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On 15 May 2026, the Gibraltar Aircraft Registry was formally introduced to Gibraltar’s professional services community. This rapidly evolving sector creates new opportunities for aircraft registration in Gibraltar, the restructuring of aircraft ownership, and the operation of non-EU aircraft into Europe. Europa Aviation Limited, part of the Europa Group, attended the event and reports on the significant advantages Gibraltar can offer clients for private aircraft registration.

The Gibraltar Civil Aviation Authority and the Gibraltar Aircraft Registry hosted an industry briefing for Gibraltar’s professional services community and members of the press. Opened by the Minister for Commercial Aviation, the event aimed to introduce the Registry, its regulatory framework, and its operational vision. Aviation professionals from around the world attended the briefing, reflecting the growing international interest in Gibraltar as an emerging aviation jurisdiction.

Gibraltar already has a well-established reputation in international sectors such as financial services, legal services, insurance, yachting, and shipping. Expanding into aviation was therefore a natural progression for Gibraltar’s growing economy.

The new Registry aims to position Gibraltar as a competitive and credible aviation jurisdiction, with the aim to attract hundreds of aircraft registrations over the next few years.

What are the Advantages of Registering a Private Aircraft in Gibraltar?

• Gibraltar is perfectly located as the gateway to Europe and Africa, making it ideal for international travel and operational flexibility.
• The Registry is ICAO compliant under the “ZD” designation and will operate within the Cape Town framework,
• Gibraltar has introduced a modern international aviation regulatory framework that promotes confidence, transparency, and long-term growth.
• A dedicated Civil Aviation Authority independently supervises, regulates, and enforces all aspects of civil aviation, separate from the Government of Gibraltar.
• Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory with a Common Law legal system, UK-aligned regulatory standards, lender familiarity, English language accessibility, and an EU time zone.
• Gibraltar is OECD white-listed and remains outside the EU VAT and customs union, allowing for greater structuring flexibility

Conclusion

The launch of the Gibraltar Aircraft Registry marks an exciting new chapter for Gibraltar’s growing international services sector. Combining regulatory credibility, strategic location, operational flexibility, and a business-friendly framework, Gibraltar is well positioned to become a leading jurisdiction for private aircraft registration and ownership structuring.
Europa Aviation Limited, part of the Europa Group, is proud to support this important development and looks forward to assisting clients with aircraft registration, ownership restructuring, and related aviation services in Gibraltar. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.

Now is the Time to Work with The Europa Group

Europa Aviation Limited is part of the Europa Group, which has been based in Gibraltar for over 40 years. During this time, we have built a reputation as a stable and reputable business.

We provide a comprehensive range of company and trust formation and management services including company and trust administration, foundations, partnerships, corporate directors, shareholders and secretaries, accounting, marine registration and other associated services.

Our clients are an eclectic mix of international executives, authors, sportsmen, corporations, wealthy individuals, families and many more. Their individual interests and needs are at the centre of our focus. Each client benefits from the experience and multi-jurisdiction knowledge of a dedicated Europa Group professional.

The Europa Group is authorised and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

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Gibraltar — 26th May 2020 – Casino Admiral Gibraltar today announced a significant new investment initiative in Gibraltar aimed at accelerating innovation and software development capacity on an ongoing basis, while creating highly desirable skilled employment opportunities.

The establishment of RockTec Ltd in close association with renowned innovator APEX pro gaming and the accompanying million £ plus investment commitment will support the expansion of high-tech development and digital assets creation, including for the gaming sector, reinforcing Gibraltar’s position as a competitive international choice for technology innovation.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

RockTec Ltd is expected to create opportunities across high-demand skilled professional disciplines, including:

• Digital art & animation
• Software engineering
• Applied and generative AI
• Project management and operations

Recruitment is ongoing and prioritizes professional development, competitive compensation, and pathways for long-term career growth within Gibraltar’s evolving economy and beyond. (HR Manager: Veronique Hermida vhermida@casinogib.ltd)

“This investment is being made in close association with APEX pro gaming, a global innovator with a strong international presence and trusted local partners around the world, and reflects our confidence in Gibraltar’s business environment, regulatory framework, and highly skilled workforce as a hub for innovation. We are committed to reinvesting and creating sustainable employment opportunities and long-term strategic growth in Gibraltar.”, said Stuart Kirkpatrick, Admiral Casino Gibraltar CEO.

