Interviews
Exclusive CEE interview with Evoplay Entertainment
With the CEE region no doubt set to be one of Europe’s biggest growth stories this year, we caught up with Evoplay Entertainment’s CBDO, Vladimir Malakchi, to talk through the region’s demographics, opportunities and hottest markets through 2021 and beyond.
The CEE region has become an increasingly important factor for growth on the continent, which markets do you see being the main drivers?
It’s all about the big-hitters that have an established framework in place, whether that be Bulgaria, Romania, Lithuania, Croatia or any of the other regulated markets. What we’ve seen in the last few years has been exponential in terms of growth, and that’s undoubtedly a good thing. Solid, concise frameworks that allow a safe and level playing field for both player and operator has created a wide berth of entry for multiple international brands across the region. Given the windfall on revenue for governments, rather than seeing GGR go offshore, will undoubtedly prove to be a good thing for local economies, and has already proven to be a significant contributor to national budgets.
In hand with that development comes a surge in the quality of gaming available – as well as a more advanced menu of entertainment experiences – whether that be table games, instant games or slots. I’m fully confident that the advantages of a safe, regulated market will continue to be felt by countries that have established a steady GGR growth rate and a favourable environment for doing business.
In general, how would you define the typical CEE player’s profile towards slots, instant and table games? What kind of entertainment are players looking for?
The typical CEE player mainly shares characteristics with those you’d find elsewhere in Europe. Having said that, the transition to online has indeed come later than in the West, so it is inevitable that we see games that have a lot in common with the land-base sector to appeal to players. We’re also seeing plenty of interest in instant games (especially when it comes to our stable of titles), which I believe to be a massive growth area. Why? The clue’s in the name – they give players a chance to enjoy instant entertainment, lighting-fast game rounds and a quickfire result.
Are there any particular territories that stand out for you as having a unique player demographic?
While we’re certainly not a brand that believes in a ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to global delivery, from personal experience I can say that the extent that one sees unique player demographics vary from country to country is relatively minimal. A greater factor that shapes delivery of product, and in effect defining the demographics of the players you deliver to in each market – is the infrastructure and accessibility. For example, with rural or highland areas, slower internet speeds are inevitable and therefore require more adaptable content that can either be leveraged via game engines to enhance the download speed, or alternatively through the application of light technical requirements for the game itself.
Having said that, CEE is digitising at an impressively fast pace. Heavy investment in high-speed broadband coverage can be observed throughout Europe, with 86% of the Czech Republic’s rural locations now connected to the internet, for instance, while Romania (as I’m sure any citizen there will be fast to tell you), has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world!
How should operators in the region be looking to tailor / customise their content to further drive retention and engagement?
There’s really no substitute for analysing the market in depth. That means closely studying the preferences of local players and the state-of-play for any potential competitors. Operators who get that process right can adapt their offering accordingly, thus driving revenue in the long-term.
We know that while session durations are relatively consistent across Europe, the average stake value is not. This is especially the case in the CEE region, where arguably the economic fallout from COVID-19 can be felt harder than most, which requires a gaming experience that can provide extended entertainment without draining player’s bank balances in minutes. This is especially the case for what is a hugely tech-savvy demographic – who are far more discerning than many outsiders would assume – and therefore require a solid product with the maths to back it up. Success here is all about authenticity, and players will recognise a lack of it from a mile off.
Gamification’s going to be a hot topic in the months ahead given the need for entertainment – as a market expert, what types of features do you believe will be key in 2021?
Tournaments are very strong right now – and formats that allow players to compete against each other in real time are going to be a mainstay in gaming development this year. I see this as being indicative that providing players with an additional sense of competition, such as pitting players against players through formats like multiplayer gameplay, is a whole new level of gamification in itself that can do wonders for making your products more interesting for your audience locked down at home.
