Historic online gaming reform: ADM selects 46 operators to shape the industry's future

The online gaming landscape in Italy is poised for a monumental transformation. The Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) has recently completed the inaugural stage of granting new licenses. A select group of just 46 operators has been approved to proceed, featuring prominent industry players like 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta and LeoVegas. This deliberate selection is strategic: by prioritizing applicants with proven technological robustness and fiscal stability, the focus shifts toward cultivating a more secure, open, and conscientious marketplace. The directive is unequivocal: the evolution of Italy's gaming sector will be driven by those capable of ensuring superior standards and safeguards for users.

A condensed schedule for progress

The countdown has already started. Current licenses will end on September 17, 2025, with a potential short-term extension until the 30th of that same month. In the meantime, ADM will finalize the technical and financial assessment of the chosen firms by July. Those who clear this phase must promptly pay the initial installment of the concession fee—4 million—and demonstrate they possess at least 3.7 million in ready funds. Agreements will be executed in August and September to prevent service interruptions, ensuring the gaming machine operates without a hitch.

Technology at the center of the new era

The transformation extends beyond paperwork: chosen operators must implement cutting-edge digital frameworks that seamlessly connect with ADM’s protected platform. A six-month adjustment window is planned, targeting complete implementation by March 2026. During this interval, legacy and modern systems will operate side-by-side, ensuring uninterrupted service for users. Upon completion, the firms are required to submit the subsequent licensing payment – 3 million euros – finalizing their formal participation in the newly structured gaming landscape.

Enhanced player safeguards and more rigorous regulations

A central aspect of the legislative update involves the administration of gaming profiles. Players will retain the ability to migrate their accounts to a different licensed provider, following fiscal regulations and after securing official approval. Firms losing their eligibility must terminate all user accounts by August 17, 2025, reimbursing any remaining balances. Uncollected funds after a 60-day period will be transferred to the national treasury. Furthermore, operators will be required to submit regular weekly statements detailing account transactions and must convert to a joint-stock company (S.p.A.) structure prior to obtaining new licenses. The overarching objective is to foster a more lucid, secure, and viable market, while continuing to prioritize ethical entertainment.