iGaming Daily

In today's episode of iGaming Daily, sponsored by Optimove, Ted Orme-Claye, Viktor Kayed, and Ted Menmuir break down the recent removal of Gibraltar and the UAE from the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) watch list. Viktor, who originally broke the story for SBC News, details why this delisting marks a crucial turning point for these markets. Gibraltar, long regarded as a premier hub for European gaming operators and B2B technology providers, has worked swiftly to address shortcomings flagged by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)—strengthening its AML controls, asset seizure processes, and gambling oversight to restore its market reputation and access to EU business channels.The discussion then shifts to the United Arab Emirates, a fast-emerging player in the global iGaming scene. The UAE’s removal from the AML list follows its creation of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a step towards a legalised and regulated gaming environment in the region. With Wynn Resorts' Ras Al Khaimah project on the horizon, the UAE is positioning itself not just as a potential destination for high-end land-based gaming but also as a future hub for game development, technology platforms, and iGaming investment—serving as a bridge to key Asian markets. However, the three caution against overestimating its immediate impact on broader online gambling in Asia, pointing to the unique complexities of neighboring countries such as China, India, and Japan.This episode highlights why these regulatory shifts are a game-changer for investors, gaming operators, and tech innovators alike. The removal from the EU and FATF “gray lists” reduces financial risk, removes regulatory barriers, and sends a strong signal of market credibility—opening doors for partnerships, funding, and new ventures in both Gibraltar and the UAE. Host: Ted Orme-ClayeGuests: Ted Menmuir & Viktor KayedProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Hosted by Joe Streeter, today's episode of iGaming Daily returns to conference room floor of SBC Summit Malta, as he is joined by Dennis Algreen, Senior Marketing Director, the discussion focused on the summit and how it emphasised the importance of broadening its focus.A standout theme from the event was the industry’s candid conversation around the black market—a topic that has often remained in the shadows. The three openly debated whether this segment should be eradicated or carefully integrated into the regulated sphere, ensuring the discussion didn't spiral into an echo chamber. Responsible gambling also took centre stage with an interactive workshop moderated by Craig Davies, where the importance of lived experience—highlighted by personal stories from leaders like Craig Kore of Epic Global Solutions—added a human dimension to policy and compliance talks. Other sessions delved into topics such as slot game innovation and the rise of new markets like the UAE, sparking fresh ideas across the floor.Looking ahead, the SBC Summit Malta served as the ideal precursor to the highly anticipated SBC Summit Lisbon this September. Lisbon is set to offer an even larger stage, featuring major global voices like Gary Vaynerchuk and expanded content tracks focused on crypto regulation, market leadership, and regional growth opportunities from Asia to Europe. Host: Joe StreeterGuests: Dennis Algreen & Craig DaviesProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the close of SBC Summit Malta 2025, join our host, Ted Orme-Claye, who led the Affiliation and Marketing Stage, and Ted Menmuir, the moderator of the AI, Innovation, and Customer Realities track, as they share exclusive insights straight from the operational heart of the iGaming world. Together, they unpack the biggest trends, pressures, and predictions shaping the global betting and iGaming industry, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on what’s coming next for operators, affiliates, and suppliers navigating this rapidly evolving sector.One of the summit’s most talked-about themes—the "new tax dawn"—signals a game-changing economic shift for B2C operators in regulated markets. With tax burdens now exceeding 50% in key regions like France, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK, operators are feeling the squeeze more than ever. Germany’s severe taxation and game restrictions have pushed channelisation to the black market beyond 55%, prompting many to write off the country as a viable market altogether. Alongside the tax pressure, operators must now contend with fragmented advertising bans and tightening regulations across Europe, making 2025 a year of strategic cost-saving, operational pivoting, and regulatory navigation.Despite these challenges, the future holds promise. Optimism surrounds Finland’s upcoming regulated market launch in 2027, with stakeholders preparing early to avoid the missteps seen in markets like the Netherlands. Italy shows renewed energy too, albeit now catering mostly to top-tier operators due to its £7 million licensing cost. The rise of AI remains another pivotal opportunity—and risk—with summit discussions exploring its potential to transform customer service, content creation, and competitive dynamics across the industry.

