Stake introduces passkey login, giving players faster, safer, and password-free access with biometric sign-ins to boost security and convenience. Stake, the world’s most popular online casino and sportsbook, has become one of the first major iGaming operators to offer passkey login, giving users a faster and more secure way to access their accounts. Passkey lets Stake users verify their login with biometrics or a device PIN, bypassing passwords and one-time codes altogether. This makes sign-in nearly instant, eliminates the hassle of password resets, and reduces vulnerability to phishing attacks. Key benefits of passkey: Instant login with fingerprint, facial ID, or device PIN Streamlined sign-in—no passwords or codes to remember Dramatically reduces phishing-based takeovers Stake’s passkey is built to the globally recognized  FIDO  standard, the same protocol used by the biggest names in tech. Microsoft  reports  a 98% sign-in success rate with passkeys, three times higher than with passwords. PayPal  reported  a 70% drop in account takeovers after replacing passwords with passkeys.  “In an industry where trust and security are paramount, the move to passkey was an obvious next step”, said Stake Head of Product Andrew Forte. “We’re setting a new benchmark for player protection and convenience, removing password risk and proving that the most secure experience can also be the easiest.” Passkey offers impressive improvements in speed. According to Google, sign-in with passkey typically takes  15 seconds  while passwords require 30 seconds, or twice as long. With Stake seeing over 100 billion bets a year, including during live events, passkey enables more responsive and real-time play.  Passkey rollout began in mid-September and will be gradually made available to all users via account settings in Stake. Read related article: Stake Partners with Street League Skateboarding Global ly

Clarion Gaming partners with Microsoft at ICE Barcelona to launch the AI-driven Innovators Challenge, boosting safer gambling and industry innovation. Clarion Gaming has confirmed a partnership with the tech giant Microsoft aimed at accelerating innovation in safer gambling.  Taking place at ICE Barcelona, the world’s biggest gaming technology event, the ICE Innovators Challenge is an invitation to operators and their partners to submit AI-driven ideas that enhance responsible play. Five finalists will be selected to develop MVPs with expert support from Microsoft and its partners, including tech consultancy and coaching. The competition will launch online, with finalists going head-to-head on the main stage at ICE 2026. The winning team will receive £15,000 worth of consultancy, visibility, and ongoing support to help bring their ideas to market.  Explaining the objectives underpinning the ICE Innovators Challenge,  William Harding, Head of Emerging Technology and Esports at Clarion Gaming, said:   “At-risk bettors are now navigating a world of hyper-personalised experiences—both in gameplay and in targeted marketing. This evolution places an even greater responsibility on the industry to harness these same technologies in innovative ways that actively protect vulnerable players. By providing participants with exclusive access to its technology, Microsoft is empowering them to push creative boundaries and develop practical solutions that can make a meaningful difference.” Outlining the structure of the Challenge he explained:  “We wanted to make the process fun, engaging, and rooted in AI. To achieve this, we’ve trained an interactive AI model designed to guide and inspire participants as they shape their ideas. This challenge is about embracing AI to help build a safer future for gaming. Operators and their partners will submit their projects via  https://challenge.icegaming.com/  Judges will select a final shortlist with the leading five teams pitching their AI-driven safer gambling solutions live at ICE 2026. A distinguished jury, comprising Microsoft executives, investors, and safer gambling experts, will judge the pitches with the winning team announced on the ICE Barcelona main stage in front of thought leaders, regulators and influencers from the international industry. Competitors will have the chance to gain hands-on experience with Microsoft’s latest technologies, receive mentorship, and win exclusive prizes that could help propel their careers.” Iulia-Andreea Bolea; UK I-gaming Territory lead at Microsoft responded : “We are delighted to be partnering with ICE Barcelona, the world’s largest B2B gambling event, where the global gaming ecosystem, including operators, creators, regulators, and legislators, comes together to shape the future of gaming. “Our ambition for the industry is to empower the next generation of frontier firms by harnessing the transformative capabilities of AI and improving online safety for all. Through intelligent automation, skill development, and ethical innovation, we aim to help organisations reimagine their business processes and unlock new opportunities for growth and resilience with player safety at the forefront. “As a coach and ideation partner, we are committed to a people-first approach, growing AI futureproof skills, fostering creativity and collaboration, and driving responsible AI adoption. We look forward to seeing the winning hackathon solutions evolve into scalable applications that make a meaningful contribution to the industry’s commitment to player protection.” For more information and to enter: https://challenge.icegaming.com/ Read related article: Clarion Gaming Plans for ICE Barcelona 2026 Unveiled