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT DETAILS 

The innovation studio initiative will include:

• Premium offices in Ocean Village
• Immediate creation of new skilled jobs
• Investment in technology infrastructure
• Establishing partnerships with local tertiary educational institutions, training providers, and industry organisations
• Long-term commitment to sustainable growth of Gibraltar as an innovation hub

The investment is expected to:

• Increase local economic activity and private-sector collaboration • Support the development of emerging technologies and specialist expertise • Enhance Gibraltar’s attractiveness to international investors and businesses • Contribute to workforce upskilling and talent retention
• Create indirect opportunities for local suppliers and service providers

In welcoming this decision, Minister Feetham said: 

“The Government welcomes this investment and the skilled technology employment opportunities it will create for Gibraltar. Initiatives like this strengthen our economy, support talent development and reinforce Gibraltar’s reputation as a tier one gaming hub and forward-looking international business centre.”

ABOUT APEX pro gaming 

Shaping the future of gaming with innovative technology and comprehensive gaming solutions. We understand the uniqueness of every market, and we are dedicated to delivering tailor-made solutions. Experience the difference – where innovation meets performance and the highest standards. Johannes Weissengruber, Founder & CEO

ABOUT ROCKTEC LTD 

Passion | Innovation | Team Spirit | Integrity | Excellence

Aiming to be the entertainment software development and innovation partner of choice. Charles Hiten, Executive Director / CEO 

ABOUT CASINO ADMIRAL GIBRALTAR 

Set on the stunning Leisure Island in Ocean Village Marina, Casino Admiral Gibraltar offers an unforgettable night out. Experience the perfect place to eat, drink, and play on the Rock. Stuart Kirckpatrick, CEO

MEDIA CONTACT 

Tim Mitchell
Customer Relations Director
Casino Admiral Gibraltar
Email: TMitchell@casinogib.ltd
Website: https://www.casinoadmiralgibraltar.com/

HR CONTACT

Veronique Hermida
Email: vhermida@casinogib.ltd

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Through this partnership, GACO members will benefit from BPP International Finance’s extensive expertise in financial services, including specialised training in Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Risk Management, Corporate Governance, and the latest regulatory updates. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between local requirements and international best practices, ensuring that Gibraltar’s compliance community remains at the forefront of the global financial landscape.

Expanding the Horizon for Gibraltar’s Professionals 

As the regulatory environment becomes increasingly complex, the need for high quality, continuous professional development (CPD) has never been greater. This partnership will introduce a suite of new educational opportunities, including:

• Bespoke Training Modules: Tailored to the specific needs of the Gibraltar market.
• International Expert Access: Masterclasses and seminars delivered by BPP’s industry-leading tutors.
• Enhanced CPD Offerings: A broader range of technical and soft-skills courses to support career progression at all levels.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence 

“GACO has always been dedicated to promoting the highest standards of compliance and risk management in Gibraltar,” said Carlos M. Martins, Chairperson at GACO. “By partnering with BPP International Finance, we are significantly expanding our training offering. This collaboration allows us to provide our members with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate an evolving regulatory world with confidence.”

Stuart Chandler, commercial director at BPP International Finance, added: “We are delighted to work alongside GACO to support professionals safeguarding Gibraltar’s financial services industry. Our case-led regulatory training reflects the realities of international financial services, aligning with GACO’s commitment to excellence. We look forward to working with Gibraltar’s compliance community through this collaboration.”

