South Africa has been a strong market for BetGames, but there are many more opportunities across the African continent to explore. That was according to the company’s Africa Sales Director James Everett, who takes a dive into the untapped potential within the African casino market.

Speaking to CasinoBeats, Everett talks us through the reasons why online casino may surpass sports betting in the next two years before explaining how ‘unprecedented’ levels of tech adoption is fuelling new levels of growth.

CasinoBeats: Talk us through the evolution of online casino in Africa – as a regional expert, how have you seen the vertical evolve over the last decade? 

JE: In many ways for Africa, online casino is still a relatively new concept, this is primarily down to the rate at which the concept is being accepted and approved by regulators. Additionally, the development of infrastructure around web and mobile is further contributing to the delayed evolution of online casinos and gambling. 

However, according to Forbes – Africa is the fastest growing continent in the world, which we have noticed, especially in terms of the wider technological development. Africa is full of success stories and unlocked potential, something which we were able to anticipate before most in the iGaming industry, given our regional expertise.

Looking at the last 3-5 years, more and more game providers have entered the African market; taking advantage of the maturing infrastructure and increasingly educated population. Currently, mobile betting continues to be the biggest medium for players, with many operators focusing on mobile-first gaming providers, thus the online casino industry has rapidly adapted to produce games that are conducive to the demand. 

CB: Which regulated jurisdictions take the crown for the most traffic and popularity? Is South Africa the most dominant market? 

JE: I would say yes, South Africa maintains its dominance by still being the biggest in terms of gambling turnover. It’s no surprise that our growth throughout the region has been one of our major success stories. 

Although Nigeria is not far behind, it is second to only South Africa in terms of gambling turnover and is the biggest as far as traffic is concerned. Meanwhile, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia can be labelled as emerging jurisdictions, experiencing some growth in recent times. 

As we’ve launched with all major operators in South Africa, we’re actively looking at the aforementioned countries, as we feel they hold great and similar opportunities to South Africa, with the future certainly looking bright.

CB: Given the prevalence of more traditional SMS-based betting for sportsbook, how much of an issue has connectivity and mobile infrastructure been in online casino’s development? Is desktop the primary channel and how quickly are we seeing a shift to mobile?

JE: Over the past few years, the development of mobile infrastructure has been quite rapid, therefore, mobile betting is performing significantly better than desktop betting. This can be seen in the contrasting betting numbers that both platforms are producing. 

I believe it is largely indicative that the adoption of modern smartphones and their capability in being able to run games, has resulted in platform and game providers thinking differently about their goals and ambitions. After adapting to this ever-increasing demand, the ‘mobile lite’ concept in Africa has allowed the online casino and sports betting industry to grow at an extremely rapid rate, as it in effect offers a less-data heavy proposition, thus widening the appeal to players with less advanced technology on their hands.

CB: How much do player preferences differ from Europe? Are there any verticals that have proven particularly popular with African players?

JE: In Africa, the focus is still firmly on sports betting, as online casino is still a relatively new concept. However, the demand for online casino is rapidly increasing as mobile infrastructure becomes cheaper and more accessible on the continent, which holds the potential for exponential growth as adoption continues to widen.

Another fast-growing vertical appears to be virtual games, we all knew that virtuals would become a player favourite back in 2020, when the pandemic was at its peak and live betting needed a substitution. 

Two years on, the majority of African markets are still experiencing an upsurge in popularity, which contrasts greatly with is still supporting this vertical and it’s continuing to contrast other geographical markets where the majority of virtuals’ engagement was simply as a ‘filler’ during the gaps created by the pandemic. 

CB: Looking at the potential acquisition and retention of players, how much do online casino providers depend on cross-selling over from sportsbook? Can online casino ever be an acquisition tool in its own right?

JE: Online casino has quickly caught up with sports betting, therefore I wouldn’t necessarily say that providers need to cross-sell with sportsbooks for online casino to succeed, it holds plenty of its own appeal, and indeed a channel of acquisition in its own right. In many ways, online casino may even surpass sports betting within the next two years, as the concept passes approval with more regulators. 

There is no doubt that online casino has a significant amount of potential and is a great opportunity for operators to acquire and retain players. Moreover, with land-based casinos being well supported across the continent, there’s good reason to believe that the demand for online casino products will continue increasing given this familiarity. In many ways this makes sense, as players will be able to enjoy gaming in the comfort of their own home or perhaps on the go – with the mobile infrastructure in Africa continually advancing and enabling this preferred channel of entertainment.

CB: From your perspective, which markets hold the most potential for growth in the next decade? 

JE: South Africa has been a fantastic market for us; however, I can’t stress enough how Africa as a whole offers several growth opportunities – and I’m very confident in its potential. After all, it’s a huge continent that is full of eager players, who want to experience great iGaming products such as ours.

In my eyes, the markets that hold the most potential are Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Congo, Zambia and Uganda. These are nine countries that would be great starting points for others looking to venture onto the continent.  

Of course, it’s important to note that whilst Africa’s technology and infrastructure is still slightly behind other more developed regions, this can change fast. The rate of tech adoption we’re seeing is unprecedented, and since the continent is quickly growing and developing in this area, it means that entering the region is a fantastic opportunity for brands looking to take advantage of one of the fastest-growing regions globally.

The post James Everett, BetGames: Unlocking the potential of the African market appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Roman Bogoduhov, EvenBet Gaming’s Head of Account Management, joined the company late last year. We caught up with him on how the business plans to secure further growth as the region’s various markets develop. 

CasinoBeats: Which LatAm countries do you see having the most immediate potential right now and why?

RB: There’re several countries where it’s lucrative to start a casino or sports betting website at the moment. Colombia is the most attractive one with minimal legislative barriers and an established and transparent licencing process. Argentina comes in second place as it’s a huge market with an igaming-hungry population, but it’s a lot more complicated, with 24 jurisdictions in the country, all with various regulatory statuses. On top of that, the legislation in most of these territories makes starting a brand new casino nearly impossible. 

However, the online market in Mexico is very attractive, but it’s only available to existing land-based operators.     

CasinoBeats: How has the status of online poker changed in LatAm in recent years?

RB: In Latam countries that allow the operation of local or offshore poker offerings, online poker has quickly transformed from being associated with the black market and illegal activities into an indispensable part of everyday entertainment. For example, in Colombia and Chile, we’re seeing interest in our product increasing constantly, especially from sports betting operators because of the audience crossover.   

To lean into this, we have optimised our Side-Bet product, which allows players to bet on sports without having to leave the poker room. For projects starting from scratch, we have pre-integrated sportsbooks from two partner providers with an enormous choice of sports and events, so an operator can give passionate players access to both offers simultaneously.

CasinoBeats: Conversely, which countries do you see as slow burners that further down the line could be the most promising markets?

RB: Brazil is the biggest potential market. We see slow movement toward online gaming regulation as the 2022 World Cup draws ever closer. That being said, the proposed changes mostly cater to sports betting and lotteries. However, as the government sees the benefits of a regular influx of taxes from the igaming sector – especially considering the costly events of the past two years – the regulation will naturally extend to online casinos and poker rooms as well. This is particularly likely given poker’s affinity with sports betting. 

