SIS Faces Scrutiny Over Santeda Gambling Deal

Sports Information Services (SIS) is facing scrutiny over an alleged commercial arrangement with Santeda, a Curaçao-registered gambling operator, following information reported by Casino Secrets and The Guardian.

The Casino Secrets leak reportedly indicates that SIS signed an agreement with Santeda in 2022 under which the gambling operator’s websites would receive a revenue stream linked to customer gambling losses. The reported contract was set to run for two years and included automatic renewal unless either side chose to terminate it.

The revelations come after SIS had previously faced allegations of targeting vulnerable gamblers in the UK and received a fine from Spanish authorities for operating without a gambling licence.

SIS has several major UK gambling industry shareholders. Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes, holds a 23% stake in the company, while William Hill reportedly owns less than 20%. Betfred founder Fred Done holds an 8% interest and also sits on the SIS board.

Entain, William Hill and Betfred have all said they were unaware of SIS's reported arrangement with Santeda. News reports also state that SIS distributed £30 million in dividends to its shareholders during 2023.

The reported relationship has prompted criticism from campaigners, particularly because the three gambling companies have publicly called for stronger action against unregulated gambling while warning that increased gambling taxes could drive more activity toward the black market.

Entain chief executive Stella David said the company does not participate in the commercial or customer arrangements entered into by SIS, but added that Entain has raised concerns with SIS after learning about the reported relationship.

Matt Zarb-Cousin, co-founder and Director of External Affairs at Gamban, criticised the situation, arguing that major gambling companies should address their own links to the unregulated market while continuing to raise concerns about illicit gambling.

SIS responded by stating that customers must only provide its products where legally permitted and where the appropriate licences are in place.

The company said its customers commit to complying with all applicable laws and licensing requirements at all times. SIS added that when it becomes aware that these requirements are not being followed, it takes corrective measures, which can include suspending or terminating contracts.