In the Company of Mavericks Betting, Investing & Understanding Risk with Mark Blandford, Founder of Sporting Bet
Nov 29, 2024
Mark Blandford, online betting pioneer and founder of Sporting Bet, shares his journey from traditional bookmaking to navigating the online gambling landscape. He discusses the challenges of evolving regulations and how they create risks for entrepreneurs. Joining him is George O’Connor, a technology analyst, who delves into investment strategies and the importance of adaptability in business. Together, they explore the impact of AI on investment models and the future of payment solutions, offering insights into making informed decisions in a rapidly changing market.
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Early Racing and Betting Roots
- Mark Blandford grew up in a farming family closely connected to the horse racing world, sparking his early interest in betting.
- Despite insider connections, he was intrigued how bookmakers thrived, which led to his passion for bookmaking.
Internet Betting Pioneer
- Mark discovered the internet in 1996 and saw an opportunity to transform betting online.
- By October 1998, he launched Sporting Bet, three years ahead of bigger operators like Ladbrokes.
Global Marketing Advantage
- The internet opened marketing opportunities globally beyond local betting shops.
- Early competitive advantage came from tax-free betting licenses, attracting customers via PR and banner ads.