As well as that, these games are already part of day-to-day life in the form of illegal operators and the country stands to benefit exponentially from common-sense regulation.  

CasinoBeats: With the complexities in relation to the regulatory status of LatAm – with some countries such as Brazil currently prohibiting gambling, others unregulated but not actively prohibiting it, and others such as Argentina regulated on a province-by-province basis, how do you target the best opportunities for the company?

RB: There are several questions we ask ourselves before making any country-specific offer. First, and most importantly, is online poker currently regulated in the country, such as in Colombia? If not, is playing in offshore poker rooms allowed, as is the case in Chile? 

Then we need to examine whether there’s an existing offline and online poker culture in the region that would allow an operator to create a sustainable user database. In Argentina’s case, there’s massive affection for the game, making it a no brainer to implement the game there.    

Having interrogated these factors, we can advise an operator on whether to proceed with an offering. We’re also beginning to examine how EvenBet Gaming can help our customers to better understand legislative barriers and which forms of partnerships are the most promising.

CasinoBeats: A region with such potential will inherently bring competition. What do you believe makes your company stand out from your competitors?

RB: EvenBet Gaming was one of the first poker providers that started to work in Latin and South America. In the last four years, we’ve optimised our offerings to the needs of local operators and players, completely localised the software and management tools we offer specific clients and created a Spanish-speaking business support team. As well as that, we have consistently participated in many gaming industry events in Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Mexico, and other countries. 

Finally, we offer the same world-class poker platform that we make available in more mature markets, such as Europe and the US, with all the necessary certifications. It is safe, secure, and packed with all necessary anti-fraud and compliance tools. We pay special attention to developing and providing KYC and anti-fraud solutions to LatAm-based operators because trust and safety are among the biggest issues in the region. There’s still a lot to be done, but we’re ready to launch any type of project our partners might need.

CasinoBeats: If you could change any elements of how the LatAm countries currently operate in terms of gambling and regulation, what would they be and why?

RB: I’d speed up the process of transition from black and grey online markets to regulated ones. That would be beneficial for both the players, who would be protected from various scams and fraudulent operations, and each of these countries’ economies would receive more taxes. Keeping online gambling in the shadows has grave consequences for the industry’s reputation in general. It only serves to complicate the operations of legally working companies.

CasinoBeats: What new products should operators in the region be looking forward to?

RB: More mobile-first and mobile-only multi-gaming platforms. These seem to be most interesting for many audiences in LatAm. The combinations can be quite different. For example, EvenBet offers a mobile poker platform with the possibility to add thousands of casino and table games as well as a live offering and classic sports betting.

The post Roman Bogoduhov, EvenBet Gaming: the <br> changing landscape in LatAm for online poker appeared first on CasinoBeats.

CasinoBeats: How pivotal do you believe influencers can be when it comes to engaging audiences in Brazil?

Bruno Geraldini: Influencers play a vital role in connecting with Brazilian audiences, helping us expand our reach and strengthen our brand presence. Our collaborations with local influencers are carefully tailored to their unique style and platforms, whether they’re dancers, musicians, or content creators. This approach ensures that each partnership feels authentic and resonates with their audience.

Our focus is on measurable outcomes, such as boosting views, increasing brand awareness and driving social media engagement. For example, while TikTok’s guidelines limit direct casino promotions, we’ve successfully partnered with creators like Daniel Brito. His short videos, such as asking women on the street if they’d be his girlfriend for 20 minutes, resonate with audiences. One of his TikTok posts recently reached over 13 million views on 28 November, showcasing the massive reach and engagement these collaborations can achieve.

CB: Do you believe that Brazilian operators need to take a measured approach to marketing as the country opens up its gambling framework?

BG: Absolutely. The rapidly evolving regulations demand swift and strategic adaptations. Many of these changes benefit both operators and players, but implementing them under tight timelines can be challenging. For instance, we had to completely overhaul our bonus system in just two weeks to align with new restrictions, particularly on welcome bonuses.

Operators must tread carefully and remain adaptable. At Brazino777, we prioritize fast and efficient responses to these changes, ensuring we stay ahead while maintaining compliance with the new framework.

CB: What type of ambassador activations can be key to unlocking the Brazilian market?

BG: We’ve seen significant success with jingles in the past. Brazilians love catchy tunes that they can connect with, and our jingle Jogo da Galera has been a huge hit. It not only helped us establish our brand but also positioned Brazino777 as a casino for the people. We’re fortunate to have had MC João bring his talent and energy to this project.

CB: How crucial do you think streamers can be for Brazilian operators as they undertake their marketing strategies in Brazil?

BG: Streamers are incredibly valuable for promoting our products, especially on platforms like Twitch, which has a strong following in Brazil. They engage audiences by showcasing gameplay, sharing tips, and introducing our brand in an authentic and entertaining way.

At Brazino777, we’ve partnered with several streamers and found these collaborations to be highly effective. Their ability to connect with their followers and build trust makes them key players in our marketing strategy.

CB: What due diligence do you believe Brazilian operators need to take in terms of partnering with brand ambassadors or influencers?

BG: In a regulated market, operators must adopt rigorous due diligence processes when selecting ambassadors or influencers. This includes conducting background checks to ensure they haven’t promoted unlicensed operators or engaged in misleading practices. Aligning values and ensuring compliance with responsible gambling practices is also critical.

Partnerships must adhere to regulations, including those set by the Statute of the Child and Adolescent, Annex X of the CONAR Code, and Ordinance 1,231/2024. Contracts should define clear responsibilities, require participation in compliance training, and include penalties for non-compliance. Ongoing monitoring of influencer activities is essential to ensure alignment with regulatory standards. By maintaining transparency and adherence to these guidelines, we can safeguard our reputations and build public trust.

CB: What specific casino content do you think will thrive in the Brazilian market?

BG: Currently, content centred around popular games like Fortune Tiger, Aviator, and Fortune Rabbit performs exceptionally well. Audience preferences are shaped by trends, promotional efforts, and individual tastes. To succeed, content strategies must balance these factors, adapting to the ever-changing landscape and preferences of different target groups.

CB: Can you tell us more about the specific platforms that you believe will do well in terms of engaging Brazilian players?

BG: WhatsApp holds enormous potential due to its widespread use in Brazil. Instagram continues to bring in new players consistently, and we expect that trend to persist. Platforms like Twitch, Telegram and TikTok are also key to our strategy.

However, it’s crucial to tailor approaches to each platform, taking into account both the target audience and the specific promotional methods allowed. With a thoughtful strategy, every platform can become a valuable tool for engagement, regardless of its overall popularity.

CB: If an influencer or ambassador has previously promoted a grey market site, how can they bring themselves on to the regulated market or are they somewhat blacklisted forever?

