The Balkan gaming market is undergoing significant changes, with new regulations and evolving market dynamics shaping the industry’s future. The recent EEGS Webinar, “Balkan Gaming Landscape – a Maze or Amaze? Deep dive in the markets (Pt. 2),” provided an in-depth analysis of these developments. The session featured industry experts including Angel Iribozov, Vasko Ilijevski, Dan Iliovici, Ovidiu Iosif, and Zoran Puhac, moderated by Rossi McKee, Co-Founder of Telematic Interactive Bulgaria and Honorary Chair of AGIB.

Key topics discussed included the impact of recent regulatory changes in Bulgaria and Romania, challenges and opportunities in North Macedonia’s gaming market, and the importance of responsible gaming initiatives across the region. The speakers emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers both regulatory objectives and the economic contributions of the gaming industry.

Angel Iribozov, Chairman of the Association of the Gaming Industry in Bulgaria (AGIB), highlighted the substantial regulatory changes in Bulgaria, focusing on both the positive steps towards reducing unlicensed operations and the challenges posed by the new advertising restrictions. “The recent regulations aim to limit unlicensed operations, but the advertising restrictions pose significant challenges for licensed operators to reach their audience,” said Iribozov.

Dan Iliovici, Vice-President of ROMBET, discussed the recent changes in Romanian gaming laws that led to the closure of numerous gaming facilities. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers both regulatory objectives and economic contributions. On the other hand, Ovidiu Iosif, Executive Director of Joc Responsible Association, highlighted ongoing responsible gaming programs in Romania.

Vasko Ilijevski, President of the Macedonian Sports Betting Association, emphasized the importance of including industry input in future regulatory discussions to avoid disruption and possible closure of various gaming facilities.

Zoran Puhac, Secretary General of the European Organization for Gaming Law (EOGL), discussed the spread of restrictive advertising regulations across the Western Balkans, advocating for the use of best practices to avoid market disruptions. “The key is to implement regulations that protect consumers without stifling industry growth,” advised Puhac.

The EEGS webinar provided attendees with valuable insights into the evolving Balkan gaming landscape. By understanding regulatory changes, market dynamics, and promoting responsible gaming, stakeholders can navigate the challenges and seize opportunities for growth.

All attendees of the EEGS webinar received a Certificate of Attendance, recognizing their commitment to advancing knowledge in the gaming industry.

You can watch the entire webinar here: https://youtube.com/eegamingsummit

EGT’s jackpot Gods & Kings Link made its debut in Bulgaria. The first local gaming establishment to install the product is the largest casino in the country GoldenEye, located in Svilengrad.

“We are very happy to once again have the opportunity to support our partners from GoldenEye by providing them with one of the latest developments from our slot portfolio,” commented Biserka Draganova, Sales Manager for the Balkans and Egypt at EGT. “The fact that out of a total of 500 machines in the casino, 320 are EGT’s is a testament to the great confidence they have in us, and I believe that Gods & Kings Link will show the excellent results expected from it.”

The product is currently available on several cabinets of the G 50 J2 St model, and will be installed on more by the end of June. Gods & Kings Link has 4 levels of jackpot: Minor and Mini, that are fixed for each machine and Grand and Major, which are progressive and can be won with every bet made on any of the 4 games Rise of Ra, Olympus Glory, Ape of luck and Glorious Alexander. The Grand and Major levels are common with EGT’s bestseller jackpot Bell Link, thus creating even greater chances for wealth.

“Gods & Kings Link has definitely caught the attention of our customers and in the short period of time we’ve been offering it, we’ve seen a lot of interest in it,” said Mert Caliskan, Casino Operation Director. “The titles in the mix are extremely interesting and provide lots of bonuses and fun during play. This in combination with the possibility of getting even bigger winnings thanks to the connection to Bell Link, which is very popular in our casino, is a guarantee that this will be another very successful EGT product.”

The first installation of Mermaid’s Quest is already a fact. After gaining popularity at various expos and obtaining the needed certification, the multigame premiers on the Bulgarian market can be found in the gaming halls of Palms Bet, Varna.

“We are proud that players can finally experience the multigame first-hand and we are excited to hear the feedback,” Biser Bozhanov, Director of Business Development and Strategy at CT Gaming, said.

The visitors can dive into the underwater theme and enjoy 12 games, linked to a progressive jackpot, allowing the chance of winning the big prizes with a single spin.

“We hope this installation will solidify the partnership between the two companies. We are proud of this product, and we can’t think of a better place for the first installation than in Palms Bet in Bulgaria’s sea capital – Varna,” added Mr. Bozhanov.

“Mermaid’s Quest was a hit during the latest exhibitions in Belgrade, London, and Las Vegas, and it will undoubtedly conquer the whole South-Eastern European region. The multigame experience is unique and has been developed to satisfy all customers’ needs and expectations,” said Biser Bozhanov.

Besides that, Mermaid’s Quest is certified for Bulgaria, it also possesses a certificate for Georgia, which facilitates the company’s agenda for expanding the installations abroad.