1. Time-Sensitive Welcome Bonus: Solving the Hesitation Problem

The Challenge:
In the fast-paced world of online gaming, hesitation can be costly. Research reveals that players typically decide whether to make their first deposit within the first few minutes of signing up (35 seconds to 7+ minutes on average). If they delay, the likelihood of them leaving “to think about it” and never returning increases significantly.

The Solution:
LalaStars addresses this challenge with a Time-Sensitive Welcome Bonus, offering players an enhanced wager-free bonus if they make their first deposit within 15 minutes of registration.

How It Works:

New players receive a limited-time offer after registration: deposit within 15 minutes to unlock an enhanced wager-free bonus.

The countdown creates urgency, motivating players to act quickly while excitement is high, reducing drop-offs and missed opportunities.

Key Outcomes:

• Higher Conversion: More players deposit immediately after registering.
• Better Experience: The bonus enhances the onboarding process with a timely reward.
• Proven Impact: Conversion rates from registration to deposit rose by 24.6% in Tier-One markets.

By addressing hesitation head-on, this feature transforms initial curiosity into action, benefiting both players and operators alike.

2. Risk-Free Bonus for Casino Players: Eliminating First-Time Deposit Anxiety

The Challenge:
For new casino players, the fear of losing their first deposit can be a significant barrier to entry. This hesitation often prevents players from engaging fully with the platform, impacting conversion rates and limiting player retention.

The Solution:
Introducing a Risk-Free Bonus, inspired by the sports betting model but tailored for casinos. Players receive a money-back guarantee if they fail to double their first deposit within 24 hours, creating a no-risk environment for new users.

How It Works:

• Upon their first deposit, players are reassured with a guarantee: if they don’t double their funds within 24 hours, they get their money back.
• This eliminates the fear of loss, encouraging players to try the casino and engage with games confidently.

Key Outcomes:

• For Players: A sense of security reduces hesitation, making it easier for them to deposit and explore.
• For Operators: Structured bonus conditions lower overall costs compared to traditional first-deposit offers.
• For Affiliates: A standout USP attracts more players, simplifying traffic acquisition and reducing costs.

This feature bridges the gap between hesitation and action, building trust and engagement with new players.

3. Personalised Game Recommendations with AI: Enhancing the Player Journey

The Challenge:
In a crowded marketplace, retaining player interest requires more than just offering a variety of games. Generic recommendations often fail to resonate, leading to lower engagement and missed revenue opportunities.

The Solution:
We use AI-powered game recommendations to deliver a personalised gaming experience tailored to each player’s preferences and behaviour.

How It Works:

The AI analyses player preferences — like favorite themes, stakes, or game styles — and recommends games that match their interests. For example, a fan of high-stakes fruit slots might be shown a progressive jackpot game with a similar theme.

Key Outcomes:

• For Players: Tailored suggestions boost engagement and help them discover new games they’ll love.
• For Operators: Promotes games with better terms or RTP/volatility, optimising costs and increasing profitability.

By tailoring content to individual preferences, this innovation fosters loyalty while optimising operational efficiency.

4. AI-Powered Outreach for “No-Deposit Users”: Turning Interest into Action

The Challenge:
Many players register but fail to deposit within the first 24 hours, leaving potential revenue on the table. Manually reaching out to these users is both time-consuming and costly, especially at scale.

The Solution:
LalaStars employs an AI-driven call system to re-engage these players with personalised offers, such as enhanced bonuses or assistance in making their first deposit.

How It Works:

• If a player doesn’t deposit within 24 hours, an AI system triggers an automated call.
• The AI offers tailored incentives or guidance to simplify the deposit process.
• If the player has additional questions, the AI seamlessly transfers them to a live operator for further support.

Key Outcomes:

• Efficiency: Boosts first deposits from inactive users by 13%.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Automated calls reduce costs by over 3000% compared to live operator outreach.
• Scalability: The system handles large volumes of calls without additional staffing.

This feature converts passive interest into active participation, enhancing player acquisition while keeping costs under control.

Looking Ahead

These are just a few of the innovations introduced by LalaStars this year. With 2025 on the horizon, the team is committed to further investments in groundbreaking features that will set new standards in the online gaming industry.

Innovation is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity and a benchmark in online gambling. We’ll continue to dedicate resources to stay ahead in this dynamic industry.

The post Mares Shamzhy, LalaStars: Four Key Innovations to Optimise Costs and Boost Conversion appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats spoke to Christoffer Ødegården, Head of Marketing at Bojoko.com, to get the answer to these questions. Bojoko tracks the success of casinos based on a number of criteria and can immediately see how well they promote on their roulette bonus page convert. In this interview, Ødegården breaks down his insights into how you can use roulette bonuses effectively.

CasinoBeats: Most bonuses mainly target slots. Is that a mistake? How essential are roulette bonuses in the UK market?

