KSA Reports Success of New Responsible Gaming Rules

Are stricter gambling regulations reducing problem gambling in the Netherlands? The Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, KSA) has released its first three-month report after implementing new responsible gaming measures in October. The results are promising—high deposit limits are down, player losses have decreased, and excessive gambling has been curbed. This data highlights the effectiveness of strict regulation in protecting players while shaping a more responsible gambling market. What does this mean for operators and the industry moving forward?

KSA Reports Positive Impact of New Responsible Gaming Rules in the Netherlands

Key Points:

1. Fewer Players Setting High Deposit Limits

   • The percentage of players setting higher deposit limits dropped by nearly 50%.
   • Operators must now engage with players before approving high deposit limits.

2. Lower Average Player Losses

   • The average loss per player fell from €117 to €83.
   • Stronger affordability checks prevent players from exceeding responsible limits.

3. Reduction in Excessive Gambling and Market Adjustments

   • The percentage of players losing over €1,000 dropped from 4% to 1%.
   • Gross gaming revenue (BSR) declined by 10%, reflecting a shift toward safer gambling.

KSA’s Responsible Gaming Measures Are Transforming the Dutch Gambling Market

Stronger Deposit Limits Are Reducing High-Risk Gambling

One of the most significant responsible gaming rules introduced in October focused on limiting net deposits to prevent excessive gambling. The policy requires players to contact operators before setting a deposit limit exceeding €150 for young adults and €350 for adults per month.

This rule aimed to:

• Increase awareness of gambling risks among high-deposit players.
• Encourage providers to promote responsible gaming habits.
• Reduce financial harm caused by excessive betting.

The results speak for themselves. Since the new limits were introduced:

• The number of players setting higher deposit limits dropped by nearly 50%.
• Many players lowered their deposit limits after speaking with operators about risks.

Affordability Checks Curb High-Stakes Deposits

In addition to deposit limits, operators must now conduct affordability checks when a player deposits over €300 (young adults) or €700 (adults) within a month. If the player fails the affordability test, or if the check is not performed, their deposits are blocked for the rest of the month.

The impact has been immediate and significant:

• The number of adult players exceeding deposit limits fell from 9.7% to 3.8%.
• Among young adults, the figure dropped from 12% to 2.8%.

These checks ensure that players do not gamble beyond their financial means, strengthening the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming.

Lower Player Losses Indicate Market Adjustment

As a direct result of these stricter deposit limits and affordability measures, the average player loss per account decreased from €117 to €83. This suggests that players are gambling more responsibly and managing their budgets more effectively.

Furthermore, excessive gambling has also declined significantly:

• The percentage of players who lost more than €1,000 per month fell from 4% to just 1%.

While some operators might see lower revenues due to these restrictions, the industry is adapting to a safer, more sustainable gambling environment.

Market Impact: Gross Gaming Revenue Drops by 10%

The new responsible gaming measures led to a 10% decline in gross gaming revenue (BSR) for licensed operators. However, this should not be viewed as a setback. Instead, it reflects a market correction, ensuring that revenue is generated in a sustainable, ethical manner.

Importantly, 91% of players now exclusively use licensed operators, reinforcing that regulated platforms remain the preferred choice despite stricter controls.

The Future of Responsible Gambling in the Netherlands

The KSA’s first three-month report shows that strict regulation can successfully balance player protection and industry sustainability. Moving forward, the Dutch gambling sector can expect:

1. Continued Refinements to Responsible Gaming Policies

   • The KSA is actively monitoring gambling behavior to fine-tune existing rules.
   • Further affordability checks and interventions may be introduced.

2. Stronger Collaboration Between Operators and Regulators

   • Gambling operators must demonstrate compliance with the new deposit and affordability checks.
   • Companies that fail to comply risk fines or regulatory penalties.

3. Potential Expansion of Similar Measures in Other Markets

   • The success of these rules may influence other European regulators to introduce stricter deposit and affordability controls.
   • Sweden and the UK, for example, have already introduced enhanced player protection measures.

A Responsible Future for Dutch Gambling

The Dutch gambling market is undergoing a major transformation, with stronger consumer protections now in place. The KSA’s latest report proves that:

• Stricter deposit limits reduce high-risk gambling.
• Affordability checks prevent financial harm.
• Operators must take responsibility for safer gambling environments.

While gross gaming revenue has declined, the industry is moving towards long-term sustainability and increased player trust. The challenge now is ensuring compliance while maintaining a thriving, regulated market.

With other European regulators watching closely, the Netherlands may set a new industry standard for responsible gambling policies worldwide.

The question remains: Will other countries follow the Dutch model in prioritizing player protection over profits?