The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands’ gambling regulator, has officially extended Novomatic Services NL B.V.’s gaming vendor licence by ten years, a development that secures the Austrian company’s continued presence in the Dutch land-based gambling sector until at least 2035. This decision, announced on April 24, 2025, signals not only regulatory approval but also increased confidence in Novomatic’s operational integrity.
Special Conditions Lifted as KSA Renews Confidence
A key aspect of this licence extension is the removal of previously imposed special conditions. Unlike earlier terms, the updated licence now includes only the standard industry requirements. This change reflects the KSA’s renewed trust in Novomatic’s internal processes, professionalism, and commitment to compliance. As highlighted by Novomatic in its announcement, “de voorheen geldende bijzondere voorwaarden zijn komen te vervallen. Deze ontwikkeling weerspiegelt het vertrouwen van de toezichthouder in de professionaliteit en betrouwbaarheid van de processen binnen NOVOMATIC.”
The successful licence renewal was made possible through the coordinated efforts of multiple departments. Led by Sabine Stoppel, Novomatic’s Dutch legal and compliance teams worked closely with the company’s headquarters and legal advisor Lars Westhoff to finalize the application and secure approval. Their collaborative work ensured that all regulatory expectations were met, paving the way for the ten-year extension.
Reinforced Position in the Dutch Gaming Market
With this extension, Novomatic will continue supplying gaming machines to casino venues and hospitality locations throughout the Netherlands. The renewed licence strengthens Novomatic’s role as a core supplier in the country’s land-based gaming industry and ensures its slot machines remain a staple across Dutch gaming floors.
This regulatory endorsement also underscores Novomatic’s ability to navigate the Netherlands’ strict compliance landscape. The KSA is recognized for its robust oversight of gambling activities, and gaining a long-term licence reaffirms Novomatic’s reputation as a reliable partner for regulators.
Dr. Alexander Legat, who was appointed as CEO of Novomatic’s Dutch division in September 2024, will now lead the company into this next decade of regulated operations. His leadership marks a strategic phase for Novomatic in the Netherlands, focusing on operational growth and compliance continuity.
Broader Restructuring and International Expansion
The licence extension in the Netherlands comes as part of wider structural and strategic shifts within Novomatic’s global operations. In January 2025, the company finalized the sale of its Admiral Group in Austria to Tipico, an established name in the online gambling market. As part of the acquisition, Tipico took over 100% ownership of Novomatic subsidiary Atlas Group GmbH. This divestiture reshaped Novomatic’s corporate landscape, positioning Tipico as a stronger player while allowing Novomatic to focus on other areas.
In addition, April 2025 marked Novomatic’s entry into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gaming market. By becoming the third company after Wynn Resorts and Aristocrat to secure a gaming vendor licence in the UAE, Novomatic continues to expand its global reach. This move aligns with its strategy to establish a presence in emerging and high-potential gaming jurisdictions, especially in regions where the entertainment sector is rapidly evolving.
Regulatory Contrast: Starscream Case Highlights KSA’s Strict Oversight
While Novomatic secured a long-term future in the Netherlands, other operators continue to face challenges. This same week, the KSA issued a penalty payment order to online casino operator Starscream for operating without regulatory approval. The order mandated an immediate cessation of all unlicensed activity, reinforcing the KSA’s ongoing efforts to maintain a strictly controlled market environment.
The enforcement against Starscream serves as a clear reminder of the high compliance standards required to operate in the Dutch gambling market. It highlights the significance of Novomatic’s achievement, showing that full regulatory cooperation remains essential for long-term success.
Novomatic’s Outlook: A Decade of Stability and Opportunity
The KSA’s ten-year licence extension positions Novomatic to maintain and grow its influence in the Netherlands’ land-based gaming space. With updated licence terms that omit restrictive conditions, a new CEO in place, and fresh momentum from international expansion, the company enters its next chapter on solid footing.
As regulatory frameworks evolve and new markets emerge, Novomatic’s ability to align with local compliance requirements while executing global strategy will continue to be key. Whether through developments in the Netherlands or ventures into the UAE, the company appears poised to build on its already substantial legacy.
Source:
Kansspelautoriteit verlengt vergunning NOVOMATIC Services NL B.V. met tien jaar, nl.linkedin.com, April 24, 2025.
