UK introduces maximum bet for online slots

A new law will soon take effect in the UK, imposing a £5 maximum bet limit on online slots for players aged 25 and older. Those under 25 who are eligible to play will face a reduced cap of £2. This initiative is anticipated to significantly impact online casino revenues, as the government aims to mitigate the heightened risk of severe harm and life-altering financial losses associated with gambling.

Previously, there were effectively no limits on bets for online slots. However, some operators, including 888 and Evoke (owner of William Hill), have preemptively lowered their maximum betting limits. In the last reported year, the online slots sector generated £3.2 billion, representing the majority of the total £4 billion in online casino revenues.

Surveys conducted by the NHS indicate that UK residents have raised the most concerns regarding online slots, often citing their addictive nature. Additionally, the UK will implement comprehensive assessments of players to ensure they can afford to continue playing if their net losses exceed £500 per month. Operators will utilise publicly available information, such as county court judgments and bankruptcy records, to perform these checks.