In a move which is sure to fire the wrath of the EU Commission, Dutch authorities have instigated a new approach to online gambling with news that they are in talks with an array of Dutch banks. Under Dutch law they state that it is illegal for online gambling sites to operate without a Dutch gambling permit – something which none of the online sites have at present.
In tandem with the US approach to banning online gambling, the authorities are looking to cut off the financial life line and order Dutch banks not to finance gambling sites with Dutch clients. As it would be illegal, under EU competition laws, to actually outlaw online gambling this is very much a means to an end. What will the EU authorities do next?
The EU authorities will be forced to take action because while they are still fighting the US ban their case will be weakened by the actions of the Dutch, unless a compromise can be reached. While we see all of the headlines, views and reasons for the move, it all really boils down to income and taxation. Until the countries of the world come up with some kind of central taxation and registration system for online casino sites we are likely to see more and more protectionist moves in the future.
In a move which is sure to fire the wrath of the EU Commission, Dutch authorities have instigated a new approach to online gambling with news that they are in talks with an array of Dutch banks. Under Dutch law they state that it is illegal for online gambling sites to operate without a Dutch gambling permit – something which none of the online sites have at present.