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“This summer will prove to be one to remember”: Exclusive interview with R Franco on its MGA Licence

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“This summer will prove to be one to remember”: Exclusive interview with R Franco on its MGA Licence
Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

With restrictions ending and a summer of sport ahead of us – we caught up with the MGA’s latest licensee, R Franco Digital, to talk through CCO Mario Benito’s vision for the coming months – with the Spanish supplier now poised for some very exciting expansion plans.

Congratulations on R Franco Digital’s recent MGA Licence! Can you tell us what it means for the company and your plans for the next 12 months?

For R Franco, the acquisition of the Critical Gaming Supply Licence from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) represents a major step forwards for the business, capping a period of growth the extends right across Europe and beyond. We are now currently licensed to operate in Spain, Colombia, Portugal, Belgium and now, Malta. Our plans for the next 12 months will be focused on this new market for us, which provides us with enormous opportunities to expand our business.

What key European markets does R Franco Digital see as holding major growth potential?

Not only is Spain a market that is close to our heart, given that it is our home and where the business originated in 1965, but it is also one that contains real potential for online growth going froward. We have significant experience in capturing the interest of land-based players – and offering them online as a channel, as well as a world-class digital offering to keep them there. The Netherlands is very much an established market in many ways, where local players already spend more money on gambling activities than in many other regulated markets in Europe, ahead of the new regulations that are set to come into being later this year. After that, you also have the German and Portuguese markets, where we also see significant growth possibilities.

How have the last year’s events shaped the gaming landscape in terms of player behaviour? Are players looking for different types of games?

The online gaming market around the world is very volatile – with plenty of variables at play. All of our competitors are innovating every day to create new, entertaining experiences for players and no supplier can afford to be left behind in that race. With players expecting more than ever from casino games, the market in turn is providing them with new possibilities. One example is the purchase of Free Spins, which was included as an option some time ago; now, there are very few slots in certain jurisdictions that do not integrate this feature.

How is R Franco Digital look to adjust its development pipeline to suit the new environment?

It is fair to say that our in-house development team is improving in leaps and bounds and the proof of that lies in the games themselves, which are getting better and better in order to serve the entertainment needs of players. We are specialists in the Spanish market – because that is where we have been present for the longest period – but our games have also proven to be popular in many other international markets including Portugal and Colombia, and we’re looking forward to building on that this year with our MGA licence.

Looking to your home market of Spain – how has this year shaped up so far – do you see the Spanish operators on track for recovery and a return of land-based?

It has indeed been a difficult year for Spanish operators. New regulations meant increased advertising restrictions and new rules around bonusing and this had the double impact of making it more difficult to attract new players and also to keep them. At the same time, this is a very versatile market and there is still plenty of room for manouevre, so we are sure that there will be a recovery. As one of the market’s leading players we look forward to helping drive that recovery – and we see plenty of potential for activity returning once the conditions are right.

Last but not least, what are your expectations for betting and casino this summer with the upcoming Euros?

It has been a year in the waiting, and we are sure that the delayed European Championships will prove to be successful in every way, with both betting and casino being part of that success. While domestic football leagues are not yet concluded, it will not be long before operators are able to reveal the special promotions they have been working on for so long, in order to capture the attention of their customers. Without a doubt, this summer will prove to be one to remember – and casino has plenty of opportunity to capture the interest of not only sports betting fans, but also traditional land-based players who want to join in this summer’s action online while indoor restrictions are still in place.

Central Europe

Sponsors Spotlight: Pixpel Makes Crypto Games Safe and Fun for Players and Developers in Web3

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Sponsors Spotlight: Pixpel Makes Crypto Games Safe and Fun for Players and Developers in Web3
Reading Time: 5 minutes

 

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!

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Sponsors Spotlight: NSoft “Crashes” Compliance Challenges and Cashes on Gaming Experience

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Sponsors Spotlight: NSoft “Crashes” Compliance Challenges and Cashes on Gaming Experience
Reading Time: 9 minutes

 

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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Interviews

Exclusive: PXP Financial CEO and Co-Founder Kamran Hedjri on payment in gaming

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Exclusive: PXP Financial CEO and Co-Founder Kamran Hedjri on payment in gaming
Reading Time: 6 minutes

 

Leading payment processor PXP Financial has a long heritage of driving revenue and enhancing player satisfaction in the gaming industry, and is proud work with some of the industry’s biggest names including BetMGM and Tipico.

