The Thematic Review of the Local Football Betting Market Report can be accessed directly here.
The document provides a report on a thematic review carried out by the MGA, on B2C Type 2 licensees, covering data from September 2023 to August 2024. The purpose of the review was to examine the betting activity on Maltese football competitions to assess market dynamics, integrity risks, and licensee monitoring practices.
Reported Key Findings:
- Market Size & Financials: Maltese football betting is moderate in scale, with stakes ranging from under €50 to over €800,000. Some licensees reported losses, and payout ratios occasionally exceeded 100%, indicating isolated high-return bets.
- Betting Markets Offered: Most licensees offer basic markets like Match Winner and Total Goals. Niche markets (e.g., Corners, Cards, Handicap) are less common, reflecting selective engagement strategies.
- Player Demographics:
- Predominantly male (over 85%), aged 18–34, residing in urban areas (especially Northern Harbour).
- Maltese participation is low, with only a small fraction of bettors engaging in local football betting.
- Cross-Border Betting: Some international interest exists, with foreign account holders placing bets on Maltese football. However, volumes are modest compared to global competitions.
Reported Integrity Safeguards implemented by Licensees
- Automated fraud detection tools.
- Restrictions on single-event betting (e.g., requiring bets to include non-local events).
- Monitoring of suspicious activity.
- Reporting procedures for suspicious activity to MGA and sports bodies.
The MGA highlights the importance of collaboration between licensees, regulators, and stakeholders to maintain fair and transparent betting markets – while the segment is small, proactive integrity measures and continuous monitoring are essential.
This document (and similar future publications) aims at providing an update on the Authority’s supervisory efforts and offers guidance and support to licensees. Licensees are encouraged to contact the Authority with any queries at [email protected].
