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Malta Gaming Authority

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Best Online Casinos Licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority

Malta, a small island nation located south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea, was formerly a British colony before gaining independence in 1964. Today, it stands as an independent member of the European Union and has emerged as one of the leading online gambling hubs in Europe. This is largely due to the British influence on gambling culture that has taken root on the island.

Malta was the first jurisdiction globally to regulate online gambling through its Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) license.

As of the end of 2016, the gambling industry contributed 11.6% to Malta’s revenue, with over 500 gambling licenses issued to various remote casino operators. This flourishing industry has significantly boosted employment, creating more than 6,000 full-time jobs, alongside nearly 3,000 additional positions related to the sector.

The Malta Gaming Authority is recognized as a top regulator in the online gambling industry, ensuring a safe and secure gambling environment for both players and casino operators.

Gambling Regulation

While some nations perceive gambling as a negative activity and choose to prohibit it, others recognize the industry's potential and opt for effective regulation. The goal is to mitigate the associated risks while maximizing revenue and providing an enjoyable entertainment experience. Consequently, numerous jurisdictions across Europe and the Americas have implemented regulatory frameworks to ensure that fairness and enjoyment are prioritized.

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) was established in 2001 under Malta’s ‘Lotteries and Other Games’ Act. Its legislation aims to ensure a fair and transparent experience for players, safeguard vulnerable individuals, and combat gambling-related crimes, such as money laundering.

Since its founding, the MGA has cultivated a reputation for robust regulatory practices, becoming a benchmark within the industry that other regulatory bodies strive to emulate. Currently, the MGA's jurisdiction extends to over 180 countries worldwide.

Licensing

In contrast to the UK Gaming Commission, MGA licenses do not differentiate between the types of games or the technologies used in casinos and betting institutions. This means that a single application and purchase cover all online betting options within the casino.

Taxation

While taxation can be a dreaded term for many businesses, it has a different connotation in Malta. Gambling operators are less affected by international capital markets due to Malta’s position in the Eurozone. This unique status contributes to Malta’s prominence as an iGaming hub, accounting for 10% of the world’s online gambling operations.

The tax rate for businesses in Malta is structured so that no operator pays more than 5% of their total revenues in a year.

Benefits for MGA Operators

Several advantages stand out for operators holding MGA licenses:

  • A single license application allows operators to offer any form of online gambling, providing greater business flexibility and the ability to deliver a diverse range of entertainment options.
  • The lower tax rates are a significant benefit, especially for operators generating millions of dollars in monthly revenue.
  • The MGA not only serves as a public protector but also creates a secure platform that protects operators from public abuse. The MGA advocates for resolution within the casino environment before escalating issues.

Benefits of MGA Casinos for Players

Playing at an MGA-licensed casino offers several benefits, including:

  • Fair Gaming and Recourse: If an operator mistreats a player and all management options have been exhausted, players can escalate the matter to the MGA. This ensures players have peace of mind, knowing they won’t be defrauded at an MGA-certified casino.

  • Responsible Gambling Protection: Maltese-licensed casinos are required to implement measures to protect vulnerable players. This includes legislation aimed at preventing underage gambling and identifying and assisting problem gamblers.

  • High-Quality Software: Thanks to the strict vetting process for casino platforms, players can expect a smooth gaming experience. MGA games feature top-tier software providers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, and others.

  • Diverse Game Selection: MGA casinos are not limited by game platforms or titles, allowing players to enjoy a wide variety of games across all genres, playable on both mobile and desktop/laptop devices.