BG: Past promotion of grey market operators doesn’t automatically disqualify influencers or ambassadors from participating in the regulated market. Prior to formal regulation, the entire market operated in a grey area.

Now, with clear guidelines in place, influencers must strictly adhere to legal and ethical standards, including compliance with the Statute of Children and Adolescents, the CONAR Code, and Ordinance 1.231/2024. These rules prioritise responsible advertising and the protection of vulnerable audiences.

To transition into the regulated market, influencers must commit to these standards, remove any non-compliant content and ensure full transparency in their partnerships.

CB: What do you think you can gain from the SBC Summit Rio and why is the event so important?

BG: Our team is excited to exhibit at SBC Summit Rio this year. Our experience at SBC in Miami in 2024 offered excellent networking opportunities, and we’re looking forward to achieving similar results in Rio. This includes building new connections, attracting affiliates and uncovering opportunities that can help us grow further in the Brazilian market.

…………………………

Secure your spot at the upcoming SBC Summit Rio with our ‘Early Bird Special’, granting access to all three core days of the event, including the exhibition floor, conference content, and evening networking parties, all for the discounted price of just R$1500.
Additionally, operators and affiliates can apply for free passes to the event. If you are an operator, you can apply for a free pass here, if you are an affiliate, you can apply for a free pass here.

You can keep up-to-date with the latest news, speakers & exhibitor additions, and conference content by subscribing to the bi-weekly SBC Summit Rio LinkedIn Newsletter.

The post Brazino777: ‘enormous’ potential of WhatsApp for Brazilian engagment appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The two studios competed for top spots across top games by GGR charts, top slots, new game rankings and in the supplier charts within Eilers & Krejcik’s November report. 

Meanwhile, Games Global, Pragmatic Play and Light & Wonder (L&W) competed with the US’ two top performers to aim for top spot in the Canadian supplier charts. 

US round-up

For yet another month, IGT’s Cash Eruption slot has continued to remain at the top of Eilers-Fantini’s top slots by GGR charts. The title’s portion of GGR remained at 2.88%, after rising from 2.7 to the current figure between August and October. 

Last month’s third-place finisher in the GGR charts, Buffalo from Aristocrat, rose from third to second, although its GGR share dropped from 1.68% to 1.48%.  

Live Dealer Lightning Roulette from Evolution shot into the top three after not appearing in the top 10 last month, taking third with a 1.46% GGR share. Meanwhile, IGT’s Blackjack title and Evolution’s Live Dealer Crazy Time secured fourth and fifth place finishes with 1.39% and 1.37%, respectively. 

From the top games per GGR, 17 were slot titles, three were table games and five were live casino titles, with no video poker games making the top 25 for just the third time this year.

Proving its dominance once again, Cash Eruption remained in pole position in the top games overall charts, while last month’s eighth-place finisher, Crazy Time from Evolution, hopped into second, replacing IGT’s Blackjack title which dropped to third. 

While Evolution’s Live Dealer Lightning Roulette kept its fifth-place finish, the studio’s Live Dealer Crazy Time title flew into fourth after placing 12th last month.

As a result, the top five was made up of three Evolution games and two IGT titles – with the Crazy Time series appearing twice. 

Only one new title made it into the top 10, as Mystery of the Lamp Treasure Oasis from IGT PlayDigital secured seventh. 

These changes caused a slight shift for last month’s top five finishers, as Capital Gains from AGS fell from fourth to eighth and Gamecode’s Triple Stones dropped from third to ninth. 

IGT also had another good month when it came to the top slots charts, as while Cash Eruption typically kept its first-place finish, the studio’s Mystery of the Lamp Treasure Oasis finished in second place as a new ranking. 

This caused Gamecode’s Triple Stones title to fall from its second-place finish, with the title dropping past Capital Gains in third – the position it finished in October – to fourth. 

Light & Wonder’s Doctor Reactive Mega Drop Low flew into fifth to round out the top five, climbing 16 places after finishing 21st in October. 

For the second month in a row, 12 suppliers were represented in the top slots charts. Light & Wonder, Evolution, Aristocrat, Reel Play, Everi, Inspired and Games Global each had at least one slot appearing in the top 25. 

A majority of new rankings and shifting slots from October’s top 10 made up the top new game rankings, with 1×2 gaming’s new ranking 3 Porky Banks Hold and Win pipping Mystery of the Lamp Treasure Oasis to the post. 

This caused Gamecode’s Triple Stones to finally lose its position at the top of the pile, dropping into third as Playtech’s Breaking Bad Collect Em and Link took fourth as a new ranking. 

Furthermore, Bankin More Bacon from White Hat Studios rounded out the top five as a new ranking. 

7s Fire Blitz from White Hat took sixth after falling from September’s third place, while Lucky Bonanza Cash Spree, a new ranking from Games Global, placed seventh.

Two more new rankings, The Walking Dead Collect Em from Playtech and Games Global’s Immortal Romance 2, took eighth and ninth place respectively, while White Hat Studios’ Lightning Gold rounded out the top 10 by climbing from 19th place last month. 

As per usual, each game that appeared in the top 25 new games was a slot release. 

Evolution led the supplier charts for another month, securing the largest portion of GGR share with 18% (October: 18%). IGT and L&W also kept their positions in the supplier charts with 17% (October: 17.4%) and approximately 13.4% (October: 13.4%), respectively. 

Meanwhile, Games Global regained some of the percentage points it lost last month when it dropped from 8.4% to 7.4%, rising back up to 7.8%, while White Hat gained some traction by coming in with 6.1% (October: 5.6%). 

In terms of total games tracked, slots remained the dominant segment with a total of 91.4%, ahead of table games which stood at 3.3%. 

Instant win was next with 2.3%, just ahead of live casino’s 1.4%, video poker’s 0.9%, lottery’s 0.4% and bingo/keno’s 0.2%. 

Mobile recorded the highest percentage of theoretical win generated per vertical with 72%, followed by desktop at 27.1% and tablet at 0.8%. 

The latest US Eilers-Fantini report examined data from Michigan, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut across 28 online casino sites and 67,740 games, representing around 64% of the US market.

Canada figures

Eilers & Krejcik’s Canadian report continues to provide statistics on the nation’s online casino industry, covering nine online casino sites to track 18,105 games across five provinces. 

Yet again, IGT’s Cash Eruption kept its position atop Canada’s most-played games by GGR chart, but with a slight drop in GGR share to 2.03% (September: 2.09%).

For consecutive months, the slot gained a considerable portion of the GGR share compared to the rest of the competition, more than doubling IGT’s Cleopatra title, which climbed from third to second with a 0.91% GGR. 

Last month’s second-place finisher, Live Dealer Roulette by Evolution, dropped into third with a 0.86% GGR share, followed by Light & Wonder’s The Godfather slot which had a 0.83% GGR share. 

Wish Upon a Star from Greentube, came in fifth with a 0.75% GGR share. 

Despite dropping considerably in GGR share, IGT remained ahead of L&W in the Canadian supplier charts, claiming a 15.6% GGR share (October: 17.1%) which pipped L&W’s 13.48% (October: 15.42%).

