Norsk Tipping Announces Loss Limit Changes amid Problem Gambling Concerns

Norsk Tipping, Norway’s state-owned gambling monopoly, has introduced loss limit changes in an attempt to reduce problem gambling among younger audiences. To that end, the operator will reduce the maximum loss limits for players aged 20 to 24.

Loss Limit Changes Will Affect Norwegian Players

According to Norsk Tipping’s announcement, players aged 20 and 21 will have a monthly loss limit of NOK 3,000 (approximately $265). Players aged 22 to 24, on the other hand, will have a monthly loss limit of NOK 5,000 ($442).

For context, players over the age of 25 have a monthly limit of NOK 20,000 ($1767).

As mentioned, the revisions reflect the government’s effort to protect younger and more vulnerable audiences from the risks associated with gambling. The recent efforts mirror a change introduced two years ago that set the monthly loss limit from players aged 18 to 20 to NOK 2,000 ($177).

Norsk Tipping also sports additional tighter limits for certain high-risk verticals, including online slot games.

Norsk Tipping Wants to Protect Vulnerable Players from Harm

The new changes reflect not only Norsk Tipping’s stance on younger gamblers but also a broader effort to shield vulnerable players from harm. Recent studies, including ones conducted by the Norwegian operator, show that younger adults tend to be more susceptible to gambling harm and addictive tendencies. Paired with the fact that younger adults often earn less than their older counterparts, it means that addiction can be especially devastating to this group.

To make matters worse, problem gambling tendencies seem to be especially prevalent among young men engaging in gambling. According to data collected by Norsk Tipping, a staggering 20% of men aged 18 and 25 are considered at-risk players.

Norway’s Framework Is Somewhat Aged

While Norway’s strict approach to gambling has been praised by many, some have highlighted a significant problem stemming from the local regulations – unlicensed gambling. As observed in other markets, stricter rules have pushed some Norwegian players into the more dangerous black market.  

The right balance in regulation has remained a hot topic among industry stakeholders in Europe and beyond. However, many have agreed that Norway’s overall framework is somewhat aged.

In addition to stricter regulations, Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto are the only companies allowed to legally offer gaming and betting. This has prompted calls for a shift toward a more modern licensing model that would benefit the local market.

A liberalized market seems to be on the table, although the country has yet to take any significant steps, unlike its neighbor Finland. The latter recently begаn its shift toward a liberalized market, preparing to put an end to Veikkaus’ monopoly. The gambling company was largely okay with the upcoming changes, although it warned that they would mean that it has to reduce its overall workforce.

Last month, Paraguay followed suit, also voting to end its gambling monopoly.