Christoffer Ødegården: It makes complete sense to tailor most bonuses to slots. They have lower RTPs and pose less of a risk. However, roulette is one of the most iconic and widely recognised casino games and has a huge following in the UK. Many players are specifically looking for roulette bonuses, and creating specific bonuses tailored for these players, or alternatively, more general table game or live casino bonuses, can give you a decent boost.

A well-structured roulette bonus incentivises discerning roulette players to sign up and your existing players to stick around. It’s about showing players that the casino values them and understands their preferences. In a crowded market, where many operators focus on slot bonuses, offering a roulette-specific bonus is a great way to stand out.

CasinoBeats: How can offering roulette bonuses help casinos stand out?

Christoffer Ødegården: Most players compare casinos before deciding where to sign up, and platforms like Bojoko are where they do this. Pages like our roulette bonus overview are specifically designed to highlight the best roulette experiences, and a strong bonus can really catch a player’s eye. Better roulette offers will also help you in the rankings.

A generic welcome offer might appeal to some, but a roulette bonus speaks directly to fans of the game. It shows that the casino is serious about catering to roulette players. Whether it’s cashback on losses or free bets on roulette, these tailored offers can be the deciding factor for players choosing between two otherwise similar sites.

CasinoBeats: What makes a great roulette bonus?

Christoffer Ødegården: A great roulette bonus needs to be both attractive and fair. There might not be too many great offers out there specifically for roulette, but it’s a big pond and experienced British players are generally discerning and know where to look. They also know to look beyond the headline offer and check the terms. A bonus with impossible wagering requirements or heavy restrictions won’t do you any favors.

However, roulette players understand that bonuses for their favorite games are unlikely to have stricter terms than slot bonuses. A good roulette bonus can even be a standard offer that allows you to play roulette, just with a lower contribution. However, a customized offer is great and can be significantly smaller than your regular slot bonuses. 

You should also strongly consider live casino bonuses, as they are a great way to get serious players engaged.

CasinoBeats: How popular is roulette in the UK, and how does it compare to other games?

Christoffer Ødegården: Roulette is one of the most popular table games in the UK. It has a timeless appeal—its simplicity makes it accessible to beginners, while its strategic elements keep seasoned players engaged.

While slots dominate in sheer numbers, roulette attracts a different kind of player who’s often looking for a more interactive and social experience, especially with live dealer games. 

What I can tell you is that thousands of Brits search for casinos with great roulette selections each month, and in the same time frame, hundreds of Brits are specifically looking for roulette bonuses. These are big numbers and should not be ignored, regardless of how they may pale in comparison to slots.

CasinoBeats: How can casinos ensure their roulette bonuses stand out on platforms like Bojoko?

Christoffer Ødegården: To stand out, casinos need to offer bonuses that are not only generous but also tailored to the needs of roulette players. Being featured on Bojoko’s roulette-specific pages means getting in front of players who are actively looking for roulette-focused experiences. If your bonus is compelling and well-presented, you’re much more likely to convert those players into loyal members.We also recommend keeping the terms player-friendly. For example, lower wagering requirements, bonuses usable on live roulette, or cashback deals tied to roulette play are all very appealing. At Bojoko, we evaluate and rank casinos based on what they offer, and bonuses play a significant role in those rankings.

The post Bojoko’s Christoffer Ødegården on the Power Roulette Bonuses appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The Role of Design in Driving Conversion

For operators looking to create a high-converting gaming sportsbook or casino platform, each interaction is an opportunity to attract, engage and convert players into loyal customers. A well-designed platform ensures that these interactions are smooth, functional and enjoyable. Therefore, design becomes a crucial vehicle that enhances the player experience and makes platforms easier to navigate and explore.

However, high-quality graphics and enticing animations are also key cornerstones for marketing and initial player acquisition. iGATE looks to take a boutique approach, in which each client is set to receive dedicated care and personalised services. Using this approach, the company aims to create visually appealing and easy-to-navigate layouts that help players focus on what matters most.

Designing Gaming Platforms: Key Aspects to Consider

Aesthetics are the initial element that can help convert a player, and a comprehensive branding design creates a unique world that the user can resonate with. A clean, professional design with thoughtfully chosen visual elements can instantly convey trust and authority and strike a relationship with the customer. Visuals can assist with clarity, such as allowing players to find betting odds easily, recommending games and helping them navigate the website.

Aesthetics are closely tied to the user experience. For example, icons and clear navigation paths boost functionality while maintaining a clean and appealing look. Additionally, live odds animations and relevant thematic graphics can excite the players and create an engaging atmosphere. 

Serge Pshenichnykh, iGATE’s Regional Head of Sales, tells CasinoBeats: “Design is a key pillar for any successful high-converting platform. iGATE believes in design that goes beyond just aesthetics—we seek to create memorable and unique player experiences that captivate their attention and transform them into loyal customers for our partners. When players feel comfortable navigating and interacting with a platform, they’re much more likely to stay, play and return, which is the ultimate goal of good design.”