About GACO 

The Gibraltar Association of Compliance Officers (GACO) is the primary professional body for compliance practitioners in Gibraltar. It serves as a vital link between the industry and regulators, providing education, networking, and advocacy to maintain Gibraltar’s reputation as a premier international financial centre.

https://www.gaco.gi/

About BPP International Finance 

BPP International Finance, part of the BPP Education Group, provide specialised training and qualifications across accountancy, tax, law and finance. As a Platinum ACCA provider, ICAEW partner and CGI recommended tuition provider, they support students worldwide with expert-led materials. Their professional development spans governance, data & tech and leadership and financial services compliance, delivered by industry experts. Trusted by diverse global organisations, BPP International Finance act as a dedicated business partner, consistently delivering excellent pass rates and career-focused learning.

https://www.bppif.com/

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BIIDPA brings together DPAs whose respective regulatory and legislative frameworks share strong commonalities. The forum serves as an important platform for strengthening practical supervisory cooperation and promoting regulatory consistency across participating jurisdictions. It supports the protection of individuals’ data rights, encourages responsible innovation, and facilitates learning and regulatory development.

In light of the significant international data protection expertise gathering in Gibraltar, the Information Commissioner invited BIIDPA representatives to participate in a Data Protection Workshop, which will be held on 20 May 2026 at The Rock Hotel. The full day event will additionally feature locally renowned speakers and subject matter experts covering key issues currently shaping the data protection landscape. Presentations and panel discussions will focus on:

• Artificial Intelligence Opportunities and Governance
• Innovation and Regulatory Sandbox Initiatives
• Children’s Privacy
• Anti-Money Laundering and Data Protection
• Cybersecurity: Navigating Risk and Enabling Business Value.

A limited number of tickets remain available via www.buytickets.gi, with further information on the agenda and speakers on the GRA’s LinkedIn and Facebook pages. For further information, please contact the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority on +350 20074636 or via email at DPOworkshops@gra.gi.

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By Jonathan Garcia, Partner, ISOLAS LLP

Gibraltar has never shied away became the first jurisdiction in the world to regulate Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT).

That early move earned it a reputation as a jurisdiction willing to embrace innovation while ensuring guardrails were in place. Today, Gibraltar is pushing the frontier once again. The government has announced plans for a groundbreaking regulatory framework that will govern the digital clearing and settlement of virtual asset derivatives.

This is no small step. Clearing and settlement sit at the very heart of financial markets. Traditionally, central counterparties play this role, reducing systemic risk and ensuring that trades between buyers and sellers are executed and finalised without dispute. In the digital asset world, however, this safety net has been largely absent. Most transactions have relied on exchanges, with varying degrees of security and oversight. Gibraltar aims to fill this gap with a framework that brings institutional standards to the digital asset space.

Government and Industry

The new framework, developed in collaboration with the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) and the exchange Bullish, is being positioned as the world’s first dedicated regulatory regime for crypto clearing and settlement. It will provide a roadmap for how risks are managed, how assets are safeguarded, and how settlement finality is guaranteed. Minister for Trade and Industry, The Hon Nigel Feetham MP KC, called it a reflection of Gibraltar’s commitment to ‘responsible innovation.’ Bullish CEO Tom Farley praised the initiative as a model for public–private partnership done right, showing how governments and industry can work hand-in-hand to build trust.

Stablecoins, digital money for a Digital Age

Alongside clearing, stablecoins are becoming essential to the crypto economy. Unlike volatile digital assets, stablecoins are designed to maintain steady value by being pegged to currencies like the US dollar or the Euro. They are the quiet workhorses of the digital market, allowing traders and institutions to move in and out of volatile positions without leaving the blockchain ecosystem.

As of mid 2025, stablecoins represent more than $250 billion in circulation, with the vast majority tied to the US dollar. They act as liquidity bridges – helping traders move seamlessly between assets, powering decentralised finance platforms, and increasingly, handling real-world payments. For consumers in emerging markets, they offer a lifeline against inflation and unstable banking systems. In this sense, stablecoins are more than trading tools; they are becoming instruments of financial inclusion.

