Nordic regulators and operators share outlooks ahead of Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show 2025

Regulators, operators, and legal experts from across the Nordic region have shared early views on the future of gaming policy and market expansion ahead of next month’s Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show (SNGS) in Stockholm.

The conference, taking place on October 23-24 at the Nacka Hotel, will bring together stakeholders from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland as governments review licensing models and grapple with rising competition from offshore operators.

Ahead of the event, confirmed speakers issued pre-event insights outlining what they expect from the summit.

“The Nordic countries, and currently Finland in particular, are interesting to watch in terms of gaming. A lot has happened and will happen soon. It is great and important to be able to chat and exchange ideas with other experts in SNGS 2025,” said Mika Kuismanen, CEO of Rahapeliala Ry.

“For years, SNGS has been the place where regulators, operators, suppliers, and experts come together to shape the future of gaming. It doesn’t just spark dialogue; it sets the Nordics apart as the gold standard for innovation and regulation,” said Margarita Cruz, director and founder of Diamond28 Consulting Limited.

"My topic, Expansion Strategies for Scandinavian Operators Beyond the Nordics, will uncover how operators can seize exciting opportunities in fast-growing EU and LatAm markets, with hotspots like Peru and Brazil leading the way."

Legal counsel Mikkel Taanum of Bird & Bird said the region was setting standards for responsible gaming frameworks.

"The Nordic region represents one of the most sophisticated and forward-thinking gaming markets globally, where regulatory innovation and player protection go hand in hand. Events like the Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show are absolutely vital for bringing together industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to tackle the complex challenges we face in this rapidly evolving landscape," Taanum shared.

Taanum said he is particularly excited to participate in two critical panels: 'What Insights Have We Learned: Balancing Regulation and Innovation' and 'Addressing Regulatory Gaps: Closing the Loophole for Unlicensed Operators Targeting Nordic Players'.

"These discussions are essential because the Nordic markets are at the forefront of creating sustainable regulatory frameworks that protect consumers whilst fostering innovation," he added.

"The challenge of unlicensed operators targeting Nordic players is particularly pressing, as it undermines the carefully constructed regulatory systems that these countries have developed. By sharing insights and collaborative approaches, we can strengthen the integrity of the Nordic gaming ecosystem and set a global standard for responsible regulation."

“I'm thrilled to be speaking at the Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show 2025, where the region's most forward-thinking leaders gather to shape the future of iGaming. With its powerhouse agenda and unmatched networking opportunities, SNGS is the ultimate stage for driving innovation across the Nordic markets,” said Johann Sigurdsson, chief commercial officer at Bwloto.

“For years now, SNGS has been bringing regulators, operators, suppliers, and experts together in one place. It is not just a Nordic meeting; it is a lighthouse for the entire European online gaming arena. The show strengthens the market by creating dialogue and by positioning the Nordics as a reference point for the highest standards,” said event chairperson Peter-Paul de Goeij, managing consultant at Quod Bonum.

The 2025 edition will also introduce an awards programme recognising innovation, legal excellence, and responsible gaming practices. Categories include Innovative Supplier, Excellence in Responsible Gaming Practices, Outstanding Gaming Lawyer, Exemplary Leadership, and Best iGaming Industry Publication. Nominations close on Oct. 10, with winners to be announced on Oct. 23.

Register for the event here.