Dabble fined by ACMA over responsible gambling failures, Entain may reduce customer care jobs

In a new op-ed post appearing on the Dutch Gambling Authority's website, Chair Michel Groothuizen, highlights a number of recent developments, including the ongoing battle against illegal gambling. Groothuizen was encouraged by the ongoing progress against illegal gambling, highlighting that the Netherlands may to collaborate on an international level to achieve more. "In my view, it is naive to cling to the idea that a well-regulated legal national market and a national regulator are sufficient to tackle this problem," Groothuizen wrote.

Across the ocean, the U.S. Senate advanced the Protect College Sports Act, a bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sen. Ted Cruz and Sen. Maria Cantwell, that focuses on bringing "order in the chaos" by improving safety measures for student-athletes.

Earlier this week, Casino Guru News published an opinion piece by Jason La Canfora, the award-winning NFL reporter, analyst and insider. La Canfora discussed the tough season ahead of the New England Patriots, highlighting potential challenges.

Business and finance

Up to 400 customer care jobs at Entain may be cut. The company is looking into potentially reducing its headcount, citing the negative impact of UK taxes. While Entain employs 2,000 people in customer care roles, its headcount may be reduced by up to 400 amid the mounting UK tax pressure.

In a statement, Entain's CEO, Stella David, wrote: "The proposed changes are being made to ensure our business remains competitive, financially resilient, and well positioned for the future as our sector faces an increasingly challenging operating environment. This decision has not been made lightly, and our immediate priority is to support those of our colleagues who may be impacted through this transition."

OpenBet plans to accelerate its growth and expansion by acquiring the sportsbook technology provider, OmniLogic. The deal, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. The milestone acquisition is expected to strengthen OpenBet by adding technology capabilities, sportsbook expertise and an established partner base in important gambling markets.

Martin Calvert joined All-In Global as the company presses forward with its AI-powered translation technology. The experienced executive assumes the role of Marketing Director. Before joining All-In Global, Calvert was part of the C-suite at ICS-Digital, where he served as Marketing Director. This seven-year tenure enabled him to accumulate significant knowledge and experience by collaborating with game studios, operators and platform providers.

IGT strengthened its senior-level team by hiring Adam Chibib as Chief Financial Officer. Joining the company, the executive brings more than 30 years of experience in finance. Chibib will be succeeding Fabio Celadon, who is set to transition to an advisor role, effective October 31, 2026.

Regulation and laws

In the UK, a new report by the House of Lords describes the current gambling ads rules "too passive." The white paper encouraged additional measures to be taken against digital gambling ads to ensure that the regulatory framework is fit to the modern age. According to the House of Lords liaison committee, to ensure the right effect is accomplished, the changes need to be decisive and definitive.

The Australian Communications Media Authority (ACMA) issued a million-dollar fine against one operator, citing responsible gambling failures. An investigation by the Authority resulted in a fine against Dabble Sports Pty Ltd (trading as Dabble). Due to responsible gambling failures, the operator received an AU$1,069,200 ($760,415) monetary sanction.

According to ACMA, Dabble breached online gambling self-exclusion rules. ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood described the violations as "deeply concerning" and explained that individuals who have excluded from online gambling activities via BetStop should not be targeted with gambling promotions. "These were serious breaches by Dabble. Wagering providers must have robust systems in place to protect people who have chosen to self-exclude," Lidgerwood explained.

The Public Health Advocacy Institute and Families and Friends of Gamblers teamed up to form a new campaign pushing for a gambling reform. The campaign is called Truth and Integrity: The Movement for Gambling Reform and is expected to kick off on September 23, 2026, in Washington D.C.

Responsible gambling

Earlier this week, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine released a new study, focusing on an increase in the number of visits to the Emergency Room (ER) by young men and boys, impacted by gambling-related issues. The study highlighted a concerning growth in the number of ER admissions, mostly men and boys, observed over the last 14 years. Similar studies in recent years have uncovered an uptick in the number of calls to problem gambling helplines by men and boys, too.

Only recently, BetBlocker’s Pedro Romero, hailed the importance of the Sustainable Gambling Zone, part of the Consumer Protection Zone which was unveiled at ICE 2018. He revealed that BetBlocker remains focused on growing the layers of player protection and studying consumer behavior. Romero pointed to the importance of the Sustainable Gambling Zone as a project that minimizes harm, helps protect the players and drives debate.

The voice of the industry

This week, Casino Guru News published a report focusing on the career of Jaishawn Barham and his path to professional football. The rising football star, who was recently selected by the Dallas Cowboys, enjoyed significant success with Maryland and Michigan before transitioning to professional play.

Casino Guru USA had the chance to talk to The Traitors Winner, Aaron Evans. In an exclusive interview, Evans discussed The Traitors: New Blood, the first all-civilian cast in the US franchise premiering this week. The winner of the UK's first season shared his verdict on New Blood's contestants, while offering advice for viewers who may be interested in signing up for the next season.

In a separate interview, Casino Guru News spoke to Wiktoria Hanak, Head of Account Management at BF Games. The executive spoke about the hard work associated with the development of quality games in light of the release of Silver Coins, the brand-new game that grows and evolves the popular franchise.

Dzangar Jesenov, Endorphina's Head of Compliance, revealed in an interview for Casino Guru News that successful international expansion always starts with thorough preparation. The executive pointed to some of the challenges and opportunities iGaming operators and providers face when growing their international reach.

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