What’s the Reaction to the UK Online Slot Stake Limits?

We recently discussed the change that will occur in the UK this September when UK online slot stake limits take effect. For 18 to 24-year-olds, there will be a maximum of £2 stake for online slots, and for those aged 25 and over, there will be a £5 stake limit.

And online casino slots aren’t going anywhere. Within the gambling industry, online casinos are the largest and fastest-growing part. Last year, they made up £4bn of the sector’s £11bn in revenues (excluding the national lottery).

So, how have others reacted to this change and are there feelings of positivity or concern?

On the positive side

For some, the increase in the slot stake limits may be viewed as a gambling deterrent or, at the very least, may reduce gambling spending. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), which reviewed the Gambling Act 2005 and ran the consultation, believes that these new stakes will reduce annual gross gambling by over £166 million.

The stakes also create a more even playing field as the limits will be in line with in-person casinos. The DCMS states, ‘We believe these limits will achieve the government’s stated objectives of reducing the risk of gambling-related harm, with a lower risk of unintended consequences and less disruption to the majority of gamblers who do not suffer harm.’

Even though the DCMS cannot predict the exact impact on gambling, they say it will ‘limit the potential for harmful losses from those gambling at elevated levels of risk or experiencing problem gambling compared to the status quo of theoretically unlimited stakes.’

The less enthused responses

There are concerns, though, that the new stake limit may have negative consequences for online gambling. It may create an opportunity for unlicensed operators to take advantage of those who don’t want to be limited to set stake restrictions.

Paul Buck, CEO and Founder of gambling support EPIC Global Solutions (who provide support for gambling harms), says, ‘The measures are a sticking plaster that could cause more harm by driving people to the unregulated black-market operators who will undoubtedly target players in the  UK more now.’

There is also a potential cost of this new initiative. Operators may be required to spend more due to the two-stake limits (£2 and £5) and could cost the industry up to £185 million.

Only time will tell. When the changes begin in September 2024, they will be measured over time to review the impact on gambling.

For gambling support, contact the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133 or read our guides for more information.