5 Star iGaming Media – Features https://5star.media/features/ iGaming News Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:14:48 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://5star.media/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-2ENR5NH7_400x400-32x32.jpg 5 Star iGaming Media – Features https://5star.media/features/ 32 32 Cracking the code of player loyalty https://5star.media/2025/04/14/cracking-the-code-of-player-loyalty/ https://5star.media/2025/04/14/cracking-the-code-of-player-loyalty/#respond Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:53:17 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=77645 5 Star caught up with Luis Sangiovanni, Chief Marketing Officer of Fast Track, to discuss the growing pressure on operators to deliver personalisation at scale, the launch of the company’s latest innovation, Rewards, and how a smarter approach to CRM is transforming the way teams spend their days at the office. Sangiovanni is no stranger […]

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5 Star caught up with Luis Sangiovanni, Chief Marketing Officer of Fast Track, to discuss the growing pressure on operators to deliver personalisation at scale, the launch of the company’s latest innovation, Rewards, and how a smarter approach to CRM is transforming the way teams spend their days at the office.

Sangiovanni is no stranger to scaling businesses and navigating the complexities of global, competitive markets.As someone who has spent over a decade hands-on in the B2B SaaS landscape, he has found that some of the most valuable lessons come from looking beyond your own box. The major players in tech understand a fundamental truth that is often overlooked by gaming operators: winning customers loyalty is key. 

“Pumping large amounts of cash into bringing players to your website is not the entire customer journey,” Sangiovanni remarks. “The likes of Amazon, Netflix, or Spotify have invested enormous resources into refining the way they communicate, segment, and anticipate customer needs, while building entire ecosystems that turn one-time buyers into lifelong customers. The issue of loyalising players is a difficult challenge operators face, with customers often playing on several websites, which translates into high churn rates.”

To close the loyalty gap, Fast Track’s product suite has been built to harness the power of AI, automation, machine learning, and real-time data to engage players in a completely new way. The supplier’s trifecta of CRM, AI-driven gamification, and bonus abuse detection work hand in hand to bring operators closer to what matters most – the ability to step back and devise an effective strategy that can be executed without losing control of the workload and suffering losses due to lack of visibility.

“We’re freeing up time. CRM doesn’t have to be slow. Teams can enjoy their work and have fun, without all the time-consuming tasks that slow down growth.“ explains Sangiovanni. “AI helps scale operations by profiling players, selecting the best communication channels, choosing the optimal times to engage, and delivering marketing campaigns across different markets thanks to auto-translation. That gives back marketing teams enough head space to work on their strategic initiatives rather than spend all of their time on manual labour.”

At the heart of the platform sits the Singularity Model, which brings together player data, communication tools, and campaign management into a single, AI-driven interface. This streamlined approach saves operators valuable time, allowing CRM teams to focus on strategy. The system intelligently distributes incentives based on player value, not just generic rules. 

Key features like AI-driven Churn Modelling, optimal channel selection, content generation, localisation, and player profiling have been central to Fast Track’s vision from the start. The aim is to create a self-learning engagement platform that gives operators the freedom to focus on growth.

Beyond its CRM solution, Fast Track offers real value to operators with its open platform, seamlessly integrating new game-changing products like Greco and Rewards. Greco is known as the Gameplay Risk Engine and its core mission is to combat bonus abuse and improve risk management, while Rewards enables AI-driven, personalised promotions at scale.

AI-Driven gamification at scale

Fast Track’s latest launch, Rewards, is a direct answer to the most persistent challenge operators bring forward: how to make loyalty feel more meaningful, both for the player and the operator. “We’re not trying to add more noise. We’re creating a platform that aims to connect with the player on a deeper level and that drives long-term value through behaviour-driven incentives, not just flashy bonuses.” says Sangiovanni.

“Operators don’t need more tools; they need less complexity,” he explains. “With Rewards, we’ve taken something that’s traditionally time-consuming and made it a value-generating engine that runs itself. You set the logic, and the system does the rest.”

One of the key differentiators of Fast Track is how Rewards integrates seamlessly into the player journey. Operators can set up engagement challenges, like daily log-ins or gameplay milestones, and let the system determine the best way and time to communicate with the player based on real-time engagement signals. 

In the case of a ‘daily login challenge’, for example, rather than sending automatic daily reminders, the system monitors player past response behaviour, analyses the data, and adjusts the touchpoints accordingly to avoid fatigue and maximise conversion. If a player skips a day, the system might pause, change the communication channel, or trigger a surprise reward to keep them engaged. It all happens automatically once enabled.

It’s a philosophy that draws inspiration from outside the iGaming bubble. Sangiovanni points to Duolingo, the language learning app, as a powerful analogue: “They’ve nailed this idea of gamified progression: streaks, leaderboards, XP. People should be coming back because it’s fun, and the messaging connects on a deeper level; not because they’re being told to. That’s the mindset we’re applying to iGaming.”

About Luis Sangiovanni

With three decades of experience in marketing, advertising, and entrepreneurship, Luis Sangiovanni has built a strong reputation for driving impactful strategies and delivering scalable results. He has worked alongside global brands, bringing valuable insights that have shaped successful campaigns and business growth. His expertise spans across diverse industries, enabling him to blend creative marketing with data-driven decision-making to consistently achieve outstanding outcomes.

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The Three Keys to a Next-Gen Sportsbook Experience https://5star.media/2025/04/11/the-three-keys-to-a-next-gen-sportsbook-experience/ https://5star.media/2025/04/11/the-three-keys-to-a-next-gen-sportsbook-experience/#respond Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:04:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=77609 Stefanos Karakidis, Head of Business Development, BETBY. In recent years, sportsbooks have come to realise that sustainable growth isn’t just about entering new markets. While expansion can increase the number of players, revenue, and GGR, it often misses the bigger picture. In fact, what guarantees long-lasting success is making every user interaction feel locally native, […]

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Stefanos Karakidis, Head of Business Development, BETBY.

In recent years, sportsbooks have come to realise that sustainable growth isn’t just about entering new markets. While expansion can increase the number of players, revenue, and GGR, it often misses the bigger picture. In fact, what guarantees long-lasting success is making every user interaction feel locally native, contextually relevant, and personally tuned.

In order to achieve that, operators need to curate experiences for diverse audiences whose expectations vary based on geography, digital habits, and cultural background. But it isn’t about drawing lines around borders, it’s about creating identity-driven ecosystems. Each audience has its own motivations, UX preferences, and content demands, which means success depends on designing solutions that cater not just broadly, but with surgical precision to how they think, how they bet, and how they live.

Delivering on this challenge requires more than a flexible technological product, it demands a sportsbook framework that can adapt dynamically through localisation of content, customisation of product, and personalisation at the user level. The industry’s most adaptive operators are doing exactly that with their platforms, and suppliers such as BETBY provide the sportsbook tech architecture enabling them to do it at scale.

Localisation: Content Meets Cultural Fluency

Localisation is often misunderstood as simple translation, but operators serious about succeeding in regional markets know it involves much more than that. It requires a fundamental rethink of how content is structured, how users interact with it, and what value propositions are offered.

