A note from the editor
MAGICAL BARCELONA”
Lana Thompson - Editor
Special Edition of the IGA 2025 Awards
Welcome to the latest edition of the Infinity Gaming Magazine and also the special feature for the 2025 International Gaming Awards (IGA) that took place on Sunday 19th January at the wonderful Intercontinental Hotel in Barcelona.
And what an event it was, the first ever time the IGA has ventured out of London to celebrate the amazing achievements of the entire gambling industry.
What a very special evening it was, to see so many companies attending from all over the world and celebrating their hard work over the past year.
Thank you to Digitain for hosting the Champagne Reception it was a truly glamorous affair and a superb start to the evening.
Then came the ceremony itself and congratulations to all the winners, we know how very competitive it is to win an award, so very well done to you all. Indeed reaching the finals in competitive categories is recognition of your achievements is a statement of your success.
The IGA has always been a very special event each year for so many companies and so many attendees and their companies told me that the IGA event was the best evening they had had for many years. It does mean so much for all the team and myself to know how special the IGA is to our attendees as we work so very hard to bring a magical evening to everyone and a extra challenge like many of our sponsors and attendees for the first time in Barcelona.
We want to thank all our wonderful sponsors for making the IGA such an amazing and special event, so thank you, Digitain, Betconstrcut, Pragmatic Play, Gamomat, 1xBet, Videoslots, Alea, Spribe, Delasport, IGT, BGaming, BETER, High Roller, Light & Wonder, and SOFTSWISS, for believing in what we do and how effective it is for their business to support this charity focused event, we look forward to joining with you again for 2026 and maybe more new sponsors also......
Enjoy this special edition of this magazine.
“To Infinity and Beyond!”
Regards, Lana
The
Editor
CONTACT US
Clever Duck Media Centrix@Keys
Keys Park Road
Staffordshire WS12 2HA UK Tel: +44(0)1543 478 889
PRODUCTION
Clever Duck Media Centrix@Keys
Keys Park Road
Staffordshire WS12 2HA UK
PUBLISHING
Infinity Gaming Magazine is operated by © Clever Duck Media Ltd ® Company Reg. No. 687 1018 (Registered in England) V.A.T reg. no 972 6372 91
Sponsorship Opportunities Colin@cleverduckmedia.com
Business Partnerships Svetlana@gaming-awards.com
Marketing & Advertising claire@cleverduckmedia.com
Editorial Content & PR media@cleverduckmedia.com
LONDON GAMING CONGRESS
The UK, One of the World's largest gambling hubs brings you the most important event of the year
20th MARCH 2025
SAVOY HOTEL LONDON
London Gaming Congress 2025
Welcomes an unparalleled gathering of industry luminaries
The London Gaming Congress is set to be one of the most significant events in the gambling sector, attracting professionals from various facets of the industry. Spanning a myriad of topics from regulatory frameworks to emerging technologies, the congress offers unprecedented opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration. Here’s why attending this event should be at the top of your priority list:
T he London Gaming Congress serves as a melting pot for industry leaders, regulators, and innovators. Attendees will have the chance to interact with key figures from both the UK and European gaming landscapes.
M eet Influencers : Engage with decision-makers from major gambling companies.
E xpand Your Network : Build relationships that can lead to future collabo -
rations or partnerships.
S hare Insights : Exchange ideas and strategies with fellow attendees who share your interests.
D iverse Attendee Profile
T he event draws a wide range of participants, including:
O perators: Both online and landbased gambling operators will be present.
S uppliers: Companies providing essential technology and services to the gaming industry.
Advisors : Discussing the leading technologies and innovations happening within the industry.
I nsightful Discussions and Panels
O ne of the highlights of the London Gaming Congress is the array of panels and discussions that delve into pressing issues facing the industry.
R egulatory Changes : Learn about upcoming legislation and how it may impact your business.
Technological Advancements: Gain insights into the latest innovations in gaming technology.
M arket Trends : Understand shifting consumer behaviors and preferences.
E xpert Speakers
T he congress features an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
R egulatory Experts: Hear from those who shape the laws governing the industry.
I ndustry Innovators: Learn from pioneers who are driving change in the gaming sector.
M arket Analysts: Get data-driven insights into market dynamics.
