The Curacao Gaming Control Board, the government body in charge of regulating iGaming in the region, has announced it issued its first licenses under the new regulatory regime that came into effect last year.
Among the entities receiving licenses we can find White Star, a brand that is part of the Rhino Entertainment Group, which secured a new license for its CasinoDays online casino brand. At the same time brands such as Games and More, Geeka Corporation and Small House have received Digital Seals from the Gaming Control Board.
The confirmation of the licenses being issued comes just twelve weeks after Curacao launched its new licensing process, with applications being received starting the first day of November 2023.
The licensing portal has been processing new applications under existing legislation, asking all licensees to submit applications if they want to keep operating after the new National Ordinance for Games of Chance gets approved. Once that new legislation comes into effect, the Curacao Gaming Authority will take control of the licensing process and of the whole regulatory side of the iGaming business in the region. The new law was submitted to the Curacao Parliament for approval in December 2023.
A Transformative Period
Cedric Pietersz, the Managing Director of the Curacao Gaming Control Board said that “2024 heralds a transformative period in the regulatory landscape of Curacao’s gambling sector” and revealed that the volume of applications for licenses “far exceeded” the regulator’s expectations.
“White Star’s license holds a special place in our hearts and history,” the Managing Director continued. “It signifies a pivotal moment for Curacao’s evolution into a top-tier gambling jurisdiction with many more licenses in process.”
Ross Parkhill, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rhino Entertainment Group, added that being the first entity to receive such a license represents “a privilege” for his company and also a recognition of its “commitment to excellence and responsible gaming.”
The Chief Executive Officer added that his company “wholeheartedly” supports the new regulatory process that is being implemented in Curacao, underlining that it brings “added value and prestige” to the online casino’s license.
Source: “First License Issued By Curacao Gaming Control Board Under New Regime”. European Gaming. February 5, 2024.
