No Track, No Problem: iGaming & Casino at SBC Summit

The upcoming SBC Summit, taking place this September in Lisbon, will feature a three-day, six-stage conference agenda, covering every corner of the industry. But if you’ve already taken a look at the agenda, you may have spotted what looks like a surprising omission — a dedicated iGaming and casino track.

At first glance, this might seem like a significant oversight. And you wouldn’t be wrong to think so — after all, the global online gambling market alone is projected to reach $117.5 billion by the end of 2025, representing a 10.6% year-over-year growth from $106.22 billion in 2024.

But what if we told you the absence of a dedicated iGaming & casino track was actually intentional?

As SBC’s global flagship event, the summit is set to welcome 30,000 stakeholders from around the world. Last year alone, delegates represented over 134 countries — a clear indication that the global nature of this audience demands something more nuanced than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Every market is shaped by distinct regulatory frameworks, cultural preferences, and varying levels of technological maturity. As a result, each brand’s relationship with iGaming and casino is geographically unique, bringing its own set of challenges and opportunities.

With this in mind, we’ve strategically woven discussions around iGaming and casino throughout the entire agenda. From deep dives into emerging markets to tech innovation, acquisition strategies, and player protection, you’ll find the sector represented in a way that reflects its complex and evolving nature.

So if you’re an iGaming or casino professional looking to make the most of your time in Lisbon, consider this blog your go-to guide. We’ll highlight the most relevant panels — complete with times, locations, key takeaways, and expert speakers — so you can confidently navigate the agenda and focus on the sessions that matter most to your brand.

Innovation in Gaming & Player Engagement

The connection between innovation and player engagement runs deeper than you might think. In an era where technology constantly redefines the boundaries of what can be achieved, innovation has evolved from being a competitive edge to becoming a necessity. 

It plays a pivotal role in capturing the attention of both new and returning players, enabling the industry to adapt to shifting player preferences, with experiences that are personalised, secure, and future-ready.

From the integration of AI  into gaming platforms to the rise of subscription-based casino models, the gambling sector has a wide array of tools at its disposal. However, these innovations aren’t just about novelty—they’re about creating engaging, sustainable experiences that keep players coming back. 

By harnessing these advancements, brands can deliver immersive, responsive, and dynamic offerings that resonate with the modern player and ensure players return. 

PANEL: The Shift to SaaS: Are Casinos Going Subscription-Based?
Time: 12:15-13:00
Date: Wednesday, 17th September 2025
Location: Stage Three (Technology) 

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Can a subscription-based model enhance player engagement and loyalty in the casino space? Exploring how lessons from SaaS and other industries could translate to gaming.
• What are the regulatory and responsible gambling challenges of introducing subscriptions? Assessing the risks, compliance considerations, and potential impact on player protection.
• Is the casino industry ready to adopt a subscription model, and what would successful implementation look like? Examining the commercial upside, operational hurdles, and appetite among players.

PANEL: Slots Powered by Players
Time: 14:00-14:45
Date: Thursday, 18th September 2025
Location: Stage Three (Technology – Compliance) 

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Are slot games evolving to meet the demands of today’s players? Exploring how gamification, social interactivity, and branded content are redefining slot game appeal for new players.
• What technologies are driving innovation in slot gaming? Assessing the role of AI personalisation, VR immersion, and mobile-first design in transforming how players engage with slot content.
• How can developers balance innovation with transparency and regulation? Examining the strategies developers are using to remain compliant and fair while delivering next-gen slot experiences across diverse markets.

PANEL: Sweepstakes Boom – Sustainable Growth or Short-Lived Trend?
Time: 12:00-12:45
Date: Thursday, 18th September 2025
Location: Stage One (Global Markets – North America)

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Are sweepstakes and innovations in live casino sustainable or fleeting trends? Investigating whether the current surge in live casino and sweepstakes has long-term growth and potential or is simply short-term hype.
• What regulatory challenges are emerging around the rapid growth of sweepstakes models? Unpacking the complex legal landscape, particularly in the U.S., and how operators are adapting to heightened regulatory scrutiny.
• How can the industry strike a balance between rapid innovation and responsible governance? Identifying the tools, policies, and collaborative efforts needed to align innovation with sustainable, compliant growth.

