    To celebrate service from Boston to Paris, seats are on sale today with low fares for U.S.-originating travelers starting at $599 roundtrip for the airline’s award-winning core experience and starting at $2,499 for JetBlue’s premium Mint experience. France-originating travelers can enjoy special introductory roundtrip fares starting at €399 ($423) for core and €1,999 ($2,118) for Mint available on jetblue.com.

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    DDG

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