Kindred Group to Leave Norway

Betting operator Kindred is leaving the Norwegian gaming market, ending a multi-year battle between the company and the country's gaming regulator Lotteritilsynet over unlicenced betting.

The announcement was made by Lotteritilsynet, who noted that the company behind Unibet was pulling out of the market, alongside the likes of ComeOn, Bet365, and Betsson. The companies have been operating int Norway despite not having a licence, as they contend that holding a licence in Malta should make it able to do business in Norway as European Union law allows for the free trade of goods and services. This led to Lotteritilsynet threatening a NOK1.2 million daily fine for Kindred if they did not leave the market. The regulator also threatened to start issuing ISP blocking requests for the sites next year.

In a statement, Lotteritilsynet Director Henrik Nordal said, "This is a company that is neither allowed to offer nor market gambling to Norwegians. That several of the largest gambling companies that operate illegally in Norway pull out will prevent gambling problems and contribute to a safer and more responsible gambling offer in the Norwegian market."

No comment from Kindred was available at press time, but we'll be issuing updates as we see them.

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