Online Casino Boost: Kursaal Bern Group Doubles Half-Year Profits

The Kursaal Bern Group demonstrated remarkable resilience during the first half of 2026 despite adverse global conditions. While many companies in the tourism and entertainment sectors suffered from the consequences of international conflicts and economic uncertainty, the Bernese hospitality and gaming giant more than doubled its profit compared to the same period last year. This success is not accidental but the result of a clear strategic focus on the digital sector, which more than compensated for weaknesses in the traditional hotel and catering areas.

The discrepancy between the various business segments is particularly striking. While the Swissôtel Kursaal Bern suffered significantly from the reluctance of international guests and the effects of the Middle East conflict, virtual gambling boomed. In a market environment that is currently rather declining for terrestrial casinos in Switzerland, the group was able to maintain its position and, in particular, conquer new territories online. The online offering 7melons.ch is proving to be a stable anchor in turbulent times.

Numbers and facts

The raw data from the 2026 half-year report speaks for itself. The group total turnover rose by 1.7 percent to 35.9 million Swiss francs. Even more impressive is the development of the operating profit before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA), which climbed by almost 30 percent to 5.64 million francs. The bottom line shows a net profit of 1.49 million francs, a massive increase compared to the 0.63 million francs recorded in the previous year.

In the gambling hall sector, the picture is divided. The group maintained its position in the slightly declining Swiss total market for stationary casinos, but the real growth took place on the internet. The Kursaal Bern Group announced that it had gained significant shares with its online casino. This stands in direct contrast to the congress center, where the uncertain economic situation noticeably dampened the consumption appetite of business customers.

Background

The road to these record numbers was difficult. The group hotel faced significant challenges starting in the spring. In addition to the Middle East conflict, the strong Swiss franc in particular burdened competitiveness against foreign markets. It was only in May and June that there was a glimmer of hope when major events such as the Ice Hockey World Championship provided a boost. For example, the Canadian national team stayed in Bern, which briefly drove up occupancy rates.

Nevertheless, the company management remains cautious. The geopolitical situation and the associated uncertainty are likely to continue influencing consumer behavior in the second half of the year. Dependence on the online sector will therefore likely continue to increase, as it is less susceptible to travel restrictions or currency fluctuations in the tourism sector.

"The Kursaal Bern Group turned over slightly more and earned significantly more in the first half of 2026. The online casino business developed particularly well, while the uncertain world situation pressed on the consumption appetite of the guests." - Spokesperson for Kursaal Bern Group, Half-Year Report 2026

Why it matters for German players

For German players, the development in Switzerland is an interesting indicator of the stability of regulated markets. While Kursaal Bern operates with 7melons.ch in a strictly controlled Swiss environment, the rules of the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) apply in Germany. German users should ensure they play exclusively with providers on the official whitelist of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL).

Unlike Switzerland, where licenses are often tied to physical venues, the German market offers a clear separation through GGL licenses, but also stricter limits. German players must adhere to the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros across all providers, monitored by the LUGAS system. The stake limit of 1 euro per spin for virtual slots is also a German specialty that does not exist in Switzerland. However, the success of providers like Kursaal Bern shows that legal online gambling can be highly successful economically even under strict state supervision if quality and player protection go hand in hand.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

The results from Bern send a strong signal to German GGL-licensed operators. It is clear that online offerings are not just a side business but can support the entire company in times of crisis. German providers who strictly adhere to player protection and IT security can build long-term trust. Kursaal Bern repeatedly emphasizes the increase in efficiency through digitalization, a factor that is also crucial for German casinos to remain profitable despite high tax burdens and strict requirements. Those who invest in modern technology and legal gaming appear to be on the winning side even in politically uncertain times.