Let’s start with device preferences. In markets like Latin America, where most users bet via mobile, UX and UI must be mobile-first. That means more than just a shiny interface, it demands low latency and seamless performance, especially in the betslip. Without this, users will look elsewhere.

The same applies to the betting opportunities offered. A one-size-fits-all approach is outdated and potentially off-putting since what resonates in Spain might not work in Argentina, despite the shared language. Offering local sports and leagues boosts retention and loyalty, but that requires deep local insight.

Take BETBY’s experience with vaquejada, a rodeo-style competition popular in northeast Brazil. At a partner’s request, BETBY created markets for the sport, which proved so successful it led to the development of a dedicated e-sim version — a first in the industry. Its popularity confirmed that a hyper-localized approach was the right one, just like in another similar case. We created the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) league within NBA2K for one of our Asian partners, developed entirely from scratch to cater to local fan demand, showcasing how BETBY builds tailored solutions that drive engagement.

But not every sportsbook can do this. Many lack the internal trading expertise and depend heavily on third-party feeds, leaving them with their hands tied. Without the ability to quickly build niche, underexplored markets, localisation becomes just a buzzword and bettors will drift to platforms that truly cater to their preferences.

Customisation: Turning Strategy into Product

Once localisation sets the cultural foundation, customisation becomes the key factor for differentiation. This is where sportsbooks can shape the betting experience around their brand identity and user behaviour not just by market, but by audience segment.

All operators have different needs depending on the regions they serve, and the solution is building a product that fits. One good example of this approach is BETBY Games, BETBY’s proprietary esports feed built with full customisation in mind. It’s not just an e-sim content catalogue, it’s a solution that allows operators to reshape the entire experience to suit their audiences: set the frequency of matches to match user engagement windows, adjust margin settings based on business strategy, and customise banners, players, and league structures to create narratives that resonate with local preferences.

When treated as a strategic asset, customisation has a measurable impact on performance, as it increases time-on-site, bet frequency, and user engagement. It’s about more than just aesthetics, as it enables operators to craft personal sportsbook experiences that are relevant. For instance, operators can feature e-sim World Cup matches during the actual FIFA World Cup, or e-sim Wimbledon during the live tournament, keeping users engaged even when no real matches are taking place. This integration of virtual content ensures continuous excitement and activity, regardless of the live sports schedule.

At the same time, users now expect the possibility to customise their own betting experiences. Betting options were once limited, but today’s players have access to hundreds of sports and markets and they want to have the freedom to build their own narratives and strategies.

BETBY’s Bet Builder is a prime example of this. It puts that freedom in the user’s hands, letting them combine and customise bets not only from different matches but even from different sports. On top of that, it covers 100% of football matches, giving users a vast array of betting options tailored to their preferences, whether that’s top-tier fixtures or lower-profile leagues like Uganda’s second division.

According to our experience, the usage of this feature — which is also available on four major esports titles, something unique — grew in a remarkable way from 2023 to 2024. We saw a 481% increase in traditional sports bets placed through Bet Builder and a 485% rise in esports bets, highlighting its growing relevance among users. With extensive market coverage, the ability to combine traditional and statistical markets, and unmatched flexibility, Bet Builder transforms betting into a creative experience entirely shaped by the user.

Personalisation: Data Transforms the Experience

Last but not least, there’s personalisation, one of the most overused and under-delivered terms in the industry. Most platforms reduce it to basic suggestions or generic “recommended for you” sections, but true personalisation demands deep behavioural insight, real-time feedback, and responsive systems.

The most advanced sportsbooks are now leveraging AI-driven recommender systems that go beyond bet history, they consider time of day, device type, session behaviour, and other metrics. A user who bets on MMA late Saturday nights should not see the same homepage as someone focused on weekday tennis matches. Why? Because personalisation isn’t just about content, it’s about context.

BETBY’s comprehensive suite of AI tools, AI Labs, is building this intelligence directly into the sportsbook experience. From dynamic content to predictive recommendations, every interaction becomes smarter and more user-centric.

And it’s working. BETBY has seen a 10% average growth in bets placed via personalised top sections, with countries like Japan and Germany seeing increases of 62% and 40%, respectively. This shows that when personalisation is done right, it drives real engagement, sometimes even reminding users of sports or markets they hadn’t considered.

Another strong use case is BETBY’s Betting Tips API, which gives users tailored insights, news, and key data to encourage more confident bets. Notably, BETBY is the first in the industry offering betting tips for esports, an innovation that reinforces our commitment to staying ahead of the curve. By integrating this feature into the sportsbook experience, players stay informed about their favourite sports and esports without leaving the platform, leading to higher conversion, longer sessions, and greater loyalty. Around 10% of users are already actively engaging with the feature, proving its value.

Synergy is the Real Differentiator

Even though they all have impact on their own, the real power of localisation, customisation, and personalisation lies in their synergy. When local content is effectively customised and then personalised for individual users, the impact is far greater than any one approach alone.

To achieve this, operators need to build flexible, adaptive ecosystems instead of rigid, static platforms. As competition rises and acquisition costs climb, precision becomes the only sustainable strategy.

Operators who treat these three pillars as core, interconnected tools and not as optional features are building sportsbooks that connect more deeply, perform more consistently, and scale more intelligently.

The vision is already here. What matters now is the technology, execution and the willingness to design for difference. Ultimately, success won’t belong to those who expand fastest, but to those who localise smartest.

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How to build on a strong legacy https://5star.media/2025/01/20/75263/ https://5star.media/2025/01/20/75263/#respond Mon, 20 Jan 2025 09:50:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=75263 Exclusive interview: 5 Star sits down with ELK Studios CEO Robin Smith to delve into the company’s rich history, recent accomplishments, and outlook for the future. After 13 years, the 3 founders of ELK Studios left the company following the acquisition by Light & Wonder. Left is a 130-employee-strong game studio, with a DNA and […]

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Exclusive interview: 5 Star sits down with ELK Studios CEO Robin Smith to delve into the company’s rich history, recent accomplishments, and outlook for the future.

After 13 years, the 3 founders of ELK Studios left the company following the acquisition by Light & Wonder. Left is a 130-employee-strong game studio, with a DNA and passion to be innovative and push the boundaries of online slots. The one to lead them into the future is Robin Smith.

With a history of 7 years within ELK, Robin has gone from a Product Owner, to Chief Compliance Officer, and now since May 2024, taking on the role as new CEO of ELK Studios.

Robin, congratulations on your new role as CEO! What does it mean to you to lead ELK Studios into this next chapter?

Thank you! Leading ELK Studios into its next chapter is an immense honor. ELK is a company with a rich history of innovation and quality, built by three visionary founders whose DNA is still ingrained in everything we do. For me, this role is about respecting that legacy while shaping what I like to call “ELK 2.0″—the next evolution of our company. I’m incredibly proud of our talented team and excited about the opportunities ahead.

What do you seek to salvage from previous leadership?

The previous leadership set a foundation of creativity, innovation, and a commitment to quality that has defined ELK Studios. Those principles are timeless and integral to who we are as a company. While the new leadership team brings fresh perspectives and experiences, we’re deeply focused on learning from the past and building upon the strengths that have made ELK successful. It’s about blending the best of both worlds—honoring our history while embracing new opportunities.