GENIUS Act

But with rapid growth comes regulatory attention. Policymakers are concerned about how reserves are managed, whether assets are truly backed one-to-one, and how sudden redemptions could destabilise financial markets. This has sparked a wave of new rules around the world. In the United States, the GENIUS Act was passed in July 2025, requiring stablecoins to be fully backed with liquid assets and subject to regular audits. In Europe, the MiCA regulation has brought both domestic and foreign stablecoin issuers under strict oversight. Hong Kong and Singapore are rolling out similar requirements. The message is consistent: stablecoins can enable innovation, but they must also guarantee transparency and trust.

Why Gibraltar’s move matters

So why does Gibraltar’s clearing framework matter in the context of stablecoins? Because it positions the territory at the sweet spot of two global trends. On one side, it is building world-first infrastructure for clearing and settlement in crypto markets.

On the other, it is aligning itself with the new wave of regulation around stablecoins, which are quickly becoming the backbone of digital payments and liquidity. Few jurisdictions have managed to get ahead on both fronts simultaneously.

Together, these initiatives create a powerful value proposition. Institutions looking for safe, well-regulated entry points into crypto will find Gibraltar ready. Investors will see a jurisdiction that balances innovation with oversight. And firms will discover an ecosystem designed for resilience as well as growth. For a small territory, the impact could be outsized, positioning Gibraltar as a natural hub for digital asset activity in Europe and beyond.

A glimpse of the future

The potential applications are vast. Imagine a future where tokenised dollars move across borders in seconds, clearing and settlement happen instantly under Gibraltar’s new regime, and derivatives are managed with the same rigour as traditional finance. Stablecoins could fuel global trade, while digital clearing ensures the system is safe, efficient, and scalable. This is not just speculation – it is the direction markets are already moving. Gibraltar’s role is to make sure the infrastructure is ready when the demand fully arrives.

By marrying stablecoins with digital clearing, Gibraltar is not only keeping pace with global change – it is leading it. Once again, the Rock is proving that being small on the map does not mean being small in vision. In the fast-evolving world of digital assets, Gibraltar is showing how to build a future that is both innovative and secure.

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By Joseph Gomez, Consultant and Sebastian Triay, Senior Associate, Private Client Team, Triay Lawyers

Gibraltar offers a compelling seeking tax efficiency, lifestyle benefits, and a stable jurisdiction. With its Category 2 and High Executive Possessing Specialist Skills (HEPSS) statuses, Gibraltar provides a robust framework for wealth preservation and personal relocation.

For investors

Gibraltar is a tax efficient jurisdiction ideal for wealth growth and protection. It imposes no tax on capital gains, dividends, interest, or wealth, making it attractive for those with diversified portfolios or passive income streams.

Category 2 Status is designed for individuals with a minimum net worth of £2 million. It caps income tax liability between £39,940.00 and £44,740.00, regardless of global income. Investors can continue operating businesses outside Gibraltar without local tax implications and may even structure operations through Gibraltar based entities under certain conditions.

Key benefits:

• No tax on investment income;
• No inheritance or succession tax;
• British legal framework and financial stability;
• Appealing lifestyle for family relocation.

For family offices

Gibraltar is a strategic base for multi-generational wealth planning. Its absence of inheritance, wealth, and capital gains taxes allows family offices to preserve and transfer wealth efficiently. The jurisdiction supports trusts, foundations, and corporate and partnership structures (including cellular structures) that align with global estate planning strategies.

Principals of family offices can apply for Category 2 status, securing personal tax efficiency while managing global assets. Gibraltar’s legal system, based on English common law, ensures privacy, asset protection, and regulatory clarity.

Key benefits:

• Tax-efficient wealth transfer;
• Legal certainty and confidentiality;
• Flexible structuring options for global holdings;
• Lifestyle appeal for family relocation.

