The Latin American region boasts a rich tapestry of diverse markets, each featuring its own unique regulatory framework, player behaviors, and dominant gaming verticals.
Although this diverse patchwork of markets may present challenges for those operating in the region, recent reports indicate the Latin American betting market’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) is expected to triple between 2020 and 2025, underscoring the region’s unprecedented growth and potential.
As numerous brands seek to enter flourishing regulated markets such as Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Chile, and other markets aspire to replicate their success, industry professionals are seeking the latest regulatory insights, cross-border marketing strategies, and innovative technologies in an effort to enhance their presence in the region and successfully integrate into new markets.
Eddie Toledo: There are always topics/themes that everyone wants to talk about every year, and for us, we have to be selective on which topics or general themes the agenda will focus on. We always have many research calls with industry experts when building the agenda so there is never “unexpected enthusiasm” because we listen to our customers. But in short, yes and yes, these topics are reflected in the agenda. The agenda for this year’s SBC Summit Latinoamérica focuses heavily on regulation across the region whether it is combating illegal sites, strategies for protecting minors, or discussing new regulatory laws or trends.
Innovative technology is a prominent theme throughout the agenda. How do you determine which technologies are merely industry fads and which ones are worth exploring in depth?
ED: As I mentioned earlier, a great deal of research goes into building the agendas you see. Every conference producer on the team does an excellent job of conducting meticulous research, including informative interviews with industry experts. This helps us understand the current landscape, anticipate future developments, and determine what should or shouldn’t change. We also spend individual hours reading news articles and LinkedIn posts. Often, there is a correlation between the news and our interviews, which guides our decisions on which technologies to feature in the program. However, we sometimes have to be mindful not to get lost in rabbit holes during our research—it can be all too easy to do so.
The agenda features dedicated panels on Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Brazil. Could you shed some light on some of the most exciting developments in these markets that merit attention?
ED: This is one of my favorite regions because there are always developments happening, which, in part, makes my job a little easier! As we all know, the sleeping giant, Brazil, has finally awakened, and the hype was no fad—it came out swinging. Now, it’s a matter of how operators and suppliers will take advantage of this new market, while it’s the regulator’s responsibility to ensure that everyone is following the rules. New ordinances are still being published, bringing the final regulations for operators, and everyone is anxious about that! Another market gaining traction is Peru. Their online gaming market has gone live, and the regulator, Mincetur, has outlined clear guidelines and technical regulations, including two types of licenses: remote sports betting and remote gaming, encompassing various verticals. These are two of the biggest developments at the moment, although, as I mentioned, there are always developments happening.
While regulatory concerns are becoming less central in some mature regions, the topic remains a significant focus in Latin America. How does this year’s conference agenda aim to assist delegates in navigating Latin America’s intricate regulatory landscape?
ED: I believe that regulatory concerns are never put on the back burner, even in mature markets. As I mentioned earlier, the recurring theme I’ve heard across the board is regulation. Major markets like Argentina are continually revisiting regulatory issues and concerns. For example, a significant current topic is protecting minors from the influences of underage gambling. The stakes are high, as underage gambling can lead to addiction, financial ruin, and mental health issues. It also presents a challenge for regulators and operators to enforce age restrictions effectively. This is one reason why that particular panel has been very popular on the agenda. However, all tracks include at least one panel focused on regulation, which was very much the intent of the agenda—helping delegates navigate the intricacies of LatAm’s regulatory landscape.
The upcoming agenda will feature an impressive 200 industry speakers Are there any new profiles debuting at this year’s summit?
ED: Yes! Many new profiles are making their debut at SBC Summit Latinoamérica. That is something we always focus on, trying to find new and exciting speakers. Keep things fresh! One of our keynote speakers is Tatiana Calderón, Colombian Motorsport Driver, racing for Gradient Racing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. She has been setting milestones for women in racing since she started in 2003. Other speakers making their debuts include Livia Troise (CEO, Betmais), Santiago Gandara (CMO, Betwarrior), Andres Tamayo (Gerente General, FullReto), and Dr. Agustin Li Gambi (President of the Legal Affairs Commission of the Asociación de Loterías Estatales de Argentina (ALEA)).
Since affiliation in its traditional form is still emerging in LATAM, what are the main focuses of the dedicated affiliate track?
ED: As you mentioned, affiliation is still emerging in Latam, and that’s important to recognize. It’s nowhere near the levels seen in other regions like Europe and the U.S. This year, the focus of the Affiliates track is on education. The Affiliates Leaders Panel serves as a guide for operators, highlighting why it’s important and beneficial to work with affiliates and what to expect in the next five years.
Why do you think the industry still needs to discuss player protection after so many years? Are we still not sufficiently educated on this topic?
ED: I believe there must always be a discussion around player protection. As long as gaming and gambling exist, there will be vulnerable individuals who need help. The industry still needs to address player protection because the landscape of gaming and gambling is constantly evolving with new technologies, platforms, and markets. These changes introduce new challenges, requiring updated strategies to protect players, especially vulnerable groups. The varying and frequently updated regulations across regions also necessitate ongoing education and alignment with best practices. As our understanding of gambling addiction and player behavior deepens, it’s crucial to incorporate new insights into protection measures. Continuous discussions help maintain transparency, build trust, and demonstrate the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming, ensuring effective and up-to-date player protection measures.
Globally, the industry is increasingly focusing on the online sector. However, what about land-based establishments and traditional verticals such as lotteries? How are these segments addressed in the agenda, and what is their status in LATAM?
ED: The agenda reflects a growing emphasis on the online sector globally, but it also addresses the status and future of land-based establishments and traditional verticals like lotteries in LATAM. These segments remain vital parts of the gaming landscape in the region, with significant discussions on how they are adapting to new market conditions and regulatory changes. The agenda includes panels focused on the challenges and opportunities for land-based casinos, highlighting how they are integrating digital technologies to enhance the customer experience and stay competitive. The role of lotteries, particularly with the shift towards digitalization, is a key topic, examining how these traditional games are evolving to meet the demands of modern consumers while navigating regulatory frameworks. In LATAM, both land-based and traditional sectors are being redefined to align with the broader industry’s shift towards innovation and modernization.
This year’s conference agenda features an array of exciting and insightful panel topics. On a personal level, which panels are you most excited about and why?
ED: As a producer, it is hard to say which ones are your favorite, because you spend so much time on each one. I know it sounds like a safe answer. But, if I really have to choose some, they would be “Protecting the Future: Combating Influences of Underage Gambling” & “Ethics on Display: Impact of Operators’ Logos on Sports Jerseys”. Both of these panels will address the strategies it takes to protect the youth and also whether having operator’s logos on youth sports jerseys is a segway into underage gambling, an interesting and quite controversial topic!
What are the key takeaways that you’re hoping attendees will walk out after attending this year’s conference?
ED: We hope that attendees leave this year’s conference with a deep understanding of the latest regulatory changes, emerging trends, and strategic opportunities in the Latin American iGaming and sports betting sectors—hopefully with a light bulb moment after every session! Key takeaways will include insights into navigating diverse market regulations, leveraging new technologies, and forming impactful partnerships. We will also emphasize effective player protection strategies and the integration of online and traditional gaming channels. Our goal is for delegates to walk away equipped with actionable strategies to enhance their operations, capitalize on growth opportunities, and maintain compliance, all while fostering a responsible gaming environment in this dynamic and expanding market.