Discover how Capella at Galaxy Macau is fueling record casino revenue, attracting premium visitors, and redefining Macau’s luxury travel experience. Macau's casino sector is seeing a fresh wave of optimism as analysts raise the May 2025 gross gaming revenue (GGR) forecast to MOP21.2 billion (approx. USD $2.64 billion or ₱153.6 billion). This upward revision is largely credited to the successful opening of Capella at Galaxy Macau, which has reignited luxury travel interest and brought a surge of high-value visitors to the city. Originally projected to reach MOP20 billion, the new forecast suggests a year-on-year GGR increase of 9.6%, according to Citigroup analysts. Daily average GGR in May has climbed to around MOP683 million  (₱4.95 billion), well above earlier expectations. Opened earlier this month, Capella  is the latest addition to the Galaxy Macau integrated resort. The ultra-luxury hotel has drawn attention for its upscale design, exclusive service, and appeal to high-end tourists — especially from mainland China. With premium visitors making longer stays and higher expenditures, casino floors across Cotai are seeing stronger foot traffic and higher betting volumes. Macau’s ongoing rebound is part of a broader trend of recovery in the Asian gaming and tourism sectors . While overall GGR in April stood at MOP18.5 billion (₱133.9 billion), driven by strong holiday performance, the new May forecast suggests sustained momentum. Capella’s success also aligns with the city’s efforts to diversify beyond gaming. With world-class dining, entertainment, and shopping integrated into resorts, Macau is positioning itself as more than just a gambling destination. Industry watchers now look toward June, with expectations that summer travel demand and continued high-end market interest could help maintain the upward GGR trajectory. As luxury resorts like Capella redefine Macau’s appeal, the city’s gaming and tourism industries appear well on track for a stronger-than-expected 2025. Read related article: What to Expect From Esports Hotels in Macau

Macau, Asia’s largest gambling hub, is upgrading its anti-fraud systems with AI to tackle scams, protect players, and secure its booming casino sector. Macau, Asia’s largest gambling hub, is strengthening its defenses against AI-driven scams that are increasingly targeting both tourists and casino operators. In response to growing concerns over tech-based fraud, authorities have announced an upgrade to the city’s Anti-Fraud Coordination Center, including the use of artificial intelligence tools to detect and disrupt criminal networks. The city’s Judiciary Police revealed that Macau recorded 1,268 scam cases in the first four months of 2025 — a 5.8% rise from the same period last year. Of these, many were linked to cyber scams, such as fake job offers, romance frauds, and loan swindles, which have begun using AI-generated content to deceive victims. To counter this, the revamped center will include real-time data sharing between police, telecoms, and banks. New AI systems will scan for suspicious activity, alert authorities, and flag unusual financial behavior — helping prevent victims from transferring funds to fraudulent accounts. The upgrade comes at a crucial time. Macau’s casino industry has been working hard to maintain investor confidence and rebuild its tourism numbers after COVID-era disruptions. The rise in tech-based crime could pose a reputational risk for the city if not addressed swiftly. AI scams aren’t just a Macau issue — they’re rising across Asia. Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Korea have all reported surges in AI-generated voice and video fraud. As the tools become more advanced, so must the response. Officials in Macau say that public education will also play a role. The Judiciary Police plans to launch campaigns at tourist hotspots and through local media to teach visitors how to spot red flags. For now, the message is clear: Macau is stepping up to make sure its casinos and streets remain safe for both players and businesses in the digital age. Read related article:  How Macau’s Casino Junkets Are Adapting To New Regulations

Gaming Realms extends licensing agreement with Light & Wonder to launch new Slingo versions of 88 Fortunes and Huff N’ More Puff for global players. Gaming Realms has further extended a licensing deal with Light & Wonder, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Light & Wonder”), which will see the supplier create Slingo titles of hugely popular games including 88 FORTUNES™ and HUFF N’ MORE PUFF™. The two Light & Wonder titles have a great fan-following, especially in North America, where Gaming Realms’ portfolio of Slingo games is also resonating well with local players. As part of the deal, Gaming Realms will develop Slingo iterations of 88 Fortunes and Huff N’ More Puff, delivering new innovative experiences to fans of the original brands. An option for a third game to be licensed is also included in the deal. The latest collaboration follows previous agreements between the two parties, including in 2024 when Gaming Realms signed a deal to license the GOLD FISH ™ IP from Light & Wonder. Slingo Gold Fish was released on September 23 rd , merging the original gameplay with the highly popular Slingo concept for a fun underwater adventure. The titles created in collaboration with Light & Wonder will be made available to all of Gaming Realms’ international operator partners. Craig Falciglia, VP of North America at Gaming Realms, said: “Extending our successful collaboration with Light & Wonder with the opportunity to develop Slingo versions of iconic games like 88 Fortune and Huff N’ More Puff is incredibly exciting. “These titles have a massive following, particularly in North America, and we are confident that our Slingo innovations will resonate strongly with their dedicated fan base, further strengthening our position in the US and Canada.” Rob Procter, VP Game Development at Light & Wonder, said: “Expanding our agreement with Gaming Realms is a testament to the success of our previous collaborations, including the upcoming release of Slingo Gold Fish . “By licensing our iconic titles like 88 Fortunes and Huff N’ More Puff , we're enabling Gaming Realms to create fresh, innovative experiences that will captivate our existing players while also attracting new audiences.” Read related article: Gaming Realms Partners with Mecca Bingo on Slingo Game