For relocation consultants

Gibraltar offers a clear and efficient pathway to residency. The Category 2 and HEPSS statuses have well defined financial and accommodation requirements. The jurisdiction is English-speaking, safe, and offers a Mediterranean lifestyle ideal for clients seeking both tax benefits and quality of life.

HEPSS status is tailored for executives earning over £160,000.00 annually and possessing specialist skills that contribute to Gibraltar’s economy. It limits tax liability to £39,940.00 and requires local employment.

Key benefits for clients:

• Fast-track residency process;
• No wealth, capital gains, or inheritance taxes;
• Business-friendly environment;
• High standard of living and connectivity.

Residency requirements

To qualify for Category 2 or HEPSS, applicants must:

• Secure approved residential accommodation in Gibraltar;
• Provide two professional references (one from an international bank);
• Hold private comprehensive health insurance;
• Submit proof of net worth (£2M for Category 2) or income (£160K+ for HEPSS);
• Provide a valid passport and CV.

Once approved, applicants must apply for a Civilian Registration Card.

HEPSS applicants must not have lived or worked in Gibraltar in the 36 months prior to applying.

Application process

• Application fee currently £1,233.00 for either Category 2 or HEPSS;
• Category 2 applicants once the status is granted are required to deposit an amount equal to the maximum tax liability, refundable when the status is ended;
• Certificates are issued indefinitely, subject to continued compliance.

Summary of UK-EU Treaty negotiations regarding Gibraltar (September 2025)

On 11 June 2025, the UK, EU, Spain, and Gibraltar reached a political agreement on the core aspects of a future treaty governing Gibraltar’s post-Brexit relationship with the EU. Key elements include removal of border checks between Gibraltar and Spain, dual border checks at Gibraltar’s airport and port, a customs union between Gibraltar and the EU, and cooperation on law enforcement, taxation, environmental standards, and frontier workers’ rights.

• Disappearance of the physical land border with Spain;
• Immigration control will be relocated to Gibraltar’s International airport;
• Gibraltar will not join the Schengen Area, but Schengen rules will apply to non- 16 Gibraltar International www.gibraltarinternational.com residents entering via Gibraltar;

Negotiators aim to finalise the legal text by October 2025, with ratification expected by Christmas and implementation in early 2026.

The treaty does not affect the sovereignty of Gibraltar. A new bilateral cooperation agreement between the United Kingdom and Spain was signed in September 2025, focusing on economic growth and migration, building on the Gibraltar deal.

Conclusion

Gibraltar offers a rare combination of tax efficiency, legal stability, and lifestyle appeal. Whether you’re an investor, a family office, planning for future generations, or a consultant guiding clients through relocation, Gibraltar provides a robust framework for strategic residency.

By securing Category 2 or HEPSS status, individuals can achieve limited income tax exposure and a secure and attractive base for global operations. Gibraltar isn’t just a geographical location it’s a lifestyle and business hub for forward thinking individuals and families.

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By Erika Pozo, Director, Kroll (Gibraltar) Limited

In an evolving regulatory landscape, insurance firms must be prepared not only for growth and resilience… but also for a ‘final chapter’ of a book of business, ‘The Solvent Exit’.

A solvent exit in the industry doesn’t always mean a full exit from the market. It can involve a structured withdrawal from a particular line of business, undertaken to release trapped capital and redeploy resources into more profitable or strategic areas. In either case, whether leaving the market entirely or streamlining operations, the regulator now expects insurers to demonstrate that the process can be carried out in an orderly, well governed, and policyholder focused manner.

Thanks to the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission’s (GFSC) a new Guidance Note on Solvent Exit Planning for Insurers, published on 13 June 2025, outlines the expectations for insurers to plan and execute an orderly wind-down while remaining financially solvent.

