The well-known OPAP, a gambling operator in Greece, recently faced serious allegations of breaking both domestic Greek laws and European Union’s rules that govern competition, with a hefty fine proclaiming to the tune of €24.5 million. Despite these charges, the corporation is adamant in contesting the findings, considering them as unjust.
Arising from claims of infringing competition regulations, the heavy penalty was inflicted by the Greek gaming authority, specifically the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC). Small-scale gambling enterprises within Greece instigated these allegations, accusing OPAP of engaging in inequitable pricing tactics, unjust transactions, and restrictive distribution of gaming equipment.
Consequently, the HGC mandated the abovementioned penalty in an attempt to penalize OPAP for the supposed illegal practices.
Notwithstanding, OPAP exhibited displeasure at the punitive measure. While affirming its respect for authorities in regulation, the company voiced out concerns over discrepancies in the charges levied against it.
OPAP Clashes with the Commission’s Decision
OPAP asserts that the HGC’s verdict reflects not on their core business operations, but rather targets the bill payment services and mobile top-up services provided by its branches. Additionally, OPAP highlights an inconsistency between the HGC’s current ruling and a precedent decree from the regulator’s committee, in conjunction with several civil court decisions.
Further aggravating matters, OPAP pointed out HGC’s disregard for the Bank of Greece’s data during the decision-making process. Furthermore, OPAP criticized the computation method utilized by the regulator to quantify the hefty fine, deeming it as unacceptable. The base for the fine was, according to OPAP, the overall turnover of the company. This is a significant deviation from the alleged violations that occurred only in lesser markets.
In conclusion, the HCC progressed unsupportedly augmenting the measure of TORA Wallet and TORA Direct in the bill payment services and mobile top-up markets respectively. The fine was inappropriately calculated on the whole turn out of OPAP and not over the limited turnover in the markets where supposed infringements were reported, especially the turnover of TORA Wallet and TORA Direct.
Statement from OPAP
Echoing its dedication to compliance with laws, fair competition standards and shielding its consumer base from gambling-related harm, OPAP holds a divergent stance on the recent ruling and signifies intentions to contest it in court.
Earlier this year, in a strategic collaboration agreement with OpenBet, OPAP committed towards enhancing its sports betting business by integrating advanced technology and trading solutions from OpenBet. This strong alliance aids in fortifying OpenBet’s stake in the significant Greek market, while reinforcing OPAP’s prosperous business.
