MGA reviews betting integrity reporting

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has published a thematic report reviewing how licensed operators identify, assess and escalate integrity concerns in sports betting. The review focused on operators that have filed few or no suspicious betting reports since the reporting obligation was introduced.

Through supervisory meetings and reviews, the authority assessed monitoring systems, internal reporting procedures, reporting arrangements and safeguards. It found that a low number of reports does not always indicate inadequate monitoring. In some cases, the picture reflected proactive measures such as tight betting limits and the removal of events seen as open to manipulation.

According to the report, good practices include the use of real-time monitoring systems, effective cooperation between risk and compliance teams, and measures that prevent athletes and sports employees from placing prohibited bets. Areas for improvement include setting out internal reporting processes and reporting responsibilities in writing, strengthening monitoring with appropriate human oversight, and ensuring that reporting obligations are understood consistently by everyone involved.

The MGA said the report aims to help licensed operators evaluate and improve their current arrangements. The authority also stated that it will continue to monitor developments through ongoing supervisory work, and that it will take the findings of this review into account in future guidance and supervisory priorities.