SiGMA founders Dennis Dyhr Hansen and Eman Pulis recently described Malta as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of the iGaming industry, a nickname that is well-supported by the facts. In this article we’ll delve into a few of the multiplicity of factors that in combination have made Malta one of the top iGaming hubs in the world.
As in any other industry, the success of iGaming is intricately related to the legal and financial landscape that the players have to confront in order to rise to the top of their game. Malta boasts a solid regulatory framework, with advantageous tax benefits and a government that has traditionally recognized, understood and supported the remote gaming industry in the myriad challenges (and opportunities) it faces.
Malta’s unrivalled support to iGaming companies and its “open-door policy” is clearly observed in the number of government entities that synergise their efforts to help advance this business. The Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA), Malta Enterprise, the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) all work hand-in-hand to ensure the needs of gaming companies based and licensed in Malta are met.
Moreover, in the coming months, the government will set up a new entity, Gaming Malta, whose mandate will be to promote the country as an iGaming centre of excellence in the Mediterranean and the European Union.
We covered some the ‘abstract’ reasons, the legal, financial and organisational frameworks in place, that make Malta a top iGaming base, so it stands to reason now to mention some of the more concrete reasons.
Malta is already home to approximately 300 iGaming companies and many more are considering relocating to the country thanks to the significant investment made in creating prime office space for these companies to work in.
SmartCity Malta, for example, offers a world-class infrastructure for businesses in the gaming and technology sectors, thanks to the combination of a pleasant work environment and a responsive support system that ensures business continuity under all circumstances.
Malta also boasts a hard-working, multilingual workforce with a solid work ethic. The number of people in Malta directly employed in the iGaming industry now tops 9,000 and is set to grow even further thanks to the development of tailor-made academic and training courses that aim to equip the workforce with the specific skills needed to succeed in the gaming business.
Finally, for companies seeking to relocate their operations here or start-ups who opt to make this country their launchpad, Malta offers a quality of life without paragon. With sunny weather all year round, plenty of leisure opportunities, high quality educational institutions, as well as a safe environment, Malta is the ideal place for young families who seek the peace of mind they require to raise their children.
SiGMA 2014 will provide a glimpse into the wealth of opportunities that Malta offers to remote gaming companies.
From October 30th till November 2nd, over 2,000 iGaming delegates from around the world will be staying on the island to hear the top speakers in the industry share the latest knowledge shaping the business, as well as experience the hospitality that Malta is famous for. If you want to experience all that Malta offers first-hand register now for the Summit of iGaming in Malta, and if you’re an affiliate you can attend the summit free of charge.
