As the industry has slowly but surely become stricter and more regulated, more and more players have chosen casino without Swedish license as its main alternative. In short, the shift means that Swedish brands have lost their competitiveness, something that is most clearly felt by the lack of new gaming sites.
The reasons why domestic online casinos have declined over the years have their explanations, not least that foreign players give players better conditions to win – but also the chance to find new forms of gambling-related entertainment.
Therefore, the Swedish gaming industry is starting to go to its knees
Most players are aware of the one bonus per customer rule, but this has had a bigger impact than many are aware of. Due to the gaming law limiting the offers at online casinos with a Swedish license, it becomes much more difficult to offer something extra for customers.
Before deregulation, casinos could boast all kinds of offers, but also contribute with loyalty campaigns and VIP clubs for the most diligent visitors. All this is a thing of the past, and with only one bonus they cannot match their foreign counterparts.
Then we must not forget that many international gambling companies are active in several countries at the same time, which means that when Sweden no longer feels like an attractive market, they choose to invest in other areas.
How foreign gaming markets differ from Sweden
For the player, there are many advantages in turning to casinos with foreign licenses. Below we go through what distinguishes casinos abroad, as well as what gives them an advantage over the Swedish ones.
Larger selection of games
One of the main advantages of playing at foreign casinos is the range of games. As a rule, it is always larger and more varied, which is always appreciated by the visitors. Many of these casinos cooperate with several different game providers, which means that players can choose from a wide range of titles.
The categories include everything from slots and table games to live casino. This gives the visitor increased variety, but also the opportunity to find games that suit their interests and preferences. The various bonus features included in the titles are also not limited in any way.
Better bonuses and promotions
Many foreign casinos offer what are considered better bonuses and promotions than their domestic counterparts. These are usually welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, and loyalty programs. These incentives give the visitor more money to play with, which in turn can increase the chances of winning and generate more value for money.
Higher RTP
Another strength is that casinos in other countries often have higher payout percentages (RTP) than those marketed in Sweden. This means that players have a better chance to win, but also to get more out of their bets. In addition, many of these casinos are based in countries with lower tax burdens and regulations, which in turn helps to lower costs and increase profits.
So-called “flexible” RTP values used in Sweden are completely missing. The games are always delivered with the default value from the developer which is also one of the most important aspects when it comes to RTP.
Option to bet with other currencies
Since foreign casinos often have international players, you as a visitor can usually choose to play with different currencies. This makes it easier for the user, especially when dealing with transactions in a currency you are familiar with. In areas such as Curacao, you can also bet with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, but this possibility will also be introduced in Maltese casinos sometime in the next year.
More payment methods to choose from
International casinos can always offer a wider range of payment options. This includes credit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets and other popular ways to manage transactions. In short, players are given more flexibility when it comes to depositing and withdrawing money from their gaming accounts. Some examples of methods you will find abroad are VISA, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz, SEPA transfers, MiFinity and Astropay.
Opportunity to become a VIP customer
Many foreign casinos also offer better conditions for VIP players. This can include special bonuses and promotions, faster payouts, higher deposit and wagering limits, and personal managers. Overall, VIP players receive more attention and benefits, which can often increase their gaming experience and chances of winning.
What does the future look like for the Swedish gaming industry?
As you may notice, there is a lot that attracts players to foreign. Swedish gambling sites no longer have the tools required to retain customers, nor the opportunity to attract returning players with new campaigns.
There is reason to believe that Sweden’s gambling market will continue to decline, unless something drastic happens soon. The moderates have previously opened the door to more bonuses per player, but we have seen no indications that this would happen in the near future. As it stands now, it is simply better to stay at foreign casinos.