Games Global just beat Evolution to third, claiming 12.22% of GGR (October: 11.99%). Evolution’s GGR share stood at 11.51%, rising slightly from last month’s 11.4%. 

Pragmatic Play remained in fifth with a 10.39% GGR share, a slight increase on last month’s 10.27%. 

If interested in learning more, subscribing, or participating in the Eilers-Fantini Online Game Performance Database reach out to Rick Eckert at reckert@ekgamingllc.com.

The post IGT and Evolution dominate November’s Eilers-Fantini report appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Tatiana García Barrenechea, Commercial Director for LatAm at Light & Wonder, Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel, Head of Account Management for North America and Latin America at Wazdan, Helena do Couto, Regional Legal Officer LatAm at Eeze, Alvaro Camargo, Country Manager Brazil at Xtremepush, and Thiago Calmon, Online Sales Manager at R. Franco Digital, conclude the latest CasinoBeats roundtable by addressing critical factors to consider to achieve success and issuing a vision as to what the market could ultimately look like.

CasinoBeats: What are the key factors operators need to consider when putting together a profitable offering that appeals to players and bettors and how important is localisation?

Tatiana García: Without a casino-floor heritage, Brazil requires a bespoke approach to content, and it will be intriguing to discover early trends that emerge once the regulated market goes live.

We believe certain game types will appeal to a large segment of players in the country, with crash games being one in particular. They offer quick-fire, unpredictable entertainment that is engaging while also simple to understand for those players who are not acquainted with feature-rich slot experiences.

Our analysis also suggests that video bingo games will be a big hit for operators, along with three-reel slots that are accessible and engaging. 

Thomas Smallwood: Selecting the right local partners is crucial. We pride ourselves on offering our game aggregator system as a localised product, not only in terms the game suppliers we offer but also the experience we can add.

Having relevant themes and popular game types, such as our mine games, which have proved very popular in the past in Brazil can make a significant difference. 

Player loyalty will also be essential in a market where tax impacts operators, suppliers, and players alike. Those operators who adopt innovative cross-selling techniques, like our EasySwipe games accessible through our sportsbook widget, can gain an edge by driving conversion from sports to casino without cannibalising existing revenue streams.

Izabela Słodkowska: To develop a profitable offering in Latin American markets, operators must prioritise player demographics and preferences, tailoring content and promotions for each specific region.

Localisation is essential: adapting to diverse regulations, preferred payment methods, and responsible gaming standards helps foster trust among players. A strong, region-specific approach not only enhances credibility but also boosts long-term growth potential across Latin America.

Helena do Couto: Beyond gathering data from current player behaviour, it’s essential for operators to present themselves to potential players in ways that captivate, connect and build trust.

When comparing Brazil to Europe, its territory covers an area roughly 80% the size of the entire continent. So, although Brazil is just one country, it is crucial for operators to explore the cultural diversity of each region. This approach helps players feel recognised and connected to the operator. 

The Brazilian tendency to bargain for discounts and love of giveaways translates into a market preference for bonus offers. Connection can also be enhanced by integrating the operator’s brand into elements already familiar to players.

Trust will be built on a license to operate in Brazil, clear games rule, and efficient customer service, given the country’s strong consumer protection system. And of course, a portfolio featuring the most popular games among Brazilians, with a dash of new releases.

Alvaro Camargo: This is a good question. While entering the market with a set of services and products that have been successful in other markets is a reasonable strategy, it is also vital to remember that you are dealing with a very specific audience.

You need to understand your customer and the ways that things are run in Brazil. There are local habits and cultural differences that have a big impact on the way customers relate to brands and operators. 

It is also important to understand that Brazilians are impulsive, emotional customers. Well-structured support teams and service levels are required to allow players to make quick deposits, interact and offer real time incentives in a dynamic way, constantly keeping them engaged.

Brazil is also a very visual culture, too. By packaging services attractively, this will help to keep players within an ecosystem.

Thiago Calmon: To succeed in the competitive gaming and betting industry, operators must prioritise a seamless user experience. This involves optimising both website and app interfaces to ensure intuitive navigation and accessibility for all players.

Coupled with this is the importance of offering flexible payment options tailored to local preferences. By accommodating various payment methods that resonate with regional habits, operators can enhance user convenience and build greater trust among their clients.

Localisation within content is also essential; understanding local interests, such as favoured sports and cultural nuances, enables operators to engage effectively with their target audience. Additionally, emphasising responsible gaming practices is crucial in establishing a trustworthy brand.

By promoting a safe and responsible gambling environment, operators not only foster player loyalty but also contribute to the integrity and sustainability of the industry as a whole.

CB: Finally, amid reports that Brazil won’t be quite as lucrative for operators as was first predicted, what is your ideal vision for the future of the regulated market in the country?

TS: My ideal vision for Brazil’s regulated igaming market is one that strikes a sustainable balance for all stakeholders—operators, suppliers, players, and the regulator. For regulators, this shouldn’t just be about blocking unauthorised sites; they also need to create an environment where regulated operators can flourish.

Such an approach would benefit players, maintain industry integrity, and ensure long-term growth. A balanced ecosystem, where regulation doesn’t stifle opportunity, would make Brazil a leading example in LatAm and beyond.

It can also lead to Brazil becoming a hub for companies looking to establish a corporate presence to target the wider LatAm region and to lessen the impact of withholding tax.

IS: The ideal future for Brazil’s regulated market would strive for a balance between fair profitability and sustainable growth.

This includes streamlined licensing processes, moderate tax rates, and flexible payment solutions. Such an environment would encourage investment, enhance market competitiveness, and serve as a benchmark for regulatory practices in Latin America, fostering trust and promoting growth across the region.

HdC: It depends on what was previously forecast as profitable. There is, of course, a difference between the period prior to the regulation and the one that will begin on January 1, 2025, but Brazil will continue to be a major force in the betting sector.

As for my ideal vision, I imagine an industry recognised by everyone for what it is: a form of entertainment. People will understand that regulation – not prohibition – is the best path.

Regulations will be consolidated, discussions about interpreting the rules will be minimised to almost zero, data published by institutions and the media will be accurate, and we’ll be able to focus all our energy on improving the product and player experience.

AC: We have a unique tax structure, so that presents a challenge to companies entering the market. The government has proposed a lot of questions that will affect profitability, but there has to be an understanding that it’s all about scalability.

In the pre-regulated market you had small, profitable operations that did not spend much on marketing and instead went down the route of affiliation. With the new structure in place, the margins that were in play no longer are and that means businesses will need to go big. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to become profitable. 

This is where customer engagement also becomes invaluable, interacting with existing players in the right way. If operators gain highly relevant data about their customers and leverage that effectively, connecting with them effectively at the right times, this can help to extract so much value compared to chasing new players.

TC: In the gambling industry, it’s crucial to understand that although initial profits may not meet expectations, a well-regulated market can bring significant long-term benefits. Establishing a transparent environment protects players and encourages fair competition among operators.