From the PRA to the Rock

Solvent exit planning has its roots in UK regulatory policy. Back in 2021, the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) introduced requirements for solvent exit planning, with its final policy (PS20/24, SS11/24) being issued on 18 December 2024. The rationale was straightforward: if an insurer decides to leave the market while solvent, it should be able to do so orderly, responsibly, and without destabilising policyholder protection mechanisms. The PRA’s framework placed exit risk on the same footing as entry and operational risks.

Given Gibraltar’s close regulatory ties to the UK through the Gibraltar Authorisation Regime (GAR), it was only a matter of time before the GFSC followed suit. The June 2025 guidance now makes solvent exit planning a standard expectation for all Gibraltar insurers.

Core requirements – The Solvent Exit Analysis

The GFSC’s guidance lays out a structured, technical approach. At its heart, it requires all insurers to build credible, proportionate exit strategies. In meeting the expectations within the Guidance Note, firms must produce a Solvent Exit Analysis (SEA) as part of its BAU activities, which outlines and sets out a firm’s run-off / exit options, regardless of how unlikely or distant the prospect of an exit may seem.

The SEA is not a box-ticking exercise. Every insurer authorised in Gibraltar must maintain one, with the level of detail tailored to the firm’s size and complexity. It must be refreshed at least every three years, or sooner if the risk profile changes. While it can be integrated into existing governance tools such as the Own Risk Solvency Assessment (ORSA), the GFSC is clear that it must stand up as a practical roadmap for an orderly exit.

Insurers are expected to map out credible exit routes, from policy run-off to portfolio transfer, restructuring or sale, and must spell out the actions, resources, and timelines needed. Each analysis must also identify indicators and trigger points that signal when it is time to act, helping firms avoid leaving it too late.

Potential barriers, whether market-wide or firm-specific, must be considered in detail. These range from gaps in policyholder data and operational dependencies to external risks such as market volatility or stakeholder reaction. Resource planning is critical: firms must not only demonstrate they have sufficient capital and liquidity to execute an exit but also allow for added costs such as redundancy payments, advisory fees, or asset write-downs.

Clear governance and accountability are nonnegotiable. A senior regulated individual must oversee the SEA, supported by transparent decision making and robust assurance.

For Gibraltar, this move signals a proactive stance: embedding exit preparedness into day to day business to safeguard policyholders and maintain confidence in its insurance market.

SEEP: Turning Exit Planning into Execution

Unlike the SEA, which is a standing requirement, the Solvent Exit Execution Plan (SEEP) is only triggered when an insurer’s exit from the market becomes a reasonable prospect.

The SEEP translates theory into action. It is designed to show, in real time, how an insurer will implement an orderly and solvent exit, whether through run-off, transfer, sale, or restructuring. Once triggered, the SEEP must be delivered to the GFSC within a specified period and updated as circumstances evolve.

Key elements of the SEEP include a detailed timeline of actions, allocation of responsibilities, resource mobilisation, and communication strategies to manage policyholders, staff, creditors, and counterparties. The SEEP also addresses the barriers identified in the SEA, showing how they will be overcome in practice. With a regulated individual accountable for execution, ensuring governance remains clear at any critical juncture.

For Gibraltar insurers, the SEEP requirement underscores the regulatory message: planning alone is not enough. Firms must be ready to act decisively to protect policyholders and market stability if an exit becomes inevitable.

What matters?

For Gibraltar as a jurisdiction, solvent exit planning strengthens alignment with the UK PRA and reinforces the credibility of GAR. Boards are now expected to take ownership of exit strategies, pushing exit planning firmly into the boardroom agenda rather than leaving it as an operational afterthought. The message is clear, exit planning is now a core regulatory expectation, designed to protect policyholders, preserve market confidence and prevent disorderly failures in Gibraltar’s insurance sector.

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Tony Alan reports on the latest updates

This year’s annual KPMG Gibraltar eSummit was held with exceptional timing on Thursday 12th June, the day after the announcement that the UK and and EU had agreed the core terms of a treaty in respect of Gibraltar.

