iGaming Daily

Jessica Welman returns to the host's chair for today's episode of iGaming Daily, sponsored by Optimove, and she's joined by her SBC Americas colleague Tom Nightingale for a look into handle, headaches and more after a significant change in Illinois sports betting taxation. The Prairie State will introduce a flat fee starting at 25 cents and scaling up to 50 cents for high-volume operators like FanDuel and DraftKings. This new tax, projected to generate £36 million annually, is seen as a second instance of Illinois targeting sportsbooks for budget shortfalls. But who does this impact the most? How will the operators respond? And what are the broader implications for a move like this? Jess and Tom discuss the nature of the new tax, its structure and targets, the implementation, its impact on state revenue, who is likely to be hit worse, operator strategies and responses, lobbying efforts, and add some historical context on contentious regulatory decisions in Illinois. Host: Jessica WelmanGuests: Tom NightingaleProducer: 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. 

In this episode of iGaming Daily, brought to you by Optimove, we explore the dynamic shifts taking place in Brazil’s gambling market, spotlighting the latest advertising laws and the proactive steps taken by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA). Joining Ted Menmuir, SBC Noticias Brasil's Editor, Ricardo Assis, and Business Journalist, Elisa Marcante, unpack how these new regulatory developments are reshaping the landscape for both operators and advertisers, offering key insights into what these changes mean for stakeholders across the industry.The conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities facing gambling operators in Brazil, from navigating compliance risks to identifying growth strategies in an evolving legal environment. With Brazil poised to become one of the largest regulated betting markets in the world, our speakers stress the importance of a regulatory framework that both safeguards consumers and fosters healthy market competition.Despite the current uncertainty and transitional chaos, the tone remains optimistic. The discussion emphasizes the long-term potential of Brazil’s gambling sector and highlights why now is a pivotal moment for investors, operators, and regulators alike. Host: Ted MenmuirGuests: Ricardo Assis & Elisa MarcanteProducer: 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 Viktor Kayed sits down with editor Ted Menmuir to explore the recent postponement of Romania’s long-anticipated gambling reforms. They dissect the political climate that has stalled progress, including the influence of the Save Romania Union and its push for tougher regulatory oversight. The discussion provides valuable context on how shifting political priorities are shaping the future of the country’s gambling legislation.The episode dives deep into the aftermath of regulatory failures that have plagued Romania’s gambling sector for years. Viktor and Ted examine long-standing structural issues, from enforcement gaps to transparency concerns, and discuss how these weaknesses have hindered meaningful reform. They also evaluate the role of the ONJN, Romania’s gambling authority, and its response to the mounting challenges it faces.Looking ahead, the conversation shifts to Romania’s evolving gambling market and its potential for future growth despite ongoing scrutiny. With increased political attention and public pressure, the sector stands at a crossroads. If you want to read more on the topic discussed in today's episode, click on the following link:-Host: Viktor KayedGuest: 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.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.