Clear regulations enhance trust, promoting responsible gambling practices and instilling confidence in stakeholders. This transparency attracts investment, as stability and integrity are appealing to investors.

For Brazil, creating a reliable market not only benefits local operators but also enhances its global competitiveness. Supporting innovation through strong regulations will ensure the industry meets consumer expectations while respecting ethical standards, contributing to long-term sustainability and growth in Brazil’s gambling landscape.

TG: Brazil is the biggest country in Latin America and with a population of 250 million people, the potential for our industry to flourish is substantial. It is really important that within the regulated market, players are presented with the widest possible range of content that appeals to every segment.

This will help channelisation efforts, enabling Brazilian operators to deliver entertainment that is fun, wide-ranging and above all, safe and secure. I am optimistic this will be the case once regulations kick into effect early next year.

It’s a very exciting time and we look forward to continuing to work with operators, alongside our commercial and games teams, to ensure that this is a very successful market for Light & Wonder.  

The post What does a perfect Brazilian market comprise? appeared first on CasinoBeats.

In the first of a two-part special, CasinoBeats spoke to Alvaro Camargo, Country Manager Brazil at Xtremepush, Thiago Calmon, Online Sales Manager at R. Franco Digital, Tatiana García Barrenechea, Commercial Director for LatAm at Light & Wonder, Thomas Smallwood, Chief Commercial Officer at ESA Gaming, Izabela Słodkowska-Popiel, Head of Account Management for North America and Latin America at Wazdan, and Helena do Couto, Regional Legal Officer LatAm at Eeze, about the current standing within the country, as well as how critical it is for the continent as a whole that Brazil becomes a raging success.

CasinoBeats: How optimistic are you about the current state of play in the regulated gambling industry in Brazil?

Alvaro Camargo: We are very excited, because we have seen the regulators have understood what is at stake. Many companies were concerned about whether the regulations being put in place would be attractive, but there has been a significant movement in terms of applications for Brazilian licenses.

There are also many foreign suppliers and operators looking to make a big play in the market, bringing with them major investment and top-level industry expertise. All of this contributes to the raising of the quality within the market, in terms of services, the professional teams involved and ultimately, the customer experience.

Thiago Calmon: I hold an optimistic view on the Brazilian market’s future. There is significant potential for growth, driven by rising interest from both local and international operators. With the regulatory framework launching early next year, a foundation is beginning to form, which is a positive step towards market maturation.

However, it is important to acknowledge that specific challenges must be addressed to facilitate the market’s full development. These hurdles will need strategic navigation to unlock the full advantages of this burgeoning landscape.

Tatiana García: The region’s biggest country embracing regulation is a highly significant event not only in LatAm, but across the entire world of online gaming. The number of licence applications that have been submitted ahead of the market’s launch at the start of next year shows that there is a strong appetite to become actively involved in what is an exciting opportunity.

I expect a wide range of industry stakeholders will want to be heavily involved very early on, including Light & Wonder, supplying the market with the content and services that will help to create a highly entertaining, safe gaming environment.

Thomas Smallwood: I’m cautiously optimistic about Brazil’s regulated gambling market. It’s a promising yet complex space with strong potential. We’ve seen significant growth in recent years, although this has slowed somewhat as regulation approaches. However, in general, it bodes well for content providers as it signals a maturing market.

If the regulatory rollout is smooth and taxation does not stifle the industry, we could see sustained growth and continue attracting international operators and developers keen to tap into this lucrative market.

That said, challenges do remain, such as multiple layers of taxation and uncertainty around how various costs will be shared between operators and suppliers, not to mention the current time constraints around regulation by January 1 this may be delayed in the near future.

Izabela Słodkowska: The outlook for Brazil’s regulated gambling industry is highly optimistic. Recent regulations for online betting and casino games are expected to drive significant growth, potentially reaching a $3b market by 2027.

Although the regulatory landscape poses operational challenges, Brazil’s framework is aligned with the growing trend of responsible gambling in Latin America, making it a promising opportunity for operators looking to invest. 

Helena do Couto: I would say I’m a realistic optimist. Regulation has been necessary for years, and today, we have it in a comprehensive format. However, it is new, and the administrative authority responsible is also new.

While it is certainly composed of competent people, it is still in its first year of operation. We also have some conflicts between state and federal jurisdictions as operators and the entire chain involved are adapting to the rules and conducting tests. 

In other words, we have the theory – the legislation and ordinances – ready. Now, we’re creating practical experience from this theory, adapting operations that previously followed other regulations, such as those from Curaçao. So, the current state is one of intensive learning, but I am certain that this somewhat turbulent adaptation period we’re experiencing has its days numbered.

CB: How vital is it for the continued growth of regulation in Latin American markets for Brazil to be a success story?

TC: Brazil’s success is of paramount importance within the context of Latin America’s regulatory landscape. As the largest market in the region, Brazil has the potential to set a benchmark for other countries to follow. If Brazil can develop an effective regulatory framework, it could pave the way for similar strategies across Latin America.

This would not only drive growth and attract investment, but also contribute to creating a more cohesive and unified regional market. Thus, in my opinion, Brazil’s regulatory journey is essential for fostering a stable and favourable business environment that benefits the entire region.

TG: Brazil is undoubtedly a very important country and its impact after launch will inevitably have a ripple effect across other countries considering putting regulations in place. The balance of a thriving, competitive market with all-important protections for players is one that we believe can act as a model for others to follow. 

At the same time, what operators need to offer players to thrive does not necessarily translate easily across the region. Brazil has not had legal land-based casinos in place in most people’s lifetimes, meaning it is slightly different to many other existing regulated markets across LatAm from a player and content perspective.

We have seen that Argentina, with its land-based casino heritage, has become a success in several regulated regions despite challenging economic circumstances. It is a similar story in Mexico, where that casino heritage has helped our popular, recognisable omnichannel franchises to perform well.  

TS: Brazil is in a prime position to become Latin America’s gambling hub, offering ample opportunities for both domestic and international stakeholders. As the largest economy in the region, with a population exceeding 200 million and a deep-rooted sports culture, Brazil could set a strong precedent for other markets in the region.

Success will depend on a model that balances operator and supplier profitability with robust player protections, making regulated markets more attractive across LatAm. If tax burdens, for instance on player winnings and gaming companies, are carefully managed, the country could become an exemplary case for sustainable growth.

IS: Brazil’s success in establishing a regulated gambling market is critical for the broader regulatory progress in Latin America. It sets a vital precedent for market stability, revenue generation, and responsible gaming practices across the region.

As one of the largest potential markets, Brazil’s effective regulatory framework could encourage neighbouring countries to adopt similar measures, enhancing Latin America’s appeal to international operators and investors.

HdC: Brazil plays a central role in Latin America, and this influence extends beyond the igaming industry. Brazil borders nearly every country in South America, spans continental dimensions, and is the largest economy in LatAm. It acts as the main driver of investment, innovation, and serves as a strategic hub for market expansion and regulatory developments in emerging areas.