ELK Studios has a strong identity. How do you plan to lead without disrupting what makes it unique?

Our identity lies in our passion for innovation and delivering exceptional quality, and that will never change. My role is to support and empower the amazing team we have at ELK Studios, creating an environment where they can thrive and do their best work. I see myself as a facilitator, ensuring that the team has the tools, freedom, and inspiration to push boundaries while staying true to what makes ELK special. I often say, “Dare to fail in order to be great,” and that philosophy drives us to take calculated risks and try new things. By fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration, I believe we can continue to innovate without compromising our core values.

In your eyes, what are ELKs key strengths and opportunities?

Our biggest strength is our ability to innovate and deliver high-quality gaming experiences. We’ve built a reputation for pushing boundaries and creating memorable games like Pirots and Cygnus, which resonate with players around the world.

As for opportunities, expanding into the US and Canadian markets is a top priority. We’re excited to bring our unique games to new audiences and create fresh experiences for players there.

And where do you think ELK could improve or face challenges?

One of our challenges is ensuring that as we grow, we maintain the agility and creative spirit that have been central to our success. Expanding into new markets will require adapting to different player preferences and regulatory environments, which is something we’re working hard on. Internally, it’s also about fostering the next generation of leaders within ELK, ensuring that our team is empowered and equipped to take the company to new heights.

What is ELKs primary focus as you lead it into the future?

Our primary focus is on delivering high-quality, innovative games while expanding our presence globally. At the same time, we’re committed to nurturing our team and ensuring that ELK remains a great place to work. For us, it’s about staying true to our core values while taking bold steps into the future.

How do you envision growing the company, and where do you see the biggest opportunities?

Growth for us means expanding both our market reach and our game portfolio. The US and Canada represent massive opportunities, and we’re putting significant effort into establishing our footprint there. Beyond that, we’re always on the lookout for the next big hit in terms of games. Whether it’s a new franchise or expanding existing ones like Nitropolis and Toro, our focus is on creating compelling content that players love.

ELK Studios has built a strong reputation for its game portfolio. What do you see as the key strengths of your games?

Our games stand out because of their innovative mechanics, stunning artwork, and commitment to quality. We combine groundbreaking mathematics with creative storytelling to craft experiences that resonate with players. Franchises like Pirots and Nitropolis are perfect examples of this, where we’ve taken bold creative risks and seen incredible success as a result. Expect more of that in the future from ELK Studios.

Can you highlight some of ELK’s key releases in 2024?

2024 has been an exciting year for us. We’ve continued to innovate with our game releases, including new installments of fan-favorite franchises, while also introducing fresh mechanics in titles like Rouge Rat of Nitropolis and Slurpy. However, one game truly stands out for me this year—our final release of 2024, Shadowshifter. This game not only introduces an innovative new mechanic to the market but also showcases a level of production quality that’s exceptional from start to finish. My favorite moment is when you trigger the bonus game, and the entire experience elevates, with the tempo and music intensifying to create something truly unforgettable.

What can players and operators look forward to from ELK Studios in 2025?

2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year. Pirots 4 will be our biggest release yet, featuring groundbreaking innovations that we’re confident players will love. Alongside that, we’re revisiting other beloved, proven mechanics and franchises, while staying open to fresh ideas. Our approach is agile, so we’re always ready to pivot if we discover something exciting.

We’re kicking off 2025 with an absolute banger: Cygnus 5. The Cygnus series has become a cornerstone of ELK Studios, consistently captivating players with each new release. We have high hopes for this next installment, as it builds on the legacy of its predecessors while offering something fresh and exciting for fans of the series.

What do you think has made these franchises, like Pirots, Cygnus, Nitropolis, and Toro, so successful?

The comes down to their innovation and quality. Each game brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the engaging mechanics of Pirots or the stunning visuals of Cygnus. We pour our hearts into every release, and players recognize that effort. Even when a game doesn’t become a massive hit, it reflects our dedication to creating the best experience possible.

How do you plan to maintain and grow the strength of ELKs game portfolio moving forward?

It’s all about staying true to our values while embracing new opportunities. We’ll continue to invest in our team, foster creativity, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in slot games. At the same time, we’re expanding into new markets, like North America, Canada, and Latin America, which will open up fresh perspectives and opportunities.

Being part of Light & Wonder, a powerhouse in the market, is a significant advantage for us. Their resources, industry expertise, and willingness to invest in ELK provide us with incredible opportunities to succeed and grow. We are very proud to be part of the Light & Wonder family.

Finally, what’s your vision for ELK Studios in the next five to ten years?

In five to ten years, I envision ELK Studios as a company with a significant presence in the global online gaming industry. While we may not aim to be the biggest, our goal is to be recognized for our innovation, quality, and creativity. I want ELK to be known as the game provider that consistently delivers exceptional games daring to push boundaries. Ultimately, it’s about making our mark in the industry and continuing to build on our reputation for excellence.

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Rethinking Platform Technology for Modern Operators https://5star.media/2025/01/14/rethinking-platform-technology-for-modern-operators/ https://5star.media/2025/01/14/rethinking-platform-technology-for-modern-operators/#respond Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:55:51 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=75007 Ashley Lang, CEO of Pragmatic Solutions. How a strategic reassessment of platform technologies can deliver operators the speed, quality and flexibility they require to stand out from the crowd. In the fast-evolving world of iGaming, platform technology serves as the foundation for growth, innovation, and operational success. For online gaming and betting operators, defining the […]

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Ashley Lang, CEO of Pragmatic Solutions.

How a strategic reassessment of platform technologies can deliver operators the speed, quality and flexibility they require to stand out from the crowd.

In the fast-evolving world of iGaming, platform technology serves as the foundation for growth, innovation, and operational success. For online gaming and betting operators, defining the right platform strategy is a pivotal decision – one that can influence their ability to adapt to new markets, respond to emerging trends, and deliver exceptional player experiences.

With this in mind, what are the key considerations for operators looking to navigate a spectrum of options for their platform strategy? As market and customer trends shift, can a review of the limitations of traditional platform models deliver greater flexibility, customisation, and efficiency?

This feature explores how operators can define a platform strategy that meets the demands of the modern iGaming landscape. It examines the strengths and weaknesses of in-house, third-party, and hybrid models, offering insights into how operators can align their platform technology with their business goals to achieve sustained success.

In-house, third-party, or hybrid?

When developing a platform strategy, iGaming businesses often face a fundamental question: should they build their platform technology in-house or license it from a third-party provider?

The in-house model enables operators to create a highly customised platform tailored to their specific needs. While this approach offers significant control, it demands substantial investment in development resources, expertise, and ongoing maintenance.

On the other hand, the third-party provider model involves licensing a pre-built platform from an external vendor. This approach delivers faster time-to-market and is generally more cost-effective. However, it comes with significant limitations, such as licensing restrictions that can hinder an operator’s ability to adapt quickly to market changes, expand into new regulated jurisdictions, and innovate with new features or integrations.

Recognising the challenges of both approaches, Pragmatic Solutions advocates for a third, hybrid option: the “CPU model.” This strategy combines the best of both worlds by integrating third-party solutions with in-house development.