Fsas Technologies partners with Proxmox Server Solutions to deliver Proxmox VE subscriptions, support, and VMware alternatives across Europe. Fsas Technologies has signed a reseller partner agreement with Proxmox Server Solutions, allowing it to resell Proxmox subscriptions to its customers in Europe.    The initial focus of the strategic partnership will be on the Proxmox Virtual Environment (Proxmox VE), but with scope for deeper collaboration moving forward.    In addition, Fsas Technologies can provide its own Level 1 and Level 2 support and integrate its services, including the new Proxmox VE on PRIMERGY solution. The only vendor offering this with Proxmox   The partnership puts Fsas Technologies in the position to cater to the growing demand for open-source virtualisation, especially among customers seeking VMware alternatives.    It also aligns with its wider data centre strategy, enriching its virtualisation offering and opening new revenue streams for the business.    Nick McDonald , Senior iGaming Account Director at Fsas Technologies , said: “With this partnership, Fsas Technologies becomes the only international vendor holding such a contract with Proxmox, allowing us to bring tremendous added value to our existing customers while also engaging new ones.    “The Proxmox VE is one of the most established and trusted, having first entered the market almost 20 years ago. But over time, it has gained more and more traction in the virtualisation space, especially in recent years when other vendors have changed their business models.    “This is why we wanted to partner with Proxmox, making its VE and other solutions available to our customers. It really is a breakthrough partnership, and one that cements our position as the infrastructure provider of choice for organisations across the world.”  Read related article: Five technologies that will transform iGaming in 2025

BETER partners with Entain CEE to deliver fast-betting esports and sports content to SuperSport and STS, enhancing next-gen gaming in Croatia and Poland. BETER, the award-winning provider of fast-betting content and data for esports and sports, has partnered with Entain CEE to supply its sportsbook brands with the provider’s exclusive content.   Under the agreement, BETER will deliver ESportsBattle tournaments and the Setka Cup table tennis series to SuperSport, a premier operator in Croatia, and STS, one of Poland's leading sportsbooks.   BETER exclusively delivers 24/7 live streaming, real-time data, and hyper-accurate odds for approximately 700,000 fast-paced events annually, offering up to 50 markets per event with an average operator margin of 7.5%+.   Its esports portfolio includes ESportsBattle tournaments, featuring eFootball, eBasketball, eHockey, and the recently launched eTennis. Its sports portfolio features the Setka Cup table tennis series, BSKT Cup basketball league, GTR Cup tennis tournaments, Padel tennis, as well as coverage of official cricket tournaments and leagues worldwide.   BETER ensures the highest standards of fairness and transparency across its content offerings, backed by collaborations with ESIC and IBIA.   Gal Ehrlich, CEO of BETER, said:  “We are delighted to welcome Entain CEE to our growing roster of partners, underlining the demand for our products among the industry’s leaders.   “Fast-betting content has become essential for operators seeking to engage the next generation of players, and our suite of fast-paced products sets the standard for others to follow.   “We look forward to working closely with the SuperSport and STS teams to further develop the Croatian and Polish markets together.”   Ivan Gojic, Chief Sportsbook Officer at Entain CEE , added: “Fast-betting content is non-negotiable for operators looking to deliver next-gen experiences to bettors, and that’s exactly what we work hard to achieve at SuperSport and STS.   “This is why we chose to join forces with BETER, the market leader in fast-betting content for both esports and sports.   “This is a deal that brings a lot of thrilling content to our players, and that’s what makes it such an important partnership for us and our bettors.” Read related article: BETER Appoints Miguel Valdes as Business Development Manager