The Impact of Good Design

Well-executed design goes beyond surface-level aesthetics. It’s a core pillar that directly influences how players interact and behave with a sportsbook or casino. It can streamline the betting process, make playing on the platform more enjoyable and accommodate players of all familiarity levels.

iGATE’s focus on boutique design for each client, the company claims, allows it to create exciting and unique experiences for all its partners. Its ‘user-centric’ design is set to attract new players, encourage repeat visits and boost conversion metrics and ensure operator success. “Ultimately, design isn’t only about making the platform look good,” a company spokesperson says. “It’s about creating a comprehensive and seamless experience for all players.”

The post iGATE: Driving Conversion Through Design appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Q1. 2024 has been a busy year for Wazdan – could you give us an overview of some of your biggest achievements throughout the year? 

With 26 new releases and over 700 integrations across 2024, it’s been a year to remember for the Wazdan team as we continue to identify new ways of providing players with exceptional gaming experiences. Outside of our ever-expanding slot offering, our network promotions continued to grow in size. Following the Christmas chapter of our €6,000,000 Mystery Drop, our total prize pool 2024 will have exceeded a staggering €10,000,000, underlining our continued intent of offering players an array of ways to win big across entertaining verticals. A testament to our considerable growth over the last 12 months has been our sweep of eight prestigious industry awards across 2024, and the Wazdan family is strengthening by 25%. 

Q2. Expansion seems to be a significant theme for you this year. What can you tell us about some of the new products you have launched throughout 2024? Are there any specific best performers? 

While we are proud of all new launches, it has been a huge year for our beloved Coins series. Notably, 25 Coins and 36 Coins, featuring an improved Cluster Collector, Chance Level, and Grand Jackpots, are worthy successors to the 9 Coins release and have consistently topped our performance charts since their launches.

As for One Coin, the October release revolutionised the Coins family. Slot enthusiasts were instantly drawn to the unique development of landing coins and bonus symbols in the centre of a single reel format in their entirety. It has been a breath of fresh air for the industry. As for our Mighty Wild offering, titles within the series continue to perform strongly and our Gold, Platinum and Diamond Editions of Mighty Wild: Panther have resonated strongly with player pools globally. 

Q3. Wazdan is expanding its global presence with a particular focus on Latin America. How would you assess the company’s progress with regard to achieving strategic objectives in new markets? 

Wazdan has continued to gain ground throughout 2024, solidifying our market position in already established territories as well as the commencing of new ventures. We are proud to have entered four new markets, including Croatia, via one of the nation’s leading operators, PSK, while also debuting in the Philippines with SG8. September also marked our successful entry into the Pennsylvania market, enhancing our presence in North America with our offerings that players across New Jersey, Michigan, and West Virginia already enjoy.

Focusing on our LatAm push, we are firmly underway with our licensing progresses in Brazil and Peru, developing a robust, well-defined legal framework for operators in both regions and we look forward to establishing our brand in 2025 as we have done in Argentina and Colombia. We take pride in our customisable approach to iGaming, which emphasises adapting to player preferences while analysing their needs and expectations. We are confident that our industry-renowned portfolio will strongly resonate with players in Brazil and Peru.

Q4. What are the main ways in which Wazdan has helped add value to customers this year? Are there any particular stats that demonstrate your effectiveness? 

Despite an impressive set of releases in 2024, a Wazdan title does not reach the market unless it has gone through a meticulous development process that incorporates player feedback and builds on real-time data. Every offering has elevated the player experience through captivating mechanics, innovative gameplay and advanced graphics and visuals. Our ever-expanding network promotions also offer an alternative way for slot enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite titles, adding an extra thrill by providing a varied way of securing lavish wins. A 54% increase in our Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) from 2023 underlines our growth as a supplier, as well as a 25% rise in staff capacity, with an increased amount of industry experts showing an interest in becoming a part of our mission to elevate the iGaming experience for partners and players. 

Q5. After a successful year in 2024, what can our readers expect from Wazdan in 2025? What are your ambitions for the next 12 months, and what is your strategy to achieve these goals? 

As always, our prime focus will be delivering more. More game releases, attending more tradeshows, and, in turn, delivering more gains for players and partners. Wazdan’s Q1 2025 roadmap includes thrilling additions to our Coins series with 15 Coins: Grand Platinum Edition, 20 Coins: Grand Gold Edition and 12 Coins: Grand Diamond Edition. Our Mighty Wild series is also set for a shake-up with the highly anticipated Mighty Wild: Jaguar. A staggering €15,000,000 promotion budget has been set for 2025, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our global brand with the LatAm market as a top priority. So, be sure to watch this space, exciting times await!

The post Wazdan’s ‘winning streak’ of 2024: a year in review appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Speaking to CasinoBeats at SiGMA Europe, Pisarchuk likens 1spin4win’s portfolio of slot games to the best vanilla ice cream that you could taste. According to her analogy, 1spin4win’s games are traditional, but are done to a pristine standard. 

She explains: “If we’re talking about classical games such as coins and fruits, I can compare it to an ice cream. Ice cream is a very simple thing, it’s just milk and sugar. But look at ice cream makers. They can do so many different things using just milk and sugar. That’s what we are talking about when we talk about the competition and saturation and that market.

