Stake’s UK business will shut down its UK domain on March 11, 2025. The decision follows an investigation by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) into the brand’s presence in a social media video of an adult actress outside Nottingham Trent University. TGP Europe, which has previously faced regulatory issues, will cease accepting new UK players and remove redirection links from Stake’s global site.
Why Is Stake Shutting Down in the UK?
The UKGC has increased its attention on gambling brands, especially those that operate as white-label partnerships. The investigation was launched without authorisation after Stake’s branding was featured, leading to further regulatory action. TGP Europe has had past compliance issues, including an anti-money laundering and social responsibility failure fine of £316,250. With the regulator’s increasing pressure on the company, it was decided to delist Stake from the UK rather than continue its operation during scrutiny.
What This Means for UK Players
For those with active accounts on Stake.uk.com, withdrawals should be processed as soon as possible to avoid complications. While the platform remains accessible for now, customer support will handle any account-related concerns directly.
The shutdown also highlights a broader challenge for crypto casinos operating in tightly regulated markets. Unlike traditional operators, Stake primarily deals in cryptocurrencies, which face additional hurdles under UK gambling laws. The shutdown also highlights a broader challenge for crypto casinos operating in tightly regulated markets. Unlike traditional operators, Stake primarily deals in cryptocurrencies, which face additional hurdles under UK gambling laws.
The Bigger Picture: Crypto Casinos and Regulation
Stake’s exit adds to the ongoing debate over crypto gambling and its place in mainstream markets. While platforms like Stake have grown rapidly by leveraging digital currencies, regulators are cracking down on compliance gaps, particularly where traditional consumer protections might be lacking.
This case also brings renewed attention to white-label partnerships, where third-party companies operate gambling brands on behalf of larger entities. The UKGC has signalled that clubs, influencers, and brands promoting these platforms will be held accountable if they fail to conduct proper due diligence.
What’s Next for Stake?
Despite exiting the UK, Stake remains a global brand with heavy investments in sports sponsorships. However, its UK departure raises questions about its front-of-shirt sponsorship deal with Everton FC. The UKGC has warned Everton and other clubs with gambling sponsors that they must ensure compliance with licensing rules or risk legal consequences.
There’s also speculation about whether Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber will be required to remove its branding during the British Grand Prix in July, similar to how Dutch regulators blocked its visibility at the 2024 Dutch GP.
With increasing regulatory scrutiny, Stake may shift focus to other jurisdictions while maintaining its presence in sports and entertainment. Whether this signals a wider crackdown on crypto casinos or simply a UK-specific challenge remains to be seen.
