Alberta Opens iGaming Market as Finland Prepares Liberalization
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Key Takeaways
- Alberta's iGaming market moves closer to launch, with regulatory standards published and operator registration now open, signaling major new entry opportunities in Canada.
- Supplier partnerships continue strengthening positions in established markets like Ontario, supporting compliant content delivery.
- European markets show ongoing B2B interest amid regulatory evolution, such as in Romania.
Alberta Advances iGaming Framework for 2026 Launch
Alberta's push to establish a regulated private iGaming market gained momentum with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) releasing a comprehensive 85-page document outlining standards and requirements on January 14, 2026. Operator registration is now open, paving the way for commercial online casino and sports betting operators to enter the province.
This follows the province's decision to liberalize its market, previously dominated by the government-run Play Alberta platform, which accounts for only about 30% of online gambling activity amid a significant unregulated segment. The framework draws inspiration from Ontario's successful model, with expectations of a multi-product launch involving major operators. A proposed tax structure of around 20% on gross gaming revenue (with deductions) positions Alberta as a high-potential jurisdiction for new market entrants.
The development matters as it introduces competition, enhanced player protections, and revenue diversification in a Canadian province with strong demand for regulated options. Operators like BetMGM have expressed commitment to delivering safe, regulated services upon launch.
Source: OnlineCasinoRank, iGaming Business, Canadian Gaming Business
Gaming Corps Secures Major BetMGM Partnership in Ontario
Swedish game developer Gaming Corps expanded its footprint in Ontario through an exclusive content supply deal with BetMGM, integrating its portfolio of slots, table games, multiplier games, mine games, Plinko variants, and the Smash4Cash instant-win engine into BetMGM's casino offering.
This partnership builds on Gaming Corps' Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) supplier license secured in spring 2025, enabling broader collaborations with approved operators. BetMGM, a leading player in Ontario's iGaming market, reinforces its position with diverse, innovative content to attract and retain players.
The agreement highlights the ongoing maturation of Ontario's regulated market, now generating billions annually, where supplier integrations drive product variety and compliance-focused growth. It underscores the value of AGCO-approved partnerships for market penetration in established jurisdictions.
Source: Canadian Gaming Business
iGP Enters Romania Amid Regulatory Changes
iGaming solutions provider iGP obtained a Romanian license, marking its entry into one of Eastern Europe's prominent markets amid ongoing regulatory adjustments. The move follows a strong 2025 for the company, including advancements in iLottery solutions.
Romania's evolving framework, with shifts in taxes and oversight, creates opportunities for compliant B2B providers to support operators as they navigate changes. iGP's entry facilitates technology and platform support for market participants.
This reflects broader trends in emerging European regulated markets, where B2B firms enable efficient, standards-compliant operations amid dynamic regulations.
Source: SBC News
Finland's iGaming Liberalization Set for Early 2026 Implementation
Finland's parliament approved legislation ending the long-standing monopoly on online gambling, with the law taking effect in January 2026. Operators can apply for licenses starting March 1, 2026, pending final presidential sign-off.
The reform, proposed in 2024, opens the market to private operators under a licensed framework, promising enhanced competition, player protections, and tax revenues. It addresses long-standing debates over the effectiveness of Veikkaus' monopoly.
This milestone represents a significant shift in Nordic regulated markets, potentially attracting international operators and fostering innovation in responsible gambling and market access.
Source: iGaming Business
