MGA publishes results of first ESG code reporting cycle with 14 voluntary licensees
Initial insights show progress in community engagement and responsible gambling, while highlighting areas for development such as governance structures and gender diversity.
Key points:
– Fourteen online gaming licensees participated in the Malta Gaming Authority’s first ESG Code of Good Practice reporting cycle for 2023
– All participants received a Tier 1 or Tier 2 ESG Code Approval Seal based on their alignment with environmental, social and governance criteria
– The MGA aims to expand participation in 2024, with enrolment for the second ESG reporting cycle now open
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has released its 2023 ESG Code Insights Report, marking the conclusion of the regulator’s first data collection cycle under its ESG Code of Good Practice.
Fourteen licensees voluntarily took part in the initiative, reporting on a range of sustainability-focused measures undertaken during the year.
According to the MGA, the primary objective of the exercise was to enhance awareness and transparency around environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices within the online gaming sector.
The initiative also supports Malta Vision 2050 – a strategic framework aimed at fostering sustainable development across all economic sectors.
Participants were assessed on criteria including energy use and emissions tracking, responsible gambling practices and community engagement.
Good to know: The MGA noted that several operators exceeded baseline regulatory requirements in areas such as player protection and community contributions
Nonetheless, the report identified opportunities for improvement. These include the implementation of more formal ESG governance frameworks, improved data tracking processes and broader participation in ESG-related training among senior leadership.
The Authority also encouraged licensees to consider enhancing gender diversity at executive levels.
To recognise participants, the MGA awarded ESG Code Approval Seals at Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels, depending on the extent to which licensees aligned with the Code.
However, the Authority acknowledged that the findings are not fully representative of the industry due to the limited, self-selected sample size.
The release follows a period of wider regulatory reform by the MGA, including this month’s clarification of audit procedures and expanded oversight of compliance reporting.
In addition to system audits and compliance changes, the regulator has continued to address concerns over the misuse of its licensing credentials by unregulated operators.
The Authority has now opened enrolment for the 2024 ESG Code reporting cycle, inviting a broader range of licensees to participate and help shape the future sustainability of the Maltese iGaming sector.
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