The Savoy Hotel: A Historic Venue
The London Gaming Congress will be held at the iconic Savoy Hotel, a luxurious venue located on the banks of the River Thames. This historic site is known for its elegance and central location, making it an ideal setting for such a prestigious event.
Accessibility: The Savoy is easily accessible via public transportation and is close to major attractions.
Comfortable Setting: Enjoy a comfortable and professional environment conducive to networking and learning.
Culinary Delights: Experience exquisite dining options that the Savoy has to offer.
London: A Global Gambling Hub
The UK is recognized as one of the world’s leading gambling markets, making London the perfect backdrop for this congress.
Vibrant Industry: With over 900 licensed online gambling companies, the UK is a bustling hub for gaming.
Economic Impact: The gambling industry contributes significantly to the UK economy, generating billions in revenue.
Cultural Attractions: Take advantage of your visit to explore London’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Trends to Watch
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the London Gaming Congress will address key trends that are shaping its future.
Emerging Technologies: Explore the role of AI, blockchain, and VR in the gaming sector.
Regulatory Evolution: Understand how regulations are adapting to new technologies and market realities.
Consumer Expectations: Learn about shifting consumer preferences and how to meet them.
The London Gaming Congress promises to be an invaluable experience for anyone involved in the gaming industry. With its focus on networking, learning, and collaboration, this event is a unique opportunity to gain insights and forge connections that can drive your business forward.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the industry, the congress offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this pivotal event in the gaming landscape. Mark your calendars for March 20, 2025, and prepare to immerse yourself in the future of gaming.
Texas Governor Shows Support for Online Sports Betting
Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently expressed his openness to legalizing online sports betting, injecting new energy into the ongoing debate surrounding gambling expansion in Texas. However, despite the governor’s supportive stance, substantial legislative obstacles persist.
Abbott’s endorsement marks a pivotal moment in the push for sports betting legalization, aligning the state’s top executive with a growing coalition of supporters. Yet, the path forward remains fraught with challenges, from constitutional restrictions to political opposition. As stakeholders on both sides of the issue gear up for what promises to be a heated discussion, the future of online sports betting in Texas hangs in the balance.
Governor Abbott’s Stance on Online Sports Betting
Governor Greg Abbott’s recent comments regarding online sports betting have caught the attention of both gambling proponents and critics alike. In a candid discussion on a popular Texas podcast, the governor revealed his lack of opposition to the
concept of legalized sports wagering via digital platforms. This marks a notable departure from the traditionally conservative stance often associated with Texas politics on gambling matters.
Abbott’s remarks reflect a pragmatic acknowledgment of the existing reality in Texas. The governor pointed out that many Texans are already engaging in sports betting activities, albeit through unregulated channels. This recognition of the status quo suggests a potential willingness to bring these activities under state oversight and regulation.
The governor’s openness to online sports betting carries significant weight in the ongoing debate. As the state’s chief executive, Abbott’s position can influence legislative priorities and shape public discourse on the issue. His comments may serve as a catalyst for more serious consideration of sports betting legislation in upcoming legislative sessions.
While Abbott’s statements have been welcomed by proponents of legalized sports betting, they are also being met with cautious optimism. Stake -
holders recognize that the governor’s support, while important, is just one piece of a complex political puzzle that must come together for any meaningful change to occur.
At the forefront of the campaign to legalize sports betting in Texas is the Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA). This coalition, comprising major professional sports teams and other stakeholders, has been orchestrating a concerted lobbying effort to garner support for regulatory framework establishment.
Adding gravitas to the TSBA’s mission is the backing of former Texas Governor Rick Perry. His involvement lends credibility to the cause and potentially opens doors to conservative circles that might otherwise be hesitant to support gambling expansion.
Another significant aspect of the pro-legalization argument centres on consumer protection. Advocates argue that a regulated market would provide safeguards for bettors, reducing the risks associated with unregulated offshore betting platforms.
Data Driven Game Aggregation
SIMPLIFYING INTEGRATION, MAXIMIZING POTENTIAL
+15.000 Games in one Integration
Localized content and worldwide presence
Secure and scalable API
+20.000 transactions per second
Your best Business Partner
Revolutionizing iGaming Integration
Alea is at the forefront of iGaming technology, offering seamless, secure, and scalable API standards. Our robust integration process not only meets but exceeds industry standards, ensuring the highest level of security and trust for our partners.
