The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has released its 2024 Annual Report, offering a comprehensive overview of the regulatory, supervisory, and operational developments that shaped Malta’s gaming landscape. With a continued focus on compliance, resilience, and innovation, the report provides valuable insights for gaming operators, risk professionals, and C-suite executives navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
The Evolving Regulatory Landscape: Licensing Trends and Market Dynamics
In 2024, the MGA received 28 new licence applications, issuing 17 new licences and processing 8 licence renewals. Notably, B2B licensing remained a strong growth area, accounting for 60.7% of new applications and 64.7% of licences issued. This trend underscores Malta’s continued appeal as a jurisdiction of choice for service providers, highlighting sustained growth in this space.
Strengthened Compliance Oversight
In line with the continued efforts to strengthen its supervisory activities, the MGA conducted:
- 13 compliance audits
- 116 desktop reviews
- 123 information security incident reports were conducted and reviewed following the launch of a new reporting mechanism in April 2024
These efforts reflect the MGA’s commitment to technical resilience and cybersecurity, ensuring that licensees maintain robust operational safeguards.
Focus on Player Protection and Integrity
The MGA’s regulatory oversight methodology, introduced in 2024, placed renewed emphasis on:
- Player protection
- Responsible gaming (RG)
- Sports betting integrity
As part of this initiative, 40 website checks were conducted, resulting in 27 observation letters issued to operators for non-compliance.
Strategic Insights and Industry Implications
AML/CFT and Governance
The MGA, in collaboration with the FIAU, initiated 43 AML/CFT compliance examinations, concluding 60 reviews and issuing 11 closure letters.
Operators are advised to stay ahead of regulatory developments by strengthening internal policies and controls, particularly in areas flagged for oversight, such as information security, player protection and AML/CFT
Malta’s Position as a Trusted Jurisdiction
Malta continues to distinguish itself through regulatory clarity, operational maturity, and a collaborative approach to industry engagement. The MGA’s strategic direction—emphasising technological capacity, cross-border cooperation, and sustainable growth—positions the jurisdiction as a resilient hub for long-term investment in gaming, especially in the B2B space.
How ARQ Can Help
At ARQ, we understand the regulatory pressures facing today’s gaming operators. Our team offers tailored support across:
- Licensing and authorisations
- Compliance audits and readiness
- AML/CFT frameworks
- Cybersecurity and operational resilience
We’ll be attending the SBC Summit Malta, and we’d be delighted to connect to discuss how we can support your regulatory journey.
For more information, please speak to Kris Baron – Partner – Regulatory and Advisory.
Kris Baron
Partner – Regulatory & Advisory
Kris Baron is the partner in charge of regulatory and compliance matters at ARQ and is responsible for i-gaming and e-commerce clients. He is a member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (USA), Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK) and a Fellow of the Malta Institute of Accountants.
