Malta Gaming Authority soon to start licensing DFS sites

There are many hot topics within the world of gambling right now, but none of which are any hotter than the debate surrounding daily fantasy sports (DFS). In the United States, DFS stands as one of the only forms of gambling accepted by the UIGEA. Given its weight in North America, it appears that DFS is soon to make an impact on European shores.

Updated: 26 January 2024 By Becky Mosley

There are many hot topics within the world of gambling right now, but none of which are any hotter than the debate surrounding daily fantasy sports (DFS). In the United States, DFS stands as one of the only forms of gambling accepted by the UIGEA. Given its weight in North America, it appears that DFS is soon to make an impact on European shores.

Daily Fantasy Sports

While DFS is already accessible under various different gambling licenses in Europe, due to the lack of fully-fledged backing, it hasn’t quite picked up steam as many would have hoped. But that could soon be about to change, as the Malta Gaming Authority has plans to start issuing specific DFS licenses.

License system under construction

As mentioned above, DFS firms can legally operate within Europe already, specifically under the license issued by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). But an issue still surrounds its lack of a dedicated license, something that the MGA is looking to change. While the actual distribution date of the first of such licenses isn’t currently known, at least the industry does know that a DFS license certification system is under construction. Many believe that when this new license sees the light of day, it will allow DFS popularity to grow in Europe. malta gaming authority

Skill Games

The obvious reason for the creation of a dedicated DFS license is because the game has strong elements of skill and knowledge, which sets it apart from other forms of gambling. Speaking on the creation of the license, Valery Bollier (Oulala.com CEO) praised the decision; “MGA’s team had foreseen the rise of a future Skill Game industry in Europe a few years ago. Malta has proven to have a very competitive jurisdiction because of its pragmatism and its ability to adapt itself quickly to the sense of history.” 

Becky Mosley
Editor-in-Chief at Compare Casino Sites

Rebecca (Becky) Mosley has been at the heart of the UK online gambling industry since 2008 — making her one of the most experienced voices in casino comparison. She is editor-in-chief at Compare Casino Sites and personally oversees every casino review published here.

Becky brings a genuine player-first perspective to everything on CCS. Her approach has always been the same: transparency, fair bonus terms, and responsible gambling above all else. She insists on the same standards from every operator listed on the site — if a casino's terms can't stand up to plain-English scrutiny, it doesn't earn a recommendation.

Over 17 years in the industry, Becky has built deep expertise across UK Gambling Commission licensing, slot game mechanics, bonus structures, and the constantly evolving regulatory landscape. She works directly with operators and software providers to keep every listing accurate, and reviews each casino's wagering requirements, withdrawal limits, and customer support before a single rating goes live.

Becky is a Companies House registered director.