Brazil’s success – which is already underway – will inspire other countries on the continent who have not yet regulated the sector to do so and will draw the attention of both local and global investors to a region with clear potential for investment and growth.

AC: While we already have regulated markets across LatAm, the relevance of Brazil in the region cannot be overstated. Once a market of this size goes through the process of creating and rolling out a regulatory model, implementing its policies successfully, it speaks to what is possible for neighbouring countries.

Thanks to strong policies and a layer of built-in protection for the supplier, operator, service provider and customer, Brazil presents a positive outcome that can certainly be emulated elsewhere.

The post Roundtable: is a Brazil success story critical for the whole of Latin America? appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Ahead of the upcoming licensing framework in 2025, the igaming landscape in Italy undergoes a transience period. CasinoBeats speaks to an Italian market veteran, Arcangelo Lonoce, Head of Business Development at Habanero, about his thoughts on where the region currently stands, how suppliers can prepare for these regulatory changes and how to remain competitive amidst uncertainty. 

CasinoBeats: To begin, could you talk us through where one of Europe’s largest markets stands in 2024, and more specifically, Habanero’s current position within the country?

Arcangelo Lonoce: Italy is a critical market for Habanero, ranking as our second largest globally. We first entered the market seven years ago and gone on to witness tremendous growth. Since gaining traction, we’ve tailored our approach to cater specifically to the jurisdiction, even appointing one dedicated senior account manager to better serve our partners.

In 2024, the Italian market will continue to grow steadily, with a notable shift from traditional retail gaming to online platforms. Despite this transition, retail gaming culture remains integral to understanding local players. Habanero has been successful by blending conventional elements with modern mechanics, delivering products that resonate deeply with the local audience. As our flagship market, Habanero will always be greatly invested in Italy and look forward to continuing to nurture partnerships in the region. 

CB: Despite being one of the continent’s most established territories for gaming, where does Habanero still see opportunities for growth? And how will these be capitalised on?

AL: Opportunities for growth in the country are vast, as the demand for new and exciting games remains insatiable. Italian players are highly curious and come from a deeply rooted retail culture. We’ve observed continuous growth in the number of players transitioning to online gaming, with many now preferring the more dynamic gaming experience that igaming offers. 

One area where we believe we will see significant developments is in being able to offer a multi-channel experience, bridging retail and online platforms. Additionally, with the new licensing legislation set to reshape the market in 2025, we are well-positioned to capitalise on these changes. As a young company, agility is ingrained in our very core and whatever challenges the market throws at us, we are prepared to adapt. 

CB: Like many other territories, Italy isn’t immune to regulatory alterations. How would you say the industry has responded? How do you maintain brand strength within the country?

AL: The industry has shown remarkable resilience and maturity in responding to regulatory changes over the past several years. The advertising ban, for instance, posed a challenge, but the market adapted by finding innovative ways to promote brands without violating regulations. Companies like ours have been able to maintain brand visibility through strategic partnerships and creative brand placements.

Despite these hurdles, the industry has continued to grow, and stakeholders have turned challenges into opportunities. The upcoming licensing changes in 2025 present another regulatory shift, but we remain confident that the market will navigate these challenges as it has done in the past. At Habanero, we’ve worked closely with our partners to maintain a strong presence in Italy by delivering culturally relevant games, like Scopa, which tap into Italian gaming heritage.

CB: What would you pinpoint as some of the major challenges being faced within the Italian online gaming ecosystem? How do you compete against such intense competition? How much of an issue is the black market?

AL: The biggest challenge we’ve faced so far has been the advertising ban, which has impacted how brands can communicate with customers. Another challenge is the lengthy and complex regulatory approval process for releasing new games in Italy, which can delay product launches. This makes it difficult for suppliers and operators to plan and execute product roadmaps efficiently.

Competition is fierce in Italy, with larger suppliers dominating the market. However, Habanero stands out by offering exceptional, bespoke products and maintaining agility that many larger competitors lack. Our success comes from consistently delivering high-quality games and impeccable support, both technically and commercially.

The black market is another significant issue, albeit one that isn’t just limited to Italy, and has been exacerbated by the advertising ban. Licensed operators are restricted in their advertising efforts, while black market entities don’t bother with these constraints.

This imbalance makes it harder for legitimate operators to compete, and the black market has grown, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdown. Addressing this issue requires a more cooperative approach between the government, regulators, and industry stakeholders.

CB: How do you see the Italian market playing out through the remainder of the year and beyond? How will Habanero continue to ensure consistent growth?

AL: The past two years have been years of consolidation, although the market still shows positive signs of growth. This opens us up to create bespoke partnerships with key players in the market and being able to stay afloat in a more competitive environment because everybody will be fighting for a place in the sun.

We’re evolving beyond simply being a game supplier by offering comprehensive solutions that support our partners in navigating the changing landscape. While we can’t disclose all our upcoming projects, it will become clear in the coming months that Habanero is committed to helping our clients remain competitive and grow in this dynamic market beyond mere slot provision. 

The post Arcangelo Lonoce, Habanero: turning Italian challenges into opportunities appeared first on CasinoBeats.

86%

iGaming Ontario (iGO) has once again reported total wagers of over CAD$18bn in its second quarter of 2024-25 fiscal year (Q3 2024), with online casino having an 86% share of the Canadian province’s total wagers.

From Ontario’s 51 operators with 83 gaming websites in Q2, iGO reported that total wagers for the quarter, not including promotional wagers (bonuses), stood at $18.7bn, a 1.6% increase in comparison to the previous quarter and a 31.7% increase year-over-year.

Total gaming revenue rose in comparison to the previous quarter and YoY, rising by 1.7% and 35.4% respectively to $738m. 

iGO stated that the total gaming revenue figure “represents total cash wagers, including rake fees, tournament fees, and other fees, across all Operators, minus player winnings derived from cash wagers and does not take into account operating costs or other liabilities”.

In Q2, iGO noted that over 1.32 million player accounts were active, with the average monthly spend per account being $308.

Per vertical, total wagers in casino (slots, live and computer-based table games and peer-to-peer bingo) stood at $16bn, 86% of the total during the quarter. Casino gaming revenue was $553m, 75% of the total gaming revenue.

Betting (sports, esports, proposition and novelty bets, as well as exchange betting) had a total wagers amount of $2.2bn, 12% of Q2’s total. Betting’s gaming revenue amounted to $167m, 23% of the total during the quarter.

€280.1m

Betsson reported a group revenue increase of 18% compared to the same period last year to €280.1m (Q3 2023: €237.6m). 

In constant currencies and adjusted for acquisition, revenue rose by 50.6% YoY. Share of revenue from locally regulated markets (€163m) increased to 58% (2023: €106m/45%). 

Licence revenue for system delivery to B2B customers stood at €66.7m (2023: €55.9m), with new customers added and further sportsbook trading capabilities achieved through the 2022 acquisition of KickerTech, in addition to improvements and investments in casino and sportsbook products.

