Published on 3rd March 2016 by Becky Mosley

It is without doubt the hot topic of the moment, as everywhere you look you are likely to find people discussing the possibility of the “Brexit”. This June the British public will go to the polls to vote on whether or not the UK will remain within the European Union. While this decision has the potential to be boat rocking for a number of reasons, it looks like one industry has more of an invested interest in the vote more than any other.

Free Trade

The online gambling industry within the in the UK relies heavily on free trade, so many are wondering what’s in store in for key gambling-related businesses should the nation choose to depart the EU. Looking at the situation, many key sportsbook, casino, and bingo websites thrive on the business that they obtain from European shores. The figures show that 10.5% of all Ladbrokes revenue comes from outside of Britain, while it is a similar story for other betting brands such as Rank Group, William Hill, and Paddy Power. Compared to what these companies bring in on the grand scheme of things, the revenues from Europe may not seem like a lot, but if lost it is clear that it will have a clear effect on the industry. It should also be noted that issues related to tax would also become increasingly murky should the “Brexit” materialise.

Hopes To ‘Stay In’

The situation is clear, when all the votes have been tallied the online gambling industry and those within it will be hoping that come June the UK opts to stay in the EU. Reason being that it will protect key avenues of revenue for betting companies that would otherwise be closed off, while also maintaining the current tried and tested tax system.