Boomerang Partners is hosting the Golden Boomerang League, a sports traffic tournament with big prizes, AC Milan experiences, and a path to the 2026 Awards. Boomerang Partners is hosting the Golden Boomerang League. This new sports traffic tournament is open to both existing and new partners of the company. To qualify for the final prize draw, participants must generate 20+ sports FTDs across brands within the Boomerang portfolio. The grand prize includes automatic qualification for the third season of the annual global traffic tournament for affiliate teams - the Golden Boomerang Awards 2026 . As the Official Regional Partner of AC Milan , Boomerang Partners is also offering 2x AC Milan Experience packages , including flights, accommodation, and tickets to an AC Milan match at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan.   One of the successful participants of the Golden Boomerang League 2025 is belg.group  — a top-tier digital lab specializing in traffic generation. Belg Lazarov, CEO and Founder of the company, gave an interview in which he shared his team’s impressions of participating in the tournament and discussed its competitive advantages in the affiliate marketing industry. 1 What did participating in the Golden Boomerang League mean to you - what was the key motivator for joining the tournament? For us, the Golden Boomerang League  was a real breath of fresh air. Our daily work is engaging, but it can get routine at times. A tournament like this reignites that competitive spark, adds a new dynamic to our workflow, and motivates the team to give it their all. And of course, the chance to win some great rewards and gain recognition makes the whole event even more appealing. It's the perfect mix of a professional challenge and a thrilling experience! 2 How would you evaluate the Golden Boomerang League format, where only 20 sports FTDs are needed to qualify for the final prize draw? We think the 20 FTDs threshold to qualify for the prize draw is very well-balanced and accessible. Based on our analysis of the competition this time, the bar could have been set higher, but the current level makes the tournament attractive for a wide range of participants. It’s a great opportunity for teams of all sizes to prove themselves in a high-profile event without feeling like there’s an insurmountable barrier to entry. 3 To what extent do you believe such tournaments help affiliate teams grow and boost their performance? Tournaments like these are more than just a competition; they are a powerful catalyst for growth. They give affiliate teams a chance not only to showcase a high level of professionalism but also to make a name for themselves in the market. In a competitive environment, these events become a unique platform for self-promotion, which opens up new prospects for development. It’s an opportunity you can’t afford to miss. 4 You know that the winners of the Golden Boomerang League get the opportunity to attend the Golden Boomerang Awards 2026 ceremony. What does this chance to be among the best and be present at such an event mean to you? For us, attending the Golden Boomerang Awards ceremony is more than just a prize; it’s a testament to our hard work. Unfortunately, last year, circumstances prevented us from attending, and we still regret it. Missing out on the chance to network with industry leaders, meet legends of world sports, and spend an unforgettable evening among colleagues was truly disappointing. That’s exactly why this time we are determined - we will definitely be there! 5 Golden Boomerang is not just a competition, but also has a strong community element. Do you feel a sense of involvement and team spirit when participating in such projects? Sure! Taking part in projects like this truly ignites a team spirit and healthy rivalry. Interacting with other tournament participants sparks a competitive fire, and the good-natured ribbing from both sides fuels our desire to put our best foot forward and prove that we can lead the pack. This sense of competition creates a unique atmosphere that motivates us to push further and achieve more. 6 From your point of view, how important is a reliable partner and transparent conditions in such competitions? What do you value in your cooperation with Boomerang Partners? Let’s start with this: a reliable partner in our field is 50% of success. And when we found ourselves in the safe hands of Kristina (our dear account manager), our chances of success increased by another ten percent, if not more. We’re talking about complete transparency in statistics of any format, literally round-the-clock operational resolution of any issue, and the mobilization of all relevant departments to tackle tasks and problems. This is their standard operating procedure, an axiom. And listen, Kristina and her team are always on our side in any disputed matter. Always! We have never encountered this level of care, professionalism, and openness with anyone else in the market. They truly set the gold standard that others should learn from. 7 What strengths distinguish your team from other players in the market? Our team stands out due to our unconventional approach to work. We aren’t afraid to experiment and implement bold, sometimes unexpected, even seemingly counterintuitive, solutions that ultimately give us a competitive edge. This mentality allows us to find unique paths to achieve our goals and always stay one step ahead. 8 How do you assess the current state of the iGaming market and the key trends that will define its development in the coming years? The current iGaming market is going through a stage of consolidation. Following the recent regulatory changes, the influx of new teams is minimal, while mid-tier operators are either restructuring or leaving the market altogether. It’s a survival of the fittest - those who have managed to adapt, implement innovative approaches, and overhaul their processes. In the coming years, the key trend, as cliché as it might sound, will be people. The specialists who can react swiftly to changes and offer unique solutions will be the ones setting the tone for the entire industry. Read related article: Boomerang Partners Joins Industry Leaders at SBC Summit 2025

