BOS says Sweden’s licensed gambling market would benefit if Spelinspektionen adopted supervisory methods closer to those used by other government agencies. A study commissioned by the trade association argues that the regulator takes a more formalistic approach and imposes harsher penalties than comparable authorities.
Study compares supervision and sanctions
Nordic Legal’s report, Under Scrutiny – The Swedish Gambling Authority compared with other Swedish authorities, examined Spelinspektionen’s supervision and sanction decisions alongside those of the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority, the Stockholm County Administrative Board and the Swedish Schools Inspectorate.
The study looked at three areas: supervision under the anti-money laundering act, assessments of owners’ and managers’ suitability, and the use of sanction fees. BOS said the comparison found differences in how the authorities carry out those duties.
According to the report, Spelinspektionen applies a more formalistic and less risk-based approach to anti-money laundering supervision. It also uses a different method for suitability assessments, including individuals in senior management roles and placing significant emphasis on whether documents are submitted on time. The other agencies focus primarily on whether individuals are suitable for their roles, the study said.
The report also found that Spelinspektionen’s sanction fees are higher as a proportion of the maximum possible penalty than those imposed by the comparison agencies. BOS said it hopes the study will provide a basis for stronger cooperation between the regulator and the licensed market.
BOS Secretary General Gustaf Hoffstedt said: “We believe that the licensed gambling market in Sweden would benefit if the Swedish Gambling Authority were to adopt working methods more closely aligned with those of other Swedish government agencies.
“This would lead to a more risk-based approach, which would strengthen efforts against money laundering and enhance other areas of supervision. We hope that this report can serve as a basis and an inspiration for such an ambition — that the Swedish Gambling Authority might look to other Swedish government agencies in its approach to supervision and sanctions.”
SGA responds to EU money laundering proposals
Separately, Spelinspektionen has responded to a Ministry of Finance memorandum proposing legislative changes to bring Swedish law into line with the EU’s money laundering package. The proposals are mainly intended to take effect on 10 July 2027.
The regulator said it “largely agrees” with the memorandum but objects to a proposal that it assess suitability and supervise registration lotteries. It also disagrees with the view that supervisory authorities should not be allowed to combine an order requiring information and documents with a fine. Spelinspektionen further said some provisions are unclear.
