Austria: Transition from State Monopoly to Online Gambling Licensing

Austria is moving toward a reform in the online gambling sector. The Betting and Gambling Association (OVWG) is calling for an end to the state monopoly and a shift to a licensing model. Negotiations between political parties may conclude by the end of 2025.

Key Facts about the Market

🔵 Casinos Austria holds the exclusive right to operate online casinos (license valid from 2012 to 2027)

🔵 Online gambling market revenue in 2024 — approximately € 632 million (20% of total gambling revenue)

🔵 Potential tax revenue under a licensing system — up to € 1.4 billion by 2031

🔵 Estimated number of licensed operators: 20−30 — among potential participants: Tipico, Bwin, bet365, LeoVegas, Betway, Merkur

European Trend

Following Finland’s move toward licensing (2026−2027) and existing frameworks in Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, Austria — along with Poland — could soon be one of the last markets in the region with a full monopoly. Licensing would allow the country to align with broader European practices.

Arguments for Reform

🔴 Enhanced player protection through international standards

🔴 Growth in tax revenues and market transparency

🔴 Reduction in offshore operator activity

🔴 Alignment with European regulatory models

Financial Potential

According to OVWG estimates, the gap between current tax revenues and the forecast under a licensing model exceeds € 1 billion by 2031, making the reform highly significant for the federal budget.

Possible Scenarios

🔵 Fully open market

🔵 Limited number of licenses

🔵 Gradual withdrawal from state exclusivity

Risks of Inaction

🔴 Loss of potential tax revenues

🔴 Increase in illegal operators’ market share

🔴 Continued lag behind the European regulatory framework

Conclusions

🔵 Austria is at a crossroads: maintain the monopoly or move to a licensing model

🔵 Even a limited licensing framework would be a step toward a more transparent and secure market

🔵 A decision is expected after political negotiations scheduled for late 2025