An investigation by the Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has led to the introduction of new measures on loss-based bonuses in the Netherlands. The body took to X last week to announce the immediate enforcement of the new measures:

The KSA’s investigation led to a new definition of “a bonus based on loss.” This new terminology has given officials the power to deem all such bonuses in conflict with the Netherlands Gambling Act.

The KSA hasn’t wasted time in cracking down on offenders. According to a news release by the regulator, it has sent one license holder “a formal warning for offering a cashback bonus.” It sent another two gambling license holders letters explaining its new stance on bonuses in response to the pair’s bonus scheme.

KSA Chairman René Jansen stated the loss-based bonuses encouraged “excessive participation,” adding: “Players bet higher, take more risks and play more often.” Jansen said the KSA with will strictly supervise loss-based bonuses to better protect players with immediate effect. He warned:

Any bonus that is in any way linked to a loss is prohibited.”

In December, the Dutch government and the KSA announced a raft of new measures to tackle problem gamblers, including capping online betting at €700 ($766) a month per individual.