William Hill Withdraws from 13 Global Markets Amid Regulatory Changes

UPDATE: William Hill, the renowned betting giant owned by evoke PLC, has just announced the immediate closure of 13 global markets as regulatory changes loom. This drastic move signals a significant shift in the betting landscape, particularly following recent actions by competitors like Paddy Power, which is shuttering 57 high-street shops across the UK and Ireland.

The nations affected by this closure include Angola, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and Vietnam. Effective December 2, 2025, William Hill will cease its operations in these markets, marking a pivotal moment for the company and its users.

In a statement released on the operator’s Terms and Conditions page, William Hill assured customers, “Your balance is safe with us.” Users with open accounts will still have access until January 5, 2026, to withdraw their funds. The company noted that any open bets, including futures on league outcomes, will be settled before the closure date. After December 2, 2025, any bets due to settle will be voided and refunded.

The decision to withdraw from these markets comes as the UK Labour Party prepares for a potentially devastating budget announcement, which could include a 50% increase in existing tax levies for betting operators. This impending financial strain is causing major players in the industry to reassess their strategies and tighten their operations.

As pressure mounts from regulatory authorities and economic challenges, William Hill is also facing scrutiny in its home market. The company previously announced plans to close 1 in 10 of its UK stores, which could jeopardize 1,500 jobs. This reduction highlights the shifting dynamics within the betting industry, as traditional sportsbooks struggle to adapt to a digital-first generation.

The significant market withdrawals and store closures reflect a broader trend in the gambling sector, where legacy brands are increasingly challenged by more agile, digital-native competitors.

William Hill’s latest move is a clear indication of the pressures facing the betting industry as it navigates a complex regulatory environment. With the potential for further tax reforms and economic constraints, all eyes are on how remaining betting operators will respond to these changes in the coming months.

As this situation develops, affected customers and industry watchers are urged to stay informed on the latest updates from William Hill and other betting entities. The implications of these closures are profound, affecting not only the company’s bottom line but also the livelihoods of employees and the choices available to consumers in the global market.

Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this evolving story.