Dutch translation available above. 31 maart 2025, door de redactie van CasinoZorgplicht.nl.
Michael Schmitt is a seasoned professional in the global gambling and media landscape, currently serving as Managing Director of Malta Media and the driving force behind Trider.uk. With a diverse background that spans compliance, investigative research, and strategic communication, Schmitt has built a strong reputation for his sharp insights into the European gambling market, particularly in areas where legal, regulatory, and ethical boundaries intersect. His professional footprint extends from Malta—often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Gambling”—into broader European regulatory frameworks, where he remains an active voice in shaping critical discussions around industry responsibility and transparency.
Trider.uk, the platform Schmitt co-founded, has gained notable attention for its in-depth investigations, data-driven reports, and critical analyses of industry trends. The company focuses on uncovering the structures and strategies behind gambling operators, affiliate networks, and regulatory loopholes—work that has increasingly found a large and engaged audience on LinkedIn. The interview with CasinoZorgplicht.nl was prompted by this growing presence: Trider.uk’s consistent output of high-quality, investigative content raises questions, sparks debate, and, importantly, sets a new benchmark for research-driven journalism in the gambling sector.
Interview Michael Schmitt
What is your personal motivation to delve into the gambling industry, particularly its more problematic aspects?
My interest in the gambling industry stems primarily from a desire to highlight and address systemic issues that often go unnoticed. I believe that the lack of transparency and accountability in certain sectors poses a significant threat not only to consumers, but also to the integrity of financial and regulatory systems. By investigating these issues, I hope to contribute to a fairer and more responsible gaming landscape.
In your work, we see a critical stance toward the industry. Where does that drive come from?
My critical stance is based on the firm belief that the gambling industry, like any other, must operate under clear and enforceable rules to protect consumers and prevent exploitation. It’s not about opposing gambling per se, but rather advocating for transparency, fair regulation and responsible business practices. If companies are circumventing the law or exploiting loopholes, it’s important that someone holds them to account.
Many Balkan countries struggle with weak enforcement of gambling laws. What lessons can the rest of Europe learn from this?
The challenges faced by the Balkan
countries highlight the importance of robust regulatory frameworks coupled with effective enforcement mechanisms. European regulators can learn that it is not enough to have laws in place! Consistent enforcement, adequate resources and cross-border cooperation are needed to effectively combat illegal gambling.
What exactly does Trider.uk do, and how does it distinguish itself from other research or strategic firms in this sector?
Trider.uk specialises in in-depth investigative research, particularly within the iGaming sector. What sets us apart is our dedication to uncovering complex corporate networks, regulatory loopholes and compliance failures that are often overlooked by traditional investigative firms. Our approach combines meticulous data analysis with legal and regulatory expertise, providing clients with insights that drive effective action.
What kind of impact do you aim to achieve with Trider UK in Europe, and within what timeframe?
Our aim is to influence both regulatory reform and industry practice by providing clear, evidence-based reports that highlight areas of concern. Over the coming years, we hope to contribute to the creation of a more transparent and accountable iGaming industry, where regulators are empowered to effectively enforce compliance.
Could you give an example of a case in which Trider UK had a real influence on legislation or market regulation?
While I cannot discuss specific cases for reasons of confidentiality, our research has contributed to several ongoing discussions between regulators on cross-border compliance and enforcement. Our findings have been used to support calls for greater cooperation between national authorities to more effectively tackle illegal gambling activities.
How do you assess European gambling policy? Is there enough cross-border cooperation, or is there too little?
The current state of European gambling policy suffers from fragmentation. While some progress has been made in promoting cooperation, enforcement too often remains confined to national jurisdictions. The lack of standardised enforcement mechanisms leaves gaps that illegal operators continue to exploit.
What is your opinion of the Dutch model since the introduction of the Remote Gambling Act (KOA)?
The Dutch model introduced by the KOA is a commendable effort to create a regulated and safer online gaming environment. However, its effectiveness relies heavily on enforcement and the ability to monitor and penalise non-compliant operators. Ongoing efforts to close loopholes and improve cooperation with other European regulators will be essential for long-term success.
To what extent do you believe European regulators are equipped to counterbalance the power of gambling giants?
European regulators face a significant challenge in balancing the interests of large gambling groups with consumer protection and regulatory compliance. While progress has been made, regulators often lack the resources and cross-border authority to effectively counterbalance the power and influence of large operators.
What structural mistakes do governments keep making that allow illegal operators to continue thriving?
A recurring mistake is the failure to harmonise regulatory standards across borders, and the introduction of legislation such as Malta’s Bill 55 doesn’t make things any easier for players or regulators. Another is the lack of sufficient resources and technological expertise to monitor and enforce regulations effectively. Finally, an over-reliance on fines rather than systemic reform allows repeat offenders to view penalties as a mere cost of doing business.
Could you name three “quick fixes” that could be implemented as early as tomorrow?
1. Increased cooperation between European regulators to share data and coordinate enforcement actions, including criminal charges against the people behind these illegal platforms.
2. Improved monitoring of payment providers to cut off the flow of funds to illegal operators. No money, no illegal gambling!
3. Clearer guidelines and faster procedures for consumers to report illegal gambling platforms and software providers. No platform or games, no illegal gambling.
What role do you think payment providers, app stores and advertising networks play in curbing illegal gambling offers?
Payment providers, app stores and advertising networks are key gatekeepers. By implementing stricter due diligence requirements and monitoring systems, they can significantly reduce the accessibility of illegal gambling platforms. Their cooperation with regulators is essential for comprehensive enforcement.
Based on your experience with repeat offenders, how effective are fines really?
Fines alone are often insufficient, especially when imposed on well-funded operators. Without meaningful enforcement and the ability to block illegal services or freeze related financial assets, fines become little more than a temporary inconvenience for offenders. We have seen cases of massive fines where the operator has simply shut down the business and moved on to another company and another jurisdiction. BC.Game, Gammix, Rabidi and many others come to mind.
Do you think policymakers pay enough attention to addiction prevention?
While addiction prevention is increasingly on the agenda, more needs to be done to ensure that it is a priority in all countries. Effective policy requires not just rhetoric, but concrete measures such as funding for addiction treatment, stricter advertising controls and increased public awareness campaigns. Given the massive number of grey and black market platforms that are not linked to CRUKS, LUGAS or similar, the number of addicted gamblers will continue to grow.