The CPU model takes inspiration from computing, where the Central Processing Unit (CPU) acts as the core of a system, handling critical but standardised functions efficiently. Similarly, this model positions the platform as the foundation of an operator’s technology stack, focusing on essential services such as account management, compliance, and bet processing, while enabling seamless integration of third-party services.

This hybrid approach strikes an optimal balance between customisation and efficiency, empowering operators to build a platform strategy that meets their unique business needs while retaining the flexibility to adapt and scale.

The CPU model offers several key benefits, including lower upfront costs, quicker market entry, and a shared master codebase that evolves with the needs of other operators in the network. These elements contribute to long-term future-proofing and ensure operators can scale effectively. In fact, there’s no upper boundary to its capabilities in production environments. 

To support operators in evaluating platform strategies, Pragmatic Solutions has published a white paper that compares the traditional “forced” ecosystem and CPU models in detail. While the document provides an in-depth analysis, the key considerations outlined in this article offer a foundation for making informed decisions.

Forced ecosystem challenges

Forced ecosystem models, prevalent in both in-house and third-party platform technologies, present significant challenges for operators. Operators who license platforms built on these legacy models often face substantial limitations, particularly when adapting to market changes or integrating a mix of best-in-class multi-vendor and proprietary technologies. These integrations are frequently difficult, unsupported, or in direct conflict with the commercial interests of the platform vendor, leading to frustration for operators.

In many cases, contractual restrictions further compound these challenges, limiting the operator’s ability to integrate preferred third-party solutions. Technical barriers and vendor-imposed constraints force operators to rely predominantly – or even exclusively – on the products and services offered by the PAM platform vendor. Unfortunately, these vendor offerings are often not market-leading, leaving operators at a competitive disadvantage.

By contrast, the CPU model, though still a licensing-based approach, breaks free from the restrictions of forced ecosystems. It provides operators with the flexibility to enhance their platform with leading third-party products or custom developments. This approach allows operators to build a tailored technology stack that aligns with both their immediate priorities and long-term business goals.

Seamless integration and scalability

With its API-first, modular design, the CPU model offers operators seamless integration with both proprietary and third-party applications. This means that  businesses have the flexibility to customise their offerings with the integration of local content providers and address market-specific regulatory requirements. 

By adapting to local conditions, operators can deliver an experience tailored to each market. This flexibility is essential in the iGaming industry, where swift adjustments are needed to respond to new regulations, market trends, and player preferences.

Furthermore, the CPU model stands out for its stability and scalability. Designed specifically for its intended purpose, the platform leverages containerization and the elasticity of cloud hosting environments to scale efficiently. As a result, there are no upper limits to the platform’s capabilities in live production environments.

Data security

A common misconception is that owning a platform inherently provides superior security and data protection. In reality, effective data security hinges on the ability of technology and development teams to implement the latest security measures. This is best achieved through integrating best-in-class services and maintaining strict adherence to established data security protocols.

The CPU model is designed with advanced data security in mind. Its architecture ensures that each licensed platform operates within a dedicated instance hosted on a secure virtual environment, such as AWS. This setup allows operators to maintain control over their security policies while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

By safeguarding data integrity and minimizing the risk of breaches, the CPU model delivers a critical advantage in an industry where data protection is both a regulatory and reputational priority. This robust security framework enables operators to focus on growth and innovation with confidence.

Cost efficiency 

Cost efficiency is a critical consideration for operators when defining their platform strategy. Building an in-house platform entails significant upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs, often redirecting valuable resources away from core business priorities. In contrast, licensing a platform from a third-party provider offers a more scalable approach, with costs aligned to the platform’s revenue generation, enabling operators to better manage expenses as their business grows.

The CPU model further enhances cost efficiency by reducing operational overheads while allowing operators to prioritise customer experience and product innovation. By relieving the burden of in-house platform development, this approach enables operators to allocate resources towards strengthening their market position and driving competitive advantage.

A new approach

As operators increasingly recognise the benefits of the CPU model, many are shifting away from the constraints of forced ecosystems towards platform strategies that empower them to take full control of their technology.

For some, this transition demands a shift in mindset – from a reactive approach of managing frustrations and making do with existing systems to a proactive strategy focused on creativity and long-term planning. This involves identifying core business priorities and aligning them with the right technological solutions to gain a competitive edge.

Fortunately, this shift represents a positive evolution, and Pragmatic Solutions is committed to supporting operators every step of the way. Through consultation and guidance, we help operators navigate this transformation and unlock the potential of a future-ready platform strategy.

BIO

Ashley Lang, CEO of Pragmatic Solutions, has more than two decades of leadership experience in the iGaming industry. He is a serial entrepreneur having founded B2B marketing firm.

Green Room Media, B2B technology provider Odobo and iGaming operator Lottomart. He has also held senior leadership positions in established gaming companies including as a founding executive member of Mansion and a non-executive director at bet365 for 14 years.

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LEADING INNOVATION IN SPORTS BETTING https://5star.media/2025/01/14/leading-innovation-in-sports-betting/ https://5star.media/2025/01/14/leading-innovation-in-sports-betting/#respond Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:37:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=74992 How was 2024 for BETBY? CEO Leonid Pertsovskiy reflects on BETBY’s exponential growth and how the sports betting industry is shaping up. 2024 was a year of affirmation for BETBY, marked by significant growth and key achievements. We understood the challenge of sustaining the remarkable pace of success we’ve achieved over the past four years, […]

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How was 2024 for BETBY?

CEO Leonid Pertsovskiy reflects on BETBY’s exponential growth and how the sports betting industry is shaping up.

2024 was a year of affirmation for BETBY, marked by significant growth and key achievements. We understood the challenge of sustaining the remarkable pace of success we’ve achieved over the past four years, but the results speak for themselves.

As of November, we recorded an increase of almost 270% in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) compared to the same period in 2023, alongside more than 200% growth in active players globally and a 190% rise in the number of bets placed. This robust performance was driven by the successful launch of new projects, the strong contributions of both established and new key clients, and a significant expansion of our market presence on a global scale.

But this growth wasn’t just about numbers—it reflected our dedication to delivering real value to operators and players. By focusing on personalized, data-driven innovations, we aim to enhance the betting experience for players while strengthening the competitive edge of our partners. Every solution we developed—from expanding BETBY Games to advancing AI-driven tools—was guided by our overarching goal of creating more engaging, flexible, and rewarding experiences for all stakeholders in the sports betting ecosystem.

We were also very active working on the brand, and we recently announced a landmark long-term collaboration with Magnus Carlsen, the chess Grandmaster and five-time World Champion, who became BETBY’s global brand ambassador. His unparalleled strategic thinking and decisive moves align seamlessly with BETBY’s mission to deliver transformative, game-changing solutions to our partners. Like Magnus, we strive to remain at the forefront of our domain, delivering excellence and innovation.

What were the main challenges BETBY faced in 2024?

One of the most significant challenges BETBY faced in 2024 was managing rapid organizational growth. Over the past year, some departments grew significantly, almost doubling in terms of team size to accommodate increased demand, necessitating the recruitment of talent across multiple disciplines. While this expansion reflects our success, it also underscored the somewhat limited pool of talented professionals within the relatively young sports betting industry.

