German gambling authorities grant lottery broker ZEAL a license to operate legally in the country.
In the dynamic world of online gaming, ZEAL Network SE is making strategic moves to solidify its position as a market leader. The Hamburg-based company, known for mediating game tickets to state and social lotteries through its portals Lotto24 and Tipp24, is expanding its portfolio to include a wider variety of online instant games and slot machines [1][3].
One of ZEAL's recent strategic moves involves the intention to retake full control of Tipp24, following the planned buy-out of its former subsidiary Lotto24. This consolidation of digital lottery and gaming operations suggests a focus on streamlining and strengthening control over its lottery subsidiaries [2].
ZEAL is not only focusing on lottery games, but also on the burgeoning slot machine market. The company is actively engaged in developing and marketing eInstants and slot games, indicating ongoing expansion in digital slot gaming offerings [1]. While there is no explicit mention of a new distinct launch of virtual slot machines, ZEAL’s activities clearly target growth in this digital gaming space.
The partnership with charity organization BildungsChancen led to the launch of the German Dream Home Lottery, significantly contributing to customer acquisition. The increased demand for games like Bingo, Keno, and online instant lotteries is a direct consequence of the new State Gaming Treaty [1][3]. In the first quarter of 2022, ZEAL Network SE saw a 10% increase in total turnover, reaching 25.1 million euros, and welcomed 154,000 new customers [5].
ZEAL's operating costs decreased, resulting in an increase of EBITDA to 8.9 million euros in the first quarter of 2022. The company plans to maintain its position as market leader in the online lottery and online gambling market in the coming fiscal year, and continues to invest in customer acquisition and the introduction of new products [6].
The Lower Saxony Ministry of the Interior and Sport has granted ZEAL Network SE a second follow-up license for online lottery provision, with a term of seven years, ending in June 2029. The integration of the games at Lotto Hessen went smoothly, and new games, including Bingo and crossword puzzles, will be available on LOTTO Hessen [7].
According to a recent customer survey, purchasing a home is one of the main reasons people participate in lotteries, and the German Dream Home Lottery has been successful [8]. As for the future, ZEAL Network SE is considering virtual slot machines as a potential avenue for growth.
The broader regulatory environment is evolving in important markets like New Zealand, where new licensing legislation for online casino gambling is being introduced to regulate operators with up to 15 licenses available under strict consumer protection and harm minimization rules [4]. This regulatory framework could impact ZEAL’s market strategies if it plans to enter or expand in such jurisdictions.
In conclusion, ZEAL Network SE is focusing on strengthening control over lottery subsidiaries and expanding its portfolio of online instant games and slot machines. The company is actively developing and distributing virtual slot and instant games through partnerships. Changes in online gambling regulations, such as those in New Zealand, may influence ZEAL's operational and licensing strategies in the near future.
What about venturing into virtual sports games, ZEAL Network SE?With the continual focus on slots and instant games, perhaps expanding into sport-themed slots would further invigorate the burgeoning slot machine market.
