Cash management within remote gaming companies registered in Malta : a critical evaluation

Abstract

Purpose: This study analyses the cash cycle of remote gaming companies by firstly assessing the financial implications and risks introduced through the use of payment service providers and e-wallets. Secondly, the author sheds some light on various risks surrounding the cash flow of gaming operators, and the need for such risks to be tackled properly. Design: Thirteen personal semi-structured interviews were held with financial controllers of remote gaming companies and another interview held with the Lotteries and Gaming Authority. Findings: Findings clearly indicate that gaming operators have no leeway when it comes to payments, both towards their players and suppliers, and this requires gaming operators to mitigate risks. Nonetheless, certain risks are being underestimated, especially in start-ups, which ultimately put in doubt their going-concern. It was also found that while multi-brand and multi-currency gaming operators require tighter cash control, those companies operating with only one Class of licence are exposed to higher risks, thus raising their need for higher cash buffers. Conclusion: The study has shown that cash management within remote gaming companies goes beyond 'traditional' aspects of cash management as various factors could potentially affect, and be affected by good cash management. Nevertheless, while the well-established gaming operators seem to have a clear understanding of this, small gaming operators seem to be more concerned about making profit rather than lessening risk. Value: The remote gaming industry has a significant impact on the Maltese economy and accordingly, this study will be of use to financial controllers and the industry at large. Moreover, it is expected that this study will gain more importance in the coming years, when the industry expands further.