“It is about mathematics. It is about mechanics. It is also graphics. It is also the sounds, and maybe the winning placement of buttons. Put all those things together and you can make magic.” 

In the context of slots, Pisarchuk notes that the main ingredients are maths, mechanics, graphics, sounds and buttons, but she also explains that there are other parts of making a great slot game.

1spin4win’s portfolio specialises in classic slots such as coins and fruits, and Pisarchuk explains that they are targeting a broader audience with this approach.

But creating games for all players also means that 1spin4win can experiment with other aspects of game development.

“We can experiment with volatility,” Pisarchuk says. “So for the games with high volatility, there are going to be few lucky winners. But we have over 50 games that have medium volatility, which means anyone can have a chance to win over time, usually over one session. You can play for one hour or two hours, and you still can win, but you also still have this dopamine and enjoyment of the game. 

“Our games are for people who really enjoy playing. They’re for those who want to find comfort in the right time, play the game without any disturbing sounds, with a nice graphic design, while still having a chance of winning.”

“Our games are for people who really enjoy playing. They’re for those who want to find comfort in the right time”

Though the studio’s primary focus is on traditional games, it is introducing characters into its portfolio. For example, the release of Lucky Robbery this year sees a traditional game with characters including new and original characters including Boss Lizard, Guzz Pig and Ricky Mouse. This is part of the firm’s strategy to stick in the classic realm, but add elements of storytelling into its content. 

Pisarchuck says that this is good from a player engagement perspective. “For the player, it gives you kind of space to imagine things. So it’s not only just coins or just rules, it’s something really cool. It makes you look at those symbols, look at those characters, and just add some fantasies into the experience.”

There is, however, no reason to have engaging and popular games if there is no effective method to get them into the hands of players. This is where Pisarchuk comes in as Sales Manager to ensure 1spin4win games get into casino lobbies and onto players screens. 

By far the firm’s most preferred method of distribution is aggregation. It has deals in place with several aggregating suppliers including Softswiss, Softgamings, Reevo and EveryMatrix to get its games to a much wider audience. 

Pisarchuk tells CasinoBeats that this distribution method is part of a carefully thought out strategy to build long-term partnerships and a sustainable way of distributing its games. 

She elaborates: “We consider those partners as a long term distribution plan. It’s not a deal that we close and we are happy and we enjoy it. No, there’s no working in this way. We believe that with them as partners, we can grow bigger together.”

“Our first strategy is to connect to as many aggregators as possible”

Moving ahead into 2025, 1spin4win is aiming to partner with even more aggregators to ensure wide exposure to different markets. This, she outlines, is to reduce technical limitations by partnering with individual operators. 

2025 is shaping up to be another big year for igaming and 1spin4win is working to ensure that it is at the centre of the action, offering traditional games to experienced players. 

“Our first strategy is to connect to as many aggregators as possible, so that will give us a range of opportunities which we can use to connect to operators.

“It’s going to be easier for us, because we all know that sometimes technical work is a bottleneck and sometimes the technical pipeline is so busy that it will stop us from proceeding further. To avoid that, the strategy is to connect as much aggregation, big aggregators, as possible.

“In terms of product, the plan is to continue delivering games and inventing new mechanics.”

The post 1spin4win: our slots are traditional but classic – just like vanilla ice cream appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats: Blueprint Gaming launched Rapid Fire Jackpots back in June. What impact has the new system had on titles since its release? 

Jo Purvis: This summer, Rapid Fire Jackpots (RFJ) was introduced as a complementary offering to the industry-renowned Jackpot King progressive system. You have your jackpot players and non-jackpot players; among the latter, some believe that a significant win or Jackpot King may be unachievable. RFJ counters this by offering more frequent pot wins and thrilling sessions that have accompanied our revered branded and proprietary titles since its launch in June. 

The results speak for themselves. An impressive £4.5m has been distributed in payouts so far, with RFJ particularly resonating with players across Canada, Denmark, Brazil and the UK, underlining its global impact in just six months. Majestic Fury stands as our top-performing RFJ title for PPU and SPU while featuring in our top five games for the same metrics against all titles released since January 2023. This is particularly impressive, as the game was only launched in August 2024. Another prominent performer has been King Kong Cash DJ Prime 8, which stands at number three in the PPU/SPU rankings despite being the first game to offer RFJ. Strikingly, plays, stakes, and GGR stand three times higher than the non-RFJ version.   

CB: It’s now been eight years since Blueprint first launched Jackpot King. How has the industry’s most established and revered jackpot system evolved and continues attracting players to its game portfolio? 

JP: At Blueprint, we always try to innovate new game mechanics to enhance player engagement while securely providing that substantial value. The Jackpot King progressive system is designed to boost the chance of sizeable payouts to our players, and looking at the average bets placed on our Jackpot King titles that have been won, we believe we constantly deliver on these grounds! Since Jackpot King was released back in 2016, we have made 31 players into millionaires with just under £194 million paid out via different pot sizes across over 60 titles with the Jackpot King system in the UK. Incorporating Jackpot King into our latest releases offers an extra dynamic to gameplay and stresses the mechanic’s timeless nature. Deal or No Deal: Banker’s Boost, released in October, has already seen a Blueprint player score just under £4.5 million from a £2 stake. 