To address this, we bolstered our internal recruitment efforts with strategic partnerships, which proved highly effective. Moreover, our emphasis on creating exceptional workplace conditions enabled us to retain top talent. This dedication was recognized with BETBY’s workplace experience awarded at one of the industry’s awards, an acknowledgment of our commitment to fostering a motivated and engaged workforce.

What trends do you see emerging in the short term?

The sports betting landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by increasingly discerning and data-savvy players. A notable trend is the growing reliance on detailed statistics and real-time information to inform betting decisions. In both traditional sports and esports, users demand granular data—such as player performance metrics during the FIFA World Cup or real-time stats in a Counter-Strike tournament. This data-centric approach not only boosts player confidence but also drives higher engagement and increases bet values.

Then we are also seeing a marked shift from club-focused betting to player-centric markets. A prime example is Messi’s transfer to Inter Miami CF in the MLS–previously an underexplored market. Since Messi’s arrival in June 2023, sportsbooks have reported a 480% increase in bets on Inter Miami CF, with overall MLS betting rising by 98% year-over-year, according to Oddschecker. This is something corroborated as well by DraftKings, which revealed that MLS has doubled its betting handle and more than doubled its total bets compared to the previous year. Inter Miami CF has become the most-bet MLS team and the seventh most-bet team across all soccer on DraftKings Sportsbook, while Messi is the most-bet player by handle and the second-most bet player overall, trailing only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. This underscores the growing popularity of player-specific markets and the expanding influence of marquee athletes in shaping betting behavior.

Furthermore, as global consumption patterns evolve, one clear trend is the declining appetite for traditional, long-duration sports formats. Audiences increasingly prefer dynamic, short-form experiences that deliver instant gratification, somewhat similar to the experience provided by slots. This shift is reshaping the betting landscape, with micro-markets and rapid-play formats gaining prominence. BETBY is leading this transformation by providing a broad array of these fast markets for both traditional sports and esports. I would dare say that our e-sim games integrate these formats into our offerings, including fast markets in our sportsbook and e-sim games which are designed from the ground up to cater to this demand for speed and excitement.

Additionally, the rise of cryptocurrency as an alternative to traditional banking is expected to drive the proliferation of crypto sportsbooks. While this presents immense opportunities, it also necessitates robust risk management frameworks to navigate the regulatory complexities and ensure player safety.

Moreover, in what might sound as a cliché, the role of personalisation in acquisition and retention, as well as how the industry can combat rising costs, are increasingly put under the microscope. And whilst personalisation is regrettably an overused term nowadays, one must separate the wheat from the chaff and understand the true capabilities that a sportsbook solution is able to deliver from this point of view.

How has BETBY adapted to these trends?

BETBY has responded adeptly to these shifts, leveraging three of its key assets: our in-house trading team, a strong focus on esports innovation, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence.

Our in-house trading team enables us to add more depth to the content provided by the external feeds. This agility allows us to create bespoke odds for niche markets—be it esports or traditional sports—and to respond swiftly to client requests for specialized offerings in any part of the globe. For example, our eSoccer FIFA title within BETBY Games offers more player-specific markets than even traditional UEFA Champions League matches, highlighting our capacity to deliver unique and innovative content.

Esports has also become a cornerstone of our strategy, reflecting its growing influence in the sports betting landscape, especially within the younger demographics. We have significantly expanded our esports portfolio, adding unique and previously unavailable markets and introducing live betting for official tournaments of games such as Escape from Tarkov: Arena and Stormgate. This allows us to tap into the younger, data-savvy audience while also providing operators with a competitive edge in an ever-evolving market.

Meanwhile, AI Labs has been transformative for BETBY, driving innovation across various domains. For instance, it enables the delivery of personalized betting content and tailored tips to players based on their unique betting patterns—a capability that significantly boosts engagement and retention. Our experience shows that approximately 10% of our users are already actively utilizing betting tips for soccer, underscoring how the new generation of players want a personalized entertainment experience.

AI is no longer just a supplementary tool; it has become integral to our strategy. In this regard, I am thrilled to announce that in January at ICE Barcelona, we will unveil an AI-driven feed for special markets—a groundbreaking solution poised to reshape the future of sports betting.

How will BETBY maintain its path of success in 2025?

Building on the achievements of 2024, BETBY aims to sustain its momentum through strategic market expansion and continuous innovation. We will deepen our presence in key regions such as Brazil, where a newly regulated market and our GLI certification position us for success, as well as expand our reach in Asia and North America, with a particular focus on Ontario, Canada. Recent partnerships with industry leaders such as Pixbet and CSGO Empire are testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality, localized solutions.

Simultaneously, we will continue enhancing our product offerings, staying true to our mission of delivering unparalleled betting technologies and services. As I stated at the start of 2024, “We will only maintain our upward trajectory if we are able to keep on providing a superior portfolio of betting products.”

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Fernando Van Velzen: Betsoft Gaming’s winning formula https://5star.media/2025/01/13/fernando-van-velzen-betsoft-gamings-winning-formula/ https://5star.media/2025/01/13/fernando-van-velzen-betsoft-gamings-winning-formula/#respond Mon, 13 Jan 2025 01:01:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=74973 Fernando Van Velzen, Head of Account Management at Betsoft Gaming. Looking back at 2024, what would you consider Betsoft’s biggest milestone in terms of game development or partnerships? I’d say our product made another big leap forward in terms of key performance metrics. We released several games that broke our own internal records. As for […]

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Fernando Van Velzen, Head of Account Management at Betsoft Gaming.

Looking back at 2024, what would you consider Betsoft’s biggest milestone in terms of game development or partnerships?

I’d say our product made another big leap forward in terms of key performance metrics. We released several games that broke our own internal records. As for partnerships, our main growth area was in sweepstakes, which was particularly exciting.

What do you think were the main factors behind Betsoft’s success in 2024?

It really boils down to our product getting better and more widely recognized by players. Our games are stickier and more engaging than ever, and when you combine that with a stellar commercial team, it’s a winning formula.

How would you describe Betsoft’s overall performance in 2024?

In such a crowded market, I think we performed exceptionally well. We secured new partnerships and significantly expanded our existing client base, which is no small feat in today’s competitive environment.

In terms of partnerships and client relationships, how did these collaborations contribute to Betsoft’s growth?

I’m a bit biased, but I believe our Account Management team has done a fantastic job of cultivating mutually beneficial relationships with our partners. Through this close collaboration, we’ve experienced considerable growth with several of our key accounts.

Looking ahead to 2025, what are Betsoft’s main goals and how do you plan to build on what was achieved in 2024?

Our primary goal is always to create better games. In 2024, we had several standout releases that exceeded expectations, which doesn’t happen every year. We plan to leverage those successes, fine-tune what worked, and deliver even more engaging experiences for players.

How does Betsoft plan to adapt to the growing demand for mobile gaming, and what improvements can players expect in 2025?

We’ve had a mobile-first mindset for a few years now. There’s been discussion about completely overhauling our user interface, but I can’t reveal too many details just yet. Rest assured, we’re continually refining our mobile experience to meet evolving player needs.

How does Betsoft ensure it stays ahead of the competition in the ever-evolving iGaming industry?