On this episode of iGaming Daily, the discussion begins in Malta with the highly debated Bill 55 — a legislative move designed to shield Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)-licensed operators from foreign claims, reinforcing the island's position as Europe’s premier iGaming hub. However, this law has sparked legal scrutiny across the EU, with opponents arguing it contradicts European Single Market rules and raises significant competition law concerns under Article 56 of the EU Treaty.Host Charlie Horner is joined by iGaming Experts Editor Joe Streeter and SBC’s Media Director Martyn Elliott, reporting live from SBC Summit Malta. Together, they delve into why Bill 55 could face escalation to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) following Austrian legal challenges — and what this means for operators contributing over 11% to Malta’s GDP. Shifting focus to the UK market, the trio unpacks the implications of proposed gambling tax hikes, including potential increases to 21% or even 41% as suggested by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.In this episode, discover why experts warn that aggressive tax changes could unintentionally fuel black market gambling, erode KYC safeguards, and put players at risk. While some regulators dismiss these fears as overstated, industry insiders argue the risk of unlicensed, poorly regulated operations is real. Host: Charlie HornerGuests: Martyn Elliott & Joe StreeterProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

In this episode of iGaming Daily, host James Ross sits down with Bernd Baumert, Director of Games Production at Greentube, to explore the dynamic world of online casino game development. From concept to release, they unpack the critical role of player engagement and market-specific customisation in crafting successful slot titles. Bernd Baumert provides exclusive insights into Greentube’s strategic approach to new market expansion, including challenges and opportunities in regions like the US and the Netherlands. The discussion also covers the evolution of game sequels, with a special focus on the much-anticipated launch of Starlink Jackpot: Odds of the Gods 2. Listeners will learn why understanding player preferences, regional regulations, and competitive trends is essential for sustained success in the global iGaming landscape.To learn more about the title discussed in today's episode, click on the following link:- https://slotbeats.com/latest-slots/starlight-jackpots-odds-of-the-gods-2-greentube/Host: James RossGuest: Bernd BaumertProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

In this latest episode of iGaming Daily, brought to you by Optimove, hosted by Fernando Noodt, the team, including Ricardo Assis and Ana Maria Menezes from SBC Noticias Brasil, delves into the turbulent Brazilian iGaming market. The discussion centres on a major tax increase proposed for the sector. On June 8th, the government decided to advance a provisional measure to increase the betting tax rate from 12% to 18% on the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) of all licensed betting companies. This proposal, expected to be presented to President Lula, is an alternative to a previously unpopular tax increase on financial operations (IOF). While viewed as popular in Congress and with the public, for betting operators, this represents an immense tax increase, potentially raising the overall tax burden to around 36% when other existing taxes are included.The proposed tax hike has prompted strong reactions from the industry and political entities. ANJEL, the Association of Gaming and Lotteries in Brazil, has criticised the move as a "shot in the foot," warning of licensed companies leaving Brazil, lower tax revenues, and a boost to the illegal betting market, which already constitutes about 60% of all bets in the country. They suggest focusing on cracking down on illegal operators could yield nearly triple the expected tax revenue. Operators themselves express serious concerns, fearing competitive disadvantages for domestic companies, leading to mergers, acquisitions, or even closures, with some believing that half of the operators cannot handle this raise. The Parliamentary Front of the Free Market, comprising 173 deputies and 27 senators, has also opposed the measure, fearing it could lead to the "death of the legal sector" and negatively impact Brazilian sports, as many football clubs are sponsored by betting operators. Host: Fernando NoodtGuests: Ricardo Assis and Ana Maria MenezesProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