UFC Fighter Diego Lopes Named Aviator Brand Ambassador, joining SPRIBE’s global campaign to boost the world’s #1 crash game in Brazil and beyond. UFC Fighter Diego Lopes Named Aviator Brand Ambassador , the number one crash game in the world with more than 60 million players a month, placing 400,000 bets per minute across 5,500 online casinos.   The 12-month partnership will see Lopes participate in a range of marketing campaigns to raise awareness of Aviator among his large and loyal fan base in his home country of Brazil.   Lopes is one of the UFC’s top featherweight fighters and is something of an MMA icon, especially in Brazil, a market where Aviator has built significant momentum in recent months.   Diego Lopes cemented his status as one of the UFC’s top featherweights with a win against Jean Silver at UFC Fight Night 259.   Lopes is the latest name to join an impressive roster of Aviator brand ambassadors from the UFC, including Arman Tsarukyan, Alex Pereira, Johnny Walker and Merab Dvalishvili.   These collaborations form part of a wider marketing deal between Aviator’s parent company, SPRIBE, and the UFC, which has seen Aviator branding appear inside the famous octagon.   It has also created a brand ambassador fund, allowing SPRIBE to join forces with UFC athletes and have them work as Aviator brand ambassadors.   Giorgi Tsutskiridze, Chief Commercial Officer at SPRIBE , said: “Diego is one of the biggest names in the UFC right now and has quickly risen through the ranks to be a title contender.   “To be able to partner with such a high-profile fighter is a major advantage for us as we continue to drive awareness of Aviator among players in Brazil and beyond.   “Diego’s fans will be captivated by the experience that Aviator provides – it’s fast paced, action packed and social, making it just as thrilling as watching Lopes go head-to-head with his opponents.”   Diego Lopes, UFC Featherweight Fighter and Aviator brand ambassador, added: “Aviator is one of the most thrilling games I have ever experienced, and that’s why I am proud to become an Aviator ambassador.   “Strap in, hold tight, and watch as the plane and the win multiplier climb higher. But just like a knockout punch, timing is everything – you need to pick the right moment to cash out to lock in the biggest wins.   “Keep your eyes peeled, as we have some great campaigns in the works, introducing Aviator to my fans in Brazil and beyond with my trademark style.” Read related article: SPRIBE Names Nina Drama as New Aviator Brand Ambassador

Gaming Corps partners with Stadtcasino Baden Group to launch exciting casino content on Jackpots.ch, expanding its reach in Switzerland’s regulated market. Gaming Corps – a publicly-listed game development company based in Sweden, has announced a new partnership with Stadtcasino Baden Group, one of Switzerland’s most established names in regulated gaming. The agreement sees a selection of Gaming Corps’ casino content launched on Jackpots.ch, the online casino brand of Grand Casino Baden.   As one of the first operators to enter Switzerland’s regulated online gaming space, and with over two decades of land and online gaming experience — Stadtcasino Baden combines operational depth with a proven drive to develop and invest in future-focused gaming technologies. This latest content partnership is part of Gaming Corps’ ongoing strategy to expand its footprint in regulated European markets and follows a string of recent launches with other high-profile operators.   Players at Jackpots.ch will now be able to enjoy Gaming Corps games across key categories, including Slot, Mine, and the studio’s innovative X-MY-WAY™ format. Among the titles going live are the cheeky crowd-pleaser Wet and Wild Beaver, the fiery Gates of Hellfire, and the playfully charming Expanding Joker.   Danielle Calafato, CCO at Gaming Corps , said: “Stadtcasino Baden is one of the most forward-thinking operators in the industry, and we’re proud to be bringing our content to their players via Jackpots.ch. This partnership strengthens our presence in a key regulated market and allows us to showcase the breadth of our portfolio through a brand that truly values quality.”   Brian Christner, Chief Online Gaming at Stadtcasino Baden , added: “Gaming Corps shares our ambition to push boundaries and redefine what a digital casino experience can be. This partnership isn’t just about adding content — it’s about aligning with creators who think differently, move quickly, and help us stay ahead in a fast-moving market. It reflects our ongoing commitment to meaningful innovation and delivering distinctive value to players in Switzerland’s regulated landscape.” Read related article: Gaming Corps Partners with Winbet to Expand Game Reach

