Landmark online gaming transformation: ADM chooses 46 providers to lead the industry forward

Italy's digital gaming sector is poised for a significant evolution. The Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) has completed the initial qualification round for awarding fresh licenses. A select group of 46 operators, featuring prominent brands like 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta, and LeoVegas, have advanced to the subsequent stage. This strategic decision is deliberate: by favoring entities that prove robust in technology and finance, the focus shifts toward cultivating a more secure, accountable, and clear-cut marketplace. The directive is unequivocal: the trajectory of Italian gaming favors those operators capable of ensuring superior standards and safeguarding participants.

An accelerated timeline for transformation

The clock is already ticking. Existing licenses are set to terminate on September 17, 2025, with a potential short-term renewal lasting until the 30th of that month. In the interim, ADM will finalize the technical and financial review of the chosen operators by July. Successful candidates must then promptly settle the initial installment of the concession fee—4 million—and demonstrate they possess no less than 3.7 million in liquid funds. Agreements will be finalized in August and September to prevent any interruption in services, ensuring the gaming machine operates without a hitch.

Technology at the center of the new era

This overhaul moves beyond paperwork: chosen operators must deploy cutting-edge digital systems that connect with ADM's protected platform. The shift will span six months, aiming for complete implementation by March 2026. During this interval, legacy and modern systems will operate in parallel, ensuring seamless service for users. Upon completion, the firms are required to submit the second licensing payment – 3 million euros – finalizing their formal participation in the new age of authorized gaming.

Enhanced player safeguards and more rigorous regulations

A central aspect of the reforms focuses on the handling of player accounts. Gamers will have the option to migrate their accounts to a different licensed provider, adhering to fiscal regulations and securing necessary approval beforehand. Operators who are barred from the market must terminate all user accounts by August 17, 2025, reimbursing any remaining balances to clients. Any uncollected funds after a 60-day period will be transferred to the State Treasury. Furthermore, operators will be required to submit weekly activity summaries for accounts and must convert their legal structure to a public limited company (S.p.A.) prior to obtaining operating licenses. The objective is unequivocal: to cultivate a betting sector that is more transparent, secure, and viable, while continuing to promote conscientious entertainment.