White Star, a subsidiary of the Rhino Entertainment Group, has successfully obtained a new license in Curaçao for its CasinoDays platform.
In a parallel development, three other entities – Games and More, Geeka Corporation, and Small House – have been awarded Digital Seals as part of Curaçao’s evolving gambling regulatory landscape.
This license confirmation comes merely 12 weeks after Curaçao initiated a licensing procedure for its new regulatory framework.
The registration portal was made available in September, but actual registrations were only permitted from November 1st onwards.
The portal has been actively processing new applications under the existing legislation, with the Gaming Control Board (GCB) overseeing the registration of all sub-licensees who wish to continue their operations once the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK) comes into effect.
Following the LOK’s implementation, the new Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA) will take over regulatory responsibilities.
Cedric Pietersz, the newly appointed Managing Director of GCB, expressed his excitement about the transformative changes in Curaçao’s gambling sector in 2024.
Pietersz noted the overwhelming volume of submissions since opening the application process, with White Star’s license representing a significant milestone in Curaçao’s journey to becoming a top-tier gambling jurisdiction.
Rhino CEO Ross Parkhill emphasized the significance of being the first to receive a direct license, highlighting their commitment to excellence and responsible gaming.
He also expressed their strong support for Curaçao’s enhanced regulatory processes, foreseeing a bright and compliant future for online gaming through close collaboration with the GCB.
Despite the support for these regulatory changes, some confusion lingers in Curaçao.
The jurisdiction currently operates under the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard (NOOGH) legislation, which will be replaced by the LOK.
Recent reports falsely claimed that the LOK had been rejected when it entered parliament in December.
In response, Javier Silvania, Curaçao’s Minister of Finance, issued a statement condemning the misinformation surrounding the LOK.
Silvania clarified two key points – firstly, warning against misinformation, and secondly, confirming that the GCB’s license issuance process remains unchanged.
To alleviate confusion, iGB has delved into the legislative process, explaining how legislation progresses through Curaçao’s parliament, providing clarity on the evolving regulatory landscape in the region.