Clarion Gaming drives innovation with Pitch iGB 2025, supporting startups like BetPass in boosting growth, visibility, and shaping the future of iGaming. Clarion Gaming has long been at the forefront of championing innovation, becoming the first event organiser to leverage the strength of its brands to support start-ups in accelerating their growth and gaining market visibility. At the 2025 edition of Pitch iGB, affiliate management platform BetPass impressed the judging panel with its curated marketplace, designed to connect affiliate networks with high-value opportunities. Following the win, BetPass founder Lais Barroso reflects on the significance of receiving this recognition and shares his vision for the company’s future. What are the benefits of winning Pitch iGB and how would you describe the feedback that you’ve received? Winning gave us instant credibility with a global audience. It has opened doors to conversations with top-tier operators, investors, and potential partners that would have taken months - if not years - to secure. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People have highlighted our clear value proposition, the scalability of our model, and the way we are solving real problems in the market.    Can you explain a little bit more about the BetPass proposition? We are an affiliate management platform which has been designed to go far beyond traditional tracking. Most platforms stop at tracking; we manage the entire affiliate journey, from onboarding and compliance to performance growth and retention. USPs include a built-in marketplace that connects operators with vetted affiliates, reducing acquisition time and improving partner quality. Resources, analytics, and gamification features are designed to actively improve affiliate performance, it provides real-time insights that allow both operators and affiliates to make smarter, faster decisions driving ROI together with automated, ongoing checks which protect operators from low-quality traffic and regulatory risks. Previous Pitch winners have highlighted how difficult it is to attract investment from financial institutions – is that your experience and how are you addressing it? Yes, that’s been our experience as well. Traditional financial institutions often struggle to understand the iGaming sector’s dynamics, especially in emerging markets. We’ve addressed this by focusing on generating revenue through our own products and solutions—after all, they say the best money is the customer’s, and we’ve embraced that mindset from day one. Since our start in 2023, we’ve been a 100% bootstrapped company, proving that strong execution and customer focus can fuel sustainable growth without relying on external capital.   How will you use the prize money – has it been earmarked for a specific project? Yes, it will be invested directly into our proprietary platform, enhancing features that improve affiliate performance tracking, campaign optimization, and the overall affiliate journey, as well as developing tools that help affiliates achieve better performance and results. This directly aligns with our mission of delivering smarter, more profitable acquisition for our partners. At what stage did you think that you would win? I think it was towards the end of the Q&A session. I walked out of the pitch feeling very confident — I felt I had delivered an excellent presentation, and all the questions made perfect sense, giving me the chance to share more details I didn’t have time to cover during the pitch. That showed me the judges had truly understood what we do, the value we deliver, and the potential of our business. Did you get the opportunity to enjoy iGB L!VE 2025 and what were your impressions of the first edition to be held in London? Absolutely. London brought a different energy: there were more international decision-makers, a wider mix of markets, and an overall sense of momentum for the industry. It felt like a perfect stage for our Pitch and for high-level networking. On top of that, I had the chance to join some amazing side events, like the pre-event day dedicated to startups with talks from major industry leaders, and the football tournament the day after the show, where I met incredible people, scored several goals, and helped my team reach the final! The only downside was tearing a shoulder ligament on the very last play of the tournament—but even so, the overall experience was incredibly positive! What inspires you and where do you get your inspiration from? I’m inspired by building things that matter—solutions that truly move the needle for our partners. I get my inspiration from market gaps: when I see inefficiencies or missed opportunities, I can’t help but think about how to turn them into growth. At BetPass, we’re driven by innovation—by building things in ways no one else is doing. And because our entire journey has been bootstrap, solving real customer problems has also become a core source of inspiration, as it’s been essential for our survival. What’s next for BetPass – how do you intend to harness the momentum of winning Pitch iGB? We’re leveraging the visibility to accelerate our roadmap, closing strategic deals, expanding into new markets, and strengthening our tech capabilities. The win is not the finish line; it’s a launchpad. Our next steps include consolidating our product in the Brazilian market and continuing to grow our market share, expanding into other countries, and eventually opening new verticals, so we can bring our technology to entirely new markets. Read related article: Clarion Gaming Plans for ICE Barcelona 2026 Unveiled

