The Government of Gibraltar aims to strengthen the weight of online gaming and the digital economy through a strategy that combines attracting new operators, regulatory modernization, prediction markets, stablecoins, and the development of international payment solutions.
This was outlined by Nigel Feetham, Minister for Gaming and Taxation, during the opening of the KPMG Gibraltar Gaming eSummit 2026, in a speech focused on the Rock's economic challenges and the opportunities presented by new technological models.
Feetham acknowledged that the gaming tax increase decided by the UK Government will have a considerable impact on Gibraltar's public finances. The estimated loss in corporate tax revenue could hover around £40 million.
The Minister argued that Gibraltar must respond through greater diversification, attracting investment, and maintaining a competitive, robust regulatory framework that is open to innovation.
Interest from New B2C and B2B Operators
Feetham assured that Gibraltar’s new Gambling Act, which came into force on April 1, has already sparked interest from new B2C and B2B operators exploring license applications in the jurisdiction.
The reform represents the most significant update to Gibraltar's gambling legislation in many years. Its objective is to adapt to technological developments, new business models, and the emergence of distinct products without lowering supervisory and control standards.
The Gambling Division is currently working on several complementary initiatives, including the regulation and licensing of gaming-related marketing activities, the drafting of a new Social Responsibility Code, and the updating of technical standards.
Prediction Markets and Digital Assets
The Minister highlighted the international interest Gibraltar is drawing from companies in emerging sectors, particularly prediction markets and digital asset firms.
Feetham explained that his recent interactions at ICE Barcelona and the Consensus conferences in Hong Kong and Miami have helped convey a simple message: Gibraltar remains open to new business opportunities.
The Government intends to manage these activities cautiously, but without adopting an overly restrictive stance that could stifle innovation.
Stablecoins as Payment Infrastructure
Another pillar of his speech was the potential of regulated, fully backed stablecoins to facilitate faster and more efficient cross-border payments.
Feetham distinguished these assets from speculative crypto-assets and noted that Gibraltar is holding discussions with financial institutions, business representatives, and institutional partners to analyze their application in global commerce.
The Executive's priority is to position the Rock prominently within the next generation of international payment solutions, leveraging its expertise in online gaming, financial services, and technology.
The Treaty, Essential for Competitiveness
Feetham described the future Treaty between the United Kingdom and the European Union regarding Gibraltar as a fundamental element for the jurisdiction’s competitiveness.
Approximately two-thirds of the employees working in Gibraltar's gaming sector are cross-border workers; therefore, smooth and efficient transit across the border with Spain is imperative for business operations.
Access to Spain and the wider Schengen area would further enhance Gibraltar's appeal as a place to live, work, and invest, facilitating talent mobility and the arrival of new corporate activity.
Increased Tax Scrutiny
The Minister also announced an increase in tax administration resources to monitor tax compliance among licensed companies.
Gibraltar will review deductions, transfer pricing policies, cross-border corporate structures, and declared losses in greater detail.
Feetham demanded that operators pay their taxes correctly and avoid aggressive tax strategies or artificial structures. Supervision, he stated, will be conducted fairly, consistently, and proportionately.
Young Talent for Gaming and Fintech
Finally, the Minister emphasized the need to create professional opportunities for young Gibraltarians in sectors such as gaming, fintech, and financial services.
Through initiatives like the Connect Hub, the Government aims to broaden access for newer generations to the industries that sustain the Rock's economy, ensuring that future growth is backed by local talent.
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