I’m particularly excited about what multiplayer can offer, and we’re taking this area very seriously. They’re going to be a serious asset when it comes to providing an additional dimension of gameplay. Combine that with faster rounds with instant games (which are very hot right now), as well as the opportunity for more varied stakes – and you have a lightning-fast experience that can create a hugely exciting betting environment and really drive engagement and retention.
Ukraine of course is going to be very closely watched – how would you rate the regulation process so far and do you believe we’re on track to go live by mid-next year?
We’ve seen good progress in Ukraine since July last year when online gambling was officially made legal – and the government has been working hard to get a regulatory framework in place, with a commission already formed to monitor the issuing of licenses to casino operators.
It is also expected that the number of licences that the authorities choose to grant will be limited – this, just like we’ve recently seen in Argentina, means that we have a queue of foreign operators waiting for certification, and I predict will start seeing the results show in around six months. I look forward to contributing towards the creation of a safe and regulated gaming environment for all, as well as seeing the benefits that gaming revenue will bring to our national economy – just as it has for other regulated CEE territories. The future is certainly looking bright!
And last but not least, are there any leading figures or businesses you can recommend to our readers for 2021 inspiration?
The biggest source of inspiration to me personally continues to be the fantastic team of staff we’ve got right here at Evoplay Entertainment. The tremendous success we’ve enjoyed as a company drives me to strive for more, and I genuinely believe that when we work together as a company, there is almost nothing we can’t achieve.
Don’t be afraid to take inspiration from your own accomplishments, no matter how large or small. It’s a reminder that your greatest days lie ahead – something that’s particularly important to remember in the current circumstances!
Interviews
Can’t get no satisfaction – Q&A w/ Mateja Popovic CEO at Fincore
This is an industry where customer loyalty can be hard to come by, but is this because online sportsbook and casino operators are failing to meet player expectations? Mateja Popovic at Fincore believes so, but suggests that operators can mitigate churn simply by understanding what the customer’s next move will be before they do.
Player satisfaction and loyalty remain a challenge for many online sportsbooks and casinos. Why do you think this is the case?
The vast majority of online sportsbooks and casinos are yet to offer a truly personalised experience for each player. This means they are not meeting expectations, and this is why many players are tempted to try other brands. As a result, operators are spending to acquire players that quickly churn which means they are not maximising the full lifetime value of each player. Operators only have a small window of time in which to prove to the player they offer the experience they are seeking, and many brands simply fail to impress from when the player signs up, deposits and makes their first spin, to when they decide to try another site, sometimes just a day or so later.
Does this mean that operators need to find a way to predict player preferences so they can be sure to meet them?
Yes, operators need to know the customer’s next move before they do. This is the only way to deliver the right thing (odds, slots, promotions, interactions) at the right point in the user journey and at the right time. By doing this, operators can bring tremendous value and ensure the player experience is so good they will not want to switch to a rival brand because of a sign-up bonus – the operator will already be delivering tailored bonuses when the player expects them. It is how streaming platforms such as Netflix work, serving up content it knows you will want to watch so that you spend more time watching its movies and TV shows.
Is it actually possible for operators to be able to know a customer’s move before they do?
Absolutely. Operators generate a huge volume of raw data and cutting-edge platforms that use machine learning and AI, such as Fincore’s Tri, can translate this information into easy-to-understand narratives that can be instantly actioned. This gives operators a deep insight into expected player behaviour, from the likelihood they will churn to the probability they will be a VIP player. The process is real time and can be fully automated, throwing messages directly to the player on the site. Operators can use this information to personalise the player experience – unlocking the highest lifetime value from each player – and to also drive efficiencies when it comes to streamlining marketing – there’s no point in offering big bonuses to a player that is highly likely to churn – and more.
What are the advantages of being able to precisely calculate the player’s lifetime value?