SBC Summit 2025, the greatest show in gaming, drew 30,000+ delegates from 150 countries with record-breaking growth, networking, and world-class speakers. SBC Summit 2025 has concluded on a high note, cementing its reputation as the greatest show in gaming with a record-breaking 30,000+ delegates from 150 countries in attendance.   This year’s edition delivered a 20% year-on-year growth in participation, drawing together the world’s top operators, suppliers, affiliates, regulators, media, fintechs, and sports professionals. The summit also welcomed over 700 exhibitors and sponsors , 550+ expert speakers , and an expanded footprint of 135,000m² across FIL and the MEO Arena.   Sharing the main reason for attending the Summit, Elaine Gardiner-Ruddock , Managing Director of affiliate TAG Media , mentioned that “last year’s Summit was the most fruitful show for us in terms of business,” adding that because of that, “this year it was definitely a must-attend.”   Jesper Svensson , CEO of global operator Betsson Group , echoed this sentiment, calling the event “a yearly occurrence in the calendar.”    For Dinos Stranomitis , Director and COO of Altenar , the value is clear: “SBC is one of the best shows in the world. At Altenar, we have clear metrics for deciding which events are worth attending, and SBC Summit stands out as one of the most prominent shows globally.”   Ivan Rozic , Global Commercial Director at EveryMatrix, agreed: “If there are two shows you know you have to visit in a year, this has got to be one of them. For us, it was a no-brainer.”   Pierre Cadena , COO of Catena Media , underlined the scale of the 2025 edition: “It is certainly one of the biggest and most expansive conferences that I attend in a given year.”   Apart from scale, the event achieved unprecedented international scope, with 16 new countries represented compared to last year. Audience growth was particularly strong across Latin America (78.2%), Asia (68.8%), Africa (40.4%), and Europe (49%), underscoring the summit’s global relevance.    Svensson commented on the global nature of the event: “When there are so many people here from all around the world, that’s the real value we’re after. For us, operating in so many different jurisdictions, the opportunity to meet people from different places is invaluable.”   Ivan Gojic , Chief Sportsbook Officer at Entain , added: “I see a lot of people from Eastern Europe, a lot of people from South America; everybody in the same place, everybody with a chance to speak up. And what I really like is that I don’t see a difference between somebody being a CEO and somebody being a janitor in a company.”   New Global & Emerging Markets stages and regionally focused networking zones also gave delegates fresh opportunities to explore growth markets in Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America, and beyond.   Marcel Prioteasa , CEO of NetBet , shared his thoughts on the new addition: “It’s a very good add-on. It offers operators the possibility to cherry-pick what we are interested in and where to go.”   Beyond sheer scale and its global nature, the summit attracted a senior-level audience at an unparalleled rate . More than 5,900 C-level decision makers were in attendance, reflecting SBC Summit’s role as the central meeting point for the industry’s most influential leaders.    600 of these C-level executives attended the annual SBC Leaders Summit in Lisbon on Monday, just ahead of the main conference days. Dan Taylor , CEO of Flutter International , commented: “I was at the Leaders Summit yesterday, where I spoke to the audience. It’s a great opportunity to meet other chief executives from businesses around the world in one place. It’s a really efficient way to do that, which is fantastic.”    Prioteasa noted that the presence of senior decision-makers is a major draw to SBC Summit: “You have leaders of big companies setting market trends here."   Operator attendance grew by 31% , while affiliate attendance rose by an impressive 38% , demonstrating the event’s increasing value to these key stakeholder groups.    Commenting on the impressive affiliate attendance at this year’s event—largely driven by the dedicated Affiliate Leaders Summit , which ran alongside the main summit for three days and even featured the brand-new Affiliate Leaders Awards ceremony— Sarah Sabo , Director of Affiliate Marketing at BetMGM , said:   “I think the Affiliate Leaders Summit is incredibly valuable. I don’t think a lot of conferences do it, so it definitely sets SBC apart. I run the affiliate marketing team at BetMGM, so to me, it’s great. I get to see all my partners; there are excellent sessions, and it’s very niche and focused on our vertical, which is fantastic.”   On the show floor, 235 new sponsors and exhibitors joined the roster, adding to the 700 brands showcasing their latest products and innovations.   Commenting on the variety of offerings on the expo floor, George Anestis , Online Casino Director at Greek operator OPAP , mentioned: “When it comes to sportsbook or casino platforms and propositions, as well as CRM and acquisition, everything is covered at the exhibition here. Moreover, we see a lot of affiliates, which are an integral part of our business, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with them as well.” Rozic from EveryMatrix added: “Our stand gave us a dedicated space to host partners and engage in meaningful conversations, and we managed to meet pretty much everyone we wanted to. It’s been very useful, and we’re definitely coming back next year.”   Another exhibitor, Ramon Glieneke , COO of game aggregator Alea , said: “It’s been packed and crazy busy. Our booth was buzzing with people, meetings, existing clients, and new leads. It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our new releases and products. So far, it’s been amazing — we’re really, really happy.”   On the conference side, more than 550 industry leaders took the stage to share insights, with highlights including not just industry celebrities but also world-class keynote speakers and sports icons such as Gary Vaynerchuk , Randi Zuckerberg , Oleksandr Usyk , and Rubens Barrichello .   