PANEL TO WATCH: US LEADERS PANEL: Sweeping the States – The Rise of Alternative Betting
Time: 11:15-12:00
Date: Thursday, 18th September 2025
Location: Stage One (Global Markets – North America)  

Key Questions This Blog Will Tackle:

• Will alternative betting models like sweepstakes and prediction markets face stricter regulatory scrutiny? Exploring how U.S. regulators might respond to the rapid rise of non-traditional formats and whether a crackdown is on the horizon.
• What’s fueling the shift in player interest beyond traditional casinos? Insights into how innovation and limitations in state-level expansion are redirecting consumer attention to new verticals.
• Can the U.S. gambling market continue to grow without the rollout of new regulated states? A look at how alternative platforms are keeping momentum alive and what that means for the future of market saturation.

Regional Success & Market Expansion

As the global gaming industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, understanding the nuances of regional markets has become essential for sustainable growth and long-term success.

From the rise of crypto-driven betting in emerging markets to Africa’s preference for mobile-first gaming, in order to make an impact in a market, industry stakeholders must navigate a world shaped by local preferences, technological accessibility and shifting regulatory frameworks. 

So, how are innovation and localisation driving expansion efforts? Which technologies and trends are unlocking access to new audiences? And what lessons can be drawn from early adopters leading the way in frontier markets?

PANEL: Cryptocasinos & Emerging Markets – The Boom Continues
Time: 14:45-15:30
Date: Wednesday, 17th September 2025
Location: Stage Two (Emerging Markets – Eurasia & Middle East)

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• How is crypto changing the game for iGaming in emerging markets? Looking at how faster payments, better access, and fewer barriers are opening up new opportunities for players and operators alike.
• What’s the real risk with crypto volatility and shifting regulations? Breaking down the potential pitfalls—like price swings and unclear rules—and how operators can keep up to date with changing regulations.
• How can brands make smart moves with crypto without overcommitting? Sharing practical strategies for using crypto in ways that are flexible, future-ready, and built to last in a fast-moving space.

PANEL: Africa Casino & Games Technology
Time: 14:45 – 15:30
Date: Tuesday, 16th September 2025
Location: Stage Two (Emerging Markets – Africa)

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• What makes a casino platform successful in African markets? Digging into the need for mobile-first tech, low data consumption, and localised UX that caters to African players. 
• How are game aggregators and suppliers tailoring content for diverse African audiences? Exploring how developers are adapting themes, features, and mechanics to reflect regional preferences, currencies, and player behaviours.
• What are the biggest hurdles—and opportunities—when launching casino products in Africa? Exploring the challenges and opportunities in Africa, covering everything from regulatory gaps and payment infrastructure to smart product design. 

Enhancing Your Omnichannel Strategies

As technological innovation continues to drive the dominance of online gaming, many traditional land-based casinos are now striving for true omnichannel integration.

However, bridging the gap between the casino floor and the digital space isn’t just a matter of technology. Successful omnichannel adoption demands cultural transformation, comprehensive staff training, seamless payment systems, and, above all, a deep understanding of player behaviour.

Over the years, the industry’s progress toward full omnichannel integration has been marked by several key developments — from linking loyalty programmes and unifying CRM systems to introducing digital wallets and achieving real-time data alignment. These milestones have laid a strong foundation for operators to deliver seamless, consistent, and personalised experiences, regardless of how players choose to engage.

Yet as the industry continues to move forward, significant challenges remain. Operators must equip staff with the right skill sets and build payment systems capable of supporting secure, cross-channel play. The question remains: can operators balance innovation with authenticity, or is the pursuit of true omnichannel operations inevitably laced with compromise?

