Swedish Supreme Court Orders Betsson to Refund Problem Gambler
Sweden’s highest court has mandated that Betsson must reimburse a problem gambler EUR 527,395 in losses, marking a significant ruling in the European gaming industry’s approach to player protection. The decision stems from gambling activities that occurred before Sweden’s market regulation, when the operator’s Malta-based subsidiary continued accepting wagers despite evident signs of gambling addiction.
VIP Status Aggravated Gambling Losses
The case centers on a Swedish player who accumulated substantial losses between 2009 and 2014 through Betsson’s Malta-based BML Group. Court records show the individual lost hundreds of thousands of euros while displaying clear indicators of problematic gambling behavior, yet the operator maintained their account and even elevated them to VIP status in January 2012.
Following Sweden’s gambling market regulation, the affected player initiated legal proceedings against Betsson, arguing the company exploited their vulnerable condition. The Supreme Court ultimately supported this position, declaring all bets placed during the VIP period invalid due to the operator’s failure to recognize and address obvious problem gambling indicators.
Financial Penalties and Legal Costs
The ruling requires BML Group to return the full EUR 527,395 lost during the customer’s VIP period, along with approximately EUR 64,500 in legal expenses. However, the court rejected a lower tribunal’s decision to award EUR 900 for emotional distress, focusing solely on the financial restitution.
Betsson CEO Pontus Lindwall acknowledged disappointment with the outcome, while emphasizing the case’s specific circumstances. The executive stated the financial impact would not significantly affect the company’s broader operations, though he expressed regret over the court’s decision.