Publications
I. INTRODUCTION
On 26 January, the Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service (‘SRIJ’) published two draft amendments to the Regulations governing the fundamental rules for the operation and conduct of online gaming machines (‘Slots’) as well as the rules applicable to online fixed-odds sports betting.
II. PROPOSALS
1. SLOT MACHINES – REGULATION No. 828/2015
New features:
A. «Buy Bonus» or «Feature Bonus» - a feature allowing players to purchase bonuses either at the start of the base game or during gameplay, in the latter case irrespective of the outcome or combination obtained therein. In games where this feature is available, players must always have the option not to select it.
Proposed New Rule (9A): At the start of the base game or during gameplay, in the latter case irrespective of the outcome or combination obtained, slot machines may allow players to purchase bonuses, subject to the following conditions:
a) For each play, bonus purchases may not exceed, whether at the start of the base game or during gameplay, respectively, four (4) times the minimum bet amount, or four (4) times the bet amount wagered and selected by the player;
Each player is permitted a maximum of two (2) bonus purchases per gaming session, and before each purchase the player must be required to confirm and select the option to use this feature.
B. «Bet Boost» - a feature allowing an increase in the bet amount for each play, coupled with an higher probability of obtaining prizes or credits, which may result, namely, in their multiplication. In games where this feature is available, players must always have the option of not select it.
Proposed New Rule (9B): Slot machines may allow, within the base game and on each play, an increase in the bet amount, associated with a higher probability of obtaining prizes or credits, subject to the following conditions:
a) The increase in the bet amount may not exceed 50% of its base value;
b) The feature may only be active for bets with a maximum limit of €10;
c) The increase in the bet amount and in the probability of obtaining prizes or credits must be displayed on the slot machine in a clear, visible, and understandable manner;
d) Per gaming session, the feature may only be active up to a maximum limit of four (4) consecutive plays, and prior to each of these, the player must be required to confirm and select the option to use this feature.
2. SPORTS BETTING – REGULATION No. 903-A/2015
With regards to Sports Betting, these main proposed amendments are as follows:
- Combined bet – autonomous combinations made up of multiple bets. The player stakes an amount of money linked to a minimum of two predictions, arranged into multiple autonomous combinations, depending on the number of predictions made;
- Multiple bet (redefinition) – a single bet involving two or more predicted outcomes across one or more sporting events, all combined into a single bet (thereby distinguishing it from combined bets);
- Bet Builder – a feature enabling players to create a single bet by combining multiple interrelated predictions, whether drawn from the same competition or from different but connected competitions;
- Cash Out – the possibility of settling part or all of a bet before the end of the underlying event, receiving an amount lower than the potential prize.
The amendments also introduce clarifications on the following:
- Contrary to the initial version, which limited the offering to the types of sports, competitions and sporting events listed by the SRIJ, the new amendment text also defines the types of possible outcomes. Operators may request new types of outcomes from SRIJ (in addition to what was already permitted in terms of competitions, events and sports);
- Additional details are provided regarding the determination of entitlement to prizes across the various types of bets;
- Expanded grounds for bet cancellation:
a. In the event of cancellation, the period is extended from up to 24 to up to 48 hours after the scheduled time;
b. In the event of interruption, if the competition is not resumed within 48 hours and bets are pending settlement;
c. When bets relate to competitions that are not included in the SRIJ list and the bets are pending settlement;
d. When bets are placed by individuals prohibited from gambling, such as players, coaches, etc., and the bets are pending settlement;
e. When bets are pending settlement at the time of a subsequent verification of the registration date of a self-exclusion;
f. When the outcome of the event occurs after the expiry, suspension or revocation of the operator’s licence;
g. In any circumstances expressly set out in a specific rule.
The rules governing the new types of bets and the operationalization of Cash Out feature are set out throughout the Regulation, predominantly within newly introduced provisions.
III. NEXT STEPS
These proposals are currently under public consultation. A period of twenty (20) working days has been granted for all interested stakeholders to submit any relevant contributions. Written contributions may be sent to sugestoes.rjo@turismodeportugal.pt by 23 February.