Swedish Top Court Upholds SGA Penalties

Imagine a final, unyielding verdict that cements hefty fines against major gambling operators.
This is reality in Sweden, as the Supreme Administrative Court rejects all appeals from Kindred, ComeOn, and Mr Green.
Picture a regulated market where Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) oversight ensures strict compliance, fair play, and honest promotions.
Stay informed, reassess your strategies, and adapt to Sweden’s evolving rules before it’s too late.

Sweden’s Highest Court Slams the Door: No Relief for Kindred, ComeOn, and Mr Green

3 Key Points:

1. Kindred Group fine final: Court dismisses appeals, cementing a SEK30m penalty.
2. ComeOn Group penalty upheld: Reduced fines stand, leaving no further avenue for appeal.
3. Mr Green AML violations confirmed: The court’s refusal to hear the case finalizes a multi-million SEK penalty.

The Swedish gambling industry has felt a seismic jolt as the Supreme Administrative Court refused to hear appeals from Kindred Group, ComeOn Group, and Mr Green. This decisive ruling closes the door on months—if not years—of legal wrangling. The Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) now stands with its decisions affirmed, sending a powerful message to all industry players.

The shockwaves began with Kindred Group’s subsidiary, Spooniker, which contested a penalty dating back to 2020. Initially set at SEK100m (€8.7m), it was imposed when the SGA determined that certain promotions offered in March 2019 violated Swedish gambling laws. Although Kindred argued that their offers were “in-game mechanics” rather than bonuses, the courts disagreed. The penalty saw multiple reductions, dropping from SEK100m to SEK50m and then to SEK30m. Yet, even with that final figure, Kindred aimed for a full reversal. Now the Supreme Administrative Court’s refusal to grant further appeals cements the Kindred Group fine at SEK30m, effectively ending their legal battle.

In parallel, ComeOn Group faced its own uphill struggle. In 2021, four of its brands—ComeOn Sweden, Hajper, Casinostugan, and Snabbare—were hit with penalties totaling SEK165m. The SGA cited unauthorized bonuses and neglect of the required duty of care. Although the appeals process secured reductions, the essence of wrongdoing remained. The final penalties—SEK13m for ComeOn Sweden, SEK8m for Casinostugan, SEK24m for Snabbare, and SEK14m for Hajper—stand as a sobering reminder that leniency has limits. With the Supreme Administrative Court’s rejection, these penalties are now beyond dispute.

Moreover, Mr Green faced a similar fate. The operator’s initial SEK31.5m penalty for AML shortcomings and duty of care failures was eventually lowered to a combined SEK13.5m. Still, Mr Green hoped for a more favorable judgment. However, the top court refused to entertain the appeal. This unwavering stance from Sweden’s highest administrative court sends a clear signal: attempts to bypass stringent Swedish gambling laws will face unwavering resistance.

While the legal dust settles, the SGA continues to tighten its grip. Recent action against Cosmogames underscores the regulator’s firm resolve. Operating without a valid license, Cosmogames offered services through multiple Spinarium domains. Swedish consumers could register, deposit in SEK, and play without proper authorization. The SGA’s immediate ban on Cosmogames reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a fair, lawful marketplace.

These final rulings and decisive measures solidify Sweden’s position as a no-nonsense regulatory environment. Operators that push the boundaries of compliance now understand that the consequences can be steep. Thus, the recent court decisions underscore the importance of adhering to established regulations. They emphasize that the era of lax enforcement is over.

As Sweden’s highest court dismisses appeals, major operators must accept their penalties and move forward. The Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) stands tall, demonstrating its capacity to enforce Swedish gambling laws effectively. These outcomes serve as a warning to all gambling operators: comply with the rules, respect duty of care obligations, and conduct business responsibly. In Sweden’s vigilant market, there is no room for shortcuts.