A landmark shift in digital play: ADM approves 46 providers to steer the sector’s next chapter.

The Italian online gaming sector is poised for a pivotal transformation. The initial stage of awarding new licenses, overseen by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), has now concluded. A select group of 46 operators, featuring established entities like 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta and LeoVegas, has been approved to proceed. This decision is strategic: by favoring applicants with robust technological infrastructure and financial stability, the authorities are prioritizing a market that is more secure, clear, and committed to player safety. The directive is evident: the evolution of gaming in Italy will be driven by those ensuring superior service and user safeguards.

A brisk schedule for transformation

The clock is now ticking. Existing licenses are set to terminate on September 17, 2025, with a potential short-term extension until the 30th of that month. Concurrently, ADM will finalize the technical and financial evaluation of the qualified firms by July. Successful candidates must then promptly remit the initial concession payment—4 million—and demonstrate a minimum of 3.7 million in accessible funds. Agreements will be executed in August and September to ensure continuous operation, maintaining seamless functionality for gaming machines.

Technology at the center of the new era

The transformation extends beyond paperwork: chosen operators must implement advanced digital solutions that link with ADM’s protected network. A six-month adjustment phase is planned, targeting complete implementation by March 2026. During this interval, legacy and modern frameworks will operate in parallel, ensuring uninterrupted service for users. Upon completion, firms will be required to submit the final licensing payment – 3 million euros – formalizing their participation in the updated, regulated gaming landscape.

Safeguarding participants and enforcing enhanced regulations

A core aspect of the overhaul relates to the handling of player accounts. Customers will have the option to migrate their accounts to a different licensed provider, following fiscal regulations and obtaining necessary approval beforehand. Operators excluded from the new framework must terminate all user accounts by August 17, 2025, reimbursing all client balances. Unclaimed funds after a sixty-day period will be transferred to the State Treasury. Furthermore, submitting weekly reports on account transactions will become compulsory, and firms are required to convert into S.p.A. entities prior to finalizing concession agreements. The objective is unequivocal: to foster a more transparent, secure, and sustainable marketplace, while consistently promoting responsible entertainment.