There are so many upsides. By modelling player behaviour quickly, operators can determine whether a player is showing signs of leaving the brand. They can then either decide to elevate the experience that the player is receiving through targeted promotions and content or, if they are highly likely to switch alliances, use that budget on a player that is much less likely to churn or that has been identified as being a high roller. Operators can incur significant costs through undesired player behaviour, but by taking a look into the future thanks to the power of data, operators can cut back spending on “red flag” customers and invest more in those that show the characteristics of being loyal. We have helped one operator save more than €1.4m while increasing their revenue in 2023 with this method.
Does this combination of data, machine learning and AI also allow operators to identify VIP players?
Data combined with machine learning and AI can spot VIP player characteristics very early in their lifecycle with a brand, giving a probability score as to whether the player will become a genuine high-roller or not. Operators can use this insight to deliver a VIP experience to the player with confidence they will generate a positive return. Most operators generate the majority of their revenues from VIP players, so it’s vital that high rollers can be identified early so that operators can roll out the red carpet and ensure they remain loyal to their brand.
Personalisation seems to be the key to meeting player expectations so how does being able to accurately predict player behaviour help operators achieve this?
Consumers expect a personalised experience when engaging with an entertainment option and online casinos and sportsbooks must get better at doing this. With our platform, personalisation can be deep, including pushing particular sports, markets and odds for bettors and casino games for slot players. Bonuses can also be personalised – perhaps the player enjoys table games more than they do slots, so a table games bonus would add true value to their play. This would not be possible without understanding what the player is looking for before they know, and this is why it’s the key to unlocking true personalisation.
Central Europe
Sponsors Spotlight: Pixpel Makes Crypto Games Safe and Fun for Players and Developers in Web3
Ahead of the highly-anticipated Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, organizer HIPTHER is thrilled to introduce and put the spotlight on the companies and people that help make the magic happen: our conference sponsors! These innovative, accomplished professionals and teams make magic happen everyday, and they will be joining us at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 taking place on 26-27 March, to share insights, network and collaborate with you! Get to know them, connect, and meet them in Prague!
In this Sponsors Spotlight Interview the #hipthers meet Mariela Rojas, Community Builder & Social Manager at Pixpel.io, Delegates Bag Sponsors of the upcoming Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. Mariela will be a Speaker at the Summit, offering valuable insights at the panel about “Navigating the Future: Integrating iGaming, AI, Fintech, and Advertising with Compliance and Data Privacy”.
Dear Mariela, it is a great pleasure to meet you, and have Pixpel as a Delegate Bag Sponsor at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit! Could you please take a moment to introduce yourself and your role in Pixpel to our readers?
Hello everyone! Thanks so much for having me. I’m Mariela Rojas, Community Builder and Social Manager at Pixpel.io. I’m thrilled to be here, although I have to admit – this is my first time as a speaker at a Web3 summit! A little nervous, but mostly excited to be part of the conversation. I’ve been with Pixpel since May 2023, and building our community has been an incredible journey. Looking forward to connecting with all of you!
Can you share with us the inspiration behind the founding of Pixpel and how does its multiplatform work?
Pixpel’s story began with a real-world challenge. In 2021, our founder, Juan Vivas fell victim to a rug pull, a common issue in the early days of Web3. This experience fueled his passion to create a more secure and trustworthy Web3 environment.
That’s why Pixpel offers a safety NFT warranty, protecting your assets and bringing peace of mind to the community.
But Pixpel goes beyond security! We’re building an entire ecosystem that’s easy to navigate and accessible to everyone. Imagine a user-friendly platform integrating Fintech, iGaming, data privacy, and compliance – all rolled into one! It’s like having a next-generation gaming console for the Web3 world, ready to take your experience to the next level.
Pixpel is known for pioneering secure and accessible gaming experiences. How does the company ensure both security and accessibility for gamers and developers within the Web3 ecosystem?
Sure, that’s a great question. At Pixpel, we believe security and accessibility are two sides of the same coin. On the security side, we offer a first-of-its-kind NFT warranty system. Think of it as a safety net for gamers’ in-game assets, protecting them from scams and fraud. This builds trust and allows players to focus on enjoying the games they love.
