Concern raised about move to online gambling
Category: Fresh Casino News Published on Wednesday, 02 November 2011 14:15 Written by Vidor Hits: 79
Reports that SA may soon legalise online gambling - following the findings of a gambling commission, which are being debated by a committee in Parliament - raises some serious concerns about the impact this may have on consumer's personal finances, says Gavin Came, chair of the financial planning committee at the Financial Intermediaries Association of Southern Africa (FIA).
'While for some people gambling could be a harmless pastime; it could also turn into a very real problem,' he is quoted as saying in a report on the News 24 site.
'Consumers often panic when they find themselves in a difficult financial situation and making gambling facilities easier to access may result in a spike in excessive gambling, particularly for those who can least afford to do so. This is especially true ahead of the festive season, when people want to treat themselves and their loved ones. However, it is vital that if one does not have the money to spend, they don't try to gamble their way ahead.'