It’s all about balancing innovation with what already resonates with players. We’ve been in the industry long enough to know what works—and what doesn’t. By introducing fresh features while refining our core strengths, we aim to stay at the forefront.

Finally, as Head of Account Management, what excites you most when looking toward the future of Betsoft and the iGaming sector?

I’m really curious about what the next generation of players will value in their gaming experience. Skill-based games haven’t quite taken off yet, and slots are still king. It’s going to be fascinating to see how tastes evolve and what new trends emerge.

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TaDa Gaming 2025 – A Year of Reinforcement and Growth https://5star.media/2025/01/08/tada-gaming-2025-a-year-of-reinforcement-and-growth/ https://5star.media/2025/01/08/tada-gaming-2025-a-year-of-reinforcement-and-growth/#respond Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:24:51 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=74864 Ray Lee, Director of Business Development, TaDa Gaming. New Year always brings a raft of expectations for any business. Creating scalable new offerings to energise existing customers and appeal to new demographics is critical. Delivering this awareness to key operators is facilitated when you begin the year with a full roster of global exhibitions, starting […]

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Ray Lee, Director of Business Development, TaDa Gaming.

New Year always brings a raft of expectations for any business. Creating scalable new offerings to energise existing customers and appeal to new demographics is critical. Delivering this awareness to key operators is facilitated when you begin the year with a full roster of global exhibitions, starting with the newly located ICE Barcelona. 

We sat down with Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, to discuss how the Taiwanese content provider has prepped itself for 2025 and what’s in store for players and operators.

2024 was a big year for TaDa Gaming: what are your plans for 2025?

RL: 2024 was huge for us: we opened our first office in Malta; received certification from the Hellenic and Swedish Gaming Authorities which enabled us to enter new markets; we released 50 new titles across theme and mechanic, including our TriLuck™, DARKREEL™ and SurgeReel™ series; launched our gamification tools WIN CARD and GiftCode – which have seen nearly 100% take up; launched our Brazil facing, free to play Tournament site, freeslotmatch.com, in record time and signed with 20+ new partners. 

Our fishing-shooting releases have also had a successful launch in Latin America and Europe and are currently exceeding KPIs in Italy. The mix of challenge and progressive play is clearly appealing to players both novice and experienced across all demographics.

With 2024 such a year of change and rapid growth, 2025 is planned to combine growth and consolidation. We will be exhibiting globally, including SIGMA Africa, which is an exciting new market for us, extending our existing relationships and securing further licences and certifications.

We have more new partnerships to announce and a roadmap for Q1 which includes: the Aztec themed Treasure Quest; the potentially unique Domino Go; and Chinese New Year release Money Pot. Plus, Fruity Wheel combines a classic fruit slot with a wheel of fortune for a max win of 10,000x; and we are very excited about sequel, Pirate Queen 2; as well as the further additions to our TriLuck™, DARKREEL™ and Surge Reel™ series.

However, the big reveal for 2025 is that we have a significant new theme for our shooting games with Fortune Zombie, where the action is now on the streets and not underwater. The animations are oversized and humorous with a nod to Pixar and Fortune Zombie will be available for an exclusive preview experience at ICE Barcelona 2025.

What can visitors to your stand at ICE expect from this TaDa experience?

RL: As the No. 1 provider for fishing-shooting games, all visitors to Stand 2B42 will enjoy a personalised introduction to our authentic and original fishing-shooting arcade machines; plus they will learn about and play our top performing Ocean King Jackpot and new theme release Fortune Zombie on screen at our Experience Zone.

This zone is designed to show the journey from arcade/casino based machines to mobile gaming. This will help operators understand the immersive play and development opportunities that these games offer. 

We want to demonstrate what makes these games so engaging; plus we have a lucky draw for those who play the games. Get the first ticket through following TaDa on LinkedIn and a second chance ticket on the stand. Prize draws will take place each day of the show at 4pm.

What can you tell us about the gameplay withing the Fishing-Shooting games you are showing?

RL: Ocean King Jackpot is a mix of explosive features, including multipliers and a progressive jackpot, that are triggered by a rock ‘n’ roll vampire skeleton ruling an underwater world. 

Fantastic for a Halloween theme, it also works as a standalone fishing-shooting game, appealing across all players bases through delivering true entertainment and a 3,000x bonus.

Fortune Zombie is a completely new style release and will not be generally available until March 2025; so this really is a great opportunity for casino operators to preview it exclusively.

The new game delivers authentic shooting mechanics with added multipliers, bonus wheel prizes and a jackpot. The theme however is ‘Smallville USA’ rather than underwater. With a strong cinematic vibe and awesome ‘Big Boss’ characters more usually seen in Hollywood film animations, the gameplay is 100mph with every shot for non-stop energy charged attacks. 

So, we have a lot to show and talk about that will actively change iGaming through introducing this scalable new vertical and demonstrating its impact as well as delivering a great visitor experience on the stand.

How have the fishing-shooting games been received to date and what does your new theme bring to the concept?

RL: Overall, they are extremely well received by players and operators due to their novelty/differentiation value; and then the numbers go stratospheric once players realise the potential these games have. 

Unlike slots, there is a challenge and skill learning element. The more you play, the better you get. They appeal across demographics and they offer a social gaming experience.

Fishing-shooting games offer alternative and progressive gameplay in a unique format that is proven to extend screen time and PLV. They are not an addition to or extension of any existing product but an essential new vertical.

With operators reporting an uplift in rounds played and bets wagered consistently rising with TaDa’s fishing-shooting games, these powerful new casino experiences are completely distinct from all other iGaming entertainment products. 

This novel shooting theme that we are launching at ICE Barcelona offers huge potential. It also creates scalability across this new vertical to drive growth. The opportunities are endless, including the application of our gamification tools, so we cannot wait to showcase what working with TaDa, and especially with our fishing-shooting games, will bring to successful casino operators’ offering.

To book a meeting for ICE, Barcelona 2025, please email business@tadagaming.com

Make sure you follow us on Linked in to discover how to enter our on-stand competition too. 

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Navigating White-Label iGaming Migration: How Managed Services Simplify the Journey https://5star.media/2024/10/25/navigating-white-label-gaming-migration-how-managed-services-simplify-the-journey/ https://5star.media/2024/10/25/navigating-white-label-gaming-migration-how-managed-services-simplify-the-journey/#respond Fri, 25 Oct 2024 12:48:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=71842 Jonathan Chilton, Managing Director of Aristocrat Interactive iGaming White-Label. Migrating a gaming platform, particularly in the world of white-label solutions, is a major decision for operators seeking growth or optimization in a fast-paced, competitive industry. Whether it’s to improve operational efficiencies, reduce costs, or offer a more tailored player experience, a platform migration can be […]

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Jonathan Chilton, Managing Director of Aristocrat Interactive iGaming White-Label.

Migrating a gaming platform, particularly in the world of white-label solutions, is a major decision for operators seeking growth or optimization in a fast-paced, competitive industry.

Whether it’s to improve operational efficiencies, reduce costs, or offer a more tailored player experience, a platform migration can be a pivotal turning point. A common trend is operators starting with white-label platforms before transitioning to independent licensing as their businesses evolve.