Entain Shares Rise as BetMGM Projects Profitability In 2025
Entain’s shares experienced a notable uptick this week following an optimistic forecast from its joint venture, BetMGM. The announcement of anticipated profitability by 2025 has sparked renewed optimism in the company’s future prospects and its position within the competitive US online betting market.
BetMGM, a collaborative effort between Entain and MGM Resorts International, has been a key player in the rapidly evolving landscape of online gambling in the United States. Since its inception in 2018.
A Journey of Growth and Investment
The joint venture’s journey has been marked by significant investments and strategic expansions. Despite not yet achieving annual profitability, BetMGM has demonstrated growth in key areas:
User Engagement: The platform saw a 14% increase in average monthly active users over the past year.
Revenue Growth: Net revenue climbed by 7% to reach $2.1 billion.
Market Presence: BetMGM has suc -
cessfully entered numerous states as they legalised sports betting. While the path to profitability has been arduous, BetMGM has faced its challenges head-on. The company reported substantial losses in 2023, with figures nearly quadrupling from the previous year to $244 million. This increase was attributed to:
Heightened investment in customer acquisition strategies
Unfavourable sports results in December, resulting in a $50 million cost
Despite these setbacks, the management team, led by CEO Adam Greenblatt, remains optimistic about the company’s trajectory and its ability to overcome these hurdles.
Entain’s Market Response
The announcement of BetMGM’s projected profitability had an immediate and positive impact on Entain’s market performance. Shares in the gambling giant rose by 7.5%, reaching 747.2p by late Tuesday afternoon. The increase positioned Entain as the top riser in the FTSE 100 Index.
It’s worth noting that while this surge is significant, Entain’s shares have
experienced a decline of approximately 25% over the past 12 months. This recent uptick, therefore, represents a potential turning point for the company.
Factors Driving Share Price Movement
Projected Profitability: The announcement of expected profitability by 2025 instilled confidence in BetMGM’s long-term viability.
Revenue Forecast: Predictions of net revenue reaching between $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion in the coming year.
Growth in Online Gaming: A 13% increase in online gaming sales, totalling $1.5 billion.
User Engagement: Significant growth in monthly active users, particularly in the fourth quarter.
The success of BetMGM and the subsequent boost to Entain’s shares must be viewed within the context of the rapidly expanding US gambling market. The legalisation of sports betting across numerous states has created a gold rush scenario for established gambling entities.
The Champagne Reception
Sponsored by Digitain
Above
Our Champagne Reception sponsor Digitain organised an excellent start to the evening
With a new venue come new excitement and it never fails with the International Gaming Awards when for the first ever time the annual event took centre stage in Barcelona at the Intercontinental Hotel.
With the champagne flowing the attendees were delighted to network at the first major event of the year in the gaming industry.
As always with the International Gaming Awards there were some glamorous dresses by the ladies and all the men dressesd to impress.
This is a night for the entire gambling industry to get together and celebrate theirs and others achievements.
The setting for the 2025 International Gaming Awards was the Intercontinental Hotel in Barcelona and attendees were treated to the highest level of service only one of the most exclusive hotels in Spin can offer.
Everything was in place for what was going to be one of the best nights ever for the awards ceremony and all those in attendance.
Above Photos Relaxing at the Champagne Reception
Netwroking at the Champagne Reception hosted by Digitain along with meeting old friends and colleagues.
Above & Right Everywhere you looked great dresses and the men were well dressed too.
And the winners are....
