Denmark to License Radio and Walkie-Talkie Banko
Denmark is set to formally regulate one of its most traditional fundraising games, with lawmakers backing a new “Banko Bill” to oversee bingo played via local radio and walkie-talkies starting 1 January 2026.
The proposal, now under review in the Folketing, would recognise Banko as a distinct gambling category, giving the Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden) direct supervisory authority over organisers opting for a new community-focused licence.
Affordable Licence for Community Organisers
Under current rules, radio and walkie-talkie bingo falls under Denmark’s online casino framework, which is costly and complex for small clubs, parish groups or local broadcasters. The new licence is designed to be low-cost, with an annual fee of DKK 1,000 (≈€140) and a turnover cap of DKK 1 million (≈€140,000) to keep the activity community-oriented.
Organisers must pay out at least 80% of stakes as prizes, while remaining profits are subject to a 28% tax, aligning with broader Danish gambling taxation. Applications are scheduled to open on 1 January 2026 through Spillemyndigheden, with dedicated contacts assigned to support compliance.
Preserving Tradition Without Commercialisation
The idea of a tailored regime for Banko has been discussed for several years. Former tax minister Rasmus Stoklund advocated for a licence specifically for small associations, ensuring commercial operators could not dominate the space. Current tax minister Jeppe Bruus has advanced the bill, framing it as a way to protect a cherished Danish pastime while introducing governance standards and player protections.
Spillemyndigheden Oversight
If approved, Spillemyndigheden will add Banko to its portfolio alongside lotteries, online casinos, land-based venues and betting. Though designed to be simpler than a full casino licence, organisers must still comply with core requirements on fair play, transparency, responsible gambling and anti-money-laundering controls.
Third-party platform providers could also fall under Denmark’s new B2B licensing framework for technology and content suppliers, introduced in 2025.
Part of Broader 2025 Gambling Reforms
The Banko initiative aligns with the wider “Spilpakke 1 A more responsible gambling market” reforms, which include stricter advertising limits around sports, rules on celebrity endorsements and measures to curb underage exposure through social media influencers.
Spillemyndigheden will receive strengthened powers to enforce compliance and focus on player protection rather than administrative burdens.
Implications for Stakeholders
The Banko licence is not aimed at commercial operators, given the turnover cap and payout rules, but rather at local associations and small broadcasters using bingo as a fundraising tool. Denmark’s approach highlights its willingness to create niche, low-risk gambling categories alongside a more tightly regulated mainstream sector.
If the bill proceeds on schedule, 2026 will see a new licensed game segment enter Denmark’s regulated map, allowing Banko to continue as a community fixture while operating under a clear legal framework.
