Hungary’s state-owned gambling operator Szerencsejáték Zrt plans to run three invitation-only tenders during the rest of 2026 for marketing agencies. The company is ending its relationship with Lounge Group and intends to use a multi-agency structure, with initial cover contracts that may be renewed annually.
Agencies seeking work with Hungary’s state gambling operator will face three invitation-only tender processes.
The day’s most important stories, free. One email a day.
Hungary’s government is assessing whether to abolish the Supervisory Authority for Regulated Activities (SZTFH), according to a resolution published in the Official Gazette. The justice minister must report on the proposal’s operational and legal feasibility by 30 September; SZTFH said it is independent, noted that EU rules require independent regulators in some sectors, and pledged to co-operate with the review.
SZTFH said it imposed HUF10m in total penalties on Szerencsejáték for deviations from approved procedures across four lottery games. It found the draws and winner identification were sound and the deviations did not affect results.
Finance and Economy Minister András Kármán announced Marcell Olajos as chairman of state-owned Szerencsejáték Zrt, effective 15 July, as the government reshapes the operator’s leadership. Four board members were removed and Marianna Gabriella Poltné Palásthy resigned; Kármán said the changes aim to reduce political influence and cronyism.
EveryMatrix has established a dedicated lottery division to develop digital technology and products for the sector, the company said. The unit will offer numbers games, pool sports and eInstants, and Nikolina Gabelica will lead it as managing director. EveryMatrix said it has existing lottery partnerships, including with Szerencsejáték Zrt, Norsk Tipping, Veikkaus, OPAP and Danske Spil.
Hungary’s new administration has begun a review of state-owned enterprises that includes gambling operator Szerencsejáték Zrt. Finance Minister András Kármán accused the company of directing revenue towards political messaging and sponsorships, and said the government plans to unwind several sector taxes while tightening oversight of state enterprises.