Entain Criticizes Curaçao Domicile of Stake, Other Crypto Casinos

Entain has criticized Stake, an online casino owned by Easygo, regarding its domicile in Curaçao, a constituent country of the Netherlands. Entain's General Counsel, Simon Zinger, has highlighted concerns about operators licensed in Curaçao, citing risks to consumers and sporting integrity worldwide stemming from alleged unlicensed activity across jurisdictions. This development underscores ongoing regulatory scrutiny of online gambling entities operating from jurisdictions like Curaçao.

Key Takeaways

• Stake is operated by Medium Rare N.V. from Curaçao, despite Easygo being an Australian-founded and headquartered technology company.
• Curaçao offers a 0% tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) and a 2% corporate income tax on net profits, attracting numerous international online casino operators.
• Entain has accused Curaçao-based operators, including Stake, Roobet, Duelbits, Santeda International, and BC.GAME, of engaging in unlicensed activity globally, a trend seen across some no KYC crypto casinos.

Compliance and Regulatory Context

Curaçao has become a significant jurisdiction for blockchain crypto casinos due to its favorable tax regime, which includes a 0% GGR tax and a 2% corporate income tax on net profits. This has led to criticism of unlicensed activity across various jurisdictions, particularly in Europe. Stake previously surrendered its UK license in early 2025 and does not hold a license in any Australian jurisdiction.

Entain's General Counsel, Simon Zinger, has stated:

"As the World Cup shines a spotlight on Curaçao, it should also raise questions about the gambling operators licensed there and the risks they pose to consumers and sporting integrity worldwide."

Market Implications

The ongoing dispute highlights broader market implications concerning regulatory oversight and consumer protection within the online gambling sector. Entain's research has identified Stake as one of the main sites allegedly advertising illegally to a UK audience, further emphasizing the challenges associated with operators domiciled in jurisdictions with less stringent regulatory frameworks. Stake has countered that it neither operates in nor generates revenue in Australia, with Easygo, the technology company behind Stake, domiciled in Australia.

Sources: Entain and Easygo’s Stake in war of words regarding location of headquarters