The online gambling sector in Ukraine has been scrutinized since the beginning of 2024 due to numerous legal issues. The only question is whether online casinos harm society. Igor Zotko, the owner of Ukr Game Technology, expressed his opinion on this issue. He is known for projects such as Pin-Up and Yedinyy Prostir.
The Contribution of the Gambling Industry to the Economy Thanks to the Cooperation of Igor Zotko and KRAIL
Legalizing online casinos in 2020 marked a turning point for the Ukrainian entertainment industry. Following the law, Igor Zotko’s Pin-Up received a license from the Ukrainian Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL). This transition from the shadow market brought several significant advantages:
- Corporate income tax —18%.
- Taxes on winnings — 18% income tax plus 1.5% military duty.
- Income tax — 18% of the profit after payments.
- Annual licensing fees for each type of activity.
These taxes are official economic contributions that are registered and regulated. Displaced military personnel and war-affected citizens receive assistance from the Pin-Up Foundation.
After such massive successes, allegations of Igor Zotko’s connection to Russia have emerged, undermining the gambling industry’s reputation. CRAIL refuted such claims, confirming the absence of Russian control after a thorough investigation. Zotko emphasizes that it is necessary to rely on trusted sources of information, such as the Ministry of Finance, to counter such disinformation.
“PIN-UP Ukraine is one of the responsible leaders in the Ukrainian licensed casino market. It supports the country’s economy and implements many humanitarian and charitable projects for Ukrainians. Our company will continue to develop the market and support the state,” commented Igor Zotko, owner of Ukr Game Technology.
Significant Economic Impact of Igor Zotko’s Pin-Up
In 2023, Pin-Up’s contributions approached almost 3.5 billion UAH, as recorded in official documents. Other significant contributions include:
- UAH 153 million was donated to the Pin-Up Foundation.
- After the occupation, three hundred tons of aid and resettlement services were provided to 100 people.
- More than UAH 1 million was spent on generators during power outages.
- Ensuring safe working conditions and creating new jobs.
It is worth noting the personal support of the ASKOLD Training Center, which is responsible for training mobilized soldiers according to Ukrainian and NATO methods. In conjunction with Forbes, a grant program for frontline businesses was proposed, offering substantial financial support.
To recognize the role of gambling in strengthening the economy and supporting infrastructure and industrial growth, Zotko calls for proactive government involvement.
Future Plans for Igor Zotko and Pin-Up
Despite the slander, Zotko plans to continue contributing to Ukrainian society and the economy through Pin-Up. He advocates for improved legislation to regulate the gambling sector better and further increase its budget revenues.