We also prioritize building on secure and established blockchains ( Layer-1 Concordium Blockchain and Zetachain Blockchain). This leverages existing security measures that have been thoroughly tested over time. Additionally, we implement secure transaction protocols to further minimize the risk of hacks or fraudulent activity within the platform.
On the accessibility front, we recognize that navigating Web3 can be daunting for newcomers. That’s why we’re developing a user-friendly platform that’s easy to navigate, even for those new to the world of Web3. Our application offers intuitive usability for users of all experience levels.
As the Community Builder & Social Manager at Pixpel, you play a crucial role in fostering engagement and trust within the community. Can you elaborate on your strategies for building and maintaining a strong and vibrant community around Pixpel?
Absolutely! As the Community Builder at Pixpel, even before launch, fostering engagement and trust is crucial. Transparency and open communication are at the forefront of our strategy. We regularly share updates on our vision for the future, the problems we’re aiming to solve in Web3 gaming, and the exciting solutions we’re developing. We actively seek feedback on our ideas and concepts, listening closely to the needs and pain points of our potential community. This two-way dialogue is essential for building a product that truly resonates with the people who will use it.
Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is also key. We want Pixpel to be a space where everyone feels comfortable asking questions, sharing their thoughts, and being a part of something bigger. Early on, we’re focusing on building relationships with potential users and fostering a sense of belonging. This can involve hosting online discussions, AMAs (Ask Me Anything) sessions with the founders, or even interactive polls and surveys to gauge interest and gather valuable insights. By engaging with potential users early and often, we’re laying the groundwork for a strong and vibrant community that’s invested in Pixpel’s success.
Could you share some insights into Pixpel’s approach to security and safety within the Web3 space, particularly in addressing the concerns surrounding DeFi platforms?
Security is paramount at Pixpel. We understand the concerns surrounding DeFi platforms, and we’re taking a multi-pronged approach to ensure a safe and reliable experience for our users within the Web3 space:
- Focus on Established Blockchains: We’re carefully considering building on well-established blockchains with a proven track record of security. These blockchains have robust security measures in place, having been battle-tested over time.
- Innovative NFT Warranty System: Pixpel offers a first-of-its-kind NFT warranty system. This acts as a safety net for in-game assets, potentially protecting users from scams and fraudulent activity. It’s still under development, but the goal is to provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind for gamers.
- Secure Transaction Protocols: We’re committed to implementing secure transaction protocols within the platform. This helps minimize the risk of hacks and fraudulent activity, further safeguarding user assets.
It’s important to note that Pixpel’s specific features and functionalities are still under development. However, we prioritize building a secure and trustworthy environment by leveraging established technologies and innovative solutions. We’ll continue to adapt and evolve our approach as the Web3 landscape continues to develop.
Your background includes experience in marketing for a law firm in Mexico, which provided exposure to blockchain law. How has this prior experience influenced your role at Pixpel, especially in terms of compliance and regulations in the Web3 landscape?
Absolutely! My background in marketing for a law firm specializing in Mexico actually proved to be incredibly valuable in my transition to Pixpel. While there, I gained significant exposure to the emerging field of blockchain law. This gave me a foundational understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding this new technology.
At Pixpel, this knowledge comes in particularly handy when it comes to compliance and regulations within the Web3 space. The world of Web3 is constantly evolving, and the regulatory environment is still taking shape. However, my experience with blockchain law allows me to stay informed about the latest developments and potential regulatory hurdles. This awareness helps us proactively navigate the complexities of the space and ensure Pixpel operates with the utmost compliance.
It’s not just about following the rules – understanding the regulations also helps us build a more trustworthy and sustainable future for Pixpel and the Web3 gaming community as a whole.
Considering Pixpel’s work, its milestones, and your experience at the forefront of compliance and blockchain law, what is the general message you wish to share in your panel discussion about “Navigating the Future: Integrating iGaming, AI, Fintech, and Advertising with Compliance and Data Privacy”, and with the Summit’s participants?
