In 2026, responsible gambling will continue to be a focus and priority for all aspects of the gambling industry as stricter regulation persists. 

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One particular trend is the move towards more formalised regulations around monitoring or interventions based on markers of harm, with countries such as Spain exploring this. 

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Last year Denmark put forward a gaming package aimed at strengthening protection of children and young people while in the US, New Jersey introduced draft RG regulations that include 10 specific behavioural triggers requiring an operator to step in and intervene. It would also be the first time that US operators are formally obliged to suspend or close the account of a player showing signs of problem gambling. As we move into 2026, we will see some of those measures come into force, if they receive the necessary approvals, and I would expect to see other markets follow suit by putting similar protections in place.

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I also believe we will see more jurisdictions considering market-wide deposit limits as Spain and Belgium look to Germany as a model to follow.

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Meanwhile, influencer and streamer marketing will continue to come under the regulatory spotlight. The European Betting and Gaming Association last October introduced a first-of-its-kind industry pledge to create standards for influencer marketing, including enhanced advertising standards and independent monitoring. In addition to Belgium introducing a stamp of authority for approved influencers, this is something we could see applied to gambling specifically in other jurisdictions down the line, too.