Oleksandr Oliinyk, Head Retention Product Manager at PIN-UP Global: Key Insights from AIBC Eurasia

What key trends in player retention strategies did you note for yourself at AIBC Eurasia? Which of these could significantly impact the industry in 2025?

At AIBC Eurasia, I observed a growing emphasis on hyper-personalization and AI-driven analytics to tailor retention strategies. With real-time behavioral data, brands can now offer dynamic, personalized rewards and experiences. This shift will drastically enhance player loyalty in 2025 by offering more targeted interactions and reducing churn.

For example, in PIN-UP we implement predictive analytics and machine learning to segment players based on their behavior and likelihood to churn. For example, we use algorithms to analyze player actions in real time, allowing us to predict when players may lose interest or leave the platform. Based on this data, we launch targeted campaigns offering personalized bonuses and promotions, which significantly increase retention and reduce the cost of acquiring new players.

Share your observations from AIBC Eurasia about differences in player retention approaches across different markets. Which practices do you consider most promising for scaling?

Markets like Europe focus heavily on gamification and VIP loyalty programs, while emerging regions are experimenting more with instant rewards and mobile-first approaches. The most scalable practices involve data-driven personalization and omnichannel strategies that allow operators to meet players wherever they engage—whether on mobile, web, or through social media.

Could you elaborate on your approach to designing engagement cycles for different player types? Which mechanics have proven most effective in your experience?

For casual players, we focus on time-limited promotions and gamified missions, providing fun without overcomplicating the experience. For high-value players, we offer tailored loyalty programs with exclusive benefits and VIP tiers.

The key to success lies in maintaining a balanced approach, ensuring we keep players engaged without overwhelming them with too many choices. We specifically emphasize individual missions for each player to maintain their interest in betting, making their experience more personalized and rewarding.

How do you see the evolution of trigger chain automation in personalizing player experiences? What are the most promising developments you discovered at the conference?

Trigger chain automation is evolving with AI that can now predict player behavior and adjust messaging or offers in real-time. The most promising development I saw was the use of predictive analytics that helps anticipate a player’s needs before they even engage with the platform, creating a seamless and tailored experience.

Could you share the most innovative examples of gamification technologies presented at the conference that could transform player engagement?

One standout innovation was a platform integrating AR/VR to create immersive gaming experiences that blur the lines between virtual and real-world rewards. Another was using blockchain for transparent reward systems, ensuring players feel the value of their engagement more tangibly.

What new approaches to player analytics were presented at AIBC Eurasia that you find particularly valuable for audience segmentation?

There was a significant focus on predictive modeling and deep learning, enabling operators to segment players not just by demographics, but by behavior patterns and likelihood to churn.

What are your observations about the differences in player lifecycle patterns between emerging and mature markets?

In mature markets, player retention focuses on loyalty and rewards, while emerging markets are more about rapid engagement and trial. The lifecycle in emerging markets tends to be shorter, with players quickly moving between platforms, whereas mature markets benefit from longer retention cycles and more personalized experiences.

Given the rapid evolution of the industry, what structural changes do you anticipate in retention strategies over the next 3-5 years?

Over the next few years, retention strategies will become more integrated with machine learning, enabling predictive and automated decision-making across the entire player journey. Additionally, the focus will shift towards long-term value rather than short-term acquisition, with more emphasis on building deeper, sustainable relationships with players.