It meant that delegates at the event were among the first to hear what this meant for Gibraltar – and the eGaming industry in particular – from Chief Minister Fabian Picardo who rearranged his schedule to make a surprise appearance and talk directly to the capacity audience at the Sunborn Yacht Hotel.

Border fluidity

Declaring that the sovereignty of Gibraltar had not “In any way been compromised”, the Chief Minister said the agreement offered “complete fluidity across the frontier”, for the two key elements that move across frontiers: people and goods.

The agreement achieved what the government had set out to do, he said: “To give you and your industry the ability to have people live on the other side of the frontier and come in and out of Gibraltar every day without having so much as to flash an ID card, let alone a passport.

Brexit chaos

“To give you the ability to recruit and retain the people you need not just to stay the way you are but to make you more successful in the future. To grow the business that you do in Gibraltar and grow the type of business we
can do in Gibraltar”.

After the chaos of Brexit, he added, he hoped delegates would see the terms of the agreement as “a hugely positive agreement” for Gibraltar, the region and, in particular, the gaming industry.

Tier 1 jurisdiction

Attendees at the event, which draws Gaming professionals from across Europe, had already heard from Trade and Justice Minister the Hon Nigel Feetham who was equally enthusiastic about terms of the Treaty and how it would help support Gibraltar’s position as a Tier 1 jurisdiction for the sector.

Explaining that no sector was “more important in terms of its economic contribution to Gibraltar than the gambling sector,” he said the agreement would provide stability and a “safeguard for our collective future”.

Gambling Act

Minister Feetham also said that the long- awaited update to the Gambling Act could now be progressed and indicated that Gibraltar was prepared to consider accepting market leading
operators in crypto gambling who wanted to move into the regulated space.

“As a jurisdiction, we must embrace growth in areas where technology is shaping the global landscape,” he added. “We simply cannot afford to be left behind”.

Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner Andrew Lyman reiterated that the new Gambling Act would address changes in the operational models of eGaming businesses and bring associated services such as marketing into scope. This would give greater flexibility and scope for multi-jurisdictional gaming operators and updated powers to the Gibraltar Gambling Commission to ensure Gibraltar maintained its strong reputation as a responsible and respected regulated territory.

Crypto currencies

Elsewhere at the conference, the Hon. Albert Isola KCB MP moderated a session on the use of crypto currencies in the sector while industry consultant Simon French reflected on capital market trends over the last 20 years followed by sessions on M&A activity from both operator and legal perspectives. Robin Chhabra from Tekkorp Capital hosted a discussion on opportunities in the Latin American market and Dan Waugh from Regulus Partners explored possible regulatory threats to the UK industry.

It was important for the industry to address this, he said, and reframe conversations. “Operators must focus and champion the best interests of their customers,” he warned, “Both in terms of enjoyment and harm prevention. The consumer is all too often by-passed in a debate that focuses instead on harm, taxation, jobs and the black market.”

ESG

A further panel session looked at the question of whether Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) is itself sustainable with various operators talking through the different activities their businesses were working on in this space. The panellists recognised that ESG initiatives were important not only to customers and shareholders, but also in attracting new talent to the sector.

With a simultaneous programme of short power presentations in the side rooms touching on many legal and regulatory points of interest, delegates had the opportunity to learn lessons from real life recent examples before re-joining the main room at the end of the day to hear reflections from some of the key operators in the gaming industry. The discussion covered a wide range of topics including cyber risks, the opportunities and threats of AI, regulation, industry collaboration and the value of diverse thinking.

Conclusion

Summing up at the end of the day Will Hawkley, KPMG Global Head of Leisure and Hospitality, said, “The KPMG Gibraltar eSummit has once again provided a fantastic opportunity for the industry both in Gibraltar and the wider world to take stock of the market, and the opportunities and threats it faces.

“We were delighted to have both the Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and the Hon Nigel Feetham MP join us on the day, reflecting the importance of the sector to Gibraltar’s economy. We also thank our other expert speakers for their time and reflections which are so valuable to understanding the future direction of the gaming industry.

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