Why more competition in the gambling license market is a good thing

The global online gambling industry continues to grow at pace. According to data from Mordor Intelligence, which studies the rise of iGaming markets across the world, the global market will post aThere are occasions when we here at ReadyBetGo want to bring you interesting facts about the gambling industry  When something catches our eye, we will publish it for your enjoyment. 
  compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.44% between now and 2030.

This means the market should expand by almost 50% by the turn of the next decade from $103bn to $169bn. Mordor Intelligence points to the increasing legalisation of the industry worldwide, along with the adoption of next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) which could also spur growth in iGaming.

With more operators keen to get licensed and offer their iGaming services globally, the demand for iGaming licenses is greater than ever. Although the likes of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) have been the flag bearers for upholding the highest standards for iGaming technology and services, a new wave of competition in the licensing market is fast emerging.

This should be seen as good news for established regulators, who must continually review their own standards to remain attractive to operators. Meanwhile, newer licensing jurisdictions have the benefit of learning from the past and developing new, sustainable regulatory frameworks that underpin both the viability of operators and the protection of consumers.

From an operational perspective, the more licensing choices the better. It enables fledgling iGaming brands to shop around for the jurisdiction that best fits their needs.

Exploring the iGaming jurisdictions to watch in 2025

Costa Rica has long been one of the up-and-coming iGaming jurisdictions. Operators typically enjoy basing themselves here too, thanks largely to the low operational costs and the general lack of direct gaming tax applied. A Costa Rica gaming license isn’t the same kind of license in the traditional sense as one from the UKGC or MGA. When an operator licenses here, they become registered as a ‘data processing company’, allowing them to operate their services within the country.

Curaçao has been a staple in the iGaming license scene for many years now. However, there has been major changes to its regulatory framework in recent years. In 2023, a new Curaçao Gaming Control Board was founded. Also known as the Curaçao Gaming Authority, this regulator has tightened its compliance standards, which used to be broadly looser than the likes of the UKGC and the MGA. It still offers a cheaper and faster form of iGaming licensing, which may better suit brands or operators starting out in the space.

A stone’s throw from the UK is the Isle of Man. This island is home to one of the most reputable iGaming jurisdictions in the space. The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) has a well-established legal framework and strong player protections. However, it’s also not afraid to move with the times. Its support for cryptocurrency-based iGaming makes it possible for licensed operators to support Bitcoin and other crypto assets for deposits and withdrawals.

A competitive iGaming licensing market is good news for all concerned. While operators get to take their pick based on value and cost, players also know that more jurisdictions are taking their safety and security seriously - all of which can only help to underpin the integrity of the global industry as a whole.