Undercover Audits Reflect Enhanced Regulatory Oversight In Betting

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 21, 2026

Stepped-Up Regulatory Enforcement

The National Betting Authority (NBA) has launched a series of undercover audits as part of a rigorous initiative to ensure strict adherence to betting regulations. Utilizing 150 covert agents recruited from the private sector, the NBA’s proactive approach involves unannounced visits to betting establishments, where operatives pose as customers to observe compliance with legal standards.

Ensuring Compliance on Multiple Fronts

During these operations, undercover agents focus on monitoring staff behavior, detecting any facilitation of unauthorized bets, and verifying that betting venues strictly prohibit the presence of minors. In parallel with these covert checks, NBA field officers undertake direct site inspections, continuously monitor online betting platforms, and scrutinize transactions for potential money-laundering activities. This multi-layered approach underscores the Authority’s commitment to enforcing the law comprehensively.

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Financial Implications and Revenue Growth

In a recent House Finance Committee meeting, an NBA representative disclosed that fines totaling €46,000 were imposed over the past year. Of these fines, €26,000 stemmed from breaches related to licensing requirements, while the remaining penalties addressed issues such as the involvement of minors and other infractions. Simultaneously, data presented to parliament highlighted that nearly €1.3 billion in bets were placed last year, with winnings reaching €1.17 billion. An increase in the betting tax has significantly boosted state revenue from betting, soaring from €3.2 million to €6 million year over year.

Future Projections and Legislative Developments

Looking ahead, projected revenue from betting activity is set to rise to €71.85 million this year—a 28.03% increase over 2025—before reaching €75.27 million in 2027 and €78.59 million in 2028. Detailed forecasts breakdown future collections into €53 million from betting tax, €8.2 million from licence fees, and €10 million from betting activity contributions. The regulatory framework distinguishes between Class A and Class B licence holders, taxing their net betting earnings at 10%, with the former covering land-based venues and the latter online platforms.

New Initiatives in Regulatory Policy

Amid these developments, a draft bill pending at the Ministry of Finance for approximately one year promises to introduce new products and services while incorporating enhanced safeguards for responsible gaming and the protection of minors. Notably, ministry representatives confirmed that there are no plans to introduce online casino games under the current agenda. Additional provisions also include revised contractual terms for operators like Opap Cyprus, addressing gross profits, licence fees, and supervisory contributions.

Overall, this comprehensive enforcement initiative, combined with evolving legislative frameworks, signals a clear message: the regulatory environment for betting is tightening, reflecting a concerted effort to balance industry innovation with consumer and societal protections.

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Cyprus Expands RESTART Research Funding With Cybersecurity Measures

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 30, 2026

Cyprus has widened its support for research and innovation with an expanded version of the Restart 2016–2020 programmes, adding fresh funding capacity and a new cybersecurity-focused initiative designed to accelerate the commercialisation of innovative products and services.

Expanded Scheme Approved Under Existing State Aid Framework

State Aid Control Commissioner Stella Michaelidou has approved amendments to the measure titled “Restart 2016–2020 Programmes for Research, Technological Development and Innovation of the Research and Innovation Foundation”, allowing the continuation of the scheme under revised terms. The programme had already been deemed compatible with state aid rules under Decision No. 471, issued on July 18, 2025.

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The updated framework reflects both a broader scope and a modest increase in the approved budget, underscoring Cyprus’ continuing effort to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and improve the country’s capacity to support applied research and new technology development.

New Cybersecurity Programme Targets Fast-Track Innovation

The most notable addition is the Fast Track Innovation (FTI) programme, which will support the rapid development of innovative products and services in the cybersecurity sector. The initiative is aimed at established businesses across all sectors that are investing in the fast delivery of internationally competitive solutions.

In practical terms, the new programme gives Cyprus a more targeted tool for backing high-potential innovation where speed to market can be decisive, particularly in a field such as cybersecurity, where demand is rising, and competitive advantage often depends on rapid execution.

Budget Increases To €308.4 Million

According to the Office of the State Aid Control Commissioner, the scheme’s approved budget has been increased from €306.9 million to €308.4 million. The expansion follows the earlier approval under Decision No. 471 and reflects the widening of the programme’s scope.

The revised measure also includes updated standard cost scales for staff remuneration and extends the deadline for funding decisions under the scheme to June 30, 2027.

Broad Eligibility Across The Innovation Ecosystem

The Restart scheme remains open to a wide range of beneficiaries, including research organisations, higher education institutions, scientific and professional bodies, businesses, business associations, non-governmental organisations, public services and public utility organisations.

Individuals such as academics, scientists, researchers, technical personnel, students and pupils may also take part in relevant programmes supported under the measure, broadening the pipeline of participation across Cyprus’ research and innovation landscape.

Strategic Push For Innovation Capacity

The State Aid Control Commissioner’s office said the measure was approved following a decision by the Board of Directors of the Research and Innovation Foundation and the issuance of the relevant state aid decision. Decision No. 488 was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic on July 10, 2026, and has also been made available on the commissioner’s website.

The revised Restart programme comes as Cyprus continues to invest in research, technological development and innovation as core drivers of long-term competitiveness. By increasing support for businesses, researchers and institutions developing new products, services and technologies, the government is signalling that innovation remains a strategic economic priority.

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