Imagine a world where secure and seamless gaming merges with the power of Fintech, iGaming, and cutting-edge AI – all wrapped in a user-friendly console for the Web3 era. That’s the future Pixpel is building! But with such innovation comes the responsibility of navigating the ever-evolving world of compliance and data privacy.
At Pixpel, my legal background keeps me at the forefront of these challenges. It’s thrilling to see how blockchain law can be a bridge, not a barrier, as we integrate these powerful technologies. Here’s the key takeaway I want to share: compliance isn’t a roadblock, it’s the roadmap to a thriving Web3 future.
By embracing strong compliance practices and prioritizing data privacy, we can build a secure and trustworthy ecosystem where everyone can enjoy the benefits of iGaming, AI, Fintech, and more. This Summit is a fantastic place to explore these ideas together. I’m excited to learn from the experts and collaborate on building a future where innovation meets responsibility in the Web3 space!
Thank you for this informative interview, Mariela! We look forward to meeting you at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, and hearing your valuable insights on Integrating iGaming, AI, Fintech, and Advertising with Compliance and Data Privacy.
Join us in Prague to connect with Mariela and the Pixpel Team: Get your Tickets to the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit Now!
Balkans
Sponsors Spotlight: NSoft “Crashes” Compliance Challenges and Cashes on Gaming Experience
Ahead of the highly-anticipated Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, organizer HIPTHER is thrilled to introduce and put the spotlight on the companies and people that help make the magic happen: our conference sponsors! These innovative, accomplished professionals and teams make magic happen everyday, and they will be joining us at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 taking place on 26-27 March, to share insights, network and collaborate with you! Get to know them, connect, and meet them in Prague!
In this Sponsors Spotlight Interview the #hipthers meet Zlatan Omerspahić, Head of Legal and Compliance at NSoft, Pen and Paper Sponsors of the upcoming Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. Zlatan will be a Speaker at the Summit, offering valuable insights at the panel about “Compliance Challenges and Opportunities in the Balkan Gambling Industry”.
Hello Zlatan, thank you for taking the time for this interview. We are thrilled to get to know you and introduce you to our readers! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at NSoft, as well as what excites you most about being a part of the iGaming industry?
Hello, and thank you for having me! My name is Zlatan Omerspahić, and I’m the Head of Legal and Compliance at NSoft, a leading technology company specializing in software solutions for the gaming and betting industry.
In my role, I oversee the legal and regulatory aspects of our operations, ensuring that our products and services not only meet but exceed industry standards from legal and compliance perspective.
What excites me most about being part of the iGaming industry is the dynamic and innovative nature of this field. It’s an area that’s constantly evolving, with new technologies and regulatory challenges emerging all the time.
This keeps us on our toes and requires a proactive and forward-thinking approach to navigate the landscape successfully. Additionally, the opportunity to work on a global scale, adapting to diverse legal and cultural environments, is incredibly rewarding.
Being part of NSoft means I’m directly involved in shaping the future of gaming and betting, making it safer and more enjoyable for users around the world. The pace of change and the impact of our work on the industry and its participants make every day exciting and fulfilling.
NSoft is one of the most successful iGaming and Sports Betting Software companies in the industry, boasting a long history and a variety of betting solutions. What strategies or innovations do you employ to ensure compliance in the iGaming industry, and what sets NSoft apart in this area?
NSoft stands at the forefront of the iGaming and sports betting industry, thanks to our relentless commitment to innovation, quality, and, most importantly, compliance. In an industry as dynamic and regulated as iGaming, staying ahead of the curve in compliance is not just a necessity but a core aspect of our business strategy.
One of the key strategies we employ at NSoft to ensure compliance is our proactive approach to regulatory changes. We closely monitor emerging regulations and trends in every market we operate in, ensuring that our solutions are not only compliant at the time of deployment but are also designed with the flexibility to adapt to future regulatory shifts. This foresight allows us to provide our partners with products that are sustainable and compliant in the long term.
