Spelinspektionen Bans Fortunepanda.com for Unlicensed Operations

Immediate Ban Imposed on Versus Odds

Spelinspektionen’s investigation revealed that Versus Odds was actively targeting Swedish players through its Fortunepanda.com website, despite lacking the required license.

The regulator’s test purchase, though not completed, exposed several violations, including the use of Swedish language on the site for conditions, policy documents, and FAQs, which is strictly prohibited for unlicensed operators. The regulator also found that marketing, including affiliate programs, was available in Swedish.

The probe further uncovered that Versus Odds is based in Curaçao and operates under the jurisdiction’s previous licensing system, which has since been discontinued. In addition to Fortunepanda.com, Versus Odds manages a network of other websites, including variations of Fortunepanda, as well as Artcasino.io, Casinoorca.com, Depositwin.com, Hazcasino.com, Merlincasino.com, Staeprix.com, and Vegazcasino.com.

Consumer Protection and Gaming Safety

Spelinspektionen emphasized that any operator offering online gambling in Sweden must possess the appropriate license. The regulator determined that Versus Odds was clearly targeting Swedish players, citing the extensive Swedish-language content on Fortunepanda.com and its marketing efforts through various affiliates.

The ban is effective immediately, and while Versus Odds was given the opportunity to respond, it has yet to do so.

“Spelinspektionen considers that regarding consumer protection and to guarantee gaming safety, it is important that the decision is complied with immediately. The decision must therefore apply immediately”, the regulator stated.

Rise in Illegal Gambling Website Visits

This ruling follows recent data from AB Trav och Galopp (ATG) which indicated a tenfold increase in traffic to unlicensed gambling sites since 2019. The data suggests Sweden’s channelisation rate is likely between 70% and 82% in Q3, which is lower than the 86% recently reported by Spelinspektionen.

ATG CEO Hasse Lord Skarplöth criticized the Swedish government for its “unreasonable” demands on licensed operators, arguing that current regulations are “counterproductive” and are contributing to the growth of the illegal market.