MGA Releases 2024 Annual Report and Audited Financials

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has released its Annual Report and Financial Statements for 2024, covering performance, licensing, enforcement, and cooperation in the gambling sector. The report reflects ongoing adjustments to regulatory practices as Malta adapts to changes in the local and global gaming environment.

Good to know

• 17 new licences were issued, and 8 renewals granted.
• More than 9,000 inspections were completed across venues.
• Player complaints reached 3,372 during the reporting period.

The MGA received 28 new licence applications and granted 17. It also renewed 8 licences from the 12 renewal requests submitted. For temporary, low-risk gaming events, the Authority issued more than 1,900 permits.

As part of due diligence, around 1,200 criminal background checks were carried out on individuals tied to licensed operators. The Fit and Proper Committee found 16 applicants unfit to operate in the industry.

The Authority also conducted 13 full compliance audits and 116 desktop reviews. Two licence applications were rejected after false or incomplete information was identified. MGA also addressed 123 reported tech security incidents.

Enforcement actions included 35 warnings, 25 financial penalties totaling €306,250, and eight licence cancellations. Three regulatory settlements were also reached.

AML Measures and Player Support

The MGA, working with the FIAU, ran 43 anti-money laundering compliance checks and concluded 60. Six operators were penalized, with fines nearing €185,000. The Authority also held 37 interviews with prospective MLROs.

On player protection, the MGA resolved 3,372 complaints and reviewed 1,897 fund reports. It performed 27 data extractions and checked 40 websites for responsible gambling compliance. Over 9,000 venue inspections were conducted.

International and Local Cooperation

The MGA handled 244 suspicious betting alerts and contributed to 30 investigations. It processed 85 cooperation requests from foreign regulators and issued 59 official responses. Locally, it collaborated on 161 information requests with domestic authorities.

CEO Charles Mizzi stated that the Authority is focused on adapting and strengthening internal systems to maintain Malta’s reputation as a trusted regulator.

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