Customer activity rose in the quarter, with deposits rising by 19.8% YoY and reaching an all-time high of €1.48bn (2023: €1.24bn). Registered customers grew to 31.1 million, up 5.9% (2023: 29.4 million), while active customers increased by 9.8% to 1,357,953 (2023: 1,237,238).

Betsson’s EBITDA rose by 17% YoY to €80.3m (2023: €68.9m), with a margin of 28.7% (2023: 29%). EBIT increased by 15% to €64.5m (2023: €56m), with a margin of 23% (2023: 23.6%). 

Net income fell slightly to €43.4m (2023: €46.2m), with earnings per share at €0.31 (2023: €0.35). Operating cash flow at the end of the quarter was €62.5m (2023: €44.9m), while net debt was €-128.3m (2023: €-65.5m).

“Yet again, new record levels in revenue and EBIT in the third quarter,” commented Pontus Lindwall, CEO of Betsson.

“The high customer activity continued during the third quarter with new record levels in customer deposits and gaming turnover. Yet again Betsson reports quarterly records in revenue and EBIT, which means the eleventh quarter in a row with sequential growth on the EBIT level.”

60%

Evolution CEO Martin Carlesund revealed the situation for the firm in Georgia is “stable” with its studio currently operating at around 60% capacity, a level that it hopes will remain after significant disruption caused by union strike action.

Updating investors, Carlesund revealed that the Georgian studio will not return to full capacity after the strike due to “instability”. Nonetheless, he added that with over 20 studios globally, they are able to offset lost capacity and limit the impact on their customers. 

Carlesund stated that Evolution “fully supports” the right of workers to be part of a union. However, after much dialogue with the union in Georgia, he described their demands as “simply unreasonable”.

He went on to accuse the unions and the media of spreading “a lot of disinformation and blunt lies”, emphasising the importance of them acting in line with legislation as well as union values. 

One of the key falsehoods that Carlesund stated had been spread was around the size of the strikes, as he stated around 300 staff were involved as it initially started, which caused minimal impact on the firm’s day-to-day operations. 

This then escalated according to Carlesund, when “a small number of non-employees and union activists illegally blocked the entrance to the workplace, behaving violently, vandalising the building and harassing working staff’, which caused “severe disruptions” and led to the “sad outcome” of them moving operations. 

“Naturally the outcome of this is not positive for customers” said Carlesund, who added that he recently met with regulators in Georgia who “see through the situation with the unions and base their judgements on facts and not social media”. 

98%

Groupe Française des Jeux (FDJ) has announced that its shareholding in Kindred Group has increased to over 98% following the conclusion of its public tender offer extension.

Earlier this month, the French gambling group completed its acquisition of Unibet and 32Red operator for nearly €2.5bn, a transaction that had been in the works since an offer of SEK 130 in cash per Swedish Depository Receipt (SDRs) was submitted back in January this year.

Following the end of the first settlement delivery of the offer on 11 October, FDJ held 91.77% of Kindred’s share capital, tendering 195,659,291 Kindred SDRs, representing 90.66% of the group’s capital, alongside acquiring 2,400,000 Kindred SDRs directly from Veralda, representing 1.11% of the group’s share capital.

However, at the time, FDJ extended its offer to 18 October to allow for Kindred shareholders who have not tendered their shares to do so on unchanged terms. With that date now passed, the group has announced that an additional 14,734,917 Kindred SDRs were tendered, representing 6.83% of the share capital.

Following settlement delivery of the extended offer, expected to take place on 29 October, FDJ’s shareholding in Kindred will therefore be 98.6%.

Since FDJ holds over 90% of Kindred’s share capital, the group intends to “request the implementation of the squeeze-out procedure” following Kindred’s articles of association to acquire all the shares not tendered in the public offer, delisting Kindred’s SDRs from Nasdaq Stockholm.

The post Ontario, Evolution, Betsson, FDJ and Kindred: the week in numbers appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Each of the studio’s best-performing slot releases kept their positions in the top slots charts, while two new titles flew into several top games tables. 

IGT reclaimed its leading position in the Canadian supplier charts, while further supplier shake-ups were witnessed as Games Global jumped ahead of Evolution to secure a place in the top three. 

US round-up

IGT’s Cash Eruption slot continues to prove itself as a mainstay in the top slots by GGR charts, coming in first place for yet another month. The title regained some of the GGR share that it lost from August to September, as its portion of GGR rose from 2.7% to 2.88%. 

Last month’s second place finisher in the GGR charts Live Dealer Roulette from Evolution fell to fourth place as its GGR share dropped from 1.57% to 1.18%, as Aristocrat’s Buffalo and Blackjack from IGT leaping over the title to finish in second and third place with 1.68% and 1.4%, respectively. 

7s Fire Blitz from White Hat Studios stormed into the top five with a 1.16% GGR share after not appearing in the top 25 last month. 

From the top games per GGR, 16 were slot titles, three were table games and six were live casino titles, with no video poker games making the top 25 for just the second time this year. 

Unsurprisingly, Cash Eruption remained in pole position in the top games overall charts, while last month’s second place Triple Stones from Gamecode dropped into third place, replaced by IGT’s Blackjack title, which rose from fourth place in September. 

AGS’ Capital Gains slot stepped up from sixth place to take fourth spot in October’s charts, while Live Dealer Lightning Roulette rounded out the top five, dropping from September’s third place. 

Two new rankings made it into the top 10, as 7s Fire Blitz and Games Global’s Hyper Gold All In secured sixth and seventh place respectively. 

This caused a slight shift for last month’s top 10 finishers, as Crazy Time from Evolution fell from fifth to eighth, Craps by Internal remained in ninth place and Evolution’s Live Dealer Baccarat dropped from eight to 10th place. 

Turning onto the top slots charts, it was a stalwart month for the top three slots as Cash Eruption, Triple Stones and Capital Gains each kept their place at the top of the pile, in that order. 

Meanwhile, the two new rankings that flew towards the top of the top games charts did the same for the slots table, as 7s Fire Blitz and Hyper Gold All In took fourth and fifth place. 

For a second month in a row, 12 suppliers were represented in the top slots charts. Light & Wonder, Evolution, Aristocrat, Reel Play, Everi, Inspired and Greentube each had at least one slot appearing in the top 25. 

A bunch of new rankings and shifting slots from September’s top 10 made up the top new game rankings, with Triple Stones leading the pack for another month. 

Furthermore, 7s Fire Blitz and Hyper Gold All In secured second and third place, respectively, while 3x Ultra Diamond from AGS remained in fourth place. Super Boom Boom Boom from Gamecode rounded out the top five, climbing slightly from September’s sixth place. 

Dark Waters Power Combo and 333 Fat Frogs Power Combo, each from Games Global, took sixth and seventh place, with the former dropping from last month’s second place finish and the latter remaining in the same position. 

Cash Machine Jackpots by Everi dropped from fifth to eighth while new rankings Starlight Jackpots Athena Goddess of War from Greentube and Egglink Chicken Fox from L&W came in ninth and 10th.

