Finnish government introduces monthly and daily loss limits due to Covid-19

The Finnish government has introduced new reduced monthly and daily loss limits for all online gambling in Finland as a response to the coronavirus pandemic.

From 1 May, the monthly loss limit on all online gambling games will be lowered from €2,000 (£1,744) to €500 (£436), while the daily limit will similarly be lowered from €1,000 (£872) to €500.

This will apply to all online games operated by state operator Veikkaus, including slots, online bingo and table games excluding poker. The reduced loss limits will remain in force until 30 September.

Finnish online players are currently required to set limits prior to any gambling taking place on Veikkaus sites, subject to the mandatory national limits.

Veikkaus has confirmed it has already made the necessary technical changes to its existing sites in line with the new reduced limits. Veikkaus’ land-based operations have been closed since mid-March and its lottery operations will be suspended with effect from 4 May following the coronavirus pandemic.

Finnish Minister of the Interior Maria Ohisalo said there was an increased risk of Finns becoming at-risk gamblers due to the country’s lockdown measures.

“At the same time, many are in a difficult financial situation anyway. With the regulation, we will curb the growth of gambling disadvantages related to online gambling in these exceptional circumstances,” said Ohisalo.

The Finnish National Police Board, which regulates gambling in Finland and holds responsibility for overseeing Veikkaus, has said these new limits may lead to increased marketing by illegal international operators attempting to attract new players affected.

The board has also called on public figures in Finland to cease marketing endorsements of illegal international operators in response to the new restrictions.