We’re constantly monitoring which games can join the Jackpot King family, as well as identifying fresh ways we can update gameplay and the overall appearance. Jackpot King remains a key asset for us, and as long as players yearn for those dream wins, we will keep making them possible.       

CB: As more Blueprint titles launch paired with both jackpot mechanics, have players been more responsive to the possibility of winning smaller, more frequent jackpots, or do they remain enticed by the anticipation of a more lucrative offering? Is there a distinct split among player preferences, or do both continue to offer a broad appeal? 

JP: As mentioned earlier, the goal when launching RFJ was to have both jackpot systems working in tandem to cater for a wider pool of players, and we are pleased this vision has developed tangible results. For instance, the fact that King Kong Cash DJ Prime 8 debuted with RFJ tripled its plays, stakes and GGR compared to the non-RFJ version indicates an evident player segment enthused by the more frequent drops. Despite this, Jackpot King remains a consistent inclusion within our latest releases, which also rank amongst our top-performing titles as of late and have continued to deliver mammoth payouts, as Deal or No Deal: Banker’s Boost pays testament to. 

CB: How heavily can we expect both mechanics to feature across Blueprint’s roadmap for Q1 2025? Will new jurisdictions be targeted, or will it be a case of building on existing market share?

JP: We have a host of thrilling additions to some of the most iconic game families landing in Q1 of 2025, with both jackpot mechanics set to feature on a series of titles, including King Kong Cash: Even Bigger Bananas 2 and The Goonies Megaways. Continuing to build on our established UK presence and current international regions, including Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, and Denmark, remains a priority, but we are always seeking new territories that we believe will resonate with our offering. Watch this space; big things await in 2025!

The post Blueprint Gaming: we’re always trying to add value and innovate new mechanics appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats: What are the major challenges in scaling poker operations in highly regulated or uncertain markets?

Dmitry Starostenkov: The primary challenge that all operators face is attracting an audience. In poker, we refer to this as “liquidity”, which is the flow of traffic to the operator that ensures a consistent player presence in the poker room. This is crucial, as unlike with casino games such as roulette, where the player competes against the house, poker is fundamentally a game between players. Therefore, it is vital for an operator to have a sufficient audience to facilitate engaging gameplay.

This issue affects both new projects and established operators. Attracting a steady influx of new players is not an easy task. Many poker rooms operate on traditional models and rely solely on time-tested games, but this audience is gradually ageing and losing interest as they explore other games and formats.

The key takeaway is that we must offer players something that truly resonates with a younger demographic—those who have grown up with mobile phones and have played games such as Candy Crush and farm simulators from a young age. This applies universally across all markets, both those that are developed with long-standing regulations, and emerging markets. However, it is particularly relevant in new markets.

In these markets, operators must start from scratch, which means actively growing and educating the audience. For instance, in Africa, education is paramount. The demographic is interested in poker but lacks the knowledge to play effectively. Without adequate understanding, they may quickly lose interest after initial losses. It is therefore pivotal that we seize the opportunity to educate potential players in a timely manner to foster lasting engagement.

CB: How can online poker platforms adapt their business models to guarantee success in regions like Latin America and Southeast Asia, where regulatory frameworks can be stringent or inconsistent?

DS: In addition to directly adapting the product, it is essential, as aforementioned, to educate your audience, to form and nurture it, and to teach people how to play poker. Latin America and South Asia are markets where regulations are changing rapidly. However, in most cases, there is still no regulation specifically for online poker in these regions, or it remains at a very basic level.

This means that any operator entering these countries faces numerous uncertainties related to practical business operations. For example, traditional payment methods may not be available because online banking does not permit transactions for online poker, even in cases where it is not legally prohibited. In many cases, this issue simply has not been addressed yet in the nation. Additionally, operators may find it difficult to connect to a large poker network to gain traffic and make games interesting for the audience because that network is not yet operational in the region.

These challenges can often be overcome by experimenting with the product itself. There are already established strategies in Asia for attracting an audience. Typically, there are popular local games in this region that serve as gateways into poker. For instance, in India, where EvenBet has a significant market share, people often come to play Rummy, which is a popular card game in the region. Having enjoyed the experience, they then transition into poker.

It is also crucial to be financially flexible, for example, by creating numerous tables for micro-stakes, as players may not yet be ready to wager at higher values. In such cases, it is wise to favour quick, simplified formats such as shorthanded games or trimmed decks. There is also huge potential in offering fast tournament formats or tournaments with random elements, such as Spin & Go or Mystery Bounty tournaments. These formats attract an audience that is just starting to learn how to play.