Here, PXP Financial CEO and Co-Founder Kamran Hedjri shares his expertise on the payment strategies and trends shaping the player experience.

 

Please introduce yourself and PXP Financial’s offering for the gaming industry.

My passion for payments started in 1995 at Europay and developed further when I joined BWIN. I’m proud to say I shaped the company’s payment strategy and helped it gain more than 20 million customers and to grow in 27 countries across Europe, North and South America.

It was after this I established three companies: CQR Payment Solutions (gateway), CQR UK (acquiring) and Vincento (issuing). I’m now the Group CEO for PXP Financial, responsible for the overarching strategic direction of the business.

PXP Financial is an end-to-end omni-channel payment provider that helps businesses accept payments online and on-premise. Our portfolio of iGaming clients is drawn to the fact PXP was born from a gaming operator, so we have many years’ experience in running payment operations for Gaming business.

We offer an online and POS solution, alternative payments, collection services, card acquiring, risk management as well as a variety of value-added services, including checkout pages, reporting, revenue optimisation, tokenisation and dynamic currency conversion.

 

How is payment tech revolutionising the player experience, and what payment trends and innovations should gaming operators be capitalising on?

No-one wants to have gameplay interrupted, so the payment process must be seamless and friction-free. To this end, the gaming industry should continue to add the alternative payment methods (APMs) their players are using to platforms.

Beyond this, I would encourage developers to delve into the possibilities that GameFi and SocialFi present.

GameFi, or game finance, combines online gaming and decentralised finance to create a convenient in-game economy. It introduces the concept of play-to-earn (P2E), where in-game activity earns the player digital assets, rare items, and more.

SocialFi, meanwhile, is Web3’s answer to Web2’s social media problems by enabling users to have control over their content and allow them to directly monetise it.

If DeFi, GameFi, and SocialFi can operate together, bridging gaming and finance and redefining social interactions, we can build a metaverse where gaming isn’t just about play, but also about forging beneficial connections.

 

How are decentralised payments, such as cryptocurrencies, disrupting European and global markets?

The use of crypto in iGaming is steadily rising, but still lacks a comprehensive framework and remains banned in certain regions. Nevertheless, the intersection of iGaming and DeFi does hold some promise, with positive regulatory developments in geographies like Japan and the UK, and with the right regulations in place, stablecoins could become a crucial part of next-generation payment systems.

PayPal’s stablecoin launch is evidence that trends in payments are moving towards digital assets like stablecoins and CBDCs as a reliable payment method with no volatility that enables fast and low-cost payments. This will pave the way for a more stabilised crypto market, as well as give banks the confidence they need to react with their own digital currencies. Low cost and real-time settlements of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins have led the giants – including PayPal and VISA – to invest heavily in them and launch their own programs and solutions.

There’s no doubt the security of digital currencies makes them the ideal way to exchange the value of goods and services, and this will ultimately give consumers the freedom to buy from around the globe without worrying about the exchange rate of buying the host nation’s currency.

 

What are your predictions around the emergence and rise of crypto casinos?

As technology continues to advance and regulatory landscapes evolve, the crypto gambling industry is poised for significant growth and transformation in 2024. However, the growth of crypto casinos may be hindered by the fact they operate within the decentralised network and infrastructure of cryptocurrencies.

That said, DeFi protocols are revolutionising many industries, including finance and gambling. In 2024, the integration of DeFi in the crypto gambling space will enable trustless betting, transparent odds, and automated payouts through smart contracts. This integration will eliminate the need for intermediaries and offer players greater control over their funds.

As the crypto gambling industry grows, things like cross-chain compatibility and AI-driven personalisation will enhance the overall player experience, creating a more dynamic and rewarding environment.

 

What role are subscriptions playing in the growth of the global gaming market?

Subscription models have always been popular, but it used to be that the money would come directly from a player’s bank account – now subscriptions can be linked to a chosen e-Wallet. This convenience has led to a surge in global subscription-based gaming, a market that’s projected to reach $55.94 billion by 2031.

Subscription models mean players don’t need to keep track of when they need to pay; it comes out of their chosen payment automatically – leaving them free to play the game whenever they want.

 

How is the role of digital wallets evolving, and what are the advantages and risks that operators should be aware of?

While digital wallets come with a range of benefits for both operator and player, there are potential risks to be considered. For example, the two-factor authentication, and other rigorous verification processes used to mitigate cybersecurity threats can be time-consuming and add friction to the payment journey.