As per usual, each game that appeared in the top 25 new games was a slot release. 

Evolution led the supplier charts for consecutive months, securing the largest portion of GGR share with 18% (September: 17.9%). IGT and L&W also kept their positions in the supplier charts with 17.4% (September: 16.2%) and approximately 13.4% (September: 13.4%), respectively. 

Meanwhile, Games Global lost percentage points in the supplier charts for consecutive months by dropping from 8.4% to 7.4%, while White Hat gained some traction by coming in with 5.6% (September: 5.2%). 

Slots remained the dominant segment for total games tracked, with a total of 91.5%, ahead of table games which stood at 3.3%. 

Instant win was next with 2.2%, just ahead of live casino’s 1.4%, video poker’s 0.9 per cent, lottery’s 0.3% and bingo/keno’s 0.3%. 

Mobile recorded the highest percentage of theoretical win generated per vertical with 72%, followed by desktop at 27% and tablet at 1%. 

The latest US Eilers-Fantini report examined data from Michigan, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut across 28 online casino sites, tracking 67,740 games to represent around 64% of the US market.

Canada figures

Eilers & Krejcik’s Canadian report continues to provide statistics on the nation’s online casino industry, covering nine online casino sites to track 17,557 games across five provinces. 

Yet again, Cash Eruption kept its position atop Canada’s most-played games by GGR chart but with the exact same portion of GGR, 2.09%.

The slot gained a considerable portion of GGR share compared to the rest of the competition, more than doubling Evolution’s Live Dealer Roulette title which climbed from fourth to second place with 0.84%. 

Last month’s second place finisher, Cleopatra by IGT, dropped into third place with a 0.82% GGR share, followed by its Big City 5s slot which gained 0.67%. Lucky Larry Lobstermania 2, also from IGT, came in fifth place with another 0.67% GGR share. 

IGT leaped over L&W in the Canadian supplier charts to lead the pack, claiming a 17.1% GGR share (September: 15.87%) which pipped L&W’s 15.42%.

Games Global outperformed Evolution to knock the latter from third place to fourth, claiming the bronze medal position for itself with 12.62% (September: 11.99%). Evolution claimed 11.4%, dropping from last month’s 12.11%. 

Pragmatic Play remained in fifth place by securing 10.27% of the GGR share, a slight drop from last month’s 10.81%. 

If interested in learning more, subscribing, or participating in the Eilers-Fantini Online Game Performance Database reach out to Rick Eckert at reckert@ekgamingllc.com.

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That was the viewpoint expressed on the showfloor of the greatest show in gaming, the Lisbon-based SBC Summit, which proved to be a popular hunting ground in being able to “open up many doors”.

Despite progressing to acknowledge an arrival within the realm of crash games before the close of the year, attention was first directed towards geographical issues in forming a solid foundation for future success.    

Sights set on Eastern Europe

The riches on offer across numerous countries located in the eastern portion of the European continent forms a critical component of the gaming studio’s strategic action plan to secure a greater global market share.

A recent entry in Romania forms the foundation of this effort, however, as Chumel states that this merely forms one strand of the much larger internal ambitions possessed.

“Entering the Romanian market is a significant milestone for Champion as it solidifies our presence in Eastern Europe where the igaming industry is rapidly growing,” he says.

“Romania, being a regulated market with a large player base, offers us a platform to showcase our games to a wider audience. This move also provides us with valuable insights into player preferences in the region, enabling us to adapt our portfolio to meet local tastes” 

Progress thus far has been witnessed in the shape of a Princess Casino partnership and a promise that further major Romanian players will soon follow suit. In addition, a collaboration with local streamer Stero Slots that is tasked with ramping up engagement with the country’s igaming community.

Despite these recent alignments offering a solid foothold that Champion is confident will “boost brand recognition”, Chumel assures that “future goals are to expand even further”.

A strong foundation for sustainable growth

Taking a more global outlook, Chumel highlighted one particular continent, which has proven to be a popular talking point on the industry’s agenda of late, in suggesting where Champion believes a further uplift in performance could be felt.

“We are continuously assessing new jurisdictions that provide a stable regulatory environment and a growing player base,” he states.

However, this comes alongside a certain set of parameters being identified and met. These primarily include emerging and regulated markets offering a strong foundation for sustainable growth, in addition to exhibiting player demand and a mature regulatory framework.

“Latin America stands out as an exciting region, with countries like Brazil and Argentina offering immense potential for growth,” Chumel comments.

“Additionally, we are keen to explore other regions with similar dynamics where our diverse portfolio of games can truly resonate with local audiences. 

“By tailoring our offerings to fit player preferences in these regions, we believe we can establish a strong presence and make a lasting mark.”

An aggregation vs direct integration dilemma

A common conundrum encountered within the igaming space is with regards to the most optimal way for developers of all sizes to ensure that their content is placed in front of as many eyes as possible.

The rise of aggregation platforms, and the importance of the space they occupy within the wider ecosystem, has been clear for all to see. One question remains though; are we witnessing a demise of direct integrations?

For Chumel, partnerships with operators themselves, as well as via larger platforms, each remain as viable options, however, market conditions are the ultimate determining factor on which would reign supreme.

“Aggregators allow us to reach new markets quickly and with less complexity, as they provide access to multiple operators through a single integration,” he comments. “This is particularly effective in emerging or highly fragmented markets. 

“However, in more mature or strategically important markets, direct integration offers more control over the user experience and ensures closer relationships with operators, allowing us to better align our offerings with player expectations.”

Reiterating his earlier point, Chumel highlights that a hybrid approach is most likely to be the path that is followed by Champion in aiming to reach and ultimately surpass its worldwide ambitions.

Consistent evolution = positive results

A consistent focus on player and partner feedback is stipulated by Chumel as being integral in ensuring that Champion’s roadmap continues to adapt to meeting the varying desires of its user base.

Whether this comprises a colour scheme, theme, overall design or one of a number of other factors, the studio’s CEO is confident of staying ahead amid a growing demand for more immersive and appealing gameplay.

“At Champion, we focus on developing games that offer unique mechanics, such as bonus buys, free spins, and engaging bonus games,” he says. 

“Our development strategy includes the use of cutting-edge technologies like 3D symbols and animations, ensuring an exciting and fresh experience. 

“We are also exploring crash games, such as our upcoming release, to cater to the rise of non-traditional game formats. Our goal is to maintain a balance between classic themes, like fruit and lucky sevens, and newer, trendier themes such as adventure and mythology.”

A key part of this action plan will see Champion spread its wings as the company sets a collision course with a number of developers that have been looking at one niche in particular for future growth.

An entry into the crash game vertical is intended to be made before the close of the year, when it is also hoped the Champion roadmap ramps up from one launch per month to two. 

Elsewhere, Anubis Spell and Safari Ways Deluxe are a pair of titles labelled as standing out, with interested parties urged to look out for a “commitment to offering engaging, high-quality experiences”.

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