Opinion in case C-716/24 on account freezing

The Advocate General of the Court of Justice of the European Union on March 5 presented an opinion in case C-716/24 regarding the freezing of bank accounts in Cyprus belonging to an unnamed iGaming operator from Curaçao.

Claim filed by a player from Germany

Frankfurt court ruling

A player from Germany obtained a default judgment from the Frankfurt court ordering the return of about €57,000 in lost funds.

Grounds for the appeal

When appealing the refusal to grant interim measures, the claimant referred to bankruptcy proceedings opened against the company. According to the claimant, this creates a risk to the enforcement of the court decision.

Position of the Advocate General

European Account Preservation Order mechanism

According to the Advocate General, offshore bankruptcy does not prevent the freezing of bank accounts in EU countries through the European Account Preservation Order mechanism (EU Regulation No. 655/2014).

Limits of the exemption

The exemption in the regulation applies only to bankruptcies governed by EU law and opened in EU member states.

Status of the opinion

Advisory nature

The opinion of the Advocate General has an advisory character.

Final decision

The final verdict in the case will be issued by the Court of Justice of the European Union.