Furthermore, NSoft invests heavily in technology and people to maintain our compliance standards. Our compliance team works in tandem with our product development teams to integrate compliance requirements seamlessly into our software solutions from the ground up. This integration ensures that our products are not only innovative and user-friendly but also adhere to the highest compliance standards.
What sets NSoft apart in this area is our holistic approach to compliance. We view it as an integral part of the user experience and product design, rather than as a separate or external process. This approach ensures that compliance is embedded in the DNA of our products and services, making them inherently compliant and reducing the compliance burden for our clients.
Additionally, our commitment to responsible gaming is unwavering. We continuously develop and integrate features that promote safe gaming practices, ensuring that end-users can enjoy our products responsibly. This commitment to responsible gaming not only reinforces our stance on compliance but also builds trust with our partners and their customers.
NSoft is an omnichannel betting and gaming software provider, covering both land-based and online betting. Are there any notable differences between the regulatory frameworks for land-based and online gambling, and how does NSoft navigate these differences in its omnichannel approach?
Navigating the regulatory landscapes of land-based and online gambling is indeed one of the most intricate aspects of providing omnichannel betting and gaming solutions. The regulatory frameworks for these two sectors can vary significantly not only between different jurisdictions but also in terms of the specific compliance requirements within each domain.
In the realm of land-based gambling, regulations often focus on the physical aspects of gaming, such as the location and operation of betting shops, casinos, and gaming machines. These regulations can include zoning laws, operational hours, and specific requirements for hardware and software used in gambling operations.
When NSoft first started, our primary focus was on the Balkan market’s land-based sector, which provided us with deep insights into the nuances of operating within tightly regulated physical environments.
As we expanded into the online and global markets, we encountered a different set of regulatory challenges. Online gambling regulations tend to focus more on digital security, data protection, and consumer safeguards, such as responsible gaming measures and anti-money laundering (AML) protocols.
The digital nature of online gambling also introduces complexities related to cross-border service provision and jurisdictional overlaps.
NSoft’s omnichannel approach is designed to adeptly navigate these differences by ensuring that our solutions are versatile and compliant across all platforms. We achieve this through several strategies:
- Modular Software Design: Our products are built with modular designs, allowing us to easily adapt and configure them to meet the specific regulatory requirements of both land-based and online operations in any jurisdiction. This flexibility is key to our ability to provide tailored solutions that comply with local regulations.
- Continuous Compliance Monitoring: We have dedicated teams that continuously monitor regulatory developments in all markets we operate in. This proactive approach ensures that our solutions remain compliant as regulations evolve, whether they pertain to land-based or online gambling.
- Integrated Compliance Features: Our software includes integrated features that address the common regulatory denominators in both sectors, such as player identification and verification, transaction monitoring, and responsible gaming controls. These built-in compliance features simplify the process of meeting regulatory requirements for our clients, regardless of the channel.
- Local Partnerships: Understanding that local knowledge is invaluable, we engage with local partners and regulatory bodies to ensure our solutions meet the specific needs and compliance standards of each market. This collaboration is particularly beneficial when adapting our solutions to new jurisdictions or sectors.
By leveraging these strategies, NSoft successfully delivers compliant, cutting-edge betting and gaming solutions that serve the diverse needs of the land-based and online sectors, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for operators and their customers alike.
Speaking of land-based gaming, NSoft recently announced the exciting “Crash Cash” title designed for brick-and-mortar betting shops. Can you share more about it and discuss the regulatory challenges associated with its implementation?
We’re indeed excited about our latest addition to the NSoft portfolio, “Crash Cash,” which is designed to bring a fresh and engaging experience to players in brick-and-mortar betting shops.
Crash games are usually created for online gameplay where players must cash out before the aircraft crashes. We are embracing this popular online concept and giving it a fresh twist in the land-based environment with the Crash Cash game. Retail players must predict and select a multiplier below which they believe the crash will occur.
