Ep 651: Could Slot Shock Lead to Last Call for Wetherspoon?

The latest episode of iGaming Daily, supported by Optimove, tackles the imminent UK autumn statement and the anticipated tax hike set to impact the gaming sector.

Host Fernando Noodt welcomes iGaming Expert and SBC News's Senior Journalists Conor Porter and Viktor Kayed, to analyse the uncertainty surrounding the figures, noting that the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) proposed a jump in the Machine Gaming Duty (MGD) from 20% to potentially 50%. This potential hike has already sparked alarm across the gambling and hospitality industries. The experts discuss how chains like JD Wetherspoon warn that such a change could see their post-tax profits fall by almost 50%.

The conversation delves into why evidence from firms like PWC, which suggests jurisdictions with online tax rates above 25% produce lower overall tax revenue, may be ignored by Treasury officials. The team also debates the industry’s campaign against the increases, focusing on warnings from the BGC about potential job losses and the growth of the unregulated black market if the licensed sector loses its competitive edge.

Tune in to analyse the vulnerability of the UK market and discuss whether the industry can maintain a working relationship with the government beyond the budget statement on November 26th.

Host: Fernando Noodt
Guests: Conor Porter & Viktor Kayed
Producer: James Ross
Editor: James Ross

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