Michel Groothuizen Appointed as KSA Chairman
Date: 2024-03-11 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: PEOPLE
New Leadership at KSA
Michel Groothuizen has been named as the new chair of the board of directors at the Netherlands' regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), succeeding René Jansen. Jansen decided not to stand for reappointment as he reached retirement age at the end of 2023, thus paving the way for Groothuizen's appointment.
Groothuizen's Background
Groothuizen’s term will begin on 1 July 2024. He currently serves as the deputy director general of the Judicial Institutions Service. He has held various significant roles within the Ministry of Justice and Security, including director general at the Netherlands Institute for Forensic Psychiatry.
Commitment to Safer Gambling
Groothuizen expressed his commitment to ensuring safer gambling practices in his new role. He emphasized the importance of responsible gambling and addressing issues like gambling addiction.
Changes in Dutch Regulation
Groothuizen’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Dutch regulation. Recent measures proposed by the Netherlands’ minister of legal protection aim to enhance safer gambling practices. Amendments to the KOA law focus on tighter regulations concerning player deposits and transparency in financial transactions within licensed operators.
KSA's Regulatory Actions
KSA recently issued its largest-ever fine of €19.6m to Gammix Limited for failing to comply with Dutch gambling regulations. Despite prior warnings and orders to cease operations, Gammix continued to operate in the Netherlands, prompting the substantial penalty from KSA.
Gammix's Response
Gammix Limited has criticized the fine as "outrageous and unsubstantiated" and plans to contest KSA’s ruling. The company views KSA's actions as excessive and intends to challenge them through legal channels.
