Legal services firm Loyra has opened a new office in Ceuta to strengthen its regulatory advisory capabilities for online gaming operators, responding to the autonomous city's growing appeal as an operational hub for iGaming companies.
The firm, which specializes in legal services for the gaming sector, has relocated part of its compliance team to the autonomous city to deliver more direct support to operators based there. The move addresses the increasing concentration of gaming companies in Ceuta and their need for specialized regulatory guidance in an increasingly demanding compliance environment.
Compliance-Focused Services Launch
The new office will initially concentrate on anti-money laundering prevention and combating financial crime – two critical areas for online gaming operators. Loyra's Ceuta team will support companies in designing and implementing control systems, while ensuring compliance with legal obligations related to due diligence, risk analysis, reporting, and internal training.
The physical presence enables more direct communication with clients and faster responses to regulatory requirements, addressing the specific needs of operators who have established their operations in the autonomous city.
Ceuta's Regulatory Advantages
Ceuta operates under Spanish law while maintaining certain autonomous privileges that can benefit gaming operators. The city's location provides access to both European and North African markets, while its special tax regime and simplified administrative procedures make it attractive for international gaming companies seeking EU market access.
Strategic Market Positioning
Loyra plans to progressively expand its service offerings based on demand from operators in Ceuta. The expansion reflects the firm's strategy to strengthen its position in a market where regulatory compliance and risk management have become determining factors for business success.
The establishment of local operations demonstrates the growing importance of Ceuta as a hub for online gaming companies seeking jurisdictional advantages while maintaining robust compliance frameworks. This development follows the broader trend of gaming companies establishing operations in advantageous jurisdictions across Spain's autonomous regions.
Ceuta offers EU market access while providing simplified administrative procedures and favorable tax conditions. The autonomous city's regulatory framework allows for faster licensing processes while maintaining compliance with European gaming standards.
Operators must implement comprehensive customer due diligence procedures, maintain detailed transaction records, and report suspicious activities to financial intelligence units. They also need robust internal controls for risk assessment and regular staff training on money laundering prevention.
AML Compliance Best Practices
Gaming operators should implement automated transaction monitoring systems that flag suspicious patterns above €2,000, maintain customer verification records for at least 5 years, and conduct enhanced due diligence on politically exposed persons. Regular staff training on AML procedures should occur quarterly, with documented attendance records for regulatory inspections.
This expansion represents another step in the evolution of Spain's autonomous regions as preferred destinations for international gaming operations seeking both regulatory advantages and comprehensive legal support services.
According to AzarPlus.