Professional players can sit successfully at a table with high stakes or endure a three-hour tournament, something no beginner can easily replicate due to a lack of skills. It is no coincidence that formats with lower wagering options are popular in such markets. A prime example of this is the success of mobile applications that do not formally involve real-money gambling, as these allow players to experience excitement without constantly risking significant sums. This solution also enables operators to address monetisation issues, as they are not required to process a large number of payments from thousands of players and can instead comfortably implement in-game purchases.

Psychologically, this approach is simpler for players, especially those who are beginners or who play casually and occasionally. In the case of club poker, the volume of financial transactions is also lower, thus reducing the risks related to those transactions. In such instances, the poker room is only paid by the club owner, who then distributes chips, virtual currency, and creates games for the players. Therefore, the number of counterparties directly involved with the operator is lower, as is the volume of transactions.

CB: With continued uncertainty surrounding alternate payment options to standard fiat transactions, what does the future look like for cryptocurrency payments on a global scale?

DS: Cryptocurrency has proven to be effective in most markets. However, the challenge is that in some regions, it is considered easier to ban its use than to regulate the process. In certain countries, there are already significant restrictions on cryptocurrency transactions and their use as a payment method. Nevertheless, this situation is not widespread, and there are no indications that it will become so. 

Overall, the prospects for cryptocurrency in gambling are very promising. This is connected to the unreliability of traditional payment systems, the high number of blocked transactions and chargebacks in online gambling, and the complexities of compliance with legislative regulations surrounding payments. These three factors make working with payment systems complicated, labour-intensive, and without guaranteed results. In contrast, using cryptocurrency simplifies the entire process. 

The key point is that regulatory bodies in the online gaming industry need to learn how to handle cryptocurrency payments. If we reach a point where the use of cryptocurrency is equated with the use of conventional payment methods, then in the future, such transactions could dominate the gambling market.

CB: Across tricky to navigate jurisdictions, how can businesses diversify their revenue streams to ensure maximum profitability?

DS: The main rule is that you should not rely entirely on a single monetisation tool, especially in today’s reality. It is not reasonable to consider traditional online poker—where players come to play, deposit $100, and either win or lose—as a universal solution. All operators need to seek new ways to encourage players to increase their expenditure, and to do so in various ways.

This can be achieved with additional games. EvenBet has side games integrated into its poker platform, which are mini-games that can be played parallel to the poker table. A player can enjoy blackjack, roulette, or make sports bets while waiting for their turn or during breaks. These mini-games can be just as significant a source of income as the main poker platform and are an essential additional revenue stream.

Virtual purchase stores, one of which EvenBet has also launched, are another method of diversifying revenue streams. Players can purchase additional functionalities, such as the ability to view their opponent’s game statistics or a time bank that extends the player’s turn. These features cost the operator very little but are appealing to players as they provide more information about the game and extra opportunities, making players willing to spend on them.

Finally, the introduction of new business models should be a priority. In addition to classic real-money poker, launching club poker allows for the combination of standard games, tournaments and private games on a single platform. This creates two distinct revenue streams for the operator while enabling cross-marketing between unique audiences, including private and classic games. This approach generates greater revenue and extends the lifetime value of each player due to the availability of more varied gameplay options to try.

The post EvenBet Gaming: scaling up online poker in a complex regulatory environment appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats: In what markets is Amusnet live and what partners do you currently work with in Latin America?

Georgi Izov: Amusnet has solidified its presence in several key Latin American markets, including Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and Peru, where we work with leading operators who share our vision of delivering innovative and high-quality gaming experiences. Through strategic alliances, we have successfully adapted and distributed titles that resonate with player preferences in these markets, reinforcing our localisation strategy in the region.

CB: How do you approach the Latin American market in terms of content? Which types of games work best in that market and how do you ensure that Amusnet titles are optimised for that audience?

GI: We focus on an in-depth localisation process for each country, ensuring that our games’ themes, mechanics, and aesthetics align with local expectations. Traditional casino-themed games like slots and roulette are widely accepted, but we are also developing exclusive content for LatAm, adapting symbols, characters, and mechanics that appeal to the regional player.

CB: Regulation is constantly changing in Latin America, so how do you remain compliant in regard to the technical aspects of your games?

GI: To ensure compliance with local regulations in a constantly changing environment, we maintain a dedicated team of legal and compliance experts to monitor regulations in each country. We continuously update our systems and processes to meet the required standards and technical requirements, including the certification and approval of our games in the jurisdictions where necessary. Our flexible technical infrastructure allows us to quickly adapt to new regulatory requirements and ensure the smooth operation of our titles across the region.

CB: Brazil is the most hotly anticipated market in the world right now, as all roads lead to the regulated market launch in January. What are Amusnet’s plans for Brazil, and how will you ensure your titles are not only live in Brazil but also popular with players?

GI: We are looking forward to the upcoming launch of the regulated gambling market in Brazil, where we plan to release a range of games specifically adapted to Brazilian players. We are committed to localising our product, including the use of themes, colours, and mechanics that connect with Brazilian culture. Our goal is to ensure that our games are not only available but also have a strong impact and popularity among Brazilian players.