The flexibility to migrate from white-label to an independent license is crucial. Operators often face challenges like minimizing player attrition and downtime during migration, ensuring seamless regulatory compliance, and managing operational costs. These hurdles make it vital for operators to partner with an experienced provider offering managed services that address these specific issues.

Here, we explore the common challenges operators face during platform migration and how managed services like those offered by Aristocrat Interactive help to simplify the process while minimizing risks.

Managed Services: Reducing Migration Challenges

One of the biggest challenges operators face during a platform migration is player attrition. Operators may expect to lose up to 30% of their player base during a migration due to disruptions in user experience, extended downtime, changes in the interface, or unfamiliarity with the new platform which can cause players to disengage, impacting revenue. Maintaining continuity throughout the migration process is essential to minimizing these disruptions and preserving player engagement.

In addition to player retention, reducing the operational burden during migration is crucial. By maintaining the existing technology stack during migration, operators can ensure a smoother transition with minimal changes beyond rebranding elements. This approach reduces the likelihood of player attrition and helps maintain loyalty. A flexible migration plan also allows operators to choose how and what they want to migrate, ensuring that the process meets their unique business needs.

Delays can further erode customer trust and affect profitability, making it vital for operators to minimize downtime. A streamlined migration, focused primarily on rebranding and regulatory approvals rather than technical overhauls, helps operators get back online quickly while ensuring players experience little disruption.

Transition from White-Label to Independent Licensing

When seeking entering the RMG space, choosing a white-label partner with extensive experience and tailored services is key and the vital first step for operators. By partnering with an expert with deep industry knowledge from the start, operators benefit from lower barriers to entry and reduced costs in licensing, marketing, and infrastructure—making future transitions to independent operations smoother and more cost-effective.

Managed services can handle key functions like customer support, retention management, and payment systems, allowing operators to focus on growth without getting bogged down in the technical details. This scalable support ensures that business operations continue seamlessly throughout the transition. 

Aristocrat Interactive’s iGaming White-Label platform offers a unique opportunity for operators to break into the RMG business with a scalable, cost-effective solution that reduces both the financial and operational burden of managing an online casino. With a combination of front-end and back-end services, regulatory compliance, and ongoing support, operators have everything they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive market. 

On average operators look to move from a white-label solution to their own independent licensing, within one to three years of launching – depending on their ambition or maturity. However, some operators stay on white-label platforms for as long as six or seven years. The time to transition decision often comes down to the scalability and flexibility offered by the white-label solution.  We’ve designed Aristocrat Interactive’s solution to be more of a transition than a would-be migration by removing the risks and maintaining the same tech stack. This flexibility allows operators to scale their business while keeping costs under control and not losing any revenue. For a partner who decides to transition to their own independent license, the unique option of maintaining our managed services provides an easy transition that ensures continuity across all operational functions, from risk management to regulatory compliance.

Reducing Costs and Operational Burden

One of the main value propositions of Aristocrat Interactive’s iGaming White-Label go-to-market segment is its ability to lower the barrier to entry for operators. The cost of licenses, marketing, operations, and infrastructure can be significant, but with our managed services, operators pay a set fee and can scale their business accordingly. This model not only saves on the upfront costs but also eliminates the need for operators to hire large teams to manage the casino, reducing ongoing operational overhead.

Our set-fee structure, tailored managed services, and expertise in managing both slot and lottery games help operators streamline their operations. This ensures they have the infrastructure in place to succeed from day one and supports them when they are ready to operate independently, without the need for significant additional investments.

Post-Migration Support: Ensuring Success

Ensuring success begins with finding a true partner that aligns with your goals and needs. Continuity of relationship and  support for partners is a fundamental element of our service offering. Every partner is assigned a dedicated Partner Success Manager, who is involved throughout the entire journey, from the initial white-label engagement to the post-migration phase. These managers understand the history and specific needs of each business, ensuring that there’s a seamless handover from the migration team to the operational team. They also introduce operators to Aristocrat Interactive’s iGaming & Sports and Content & Aggregation teams, offering additional resources for platform and content development immediately after migration. This level of support ensures that operators have the resources they need to thrive post-migration, whether that’s optimizing the platform, adjusting risk management policies, or scaling up operations.

Conclusion

When operators make the decision to enter iGaming and are looking for a white-label provider, it’s important to partner with the best provider to ensure long-term success – and Aristocrat Interactive is that partner. During the initial stage of thinking about migration, operators face key challenges, including reducing player attrition, minimizing downtime, and managing regulatory requirements. Flexibility in choosing a migration partner who can scale with the business and reduce operational burdens is essential. Aristocrat Interactive’s iGaming White-label solution was created to address these specific needs, supporting operators from initial launch through independent operations.

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“LOCALIZATION IS KEY FOR SUCCESS” https://5star.media/2024/10/15/localization-is-key-for-success/ https://5star.media/2024/10/15/localization-is-key-for-success/#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2024 00:02:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=71599 Chris Nikolopoulosm, Chief Commercial Officer, BETBY. What are the major challenges when building a sports betting platform? The online sports betting industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the digital economy, but building a successful platform in this space is no easy task. One of the primary challenges for operators and platform providers alike […]

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Chris Nikolopoulosm, Chief Commercial Officer, BETBY.

What are the major challenges when building a sports betting platform?

The online sports betting industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the digital economy, but building a successful platform in this space is no easy task. One of the primary challenges for operators and platform providers alike is ensuring that their offerings are tailored—or localized—effectively for specific markets.

Gone are the days when a single, one-size-fits-all solution could suffice for a global audience, especially in an industry as tightly regulated as sports betting. Today’s operators must embrace customization if they are to thrive in both established and emerging markets.

Localization is key for several reasons. First, player preferences can vary dramatically between different jurisdictions. A platform that succeeds in Europe may fall flat in Latin America if it doesn’t account for the unique needs and behaviors of the local player base.

For example, operators in emerging markets need to consider the level of access to technology that players have. In Latin America, where smartphone penetration is high but access to high-speed internet can be inconsistent, platforms must optimize for lower-tech environments without compromising the user experience. A non-localized approach could result in operators losing ground to competitors who understand these nuances better.

In addition to localization, another critical factor for success in sports betting is ensuring that operators are fully in control of their services from the very beginning. This is where having a solid, modular platform architecture becomes indispensable. Modularity allows operators to customize their offerings to meet local demands while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to rapidly changing regulatory landscapes. With governments continually adjusting rules around sports betting, especially in newly-regulated markets, having a platform that can be easily modified without requiring a complete overhaul is essential.

What is in your opinion a key element that determines success in the world of online sports betting?

In terms of industry trends, personalization has become a cornerstone of successful online sports betting platforms, both at the operator and the end-user level. For operators, the ability to differentiate their offerings is critical in an increasingly crowded marketplace. BETBY’s sportsbook platform is built with modularity at its core, which allows operators to control and personalize their products to better engage with their specific audience. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also gives operators the tools they need to compete effectively in saturated markets and enter new, highly competitive jurisdictions.

For end-users, personalization goes beyond simply offering odds and sports content. It’s about creating a tailored experience that speaks directly to the individual bettor’s preferences, whether that’s through customized offers, personalized betting suggestions, or user interfaces optimized for their device of choice. As the online sports betting industry continues to mature, operators who can offer a highly personalized experience will have a significant advantage over those who cannot.

