Webinar by Mindway AI tackles challenges related to problem gambling.
Title: Unraveling the Problem Gambling Landscape: A Frank Discussion
In trying to pin down the gambling industry's problem gambling landscape, it's like explaining the color of a rainbow to a blind person. During a recent webinar hosted by Mindway AI, panelists agreed – there's no single answer.
"It's all about shedding light on problematic gambling behavior. It's always got room for improvement," said Mindway AI CEO, Rasmus Kjaergaard. "And the regulatory landscape, as I see it, varies across different regions."
As gaming continues its rapid expansion and transformation in the United States, responsible gaming becomes a crucial topic for industry insiders. However, there remains a fair amount of resistance to change, according to responsible gaming expert, Brianne Doura-Schawohl.
"There's a widespread belief among industry and other stakeholders that all responsible gambling measures are a threat to the sustainability of players or business models," Doura-Schawohl stated. "I hear that a lot. There's this idea that good responsible gambling policy equal stifling innovation in the states."
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission's Director of Research and Responsible Gaming, Mark Vander Linden, recognized the struggle but emphasized that the primary focus should be on people's well-being.
"My primary concern isn't the revenue bottom line of gambling. My focus is on ensuring people are cared for," Vander Linden said. "That doesn't negate the importance of thriving gaming businesses, but people come first in my book."
Kjaergaard proposed that responsible gaming programs ought to be treated similarly to flight safety features or driving assist systems in cars – necessary to help those few in need without greatly inconveniencing the majority.
"The majority don't have gambling problems. They don't need a constant barrage of responsible gambling messaging," Kjaergaard explained. "But the small number that exhibit signs of problem gambling should receive help as quickly as possible to avoid their situations worsening."
Another issue revolving around problem gambling is mental health. According to analyst Thomas Simcock, most problem gamblers suffer from mental health issues.
"Viewing problem gambling purely as a gambling issue seems shortsighted," Simcock stated. "One must take a holistic approach, addressing the root causes if they want to effectively combat problem gambling."
Looming in the shadows is the ever-present threat of unregulated markets. Unlicensed operators often lack responsible gaming programs and instead, target at-risk players, exacerbating their issues. But Simcock believes that by enhancing consumer protections in regulated markets, players will have fewer reasons to seek out unlicensed sites.
"The best way to help players on unlicensed platforms is to discourage them from using those sites in the first place," Simcock said. "By making regulated operators attractive with effective responsible gaming practices, we can keep players away from unlicensed markets."
In addressing problem gambling in unregulated markets, regulatory and consumer protection strategies are essential. These strategies include stronger licensing requirements, stringent identity verification protocols, transparency mandates, self-exclusion programs, and public awareness campaigns. Through a combination of legal action, technological safeguards, and public education, jurisdictions can work to create a safer environment for gaming enthusiasts and mitigate the risks posed by unregulated markets.
- The regulatory landscape for responsible gambling varies across different regions, as defined by Mindway AI CEO, Rasmus Kjaergaard, during a recent webinar.
- Responsible gaming expert, Brianne Doura-Schawohl, suggested that a common belief among industry stakeholders is that all responsible gambling measures are supported by the opponents of the sustainability of players or business models.
- According to analyst Thomas Simcock, problem gamblers often gravitates towards casino-and-gambling establishments that lack responsible gambling policies, which can be found in unregulated markets.