SBC: What type of research have you done in the Brazil market in terms of what types of games are popular with players in Brazil? For example, are there certain mechanics that players are most interested in?

GI: We have conducted extensive research in Brazil to identify the game mechanics and themes that most appeal to Brazilian players. In addition to our research efforts, we have a highly experienced Country Manager based in Brazil, who brings both a deep understanding of the industry and a thorough knowledge of Brazilian culture and market specifics. With his expertise, we continuously analyse local player preferences, including emerging trends. This combination of insights allows us to customise and create gaming experiences that truly resonate with Brazilian players, driving engagement, satisfaction, and a strong presence in this dynamic market. 

CB: What can readers expect from Amusnet in the coming months as you continue to pursue the LatAm opportunities? Are there any more partnerships/licenses in the pipeline?

GI: Amusnet is undergoing a significant expansion in the LatAm market, with the launch of new titles tailored to each country and the consolidation of new strategic alliances in the region. Our goal is to expand our presence in emerging markets and establish key partnerships in countries from this region. Additionally, we have exciting new online slots coming for release in these markets in 2025 on the roadmap, allowing us to enhance our offerings and expand our portfolio.

The post Amusnet: Pursuing Strategic Expansion in Latin America appeared first on CasinoBeats.

That is according to David Harris, B2B Affiliate Team Manager at ReferOn, who tells CasinoBeats that, by going above and beyond just providing data solutions to its clients, ReferOn focuses on delivering unique value-adds to iGaming affiliates and operators. This approach enables his company to retain clients and add new partners to its roster thanks to its strong track record and growing reputation as a provider that develops true partnerships and delivers tangible growth to its customers.  

ReferOn has also been running a series of webinars throughout 2024 to educate operators and affiliates on the key topics that impact their day-to-day operations. Included in the series so far is Data Discovery, Reporting and Tracking Methodology for affiliates, and separate sessions for operators along with other insight videos introducing ReferOn’s latest software iterations and a special webinar on migration. 

Speaking to CasinoBeats at SiGMA Europe, Harris explains: “Education is integral to our approach because it empowers clients to make informed, confident decisions at each stage of their partnerships with us and their clients. Our team efforts also build trust and knowledge, which is foundational for strong, long-lasting customer relationships. When clients see that we’re transparent about the process, actively sharing knowledge, rather than holding it back or  limiting data, they feel valued and supported.

“This mutual understanding creates a partnership dynamic where clients view ReferOn not just as a service provider but as a trusted and competent advisor. By investing in client education, we foster a collaborative relationship that is resilient, proactive and positioned for success.”

Following the success of the Insights Seminars for operators in May and affiliates in July, ReferOn is coming back with another instalment of the series that will focus on migration. ReferOn specialises in affiliate management systems and its outreach work is focused on educating current and prospective clients on how to ensure a smooth and seamless transition from one affiliate system to another. 

Ultimately, the session aims to alleviate any fears people may have about migrating and explain that ReferOn can offer an uninterrupted experience. 

“Viewers can expect insights into how ReferOn’s team maintains rigorous data accuracy, actively collaborates with clients during the migration, and offers comprehensive support throughout the entire process,” adds Harris. 

“For those considering a migration, this session promises a closer look at the tools, techniques and team dedication that set ReferOn apart in supporting clients throughout every stage of migration and beyond.”

Once the education sessions have had the desired impact, namely encouraging current partners to retain and enticing new clients on board, ReferOn can turn towards providing the services and solutions that it excels in. 

Its affiliate management software delivers best-in-class reporting and intelligence that both affiliates and operators can take advantage of as they get a better understanding of how their cooperation is performing.

Another key development from ReferOn in Q4 has seen its focus on improving its technical capabilities. As part of this project it has added new reporting and auditing tools that offer clients in-depth insights that enable them to make better decisions and map out their affiliate programs and operations with great clarity and foresight. 

David explains that these improvements ultimately feed into ReferOn’s core competencies: “Some of these updates include affiliate registration page modifications, postback enhancements, improvements to campaign management, and increased reporting functionality. 

“They also empower our customers to make the most of their data and create actionable insights. We will continue to prioritise communication and maintain a relentless focus  on improving our platform in 2025.” 

One of the iGaming industry’s biggest developments over the last few years has been the increased understanding of the power of data in decision-making, product development and planning. 

As a leading provider of iGaming affiliate management systems, ReferOn has a deep understanding of the hugely important role data plays in bringing success to its customers. By incorporating market and customer feedback into its product development roadmaps, it also ensures clients claim the full benefits and opportunities that come from utilising powerful datasets. 

“With detailed reporting capabilities, our customers can make the most of this information,” says Harris. “With ReferOn’s innovative dashboards and intuitive real-time tracking, our customers can follow key metrics as they develop and adapt their affiliate marketing strategies accordingly. 

“When they witness positive results and experience how easy our platform is to use, their trust in us grows, and we can nurture a mutually beneficial relationship.”