Above SOFTSWISS - Affiliate Company of the Year
Below High Roller - Affiliate Marketing Campaign of the Year
LONDON GAMING CONGRESS
The UK, One of the World's largest gambling hubs brings you the most important event of the year
20th MARCH 2025
SAVOY HOTEL LONDON
Above Entain - Best customer Service Company (Operator)
Left Interblock - Best Customer Service Company (Supplier)
Below Spribe - Crash Games Developer of the Year
Below Yolo Group - Crypto Company of the Year
BGaming - Charitable Community Award
Hub88 - Game Aggregator of the Year
Above BETER - Esports Innovator of the Year
Above Just for the Win (Darker Waters Power Combo) Game of the Year
Below Gamomat - Game Studio of the Year
Winning an award You got to thank people
Above Digitain - Global Gaming Company of the Year
Right Buzz Group - Innovator of the Year (Operator)
Top Photo Betsson - Great Place to Work (Operator)
Above Alea - Great Place to Work (Supplier)
Above Pragmatic Play - iGaming Software Supplier
Above Creedroomz - Live Casino of the Year
Right IGT (Lotter Link) - Lotter Product of the Year
Above Every Matrix - Innovator of the Year (Supplier)
Below Left Coolbet - Mobile Operator
Below Right 1xBet Mobile Sports Product of the Year
And The Winners are The Stage Photos
Above Coolbet - Online Casino Operator
Right Pronet Gaming - Multi-Channel Provider
Above Play’n GO - RNG Casino Supplier of the Year
Below Betsson - Safer Gambling Award
Left Videoslots - Slots Operator of the Year
Above Games Global - Slot Provider of the Year
Below Betsson - Sports Betting Operator of the Year
The Videoslots Group
Above Left Aristocrat Gaming - Sustainability Award
Above Right Betconstruct - Technology Provider/Supplier
Below Delasport - Sports Betting Platform
Above Light & Wonder - US Gaming Company of the Year
Below Boomerang Games - Unique Gaming Company of the Year
Hong Kong Plans Legal Basketball Betting Framework
The Hong Kong Jockey Club estimates illegal basketball betting reaches HK$70-90 billion each year. Legal gambling in Hong Kong remains limited to horse racing, football, Mark Six, and licensed mahjong parlors. The government might change this soon. Plans to legalize basketball betting could help control the market and boost revenue. Past proposals to create legal basketball betting systems didn’t succeed. The massive underground market has made authorities think over their position again.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan unveiled a groundbreaking plan in his budget speech to curb illegal basketball betting in the city. The Hong Kong Jockey Club will lead this expansion into regulated basketball betting. The club already holds a monopoly on horse racing, football
betting, and lottery operations. Recent studies show basketball betting makes up about 15% of Hong Kong’s illegal sports betting market, which hit HK$350 billion in 2023. The Jockey Club’s chief executive, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, believes 100,000 to 150,000 punters employ illegal bookmakers to bet on basketball.
The Jockey Club showed enthusiasm to work together on this policy and will submit a detailed proposal to the government. The club expects to attract up to 60% of current illegal basketball bettors through legal channels. This could generate HK$52.5 billion in turnover – almost one-third of the club’s total football betting turnover in 2023.
The timeline for implementation remains unclear. Football betting became legal in 2001, but operations
started in 2003. The basketball betting framework might take several years to fully implement.
Sports sector lawmaker Kenneth Fok supported this move, highlighting its benefits in curbing illegal gambling while generating revenue for Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Jockey Club operates under strict rules and accepts bets at racecourses, off-course branches, through telebet, and digital platforms.
Government oversight continues through the Gambling Ordinance, with a 50% duty on net receipts from authorized betting activities. This regulatory structure will give proper management while bringing in substantial tax revenue for public services.
Hawaii Online Sports Betting Bill Takes First Step Towards Legalisation
The Aloha State has taken a step towards potentially legalising online sports wagering, as a legislative committee recently approved a bill that could pave the way for regulated mobile betting platforms. This development marks a moment in Hawaii’s approach to gambling, traditionally known for its stringent stance against most forms of betting. As the bill progresses through various stages of legislative scrutiny, it has ignited debates among supporters and opponents, each presenting arguments for their respective positions.
The journey towards potential legalisation of online sports betting in Hawaii began with the introduction
of House Bill 1308 (HB1308) on 23 January. This legislative proposal aims to establish a framework for regulated mobile sports wagering in the state, a move that could significantly alter Hawaii’s gambling landscape.
HB1308 outlines several crucial aspects of the proposed online sports betting system:
Regulatory Framework: The bill proposes the creation of a robust regulatory structure to oversee online sports betting operations.
Age Restrictions: It stipulates that only individuals aged 21 and above would be permitted to participate in sports wagering activities.
Revenue Generation: A primary objective of the bill is to create a new stream of tax revenue for the state.
Consumer Protection: The legislation emphasises the importance of safeguarding bettors through responsible gambling measures.