We’re not only excited about introducing “Crash Cash” to our portfolio but also thrilled about the unique way we showcased it at ICE London 2024. To bring “Crash Cash” closer to the audience and let them experience the thrill of the game firsthand, we organized a prize contest that was nothing short of spectacular.
Participants at the event had the opportunity to play “Crash Cash” by filling out a ticket and placing it into a box for a random draw. This interactive experience allowed participants to engage with the game directly, adding an element of real-world excitement to the virtual gameplay.
The stakes of the contest were high, with the winner taking home a technological marvel – the T-1000 PRO betting terminal, valued at 5,000 EUR. This prize is not just a piece of equipment; it’s essentially a bet shop on its own, encapsulated within a stunning metal frame design. The T-1000 PRO represents the cutting edge of betting terminal technology, combining sleek aesthetics with robust functionality to deliver an unparalleled user experience.
This contest, centered around “Crash Cash,” was more than just a promotional activity; it was a testament to NSoft’s commitment to innovation and engagement. By allowing participants to experience “Crash Cash” in such an interactive and high-stakes format, we highlighted the game’s potential to captivate players and add value to brick-and-mortar betting operations.
When it comes to implementing new games like “Crash Cash” in land-based settings, regulatory challenges are a significant consideration.
These challenges primarily revolve around ensuring that the game complies with the specific regulations governing physical betting operations in each jurisdiction. This can include rules related to game randomness and fairness, payout ratios, and the physical security of gaming terminals.
To navigate these challenges, NSoft adopts a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Certification and Testing: Before launching any new game, including “Crash Cash,” we ensure it undergoes rigorous testing and certification by accredited gaming laboratories. This process verifies that the game meets all regulatory requirements related to game fairness and integrity.
- Customizable Game Settings: Recognizing the diversity of regulatory environments, “Crash Cash,” like all NSoft games, is designed with customizable settings. This allows operators to adjust the game parameters, such as payout ratios and bet limits, to comply with local regulations.
- Training and Support: We provide comprehensive training and support to our partners, ensuring that they understand the regulatory requirements and how to operate “Crash Cash” within those constraints. This support extends to assisting with compliance documentation and liaising with regulatory bodies if necessary.
- Responsible Gaming Features: In line with our commitment to responsible gaming, “Crash Cash” includes features designed to promote safe gambling practices. These include self-limitation options for players and mechanisms for operators to monitor and intervene if problematic gambling behavior is detected.
Everything mentioned above is based on clearly and fairly partnership with our clients.
By proactively addressing these regulatory challenges, we ensure that “Crash Cash” can be seamlessly integrated into land-based betting shops, providing a new and exciting game option that is both compliant and engaging for players.
Your panel at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit will explore “Compliance Challenges and Opportunities in the Balkan Gambling Industry.” Could you provide our readers with a sneak peek into some key discussion points or insights they can expect?
I’m truly looking forward to participating in the panel discussion at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, where we will delve into the intricate world of compliance challenges and opportunities in the Balkan gambling industry.
The region presents a unique set of regulatory landscapes, each with its distinct nuances, which makes it a fascinating case study for anyone interested in the global gaming and betting sector.
Here are some key discussion points and insights attendees can expect from the panel:
- Diverse Regulatory Environments: The Balkans consist of multiple countries, each with its own legal framework governing gambling. We’ll discuss how these varying regulations impact operators and service providers, and how businesses can navigate this complex environment effectively.
- Emerging Trends in Regulation: We’ll explore recent regulatory trends in the region, such as increased emphasis on responsible gaming, digital identity verification, and anti-money laundering measures. Understanding these trends is crucial for staying compliant and competitive in the market.
- Technology’s Role in Compliance: The panel will also highlight how technology can be leveraged to address compliance challenges. From sophisticated player verification systems to AI-driven tools for detecting problematic gambling behaviour, technological innovations are at the forefront of compliance solutions.
