Milestone digital gaming overhaul: ADM authorizes 46 firms to shape the sector's trajectory.

The digital gaming landscape in Italy is poised for a landmark shift. The initial screening round by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) for awarding fresh licenses has now been completed. A mere 46 providers have secured approval to advance, featuring prominent entities like 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta and LeoVegas. This decision is deliberate: by favoring operators with proven technological robustness and fiscal stability, the focus shifts toward cultivating a more secure, clear-cut, and conscientious sector. The directive is unambiguous: the trajectory of Italian gaming will be defined by those capable of ensuring superior standards and user safeguards.

A rapid schedule for transformation

The clock is already ticking. All existing permits are set to lapse on September 17, 2025, with a brief potential extension to the 30th of that month. Concurrently, the ADM will finalize its technical and financial evaluation of the qualified firms by July. Successful candidates must then promptly settle the initial concession installment—4 million—and demonstrate accessible capital of no less than 3.7 million. Agreements will be executed during August and September to ensure seamless continuity, maintaining uninterrupted operation of the gaming machines.

Technology at the center of the new era

This transformation extends beyond paperwork: chosen operators must implement cutting-edge digital systems linked to ADM’s fortified platform. A six-month adaptation phase is set, aiming for complete implementation by March 2026. During this interval, legacy and modern frameworks will operate in parallel, ensuring seamless continuity for users. Upon completion, firms are required to submit the subsequent licensing payment—3 million euros—finalizing their formal integration into the newly structured gaming landscape.

Enhanced player safeguards and more rigorous regulations

A core aspect of the overhaul focuses on the handling of player accounts. Individuals will gain the ability to move their accounts to a different licensed provider, provided they follow fiscal regulations and secure advance approval. Operators facing exclusion must terminate all user accounts by August 17, 2025, returning all customer balances. Funds that remain uncollected after a 60-day period will be transferred to the State Treasury. Furthermore, submitting regular weekly reports on account transactions will become compulsory, and firms must convert into S.p.A. entities prior to finalizing concession agreements. The objective is unequivocal: fostering a market that is more transparent, secure, and viable, while always prioritizing responsible gaming.