Bethard joins International Betting Integrity Association

Malta-based operator Bethard Group has become the latest member of the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA).

The agreement gives Bethard access to the integrity watchdog's monitoring and alert platform, and allows it to share suspicious activity reports with a network of other operator members.

“We have once again proven our commitment to support the fight against the manipulation of sports,” Erik Skarp, chief executive of Bethard, said.

“As a company we firmly believe that co-operation and collaboration is the only way to combat sports manipulation,” Skarp explained. “We have always done our best to build a strong partnership with industry stakeholders. Protecting our growing betting brands from manipulation is a core component of our corporate policy to ensure that our consumers are able to engage in a fair and safe betting market.

“No other body has the combined scope and strength of the International Betting Integrity Association’s alert platform and policy engagement with sports and regulatory authorities to help facilitate that. Membership of the world’s leading integrity body corresponds with our vision to take Bethard to the top of the regulated sports betting market.”

IBIA secretary general Khalid Ali described Bethard's inclusion as another important landmark in the body's growth, which would further cement its status as a key player in upholding sports betting integrity.

“Our global monitoring and alert platform continues to expand and I am delighted to welcome Bethard to the association,” he added.

Founded in 2005 as the European Sports Security Association, the body rebranded as the International Betting Integrity Association in June this year, to reflect its increasingly international focus.

In July, Bethard was one of eight operators that received a fine from Swedish gambling regulator Spelinspektionen for offering bets in the market on sporting events featuring a majority of participants under the age of 18.