Two deputies in charge of evaluating gambling in France warned on Thursday against bringing in private capital to the Française des Jeux (FDJ ) with their current regulations.

According to MPs Olga Givernet and Mand Régis Juanico this will have to be preceded by an in-depth reflection on ways to make a private shareholding compatible with the obligations and missions public service.

For these two parliamentarians, “If the current dominant public shareholding of the FDJ […] can lead to a certain self-limitation, especially in the search for new and more addictive games, it may not be the same with private shareholders, focused on maximizing the profitability of the company”.

Juanico pointed out that it is a subject of health and public order and emphasised that a private investor wants a return on investment, which is contradictory with the strategic orientations of the FDJ.

Full article: Liberation.fr (French)