In today's episode of iGaming Daily, Ted Orme-Clay is joined by journalist Viktor Kayed and SBC's Editor-at-Large Ted Menmuir to unpack major political developments in the Netherlands and Poland, and what they could mean for their respective gambling industries.Viktor shares insights from his recent trip to the Gaming in Holland conference, which coincided with the collapse of the Dutch coalition government. While political uncertainty looms, Dutch stakeholders are taking a proactive stance, focusing on tackling the black market and lobbying to delay a planned gambling tax hike. The industry is also closely watching which party will come to power, as that could shape future regulatory attitudes.Later, Ted Menmuir discusses Poland’s rapidly growing economy and the challenges posed by its conservative Justice Party government. Despite ambitions to align with EU standards, Poland struggles with structural issues, such as a state monopoly on online casino and a 12% turnover tax that's driving operators away. With a new president now in place, the future of gambling reform in Poland remains uncertain—but full of potential.Host: Ted Orme-ClayeGuest: Viktor Kayed, Ted MenmuirProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.comiGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast.https://www.tiktok.com/@igaming_daily_podcast?_t=ZN-8uGpYLPuikI&_r=1

In this episode, we sit down with John Cooney, Group CEO of Forbidden City, to explore the brand’s unique approach to luxury in the iGaming industry. John shares the vision behind positioning Forbidden City as a premium brand that seamlessly blends high-end retail, hospitality, and online gaming. From exclusive design elements to VIP experiences, listeners get an inside look at how Forbidden City is redefining what it means to deliver luxury in a digital entertainment space.John dives into the innovative strategies powering the brand’s success, including a game-changing loyalty program designed to mirror the sophistication of elite lifestyle brands. We also examine the complexities of operating in a highly regulated environment and the balancing act between brand integrity and compliance. With insights into market adaptation and digital transformation, this conversation is a masterclass for anyone looking to elevate their brand within the iGaming world.The episode also explores the brand’s core focus on high net worth individuals and how Forbidden City curates experiences tailored to this niche. John discusses potential pathways for expansion into broader gaming markets, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and the future of luxury in the online gaming space. Host: Joe StreeterGuest: John CooneyProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

We turn our attention to the Netherlands on today's episode of iGaming Daily, sponsored by Optimove, as Ted Orme-Claye of SBC News steps into the host's chair, joined by his namesake, Ted Menmuir, to discuss the Dutch market, a jurisdiction shrouded in political instability that puts the betting market at risk. Later in the episode, Viktor Kayed calls in live from an incredibly well timed Gaming in Holland conference, and gives updates on the discussions from the conference rooms in Amsterdam. Firstly, the two Teds discuss the collapse of the Dutch four-party coalition, the impact of this political instability on the betting market, give some context as to why coalitions across Europe have led to less secure regulatory environments, and highlight existing Dutch gambling regulations, such as age restrictions, advertising bans, and deposit limits.There is also a large focus on the black market, something that poses a serious threat to the regulated market in the Netherlands, and where the Dutch regulators, the KSA, stand on all of this. Check out Viktor's story as mentioned by Ted & Ted https://sbcnews.co.uk/featurednews/2025/06/04/netherlands-dick-schoof/Host: Ted Orme-ClayeGuests: Ted Menmuir, Viktor KayedProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: Scott FultoniGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. 

Episode #4 of Dear CEO is here! Dear CEO is our limited series, presented in partnership with iGP where a real life industry CEO, Jovana Popovic Canaki of iGP answers your questions, about your business. Our host as always is Charlie Horner, and this time he's got a page full of questions from the audience about the always fun topic of KPIs. Jovana tells Charlie about her numbers background, and why as a CEO she's always paying attention the numbers, giving her some fantastic insight into which KPIs are important, what they mean, and what your businesses should care about. Charlie and Jovana discussHow important KPIs have evolved over the last 3-5 years and how they will continue to evolve over the next 3-5The shift from operators being primarily focused on acquisition to today's focuses of engagement and retentionThe impact of technology on KPIs and how technology has changed what operators focus onHow to spot which KPIs are merely vanity metricsWhich KPIs are most predictive of long term success for new market entrantsPlus, Charlie and Jovana preview her speaking appearance at the upcoming inaugural SBC Summit Malta!