Savvas Fellas: How MrQ confronts UK’s new 40% tax regime

🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #262 with Savvas Fellas CEO and Founder of MrQ.

UK Tax Shock, Black Market Risk & The Future of Operators

In this episode of the NEXT.io Podcast, Savvas Fellas, CEO of MrQ, breaks down the real impact of the UK’s upcoming gambling tax changes and what they mean for operators, players, and the wider industry.

With tax increases expected to reach up to 40% of revenue, this conversation explores how operators are adapting, where margins are being squeezed, and why the next 12 months could reshape the UK market.

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

00:26 - Sponsors message

01:48 - Welcoming Savvas Fellas

03:48 - Building MrQ & company philosophy

07:40 - Impact of the 40% tax increase

12:17 - Crisis vs opportunity: how companies respond

16:20 - Cost cuts across the industry (RTP, suppliers, structure)

19:18 - Acquisition, affiliates & marketing challenges

22:00 - Black market risk and player behaviour

25:16 - Trust vs value: why players choose operators

30:09 - Market consolidation & economies of scale

33:59 - Survive vs thrive: strategy for MrQ

36:31 - Focus vs expansion: staying in the UK

39:05 - Regulation, UKGC & industry responsibility

44:43 - The future of the UK market

48:44 - Consolidation: fewer, larger operators

51:50 - How to build a strong gaming brand

53:49 - Final thoughts: winners vs losers

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This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:

Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology

https://pragmatic.solutions/

Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider

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