As the industry begins to overcome the effects of the global pandemic, Chris Nikolopoulos – CCO of BETBY – noted that we could see widespread changes in the way we operate. But speaking to us ahead of next week’s Betting on Sports America – Digital, he advised betting and gaming companies that keeping an open mind about adapting to these changes will be the key to future successes.
What are you looking forward to at the Betting on Sports America – Digital?
We are looking forward to an interactive conference, exhibition and networking experience which will gather together the world’s leading operators, providers, and other industry stakeholders to share the latest developments in sports betting and igaming.
On top of that, we are definitely looking to catch up with industry partners and friends – even in an online environment!
What would be your biggest bit of advice for betting and gaming businesses trying to mitigate the impact of COVID-19?
First of all, I would say to keep an open mind and stay positive. The world may look like a scary place right now but eventually, things will get better, most things will return to normal, and those things which permanently change will all be things that you will be able to adapt to.
And of course, I would strongly recommend to look after employees first, followed by customers and suppliers. It will pay off in the long run, as each group will certainly remember how you treated them during this difficult time. The profits and dividends will come later if you make the right decisions and moves now.
What are you promoting at Betting on Sports America – Digital?
On top of our fully managed sportsbook solution, which is still the flagship of our offering, during the last months we have launched a separate product, branded under the “Betby.Games” name.
Betby.Games is a product in the edge of esports and virtuals, with ultra high and proven conversion rate of both casino and sportsbook players, following realistic mechanics and gameplay. Since its launch it has been performing amazingly well and we are looking forward to sharing insights about it with current and future prospective partners.
What industry innovation will capture the most attention in 2020?
Betting & Gaming is an IT industry which is fed by innovation. In BETBY we know that very well and we are strongly focused on providing solutions and products which can really stand out. Our machine learning and AI algorithms allow us to detect and predict several aspects of users’ behaviour and betting patterns and I believe the way we have developed our tools will help us to really stand out over the next months. Stay tuned!
Which operator has impressed you the most in 2020?
Coming from a sports betting background, my answer has to be Bet365. Their influence on the whole betting and gaming market as well as the strength of their brand name remain impressive and second to none.
What partnership has stood out in the past 12 months?
Flutter Entertainment acquiring, The Stars Group, in October 2019, created the world’s largest online gambling company based on revenues, so we can definitely say that this was a deal that stood out. If we want to be precise, it was a takeover rather than partnership, but still I can’t think of something more impressive in the past months.
Which parts of the conference agenda have caught your eye?
It’s a pity to choose just one, as we are talking about an agenda which includes some of the most influential and knowledgeable leaders and stakeholders of our industry. However what I am mostly looking forward to are panels which will focus on new markets openings and regulations with regards to sports betting.