NEXT.io iGaming Digest – 30 May 2025

🔥 Heated debates on responsible gambling, a court clamps down on Bodog, and Brazil tightens its grip on gaming ads.

Plus, imposter syndrome in iGaming leadership and BetMGM makes WNBA history.

Let’s dive into today’s iGaming headlines.

1. Responsible Gambling Debate Sparks at NEXT Summit Valletta

At NEXT Summit Valletta, L&L Europe CEO Christopher Dalli and Princeton Public Affairs Group partner Bill Pascrell, III (BP3) clashed on whether the industry is failing responsible gambling.

Dalli argued the system is broken due to fragmented regulation and the black market's pull. Pascrell pushed back, pointing to innovations like Entain’s ARC tool.

While they disagreed on solutions, both agreed regulators must prioritise action against illegal operators to level the playing field for licensed businesses.

➡️ Read more on why this conversation is far from over.

2. Imposter Syndrome: A Hidden Struggle in iGaming Leadership

At NEXT.io’s AMA, Leo Judkins hosted a revealing panel with Georgia Parry (Blueprint Gaming Ltd.), Simon Pilkington (Best Betting Media Ltd), Mark Schmidt (EveryMatrix), and Daniel Beard (Partis Capital) on navigating imposter syndrome.

From the weight of leadership roles to second-guessing decisions, these execs shared deeply personal insights on confidence, growth, and mental resilience.

“Most leaders have imposter moments, not imposter syndrome,” said Beard; a mindset shift that resonated with the audience.

➡️ Explore how emotional honesty is reshaping executive leadership.

3. iGaming and Paid Social: Be Wise When You Advertise

Aleph Group, Inc’s Christina Maria Tzianou shared vital insights into navigating paid social in iGaming. Her advice? Geo-targeting, age verification, and compliance are non-negotiable.

From Microsoft to Snapchat to TikTok, each platform has unique rules, but one mistake could cost your brand.

Partnering with digital experts is essential to avoid pitfalls and reach new audiences.

➡️ Read the full breakdown of platform-by-platform advertising strategy.

Want to connect with iGaming C-Levels without distraction?

➡️ Ask us about the NEXT Retreats happening in Cyprus and Mexico this Autumn

4. Brazil’s Senate Passes Bill to Restrict Betting Ads

Brazil’s Senate has approved Bill PL 2.985/2023, introducing strict new limits on gambling advertising.

The legislation, backed by Sen. Styvenson Valentim, targets ads during live games, promotions using public figures, and all forms of marketing in stadiums.

While originally proposing a full ban, the revised bill still poses serious implications for operators and sponsors, with clubs warning of a $285m revenue hit.

➡️ See what’s next as the bill heads to the Chamber of Deputies.

5. Bodog Banned in Manitoba Over Misleading Practices

A Manitoba judge ordered offshore brand Bodog to cease all gambling operations in the province.

Il Nido Ltd. and Sanctum IP Holdings Ltd., the companies behind Bodog, were found to have misled consumers by advertising as a trusted, legal operator.

Bodog must now implement geo-blocking and halt all advertising, including through its “free play” site, across Manitoba.

➡️ Get the full legal breakdown of this landmark ruling.

6. 1 in 4 Belgian Players Still Using Unlicensed Sites

A new BAGO study reveals that 25% of Belgian gamblers are still using unlicensed platforms, and 47% of self-excluded users have returned to gambling via these sites.

Chairman Tom De Clercq and vice-chair Emmanuel Mewissen are calling for stronger enforcement and more funding for Belgium’s gambling regulator to curb the spread.

Young people are especially at risk, with 65% of men aged 18–21 still engaging with illegal operators.

➡️ Discover what this means for Belgium’s future in iGaming.

7. High 5 Games Pays $1.5M in Connecticut Settlement

Connecticut’s DCP has fined High 5 Games and High 5 Entertainment nearly $1.5M for running an unlicensed sweepstakes casino targeting local players.

After suspending the company’s licence in March, regulators praised its cooperation and reinstated the licence in May.

The settlement includes $643,000 in restitution to players and $800,000 into the state’s enforcement fund.

➡️ See how this case sets a precedent for sweepstakes enforcement.

8. BetMGM Signs Historic Deal with Las Vegas Aces

BetMGM has become the exclusive online casino and sportsbook partner of WNBA champions Las Vegas Aces, the first such partnership in U.S. women’s pro sports.

The announcement was made at the Fountains of Bellagio with BetMGM execs and Aces president Nikki Fargas. The deal includes digital activations, charitable work with The Just One Project, and exclusive fan promos.

Separately, BetMGM also secured market access in Missouri via Century Casinos.

➡️ Read how this double-play positions BetMGM for broader U.S. expansion.

9. Slotegrator Report: Scale Smarter with Business Process Automation

Slotegrator has released a new report on how business process automation (BPA) can revolutionise iGaming operations, from onboarding to marketing.

Their Telegram Casino product shows how automation can not only streamline workflows but also unlock new audience segments in emerging markets.

BPA and RPA aren’t just cost-savers; they’re growth drivers.

➡️ Download the report and explore the future of scalable gaming tech.

Which of these stories will impact the industry the most? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

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