Turkey's Parliament is set to empower the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) with the authority to instantly freeze bank and cryptocurrency accounts linked to suspicious transactions. This move, part of the 11th Judicial Reform Package, aims to combat money laundering, cyber-fraud, and illicit crypto activities, aligning with FATF recommendations.
South Africa's National Gambling Board (NGB) is intensifying efforts to curb gambling advertising, specifically targeting influencers promoting betting to younger audiences. Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana highlighted the protection of minors and vulnerable populations as a 'number one' priority amidst a surge in online gambling.
Informal fishermen operating in Cayenne's Old Port, French Guiana, are now subject to new regulations. These requirements include demonstrating three years of presence in France, twelve months of professional fishing experience, and French language proficiency, aiming to formalize the artisanal fishing sector.
Switzerland's Gambling Supervisory Authority (GESPA) has filed a criminal complaint against FIFA's NFT platform, FIFA Collect, alleging it operates unlicensed gambling activities under Swiss law. The complaint, filed on October 17, 2025, asserts that the platform's 'Right to Buy' tokens and other NFT-based competitions involve monetary stakes and chance-based outcomes, classifying them as illegal lotteries and sports betting without a proper license.
Argentina's Senate is actively debating a federal bill to regulate online gambling, focusing on preventing addiction, protecting minors, and restricting advertising. The legislation, approved by the Chamber of Deputies in November 2024, faces delays in the Senate, prompting concerns about its parliamentary status and the need for a comprehensive national framework.
Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has proposed new legislation to empower AUSTRAC to restrict or prohibit high-risk products like crypto ATMs. This move addresses concerns over their rapid proliferation and links to money laundering, scams, and other illicit activities, with Australia now hosting approximately 2,000 machines.
The Anguilla House of Assembly has granted a retrospective customs duty and tax exemption to Inspire Network, a faith-based youth charity. This exemption was provided for a gospel brunch event, 'Brunchin' On Blessings,' which took place on August 16, 2025, at DAMES Anguilla, supporting the charity's community initiatives.
Dutch billionaire Marcel Boekhoorn has been ordered by the Malta Financial Services Authority to relinquish his stake in Novum Bank within six months. This directive follows the stripping of his 'fit and proper' status due to ongoing criminal proceedings in Italy concerning alleged illicit funds.
Liechtenstein's government is reportedly considering adjustments to its gambling laws, with the casino industry advocating for concessions on levies. This comes as the sector faces significant revenue declines, up to 85%, following the implementation of a cross-border exclusion list with Switzerland in January 2025, leading to casino closures.
Philippine digital entertainment firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has temporarily halted its Brazil operations, including its GamePlus brand, following a three-week soft rollout. The company plans to refine its offerings based on initial insights and aims for a full relaunch in early 2026, according to reports.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has introduced a new self-assessment tool designed to help players in Malta evaluate their gambling habits and identify potential risks. Launched on October 7, 2025, the initiative aims to promote safer gambling and enhance player protection.
Elected officials in Martinique have unanimously approved a resolution to establish autonomous normative power, enabling the island to adapt and enact its own local laws. This move, concluded on October 8, 2025, marks a significant step towards greater self-governance for the French Caribbean collectivity.
Iceland's Minister of Infrastructure, Eyjólfur Ármannsson, has introduced new regulations preventing aircraft deregistration without settling outstanding payments to airport operator Isavia. The move follows recent airline bankruptcies, including PLAY and WOW air, which left significant unpaid airport charges.
Luxembourg has unveiled a draft law to modernize its 1991 media legislation, extending regulations beyond traditional broadcasters to encompass written press, influencers, and podcasters. The reform, presented by Minister Delegate for Media Elisabeth Margue, aims to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and ensure consistent rules across all content platforms. The current regulatory body, ALIA, will be rebranded as the Luxembourg Independent Media Authority (ALIM) with expanded powers.
Saudi Arabia has enacted a new Law on Expropriation for Public Interest and Temporary Possession of Real Estate, replacing the 2003 framework. Approved in August and issued in September 2025, the law aims to streamline procedures, ensure fair compensation with a 20% premium over market value, and align with Vision 2030's development goals.
Timor-Leste's government has revoked all online gaming and betting licenses, citing risks to national security, social stability, and economic integrity. The decision follows warnings from the UNODC about criminal syndicates and money laundering, particularly in the Oecussi enclave.
Brazil's Congress has rescheduled a pivotal vote on Provisional Measure (MP) 1.303/2025, which proposes raising sports betting taxes from 12% to 18% of GGR, to Thursday, October 2nd. The legislation, aimed at boosting revenue for health programs, faces industry opposition and a looming October 8th deadline.
Papua New Guinea's first Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Counter-Proliferation Financing (AML/CTF/CPF) Conference commenced in Port Moresby. Co-organized by the Bank of Papua New Guinea and Transparency International PNG, the two-day event at APEC Haus aims to strengthen the nation's defense against financial crime and address FATF grey-listing concerns, emphasizing a 'whole of society' approach.
The Portuguese Parliament has agreed to revisit discussions on stricter controls for gambling advertising and promotions, forwarding five initiatives from the left-wing ecologist party Livre to committee stage. Proposals include limiting online ads, banning sponsorships, and mandatory addiction warnings, reflecting concerns over public health and consumer protection.
Brazil's government has proposed increasing the tax on fixed-odds betting from 12% to 18% of Gross Gaming Revenue, with the additional funds directed to healthcare. The Provisional Measure 1,303/2025 also aims to eliminate tax exemptions on Real Estate and Agribusiness Credit Bills to broaden the country's revenue base. The proposal has met with resistance from the betting industry.