- Cross-Border Challenges: Given the geographic proximity and cultural connections between Balkan countries, cross-border gambling is a significant topic. We’ll examine the challenges and opportunities that arise from cross-border betting and how operators can manage them.
- Opportunities for Growth: Despite the challenges, the Balkan gambling market is ripe with opportunities. We’ll discuss how operators and service providers can capitalize on these opportunities by adopting innovative approaches, forging strategic partnerships, and staying ahead of regulatory changes.
- Case Studies: Expect to hear real-world examples and case studies demonstrating how businesses in the region have successfully navigated the compliance landscape, highlighting practical strategies that can be applied across the industry.
The panel aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the compliance landscape in the Balkans, offering valuable insights not just for those operating in the region but also for global stakeholders interested in understanding the dynamics of a diverse and rapidly evolving market.
As NSoft’s Head of Legal & Compliance, what advice do you have for betting operators, both new and seasoned, when it comes to selecting game providers and titles to ensure compliance and maximize success?
As NSoft’s Head of Legal & Compliance, I’ve seen firsthand the critical importance of compliance in ensuring the longevity and success of betting operations.
My advice to betting operators, whether they are new to the industry or seasoned veterans, revolves around a few key considerations when selecting game providers and titles:
- Rigorous Due Diligence: Before partnering with a game provider, conduct thorough due diligence to assess their compliance track record. This includes reviewing their licensing status, previous regulatory issues, and the robustness of their compliance programs. A provider with a strong compliance ethos will significantly reduce the risk of regulatory complications down the line.
- Alignment with Regulatory Requirements: Ensure that the game titles you select meet the specific regulatory requirements of your operating jurisdictions. This involves not only the current legal landscape but also an awareness of potential regulatory changes. Game providers that offer flexible and adaptable solutions will be valuable partners as regulations evolve.
- Commitment to Responsible Gaming: Choose providers that prioritize responsible gaming and integrate features that promote safe gambling practices within their games. This not only aligns with regulatory expectations but also fosters trust among your customers and contributes to a sustainable gambling environment.
- Technical Standards and Certifications: Verify that the game providers adhere to high technical standards and that their games are certified by reputable testing laboratories. This ensures the fairness and integrity of the games, which is crucial for maintaining customer trust and meeting regulatory standards.
- Transparent and Open Communication: Opt for providers that maintain open lines of communication regarding compliance and regulatory matters. A collaborative approach to compliance can help anticipate and mitigate potential issues, ensuring a smoother operational flow.
- Innovative and Engaging Content: While compliance is paramount, it’s also essential to select game titles that are innovative and engaging to ensure commercial success. Providers that balance regulatory compliance with cutting-edge, appealing content will contribute most to your success.
- Consider Local Market Preferences: Understand the preferences and trends of your target market. Game providers that offer localized content and are adaptable to the cultural nuances of your operating regions can significantly enhance player engagement and retention.
By prioritizing these considerations, betting operators can forge successful partnerships with game providers, ensuring not only compliance but also a compelling and responsible gaming experience for their customers.
The synergy between compliance and commercial success is critical, and selecting the right game providers is a pivotal step in achieving that balance.
Thank you for this insightful interview, Zlatan! We look forward to meeting you at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, and hearing your valuable insights on Compliance Challenges and Opportunities in the Balkan Gambling Industry.
Join us in Prague to connect with Zlatan and the NSoft Team: Get your Tickets to the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit Now!
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Entain Appoints Ronald J. Kramer as Independent Non-Executive Director
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Compliance Updates6 days ago
UK Gambling Commission Adds Nine Members to its Industry Forum
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Australia6 days ago
Newcastle Hotel Fined for Gaming Machine Offences
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Latest News4 days ago
Week 11/2024 slot games releases
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Latest News6 days ago
Lottoland selects DoTrust Complete to streamline financial risk checks on gamblers
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Africa6 days ago
EGT Digital took the “Outstanding Contribution to Responsible Gaming of the Year” prize from SiGMA Africa Awards