As BETBY continues to grow, which new markets are you looking to venture into and why?

As sports betting becomes more globally accepted, emerging markets such as Latin America are seeing explosive growth. BETBY has already made significant inroads into these regions, leveraging its proven platform to partner with major operators. Latin America, in particular, presents a wealth of opportunities for sports betting providers. The region’s passion for sports, especially football, combined with increasing smartphone adoption, makes it a prime market for growth. 

BETBY’s strategy in these regions centres around its sportsbook platform, which has already been deployed successfully with key operators. The modular nature of the platform allows for quick customization, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of operators in these markets. Moreover, our commitment to providing a localised offering ensures that operators have the tools they need to navigate the regulatory complexities and unique player behaviours in these regions.

One market of particular interest is Brazil. As the country continues to work toward regulating its sports betting industry, BETBY is positioning itself to capitalize on this enormous opportunity. Brazil’s large population and deep-rooted love for sports, particularly football, make it one of the most promising new markets for online sports betting. We already holds a commanding position in Brazil, thanks to strategic partnerships and a localized approach that resonates with both operators and players alike.

In the coming months, BETBY will continue to demonstrate the importance of a robust, scalable, and localized platform as operators prepare to enter the newly-regulated Brazilian market. The company’s ability to provide a tailored, modular solution backed by in-depth market knowledge will be key to helping operators succeed in this exciting new landscape.

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Is Your Business Limited by Legacy Platform Technology? https://5star.media/2024/10/11/is-your-business-limited-by-legacy-platform-technology/ https://5star.media/2024/10/11/is-your-business-limited-by-legacy-platform-technology/#respond Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:17:00 +0000 https://5star.media/?p=71547 Ashley Lang, CEO of Pragmatic Solutions, explains how the company’s modern approach to iGaming platform provision is empowering operators to accelerate their growth. Succeeding in iGaming as an operator has never been more challenging. The competition is fierce and the demands of local regulations, that vary between markets, impose many new operational and technical demands […]

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Ashley Lang, CEO of Pragmatic Solutions, explains how the company’s modern approach to iGaming platform provision is empowering operators to accelerate their growth.

Succeeding in iGaming as an operator has never been more challenging. The competition is fierce and the demands of local regulations, that vary between markets, impose many new operational and technical demands on the operator.

What they require from their Player Account Management (PAM) platform, or indeed their entire technology strategy, has become more complex. Many procurement models, vendors and technologies that were prevalent in the first two decades of the iGaming industry are no longer viable or fit for purpose in today’s market.

These challenges are causing many operators to reconsider their original platform technology strategy. They are seeking alternatives because their current platform’s performance falls short of expectations, leading to delays, quality issues, and ultimately hindering business growth. Additionally, the development speed is insufficient to keep up with modern requirements.

The questions that emerge for their leadership teams are, ‘Do we have the right technology today to support our business plans for tomorrow? Are technical dependencies holding us back? What is the best option in platform technology to achieve our short- and long-term business objectives?’

Platform selection: a critical decision

The PAM platform represents the core technological foundation of any online betting and gaming enterprise. It is essential for the administration of player experiences throughout their entire lifecycle, including the management of player accounts, wallets, promotions, risk prevention, and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, all third-party providers of content and services, from games and sportsbook to payments, KYC, business intelligence, regulatory integrations, affiliates, CRM, bonus, and promotions, integrate with and intercommunicate via the PAM platform. 

Given its pivotal role in the operational success of an online gaming business, selecting the appropriate PAM platform strategy is among the most critical decisions a leadership team will face.

If not chosen correctly, the PAM platform can profoundly impact the ability to execute business objectives and may prevent the operator from pulling ahead of the competition. It can define the destiny of the business for years to come and separate the winners from the losers.

For this evaluation, we recommend a thorough, 360-degree approach. The operator’s business objectives should serve as the compass, guiding all secondary implementation decisions based on their potential to positively impact success while minimising cost and risk.

With this foundation, operators can then consider other key factors, positioning technology as the enabler of commercial business objectives rather than the end goal itself.

Build, Buy or License  

When evaluating options for their core platform, operators historically focused on a binary approach. The question they pose is whether to own it (by building it in-house or buying it) or license it from a third-party provider. 

This understanding is based on the original conditions of the iGaming industry, where platform technology followed what we call a “Forced Ecosystem model.” Initially, a PAM platform – either in-house or offered by third-party providers – was part of a monolithic technology stack, with services and applications interconnected through opaque or poorly segregated protocols. This resulted in severe technological limitations when operators, adapting to market changes, required integration of a mix of the best multi-vendor and proprietary products and technologies. These integrations were either difficult, not supported, or against the commercial interests of the platform vendor (and therefore a point of frustration).

The “Forced ecosystem model” PAM platform vendors applied contractual restrictions and limitations on any such integrations, as the vendor’s main goal was to “force” their own products onto the operator. Contractual limitations with respect to integration of the best multi-vendor products, in addition to technical limitations with respect to any integrations, effectively force the operator to, predominantly or exclusively, use products and services offered by the PAM platform vendor (which were often not independently marketing-leading). 

Past difficulties with third-party PAM providers can push operators towards initiating in-house platform development projects, leading to the adoption of a Buy/Build approach, where basic PAM platform source code is acquired (or internally produced) and then constantly developed upon by in-house technology teams. While the reasons for this choice are understandable, it is worth noting that many operators with proprietary PAM platforms run into serious technological bottlenecks. Their speed of new customer experience enhancing development is very low (due to limited development capacity being deployed to the production of commodity services necessitated by regulation or basic operational needs), causing them to fall behind on competitors and limiting or heavily restricting their continued growth.

The “CPU model” in platform technology 

In today’s dynamic environment, the “Forced Ecosystem model”, or the alternative of platform development in-house severely fall short of the operators needs as operators require more control and flexibility to integrate a mix of the best multi-vendor and proprietary technologies into a cohesive stack.

That is why we argue operators must evaluate a third alternative; a hybrid approach, unique to Pragmatic Solutions, that we refer to as the “CPU model.”

As designed by Pragmatic Solutions, a modern PAM platform can be metaphorically likened to a Central Processing Unit (CPU) in computing. Under this analogy, the platform acts as the core of the operator’s online gambling technology, handling essential but uniform services – such as bet processing, account management, and compliance functions that are crucial yet standard across the industry. This central role is comparable to a CPU within a computer that coordinates and executes instructions with reliability and efficiency.

This denotes a PAM platform that, like a CPU, allows for the integration of varied components – be it third-party services or proprietary technology – without restrictions and limitations. Such flexibility is indispensable for tailoring offerings, swiftly incorporating superior third-party products, enhancing the user experience, and establishing a competitive edge in the market.

This model enables the creation of a unique technology stack suited to operators’ immediate and future needs, empowering them with superior adaptability and customisation possibilities.

For further information on the “CPU model” and major considerations when choosing platform technology, we encourage readers to download our free white paper, “A Pragmatic Approach to Platform Selection,” at www.pragmatic.solutions 

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