The GGL (Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder, which is the German Joint Gambling Authority of the States) keeps evolving and is becoming more international in the way it works. You can really see that it’s starting to listen to the industry more closely, building expertise through dialogue and using that knowledge to become more effective. That’s a very positive development. It shows a willingness to learn and adapt, which wasn’t always the case in the early stages of regulation.
At the same time, the challenges in the German market remain significant. The black market continues to grow, and it’s still far too easy for players to access unlicensed platforms. As long as that remains the case, licensed operators are the ones who suffer. They spend enormous amounts of time and money to comply with every regulation, only to see players move to unlicensed sites that offer a smoother and more flexible experience.
If you compare the two, the differences are clear. Licensed operators must follow strict limits, a maximum stake of €1 per spin, a five-second spin rule, and a monthly deposit cap. Meanwhile, offshore sites don’t follow any of these rules. Players who want faster gameplay or higher limits can find it within minutes online. That completely undermines the goals of regulation and player protection.
Regulatory Challenges Driving Players to Unregulated Platforms
We need improvements here, and we need them soon. If licensed operators are to survive, the framework must be competitive enough to keep players within the regulated market. Otherwise, we’re punishing the very companies that are doing things right, the ones investing in compliance, responsible gaming, and tax contributions.
To be fair, there are some positive signs. The GGL is showing more willingness to talk, listen, and learn from experts. That’s progress. But these changes must happen faster and, most importantly, in a sensible way. It’s not just about making rules; it’s about making them work in practice.
There’s no question that a licensed and regulated market is the only way forward. It’s essential for player protection, for operators, and for the state. But it needs to be implemented quickly, intelligently, and with coordination. There’s already so much expertise within the industry, experienced, licensed operators who know the realities of the market and are ready to help. That knowledge should be used more effectively.
The GGL has a complex job. Balancing player safety, taxation, and a functioning gaming market is not easy. But that’s exactly why it needs ongoing dialogue with the industry. Operators understand player behaviour, the technology behind compliance, and how to create a safe yet engaging gaming experience. If the regulator and the industry work together, we can make the legal market more effective for everyone.
Building a Sustainable and Competitive Legal Market
Beyond the current advertising restrictions, the player experience itself needs urgent attention, especially the stake limits, spin speed, and monthly deposit caps. These rules were introduced for good reasons, but in practice, they’re too restrictive. If we want people to play safely, the licensed market must also be enjoyable. Otherwise, players will simply go elsewhere. The GGL is exploring potential adjustments, which is good, but these need to be practical and realistic, not just theoretical.
Another challenge is resources. The GGL has enormous responsibility but relatively few people managing everything. Without more staff and better technical systems, it will be difficult to see real change before the next licensing round. I have no doubt they’re doing their best, but the workload is simply too high. Investing in more people and modern technology would make a big difference and help speed up progress.
It’s also a good sign that the GGL is now talking to other European regulators and aiming to develop more consistent standards across Europe. That’s the right direction. Everyone benefits when markets are aligned, both in terms of compliance and fairness. Germany could become a real leader here if we manage to balance the protective side of regulation with the practical realities of running a business.
Of course, the industry also has responsibilities. Licensed operators must continue showing that they take compliance and player protection seriously. Transparency, data sharing, and responsible practices are key to earning the regulator’s trust. Only when both sides move toward each other can we create a system that truly works.
In the end, we all want the same thing: a safe, transparent, and sustainable market that protects players but also allows responsible operators to succeed. The foundations for that are already in place. What we need now is more speed, more flexibility, and continued cooperation. If the GGL keeps engaging with the industry and invests in the right resources, I truly believe we can build one of the strongest regulated markets in Europe.