UK Gambling Commission CEO urges government action: “A decision on crypto gambling is needed”
A new chapter is opening in the United Kingdom’s debate on gambling regulation. Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, has issued a direct warning to political leaders: crypto-based gambling is no longer a marginal phenomenon and now requires a clear and timely governmental decision. Speaking during his annual briefing with industry CEOs, Rhodes explained that the rise of digital currencies represents one of the most rapid and disruptive shifts the gambling sector has faced in recent years.
A demographic shift the government can no longer ignore
Rhodes highlighted how the growing adoption of cryptocurrencies among younger generations is reshaping the way these consumers approach gambling. While younger users increasingly rely on digital assets as a primary form of payment, the regulated system still does not recognise them. This divide, he warned, risks creating rising pressure and new dynamics outside the regulator’s control.
The Commission’s leader noted that, until recently, he believed the issue would take at least five years to reach a critical point. Today, however, he sees a much narrower time frame: no more than two years, perhaps as little as eighteen months. This forecast reflects the speed at which consumer behaviour is changing and reinforces the need for swift institutional intervention.
“This is a political decision”: the Commission cannot act alone
Despite the growing urgency, Rhodes emphasised that the Gambling Commission cannot unilaterally introduce licences for cryptocurrencies. Opening the door to crypto gambling would be an irreversible step and, for this reason, must be debated and decided at the governmental level.
He outlined the key questions policymakers will need to consider: should cryptocurrencies be recognised as a source of wealth? Can they be accepted as a legitimate form of funding? What conditions and safeguards must be implemented to ensure security, traceability and compliance with anti-money laundering regulations? These are fundamental issues that demand a clear regulatory framework and a long-term strategy.
Rhodes nevertheless welcomed the work currently undertaken by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is exploring how a potential regulatory regime for digital assets might be integrated within the UK’s financial system.
Social lotteries and prize draws: a market undergoing major transformation
Rhodes also turned his attention to another important trend: the rapid expansion of social lotteries and unregulated prize draws. This segment of the market has now surpassed £1bn in turnover and is increasingly attracting the same young demographic drawn to cryptocurrencies.
He explained that participation in prize draws is now second only to betting, demonstrating a significant shift in consumer behaviour. At the same time, mergers and acquisitions are reshaping the broader gambling landscape: major gaming operators are increasingly integrating lottery verticals into their portfolios. Rhodes cited examples including Flutter and Sisal, Bally’s and Intralot, FDJ’s acquisition of Kindred, and Allwyn’s recent activity across multiple gambling sectors. These moves, he said, signal a consolidation that will alter the industry’s structure and raise new questions about how these diverse product types may intersect in the future.
More enforcement and fewer warnings: the Commission tightens its approach
As he concluded his address, Rhodes announced that enforcement activity would intensify. The regulator will no longer issue prior warnings before taking action against operators. The message is unequivocal: those who fail to comply will not receive leniency.
Rhodes reminded attendees that nine licence suspensions had been issued in recent weeks for failings relating to software provision and self-exclusion systems, areas where the Commission has repeatedly raised concerns.
The gambling sector is undergoing accelerated transformation, and the question of cryptocurrencies can no longer be postponed. The UK government must decide whether to allow digital currencies into the regulated system, fully aware that this would be a strategic and irreversible step. Meanwhile, the Gambling Commission will tighten enforcement efforts to preserve the integrity of the current regulatory framework.
This article was first published in Italian on 13 November 2025.
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