Some operators are already feeling the impact of previous tax increases in the United Kingdom market. They are taking important steps to manage it.
One of those operators is LiveScore Group, operating as LiveScore Malta. Its operations in Bulgaria will stop by the end of the year, as LiveScore Malta Limited has withdrawn the LiveScore Bet brand from the market.
The group clarified that it made the decision to manage finances differently due to the UK’s remote gaming duty, rising general betting duties, and potential tax increases in Bulgaria.
LiveScore commented that the decision is a strategic mitigation. This follows the 2025 Autumn Budget of the United Kingdom government, which included significant increases to both Remote Gaming Duty and General Betting Duty.
It added that the exit decision also considers the uncertainty in Bulgaria’s regulatory landscape. A potential tax rise is on the horizon to help reduce the national budget deficit. The refocusing of resources ensures LiveScore Group remains robust and agile for the future.
LiveScore also stated that it has informed all affected individuals, who are now undergoing a confidential consultation process. It is simultaneously notifying all LiveScore Bet customers in Bulgaria.
LiveScore operates LiveScore Bet and Virgin Bet in the United Kingdom market. Both brands will be affected by the remote gaming duty, which rises from 21% to 40% in April 2026, and by the new general betting duty for remote betting of 25%, set to take effect in April 2027.
Nonetheless, this isn’t the first time LiveScore has exited the market because of tax increases. The group exited the Netherlands gambling market in November 2024. This followed the country’s announcement of a tax increase to 37.8% by January 2026.