PANEL: Land-Based to Omnichannel – Overcoming the Training Challenge
Time: 14:00-14:45
Date: Wednesday, 17th September 2025
Location: Stage Three (Technology)

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• How can operators successfully train staff for an omnichannel casino environment? Looking at the skills and mindset shifts needed to help teams deliver consistent, high-quality experiences across both physical and digital touchpoints.
• What does it take to integrate traditional players into the digital realm? Exploring smart ways to educate, onboard, and win trust from loyal land-based customers without disrupting what they love most.
• How do you balance innovation with authenticity in casino transformation? Discussing how to integrate tech-driven solutions while keeping the human touch and atmosphere that define the in-person experience.

PANEL: Omnichannel Payments: From Digital Wallets to Brick & Mortar Terminals
Time: 14:45 – 15:30
Date: Tuesday, 16th September 2025
Location: Stage Three (Technology – Payments) 

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Are current payment systems meeting modern consumer demands? Unpacking what today’s players want in payments—speed, flexibility, and zero friction—and how to assess if your payment processes are keeping up.
• What innovations are shaping the future of payment security and convenience? Exploring AI-powered fraud prevention, contactless tech, and biometric tools that make payments both safer and smoother.
• How can omnichannel payments support cross-border growth and compliance? Looking at how seamless, unified systems can break down regional barriers while still maintaining compliance.

Responsible Gaming

The rise of digital gaming, combined with the emergence of alternative betting formats and new marketing channels, has prompted the industry to fundamentally rethink its approach to player protection.

Today, compliance, ethics, and safeguarding have evolved into foundational pillars for sustainable, long-term success, essential not just for meeting regulatory standards but for building lasting trust and brand loyalty among players.

The introduction of self-exclusion tools, affordability checks, and AI-driven behavioural monitoring has become a crucial benchmark, but there is plenty more to be done. As pressure mounts on operators and regulators to enhance protections for vulnerable players, the focus is shifting toward smarter, more unified approaches that operate seamlessly across platforms and jurisdictions.

But this shift isn’t just about new tech. It’s about changing mindsets. Whether it’s rethinking how disputes are handled or challenging what’s acceptable when it comes to data, the aim is the same: to find innovative, collaborative solutions that put player wellbeing first, without losing sight of what’s fair, practical, or commercially sound.

PANEL: Gambling Disputes: Who Should Adjudicate?
Time: 14:00-14:45
Date: Tuesday, 16th September 2025
Location: Stage Five (Player Protection – Regulation) 

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Should the gambling industry adopt a universally recognised, independent dispute resolution body? Exploring the pros and cons of centralising dispute arbitration across markets and verticals.
• Where should the responsibility for resolving operator-player disputes lie—regulators, courts, or industry bodies? Debating the most effective and fair structures for accountability.
• Can a single model handle both simple betting disagreements and serious claims involving player safety or terms and conditions? Assessing whether a tiered or specialised approach to dispute resolution is needed.

PANEL: Stop, Collaborate and Listen – Can Operators Come Together to Protect Players?
Time: 11:15-12:00
Date: Thursday, 18th September 2025
Location: Stage Five (Player Protection – Technology)

Key Questions This Panel Will Tackle:

• Should traditional data privacy norms apply when player protection is at stake? Challenging the industry to rethink where the line should be drawn between data ethics and responsible gambling.
• Would shared data on at-risk players actually improve outcomes, and is it feasible? Exploring whether cross-operator insights could help spot harmful behaviour patterns earlier, and what it would take to make that a reality.
• How can operators and regulators collaborate without crossing compliance red lines? Looking at practical ways to align on harm prevention while still respecting legal and commercial boundaries.

Final Thoughts

Although SBC Summit’s conference agenda doesn’t feature a dedicated ‘iGaming & Casino’ track, this crucial vertical is woven throughout a number of panels across the event.

Whether you’re looking to capitalise on emerging gaming formats, gain a better understanding of regional cultural preferences, or explore innovative strategies to strengthen your safer gambling initiatives, the SBC Summit conference agenda holds the answers.

Secure your place at SBC Summit here. 

Are you an operator or affiliate? You can apply for a complimentary ‘Full Event Pass’ here.