Vanguard Overwatch launches accreditation program to help operators strenghten compliance
Vanguard Overwatch, under the leadership of founder Paul Newson, has launched an accreditation program to help gaming operators strengthen compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and responsible gambling practices.
According to a press release, at the core of Vanguard Overwatch’s approach is a comprehensive framework built on eight foundational pillars that "ensure holistic evaluation and continuous improvement in key areas," including:
1. Strategy, Risk, and Governance – Assessing board performance, strategic direction, risk appetite, and governance structures to promote effective oversight, transparency, and sustainability.
2. Safer Gambling Approach – Review how safer gambling principles are embedded within organizational strategies, fostering a culture prioritizing player protection and harm prevention.
3. AML/CTF Policies and Procedures – Conduct thorough evaluations of AML/CTF policies to ensure compliance and cultivate a culture resistant to financial crime.
4. Compliance with Codes of Practice – Enhancing compliance culture and leadership, demonstrating adherence to regulatory expectations, and reinforcing social license.
5. Assurance and Implementation – Going beyond policy review to test practical implementation and culture through observations and targeted sampling.
6. Training and Development – Emphasising the importance of continuous learning to empower staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet regulatory and operational challenges.
7. Compliance Culture – Promoting a transparent, ethically driven environment where compliance is embedded in decision-making and leadership behavior.
8. Advertising, Marketing, and Promotions – Ensuring responsible advertising practices that protect vulnerable groups and sustain public trust.
"These pillars guide the accreditation process and reflect Vanguard Overwatch’s broader mission: to bolster ethical leadership, instill a proactive compliance culture, and support continuous innovation within the industry. This approach allows gaming venues and wagering operators to strengthen their practices, align with the highest standards, and confidently navigate an evolving regulatory environment while underscoring sector innovation and sustainability," the release reads.
To complement its accreditation framework, Vanguard Overwatch offers Reconnaissance, a preliminary health check service that provides a quick, high-level assessment of an organization’s AML and responsible gambling arrangements. This service offers a snapshot that identifies the current state of compliance, pinpointing potential vulnerabilities and opportunities for improvement and remediation.
Another standout offering is Steward, a customizable service bundle tailored to provide specialized support to meet the specific needs of each organization. This flexible solution includes priority regulatory advice and guidance, and support for leadership teams. It can be scaled up to provide comprehensive, turn-key solutions that cover strategic planning, compliance innovation, and contributions to public policy and industry initiatives.
"By adapting to an organization’s requirements, Steward empowers businesses to maintain robust compliance frameworks, drive continuous improvement, and stay ahead in an ever-changing regulatory landscape," the business explained.
With these added services, Vanguard Overwatch "underscores its commitment to empowering gaming and wagering operators through preliminary and comprehensive assessments, targeted guidance, and continuous support, ensuring they not only navigate but thrive amid regulatory challenges," the company added.
"Paul Newson’s vision for Vanguard Overwatch extends beyond meeting existing regulations; it sets a benchmark for excellence that builds trust and promotes industry sustainability. Through rigorous assurance and ongoing evaluations, Vanguard Overwatch enables organizations to enhance their operations, protect their reputations, and demonstrate leadership in responsible gambling and compliance," the release concluded.
