Historic online gaming overhaul: ADM designates 46 key players to lead the sector's evolution

Italy's digital gaming landscape is poised for a pivotal transformation. The initial evaluation round for new licenses, conducted by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), has now concluded. Merely 46 operators, featuring prominent entities like 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta, and LeoVegas, have advanced to the subsequent stage. This decisive curation is intentional: by favoring enterprises with proven technological robustness and fiscal stability, the regulator is prioritizing a market that is more secure, accountable, and clear. The directive is unmistakable: the evolution of Italian gaming will be driven by those capable of ensuring superior standards and player safeguards.

A strict schedule for transformation

The clock is already ticking. Existing authorizations are set to lapse on September 17, 2025, potentially with a brief grace period extending through the 30th of that month. In the interim, ADM will finalize its technical and economic evaluation of the qualifying firms by July. Successful applicants must then promptly remit the initial installment of the concession fee—4 million—and demonstrate they possess a minimum of 3.7 million in liquid assets. Agreements will be executed in August and September to prevent any interruption in service, ensuring the gaming machines operate without a hitch.

Technology at the center of the new era

The transformation extends beyond paperwork: chosen operators must implement advanced digital frameworks that connect with ADM’s protected platform. A six-month adjustment phase is planned, aiming for a complete rollout by March 2026. During this interval, legacy and modern systems will operate side by side, ensuring uninterrupted service for participants. Upon completion, firms are required to submit the second licensing payment – 3 million euros – finalizing their formal admission into the new age of authorized gaming.

Enhanced safeguards for participants and more rigorous guidelines

A central element of the overhaul focuses on the handling of player accounts. Customers will gain the ability to migrate their accounts to a different provider, following fiscal regulations and after securing official approval. Operators who are excluded from the system must terminate all user accounts by August 17, 2025, returning customer balances. Any unclaimed funds after a 60-day period will be transferred to the State Treasury. Furthermore, operators are required to submit weekly reports detailing account transactions and must convert to a public limited company (S.p.A.) structure prior to obtaining concessions. The objective is unambiguous: to cultivate a market that is more transparent, secure, and viable, while continuing to prioritize responsible entertainment.