Monday's episode of iGaming Daily, brought to you by Optimove, is a must-listen keynote conversation, Ari Borod, Chief Business Officer at Fanatics Betting and Gaming. Sitting down with SBC Media's Jessica Welman, the two takes a look into one of the fastest-growing companies in the sports betting and iGaming industry. Drawing from his prior leadership roles at FanDuel and Action Network, Borod discusses how he helped build Fanatics Betting and Gaming from the ground up in July 2021. Borod breaks down Fanatics’ unique second-mover strategy, explaining why they chose product quality over ad spend to differentiate from giants like DraftKings and FanDuel. Leveraging the larger Fanatics commerce ecosystem, the company used its extensive database, brand loyalty, and smart cross-marketing strategies to drive growth without sacrificing profitability. He also unpacks the importance of customer-first features like prolonged beta testing, integration of FanCash loyalty rewards, and the acquisition of PointsBet’s Banic trading platform to improve competitiveness and retention.The episode also explores how Fanatics is innovating beyond sports betting with the expansion of its casino app and the introduction of the “Fair Play” initiative, which refunds users for unlucky outcomes like injuries. Borod shares insight into future growth areas, including upcoming Fanatics Fest events, and how Fanatics plans to continue redefining the online gaming experience through data, loyalty, and customer trust. Host: Jessica WelmanGuest: Ari BorodProducer: James RossEditor: 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, hosts Jessica Welman and Charlie Horner dive into the dynamic world of sweepstakes gaming, spotlighting a pivotal industry development: VGW's decision to wind down its sweepstakes operations in New York. This major move has sparked conversations across the iGaming sector, raising questions about the regulatory environment and the viability of sweepstakes-based business models in high-stakes markets.The discussion expands to cover emerging legislative changes in multiple states, examining how lawmakers and regulators are approaching the increasingly blurred lines between sweepstakes gaming and traditional gambling. Jessica and Charlie analyse the core challenges companies face in complying with diverse state-level frameworks while staying competitive and legally sound in an evolving landscape.As the episode progresses, the hosts delve into the formation of new trade groups and what these alliances mean for the future of the sweepstakes industry. With insights on advocacy, compliance, and innovation, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the trends shaping the next chapter of sweepstakes gaming in the United StatesTo read more on what was discussed in the episode, click on the links below:- https://sbcamericas.com/2025/05/27/vgw-shutters-sweepstakes-in-new-york/- https://sbcamericas.com/2025/05/27/connecticut-senate-sweeps-couriers-ban/- https://sbcamericas.com/2025/05/27/louisiana-sweepstakes-ban-moving-house/Hosts: Jessica Welman & Charlie HornerProducer: James RossEditor: 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, supported by Optimove, Ted Menmuir is joined by SBC Leaders Magazine and Player Protection Hub Editor, Steve Hoare, as well as DealMeOut's Co-Founder, Jordan Lea, to look into the recent Health and Social Care Select Committee hearing on problem gambling in the UK, The trio unpack the strong reactions and frustrations voiced by key stakeholders. The conversation dissects the statements made by the expert panel, offering critical insights into why many feel the current narrative misses the mark when it comes to understanding the real impact of gambling harm and the lived experiences of affected individuals.A spotlight is also shined on the proposed statutory levy framework and its wide-reaching implications for gambling operators, support services, and public health initiatives. We also challenge the common misconceptions about gambling education and explore why many believe current strategies fall short in truly protecting vulnerable populations. With a call for greater collaboration, accountability, and transparency, the speakers reflect on what’s needed to build a more responsible and effective gambling policy landscape in the UK.To read more on what was discussed in today's episode, click on the following link:- https://playerprotectionhub.com/2025/05/treatment-prevention-and-education-leaders-team-up-to-challenge-select-committee-fantasy/Host: Ted MenmuirGuests: Steve Hoare & Jordan LeaProducer: James RossEditor: 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 episode of iGaming Daily, recorded from the show floor at the recent SBC Summit Americas 2025, the now Media Manager at SBC Media, Fernando Noodt sits down with Jeff Laniado, Director of Sales at Optimove, to delve into one of the hottest topics sweeping the United States online gaming landscape—sweepstakes in iGaming. As regulatory constraints continue to shape the real money gaming market, sweepstakes casinos and sportsbooks have rapidly emerged as a dynamic alternative, leveraging innovative models to engage players legally and effectively.Jeff breaks down the rapid rise of sweepstakes gaming, revealing it as Optimove’s fastest-growing vertical over the past 18 months. With roots in familiar promotions like McDonald’s Monopoly or bottle-cap contests, the sweepstakes model provides a legal workaround for US operators by using a dual-currency system—gold coins for gameplay and sweeps coins for redeemable rewards. This episode explores how the model not only helps operators navigate regulations but also serves as a strategic lever for player retention, personalisation, and data-driven decision-making.Host: Fernando NoodtGuest: Jeff LaniadoProducer: James Ross & Taylor BuckleyEditor: 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 Joe Streeter sits down with Cristina Turbatu, Chief Technology Officer at Casumo and Keith Cassar, CTO at Game Lounge, to discuss the upcoming AI and innovation workshop taking place at SBC Summit Malta. The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into how artificial intelligence is being practically applied across the iGaming industry, from streamlining operations to enhancing player experiences.Cristina and Keith emphasise the importance of training and upskilling as essential components of successful AI integration. They share insights on how tech teams can adapt to new tools and workflows, and why fostering a culture of innovation is key to staying competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.The discussion also touches on broader industry concerns, including job security in the age of automation and the pressing need for regulatory frameworks that can keep pace with technological progress. Host: Joe StreeterGuests: Cristina Turbatu and Keith CassarProducer: Anaya McDonald & James RossEditor: 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. 

Monday at iGaming Daily kicks off with an episode from today's host Ivana Flynn, who is joined by SEO veterans Héctor Izurrategui, Technical SEO Manager at Evoke, and John Wright, Co-Founder of StatsDrone, for an in-depth discussion on the evolving world of Google penalties and search engine optimisation strategies within the iGaming industry. The trio dives into firsthand experiences with both manual and algorithmic penalties, unpacking what these penalties mean, how they differ, and the nuanced signals that can lead to site demotions or deindexing. With Google’s algorithm updates becoming increasingly complex, the conversation sheds light on how SEO professionals can stay ahead of the curve.Whether you're an affiliate marketer, operator, or digital strategist in the iGaming sector, this episode is a must-listen. Ivana, Hector, and John underscore the importance of continuous SEO education, proactive communication, and precise tracking to mitigate risks tied to ever-changing search engine rules. Learn how to future-proof your SEO efforts, recover from penalties, and adapt to Google's shifting expectations — all from experts who've been through the trenches.Host: Ivana FlynnGuests: John Wright & Héctor IzurrateguiProducer: 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 Friday's episode of iGaming Daily, supported by Optimove, we dive into the controversy surrounding São Paulo's recent lottery bid and the now-infamous Aposta Vencedora consortium. After winning the bid to operate the state lottery, the group failed to meet crucial payment deadlines, throwing the entire process into disarray. SBC Noticias' Fernando Noodt is joined by SBC Noticias Brasil's Ana Maria Menezes to examine what went wrong, from administrative oversights to deeper structural flaws in how the consortium was formed and approved.The conversation also sheds light on the human cost of the debacle. Dozens of employees were allegedly hired under misleading circumstances, unaware of the unstable foundation on which the operation stood. What does this mean for the future of lottery operations in São Paulo? And how can similar disasters be avoided in the future? Tune in for a compelling breakdown of a cautionary tale in governance, contracts, and consequences.To read more of the topic discussed, click on the following link: - https://sbcnoticias.com/br/denuncia-consorcio-aposta-vencedora/Host: Fernando NoodtGuest: Ana Maria MenezesProducer: James RossEditor: 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.