Two Dozen Operators Apply for Finnish Licenses as Country Ends iGaming Monopoly

Multiple operators have applied for a license in Finland as the country has taken steps to end its iGaming monopoly and usher in a new era of commercial gaming.

Finland Prepares to Launch Its Commercial iGaming Market

Finland has been taking steady strides toward the launch of its liberalized online gaming market. Last year, the country passed a bill to put an end to Veikkaus’ monopoly. This measure was the culmination of months of talks and preparations and effectively confirmed the upcoming launch of a competitive iGaming market.

Under the current schedule, the new online casino gaming market will officially kick off on July 1, 2027.

With Finns boasting a strong passion for gaming, dozens of operators have lined up for entry.

24 Operators Are Readying Themselves for July 1, 2027

According to official data, a total of 24 online operators have applied for licenses so far. This suggests that there is a strong interest in the market, which makes sense, considering Finns’ passion for gaming.

While iGaming in Finland has until now operated under a monopoly model, with Veikkaus as the sole operator permitted to offer such products, this hasn’t stopped local players from showing interest in gaming one bit. Studies suggest that a staggering 70% of adults in Finland participate in at least some form of gaming – a figure that might be boosted significantly once commercial gaming launches.

In an interview with iGB, Nordic Legal’s head of office, Pekka Ilmivalta, described Finns as “heavy gamblers” and the launch of a reformed gaming market as a “long-awaited change.” A high number of players are interested in online lotteries, which might be one of the verticals with the highest potential to appeal to locals.

Additional Operators Are Adopting a “Wait and See” Approach

In the meantime, additional operators are closely eyeing the situation without submitting applications for licenses yet, as the details around iGaming ads and responsible gambling requirements have yet to be clarified.

Experts say that the market, at its launch, could have up to 50 licensees. Still, Veikkaus, which will continue to operate, although no longer exclusively, will likely remain a leading player.

The Veikkaus has been largely optimistic with the launch of licensed iGaming, although it had to undergo some reforms and make some cuts in preparation for the changes.