The post ReferOn: If you educate and inform, trust will come appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats: Tell us a little bit about the CCSSS certification. What is it and what does it cover?

Ian Messenger: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the critical components of casino security and surveillance. Students will explore the fundamental principles of securing casino environments, including risk identification and mitigation strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the industry. 

Emphasising both theory and practical applications, the course covers surveillance techniques used to detect and prevent fraud, theft, and other criminal activities in gaming establishments. Students will gain an understanding of the legal and ethical considerations inherent in casino security operations, while also developing key communication and incident management skills. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to a safe, secure and compliant casino environment.

CB: What was the thinking around the launch of the new certification and why do you think that security and surveillance required a whole certification of its own? 

IM: The creation of this new certification was driven by interest from industry. While we address Security and Surveillance in our Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification, these roles have specific knowledge and techniques that require a fuller exploration beyond a compliance overview. The Certified Security and Surveillance Specialist certification allow us to explore in depth essential topics including:

• Security Personnel Roles and Responsibilities
• Surveillance Technologies and Systems
• Casino Layout and Vulnerability Assessment
• Cheating Methods and Detection Techniques
• Preventing and Detecting Fraud and Theft
• Guest and Employee Safety
• Investigations and Reporting
• Legal and Ethical Considerations in Surveillance
• Emergency Management and Incident Response
• Risk Management and Security Planning
• Communication and Coordination in Security Operations

CB: What risks do casino operators face if they lack adequate security and surveillance?

IM: Without adequate security and surveillance, casino operators face significant risks including financial losses from fraud and theft, legal and regulatory violations, and reputational damage. 

Fraudulent activities like cheating or employee theft may go undetected, leading to financial harm, while non-compliance with strict regulations could result in hefty fines or loss of operating licences. Poor security also increases the likelihood of violent incidents or customer disputes, which can harm both staff and patron safety, and damage the casino’s public image. 

Additionally, inadequate surveillance may hinder effective incident response, allowing crimes or emergencies to escalate. These issues can lead to increased operational costs, including legal fees and damage control expenses, and may ultimately erode customer trust, reducing the casino’s competitive edge. 

CB: Why do you think casinos need human security and surveillance expertise? Could this not be done by AI?

IM: Casinos need human security and surveillance expertise because human judgement, intuition, and adaptability are crucial in managing the complex and dynamic environment of a casino. While AI and technology can assist with data processing and pattern recognition, they still struggle with interpreting context, handling unpredictable situations, and making ethical or legal decisions. 

For example, detecting subtle signs of fraud, understanding the motivations behind certain behaviours, or managing a crisis situation requires the nuanced understanding that only trained human professionals can provide. Additionally, human security personnel are essential for interpreting and responding to situations in real-time, making decisions about legal compliance, and interacting with customers in ways that AI cannot. Human oversight is also needed to ensure AI systems are functioning properly and to adapt to evolving threats.

CB: Who is the target demographic for the courses and how will you target them?

IM: The target demographic for this course are twofold; existing surveillance and security officers who are looking to develop their knowledge and expertise, and individuals who are looking to start a career in casino security and surveillance roles. 

CB: How will ACGCS deliver the certification to students and in what ways will you assess? 

IM: This certification will be available as an ACGCS course granting the Certified Casino Security and Surveillance Specialist (CCSSS) certification, and also as a University Microcredential from Dalhousie University. Our courses offered in partnership with Dalhousie University, when students receive our Certification as well as a University Microcredential, are popular with individuals and teams alike who are seeking an academic qualification in casino gaming. Similar to Casino Gaming Investigations, we have to option to run private, specialised, versions of Casino Security and Surveillance to organisation

CB: How does the CCSSS fit into the ACGCS’ overall product mix and will you be able to cross sell multiple courses to prospects?

IM: Certified Casino Security and Surveillance Specialist (CCSSS) certification both complements our flagship Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification and provides a more specialised course for those in security and surveillance. We have designed our certifications to be stand alone with no duplication of content. 

As a result, we believe that many individuals will find value in both certifications as their careers in compliance develop and broaden. For example, there is a natural career pathway from security and surveillance into other areas of casino compliance that are covered in our Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification. Similarly, senior compliance leaders who have a broad responsibility for compliance will find value in both; we have already seen senior leaders who hold the CGCS certification plan add the Certified Casino Security and Surveillance Specialist (CCSSS) to their 2025 training plans. 

Over the course of 2024 we have seen many casino professionals returning to us and completing additional ACGCS courses. For those who develop a broader knowledge in casino compliance, we wanted to recognise this through the creation of the Fellowship in Casino Gaming Compliance and Security (FCGCS). This advanced designation is awarded to those who have completed the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS), Certified Casino Security and Surveillance Specialist (CCSSS), Responsible Gaming and Player Protection, as well as Human Trafficking Risks in Casino Gaming. After completing these four courses, the FCGCS is awarded as an additional designation.

The post ACGCS: keeping casinos secure and safe through the power of education appeared first on CasinoBeats.