Dutch gambling regulator KSA has unveiled new leadership and strategy
The Netherlands gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), starts the year with a reformed board and a fresh governance model. This shift supports its updated strategy, prioritising player protection, digitalisation, and data-driven oversight.
Consequently, the KSA now adopts a board structure with a full-time chair and two part-time members. Moreover, its departments consolidate into three directorates for sharper management.
Chairman Michel Groothuizen remains in post. Meanwhile, the appointment process for the two new part-time board members is in its final stages.
The regulator states its duties in supervision, licensing, and enforcement are growing broader. Importantly, this is due to factors like AI, rising illegal supply, and deeper international cooperation. Therefore, the restructuring aims to meet these evolving demands.
Under the new model, Groothuizen serves as the full-time chair and international figurehead. Subsequently, two part-time directors will provide strategic expertise on digitalisation and governance.
Furthermore, three directorates will handle daily operations:
- Player Protection & Management Advice (led by Roos Lawant from 01/02/2026)
- Permits & Supervision (led by Ella Seijsener from 01/01/2026)
- Digitalisation, Analysis & Business Operations (led by Daniël Palomo van Es from 01/02/2026)
This change concludes the tenure of Vice-Chair Bernadette van Buchem. The KSA thanked her for her open leadership and commitment since 2018.
Peter & Sons has secured major Ontario content deal with Casino Time
Peter & Sons significantly strengthens its Ontario standing today. This follows a landmark content agreement with Casino Time, a highly respected regional operator.
Casino Time’s flagship site, CasinoTime.ca, naturally complements this move. Indeed, it offers a vast selection of casino games, including slots, live casino, and bingo. Moreover, plans are in place for a new Casino Time-powered sportsbook. Consequently, the site aims to consolidate its market lead and diversify its content.
As a result of this partnership, Ontario players can now access Peter & Sons fan favourites. Renowned for its indie-inspired creations, Peter & Sons consistently pushes boundaries in slot design. The studio is known for its offbeat characters and crafted game worlds. Therefore, by joining forces with Casino Time, it expects a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.
Yann Bautista, Founder & Commercial Director at Peter & Sons, commented: “Ontario has long been a major focus for us. Ultimately, partnering with Casino Time marks an exciting milestone for our regional expansion. Their commitment to top-tier entertainment aligns perfectly with our bold vision. Accordingly, we look forward to sharing our most beloved titles with their audience.”
Jeffrey Holmes, COO at Casino Time, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Peter & Sons. Specifically, the studio is renowned for its distinctive artistic style and engaging gameplay. As we cement our leading position in Ontario, this agreement is a major step. Ultimately, it expands the premium entertainment we offer our players.”
Earlier, Peter & Sons secured a European content deal with Interwetten.
Montenegro’s sudden gambling tax changes spark industry backlash
Montenegro’s Ministry of Finance is under fire after imposing a sudden overhaul of gambling tax rules. Operators were given a mere 24 hours to adapt their systems before the new system launched.
The amendments introduce a tiered structure, replacing the previous flat 15% tax on all winnings over €300. Now:
- Winnings up to €50 are tax-free.
- Winnings from €50.01 to €1,500 face a 10% levy.
- Any amount above €1,500 is taxed at 15%.
Notably, these rules apply to betting, lotteries, and international jackpots. However, casino and slot machine winnings are specifically exempted.
The change, proposed by MP Armen Šehović, was defended by the ministry as fixing an “ineffective” framework. Conversely, the gambling industry heavily criticised the abrupt rollout and lack of consultation.
The online association MontenegroBet has lodged a formal complaint and announced a planned constitutional challenge. It argues the exemption for casinos creates an unfair, two-tier system and suggests “privileged” operators had advance knowledge.
“The ministry claims the law applies equally, but the reality is completely different,” the group stated.
This conflict arrives amidst a wider government drive to modernise gambling laws and align with EU standards. Recently, officials rejected calls to review the new overarching legislation, with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić vowing to end regulatory “grey areas.” Nevertheless, this rapid tax change has triggered a significant new legal battle.
