Historic online gaming reform: ADM selects 46 operators for the future of the industry

The Italian online gaming industry is about to experience a momentous turning point. The Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) has just concluded the first selection phase for issuing new concessions. Only 46 operators have been given the green light to move to the next step, including well-known names such as 888 Italy, Betfair Italy, Sisal, William Hill Malta and LeoVegas. This choice is not random: rewarding those who demonstrate technological and financial soundness means focusing on a safer, more transparent and responsible market. The message is clear: the future of gaming in Italy belongs to those who can guarantee quality and protection for players.

A tight timetable toward change

The countdown has already begun. Current licenses will expire on September 17, 2025, with a possible mini-extension until the 30th of the same month. Meanwhile, ADM will complete the technical and financial review of the selected companies by July. Those who pass this stage will have to pay the first tranche of the concession fee-4 million immediately-and prove that they have at least 3.7 million in available capital. Contracts will be signed in August and September to avoid service disruptions, keeping the gaming machine running smoothly.

Technology at the center of the new era

The reform is not limited to documents: selected operators will have to install state-of-the-art digital systems integrated with ADM’s secure platform. The transition period will last six months, with the goal of going full-scale by March 2026. Until then, old and new systems will coexist, providing continuity for players. At the end of the process, the companies will have to pay the second license fee – 3 million euros – thus sealing their official entry into the new era of regulated gaming.

Player protection and stricter rules

One of the key points of the reform concerns the management of gaming accounts. Users will be able to transfer their accounts to a new operator, complying with tax rules and with prior authorization. Excluded companies will have to close all accounts by August 17, 2025, refunding funds to customers. Amounts not claimed within two months will end up in the State Treasury. In addition, weekly reports on account activity will be mandatory, and companies will have to transform themselves into S.p.A. before signing concessions. The goal is clear: to make the market more transparent, safe and sustainable, without losing sight of responsible fun.