Timeline of Events
23 January 2025: HB1308 is introduced to the Hawaii House of Representatives.
31 January 2025: The House Committee on Economic Development and Technology (ECD) holds a hearing on the bill.
Same day: Following testimonies, the ECD Committee approves HB1308.
The ECD Committee Hearing: A Clash of Perspectives
The hearing before the House Committee on Economic Development and Technology served as a platform for various stakeholders to voice their opinions on the proposed legislation. The committee room buzzed with anticipation as representatives from different sectors of the gambling industry, government officials, and concerned citizens gathered to present their cases.
Supporters of HB1308 came prepared with a range of arguments in favour of legalising online sports betting in Hawaii:
Combating Illegal Betting: Advocates
argued that a regulated market would help curb the prevalence of illegal sports wagering.
Revenue Generation: The potential for significant tax revenue was highlighted as a key benefit for the state.
Consumer Protection: Proponents emphasised that a regulated market would offer better safeguards for bettors compared to unregulated alternatives.
Public Support: References were made to polls indicating widespread approval among Hawaii residents for legalised sports betting.
Opponents of the bill also presented
their arguments during the hearing:
Economic Impact: Some raised concerns about the potential negative effects on Hawaii’s tourism industry.
Revenue Expectations: Critics warned that tax revenues from sports betting might fall short of projections.
Social Costs: The potential for increased problem gambling and associated social issues was a key point of contention.
Regulatory Challenges: Questions were raised about the state’s capacity to effectively regulate and enforce online sports betting.
How Promoting Responsible Gambling
Will Foster Customer Loyalty
BY Fraser Linkleter CEO - at Slots Temple
Finding new ways to attract customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace can be extremely difficult. As innovative as modern gaming has become, most developers work with multiple operators, so the idea of being able to exclusively attract players through your
game catalogue is limited. Bonuses and promotions will always be an incredibly effective marketing tool, but there is always going to be bigger and better out there.
As such, operators must think creatively and explore different avenues
to attract and keep players. Alongside traditional methods, community-focus tournaments and how-to guides have begun to emerge as valuable resources. However, one powerful element often overlooked in these discussions is the significance of fostering loyalty through responsible gambling.
Responsible gambling is and always will be, a hot topic in the gambling industry. While there will always be questions around over-regulation and the timing of player intervention, the commitment to player safety is nonnegotiable.
For 99% of operators, this is a necessity, but if you want to build loyalty and trust with your players, they mustn’t just see your responsible gambling efforts as a box-ticking exercise. Instead, it needs to feel like a wider part of your service, something that provides security and enhances the player’s overall experience.
Players must feel a sense of security when engaging with your platform, and visibly highlighting that their wellbeing matters will significantly enhance their loyalty. By actively demonstrating a commitment to their safety and wider playing experience, operators can ensure players feel respected and part of the site, not just a transaction.
This is where innovation and small gestures can be particularly useful. For example, at Slot Temple, we created a volatility guide for our players that helps them understand the role volatility plays in a game. By helping educate our players, we are not only adding an extra layer to the experience but also helping them make more informed, responsible decisions.
Like all aspects of the player experience, responsible gambling has also evolved significantly in recent years,
and operators should learn to utilise these developments effectively.
The journey of trust begins with the sign-up process. While customers are looking for a speedy sign-up, operators should still take the time to help set some measures in place. In some jurisdictions, such as the UK, this is now mandatory, but even in these cases, finding out a little more about your customers to help them feel safe when playing can go a long way in fostering loyalty.
The duty of care should not just end there, though. By regularly checking in with your customers, you are ensuring their well-being and that they are having a good time. When handled correctly, regular reality checks and checkins with customers can leave them assured that they are in safe hands and not just there to lose money.
Providing access to responsible gambling tools and resources is a powerful way to show players that the operator values and respects them. This care can significantly affect player loyalty in an industry where predatory operators can breed mistrust. Players want to have a good time when they are playing at an online casino; they want to feel as though they are in safe hands, and crucially, they can walk away when they need to.
Ultimately, that final point is essential. Being able to walk away is a very important part of the online gambling experience for players. By focusing on responsible gambling and helping them enjoy their experience, you are allowing them to feel safe enough to know when to walk away and, in turn, to come back.