Yaroslava Romaniv , Head of Marketing and PR at GR8 Tech , highlighted the impact of bringing boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk to the event: “Our partnership with Ready to Fight, co-founded by Oleksandr Usyk, made his appearance at SBC Summit especially meaningful. The response to his keynote has been fantastic. Later, when Usyk joined us at our booth, it created an incredible experience for everyone who wanted to interact with a true legend. For us, it was a huge milestone and a win-win.”   Reflecting on the keynote lineup, Ivan Gojic of Entain remarked: “This year, you had Gary Vaynerchuk, you had Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed champion. Those are things you don’t get to see often. And coming from somebody who is a huge sports fan, it really gets me going.”   The launch of the Tech Academies also stood out, offering hands-on learning in AI, blockchain, gamification, and marketing. Commenting on their relevance, Pierre Cadena of Catena Media said: “There’s probably not one attendee that walks through the doors who isn’t thinking about how things like AI, business automation, and data-driven strategies need to affect their day-to-day.”   Overall, the Super Stage at MEO Arena delivered standout moments, from an inspirational talk with football legends to the Super CEO Panel , featuring top executives from Flutter International, Super Group, Betfred, Betsson Group, and Fast Track.   A big highlight of this edition was the addition of the Legends Charity Game , which saw a team of world football legends take on a side of Portugal legends. Fans were treated to unforgettable performances from global icons such as Kaká , Alessandro Del Piero , Roberto Carlos , and Edwin van der Sar , who went head-to-head with Portuguese greats including Luís Figo , Ricardo Quaresma and Nani . Beyond the excitement on the pitch, the game has already raised €600,000 for four incredible charities, adding a powerful philanthropic dimension to the event.   Pavel Krbec , CEO of Flashscore , shared his thoughts on the Legends Charity Game: “I have to say that I really enjoyed the charity game. It was a great opportunity for Flashscore to invite our business partners. I really appreciated it, and I was pleasantly surprised by the attendance — over 20,000 people, from what I heard. A very nice achievement.”   Ramon Glieneke of Alea said: “For us, it was an easy yes (supporting Legends Charity Game). The event aligns perfectly with our culture and values. It shows how the iGaming industry can come together as a community to support causes that truly matter.”   Football legends also extended their visit to the main summit, mingling with attendees. Former Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar joined TV presenter Kirsty Gallagher to co-host the SBC Awards , where excellence across the industry was celebrated in more than 40 categories.   On the hospitality side, highlights included thoughtful touches such as airport registration and a Food Festival with over 40 food trucks. The evening entertainment truly stole the show, with the Opening Party at Urban Beach featuring Joel Corry and Imanbek , and the spectacular INFINITY Lisbon Closing Party headlined by ALOK and Timmy Trumpet .   Gardiner-Ruddock was particularly impressed by the abundance of options throughout the week: “What really stands out for me is the abundance of opportunities and side events. From food trucks to smoothie bars, there’s just so much of everything. I only wish I had more time to experience it all.”   BetMGM’s Sabo also praised the mix of features and experiences: “I’d say the features and experiences have stood out the most to us. I thought it was great that we could register at the airport. I also loved the Food Festival — it’s a fun thing that SBC does. I loved all the food variety, and of course, the networking events at night are a lot of fun.”   Notably, the summit’s significance extended well beyond the industry, with an estimated 72,000+ hotel room nights booked and a direct contribution of an estimated €80-100 million to the Portuguese economy.   Rasmus Sojmark , CEO & Founder of SBC, commented: “We are incredibly proud of what we achieved with SBC Summit. The event continues to grow not just in size but in impact, bringing the global industry together for meaningful conversations, new partnerships, and memorable experiences. Our priority remains delivering an exceptional delegate experience, strong business ROI, and the greatest show in gaming.”   As Noelia Groisman , Paid Social, Media and Affiliation Team Leader at Codere Online , put it: “SBC Summit is the greatest show in gaming because you can start the day with an idea and end it with the whole picture complete.”   Or, as Elaine Gardiner described it: “It is Disneyland for iGaming professionals. There’s something new and exciting everywhere you look.”   Stranomitis said: “It’s not just about quantity here, it’s about quality. People come with a real appetite for business, and we’re having valuable discussions with high-level industry leaders. For us, attending SBC is absolutely worth it — it’s a great show.”   Rozic added: “ I’ve been following SBC since the early days, and each year you push another boundary. People see that and appreciate it, even if they don’t always say it to your face. Talking to industry peers, you can tell the appreciation is there.”   With planning already underway for SBC Summit 2026 , next year promises to raise the bar yet again, introducing new features and experiences while continuing to deliver on SBC’s commitment to being the most international, innovative, and impactful event in the gaming calendar.    SBC Summit will return to Lisbon from 29 September to 1 October 2026. Read related article: SBC Summit on Track to Welcome 30,000 Attendees to Lisbon