Dream11 and WinZO Diversify Strategies After Real Money Gaming Ban

Following the Indian government’s ban on real-money gaming, major players in the sector are swiftly adapting their business strategies. Dream11, a leading fantasy sports platform, has announced it will not contest the new legal framework in court. Instead, the company is shifting its focus to new initiatives, including the launch of a financial services app called Dream Money.

On August 28, 2025, Harsh Jain, the CEO of Dream Sports, which owns Dream11, confirmed the company’s compliance with the new regulations. Speaking to Storyboard18, Jain stated, “When our business model was constitutionally protected, we ran it. Now that the law has changed, we’ve complied immediately — even before the ban was formally signed.”

New Directions for Dream11 and WinZO

In light of the ban, Dream11 plans to expand its offerings beyond fantasy sports. The company will invest in platforms such as DreamCricket, DreamSetGo, and FanCode. This diversification aims to retain users and navigate the regulatory landscape that has recently transformed India’s gaming sector.

Similarly, WinZO, a competitor in the gaming market, is also exploring new product lines to adapt to these changes. Both companies recognize the necessity of evolving their business models to sustain growth amidst stringent regulations that threaten to disrupt their operations.

The recent Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which received assent from Indian President Droupadi Murmu, enforces strict penalties on those promoting or facilitating real-money gaming services. Violators could face imprisonment of up to three years and fines reaching ₹1 crore (approximately $120,000), while advertisements promoting such services could incur fines of up to ₹50 lakh (around $60,000) and imprisonment of up to two years.

Industry Impact and Future Outlook

The implementation of this law represents a seismic shift for the gaming industry in India, prompting companies to reevaluate their strategies. Dream11’s decision not to challenge the law reflects a desire to prioritize compliance and explore alternative opportunities rather than engage in legal battles.

As the gaming landscape evolves, both Dream11 and WinZO are positioning themselves to thrive in a highly regulated environment. Their proactive approach highlights the industry’s resilience and adaptability in the face of governmental changes. The future of real-money gaming in India remains uncertain, but the efforts of these companies to diversify may provide a sustainable path forward.