Furthermore, operators need to be mindful of the legal status of online gambling and digital wallets in their jurisdiction.

That said, the adoption of digital wallet continues to rise, with the total number of digital wallets set to exceed 5.2 billion globally in 2026, up from 3.4 billion in 2022.

Digital wallets offer many advantages for users engaging in online casino transactions. They provide an additional layer of security as they often use advanced encryption technologies to protect financial data, and because financial details are not directly shared with the casino there is an added level of privacy. Payments through digital wallets are also often faster compared to traditional banking methods, with deposits and withdrawals processed almost instantly, allowing users to enjoy a smoother gaming experience.

 

How is PXP Financial supporting its customers to take advantage of the rise in mobile gaming and changing trends in payment preferences?

The mobile gaming market is estimated to reach $315.90bn this year, and the number of players is expected to hit 2.32 billion by 2027.

Current trends emphasise the importance of optimising platforms for seamless mobile experiences, specifically, ‘invisible’ payments. This is particularly true in the gaming space, where players don’t want to have gameplay disrupted by making a payment.

Our offering for the gaming industry is grounded in our expertise and strong heritage within the sector, with several members of the team who are thought leaders in gaming payments in their own rights. We understand that providing smooth and convenient mobile payment solutions is crucial for meeting the evolving needs of modern gamers, and this mobile-first approach aligns perfectly with our company’s mission to deliver exceptional payment experiences to our valued merchants and their customers.

 

As user privacy and data protection continue to attract scrutiny from consumers, how can a payments strategy help to increase trust among players?

Payments and consumer trust need to go hand-in-hand if gaming platforms are to succeed. When looking at payment strategies that maximise trust, I strongly recommend that operators consider the advantages of open banking.

Open banking often comes with robust security measures. Customers can have confidence that their data is being protected and they have control over who can access their financial information.

Regulations and policies such as GDPR play a crucial role in ensuring consumer protection in the open banking ecosystem and are designed to strike a balance between encouraging innovation, competition, and consumer choice while maintaining data security and privacy.

 

Globally, which gaming markets are currently expanding and where should operators looking to grow place their bets?

Several Latin American countries have either launched or are set to launch licensing regimes for online gambling in 2024, while in Europe, Montenegro is an attractive proposition for iGaming agents thanks to government efforts to modernise its gaming laws and create a well-regulated field.

Similarly, UAE, North Africa and South East Asia are all working to create a more regulated and welcoming environment for iGaming operators, and I believe Nigeria and Kenya will be areas of particular interest, especially as they embrace Web 3.0 gaming.

 

Which regulatory changes do operators in Europe and across the world need to stay ahead of in 2024?

Governments and regulatory authorities have become increasingly focused on preventing money laundering and ensuring player identity verification. Online casinos are now required to implement robust AML and KYC procedures, which also extend to payment processing.

Furthermore, to promote responsible gambling, regulatory frameworks may require online casinos to implement features such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and other tools to help players manage their gambling activities.

Regulations will continue to tighten, and the rise of newly regulated markets will trigger new regional players to enter the scene.

 

Finally, which trend, regulatory change or payments innovation do you believe has the most potential to impact the gaming market this year?

It would be difficult to talk about any tech trend without mentioning artificial intelligence.

There are many ways AI have the potential to improve the iGaming experience. Not only can it analyse data and predict the types of new games players want to see or their behaviour, but it can also spot potential security threats.

Additionally, AI benefits online casino players as it can help provide customised in-game recommendations, rewards and bonuses to improve the overall in-game and user experience. Gameplay has never been more personalised or, combined with virtual reality technology, more immersive.

Operators can also leverage AI to help run their businesses more responsibly by identifying gambling behaviour and allocating patterns which indicate a player needs support, prompting operators to step in earlier than ever before.

Meanwhile, blockchain technology ensures secure and transparent financial transactions on iGaming platform, allowing players to independently verify game results and ensuring the outcome was not manipulated. Furthermore, on the blockchain, all gaming transactions are recorded in an immutable and tamper-resistant manner.

The combination of AI and blockchain technology will be a game-changer in 2024.

By bringing AI and blockchain technology together, operators can create personalised experiences, improve customer support, enhance player engagement and increase conversions, all while bringing much-needed transparency, security and decentralisation to the industry.

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