SBC Summit Roundtables: Turning the Tables on Traditional Session Formats

For brands looking to unlock the complexities of regional markets, navigating educational sessions at industry events can often feel overwhelming. The moment you step onto the buzzing exhibition floor, your mind may flood with questions like:

• “Which markets should I dive into?”
• “Can I trust that these experts really get the regions they’re discussing?”
• “Will I actually get the chance to ask my burning questions?”

Trust us, at most events, we’d be asking ourselves the same thing. But this isn’t just any event—it’s SBC Summit, where the fan-favorite roundtable sessions made a triumphant return.

On Wednesday, September 25th, at the MEO Arena, the roundtables closed out the Super Stage from 17:00 to 18:00, offering attendees a unique opportunity to dive into meaningful, expert-led discussions on 12 key global markets. This was your chance to ask questions, gain insights, and share knowledge.

In this blog post, we’ll recap the highlights of these roundtable sessions, breaking down the regions that were covered and spotlighting the stellar lineup of experts who led the conversations. Whether you attended in person or missed the big day, we’ve got you covered.

What is a Roundtable Session?

Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a roundtable session?

A roundtable session is a refreshing and interactive approach to learning, designed to foster a deeper understanding of specific regional markets. These sessions bring together delegates in an intimate setting, where they can openly discuss their successes, challenges, and failures. The goal? To exchange strategies and insights, all while working toward a shared objective: regional success.

What sets these sessions apart is the fact that each one is led by an expert who truly understands the market in focus. These specialists will not only guide the conversation but also share crucial knowledge about the region’s unique dynamics. Plus, attendees will have the chance to ask their most pressing questions and get tailored advice from people who live and breathe these markets.

It’s a golden opportunity for brands to gain real-world insights and connect with those who’ve been there, done that—and are ready to share what they’ve learned.

What Regions Were Covered During the Roundtable Sessions?

This year, SBC Summit welcomed attendees from a record-breaking 134 countries—20 more than the previous year—solidifying its position as the global centrepiece for iGaming, sports betting, and gambling. In keeping with the event’s international scope, our roundtable sessions reflected the industry’s diverse landscape. 

These roundtable sessions centred on 12 key global markets that are actively shaping the future of the sector, providing delegates with invaluable insights and opportunities to deepen their understanding of these pivotal regions.

But why did we focus on these particular regions? Each of these markets represents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges that are critical to understand in order to achieve regional success. Whether it’s navigating complex regulatory environments, tapping into emerging player bases, or staying ahead of technological advancements, these regions are central to the industry’s growth and evolution.

Here’s why these markets are so important to the conversation:

Africa:

With rapidly increasing mobile and internet access, Africa offers a significant growth opportunity for online betting and gambling. The region’s youthful population and rising digital engagement make it an exciting area for operators looking to establish an early presence in a booming market.

Brazil:

Brazil has recently made significant strides in regulating sports betting, setting the stage for rapid expansion in the region. As one of the largest markets in Latin America with a strong sports culture, Brazil is quickly becoming a focal point for operators keen on tapping into its vast potential, especially following its recent regulatory successes.

Caribbean:

Despite its smaller size, the Caribbean is home to favourable regulatory environments that attract operators. Its unique licensing structures and tax incentives make it an attractive location for companies looking to establish operations in a more flexible framework.

DACH (Germany, Austria & Switzerland):

The DACH region is known for its highly regulated markets and sets the tone for broader European compliance trends. Understanding this region helps businesses navigate complex regulations while remaining competitive in a market that values transparency and security.

Eastern Europe & Balkans:

These regions are experiencing rapid development in terms of regulation and market growth. As more countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans move toward regulated environments, operators are presented with new opportunities to enter previously untapped markets.

North America:

With the expansion of legal sports betting in the United States and the growth of iGaming in Canada, North America represents one of the most exciting opportunities in the industry. The rapid pace of legalisation and the size of the potential market make it a key region to watch.

Latin America:

Beyond Brazil, many other Latin American countries are opening up to the iGaming and sports betting sectors. The region’s diverse regulatory landscapes offer both opportunities and challenges and understanding these intricacies is vital for long-term success.

Northern EU: Nordics-Baltics:

The Nordics and Baltics have a reputation for innovation and progressive regulation, setting trends in iGaming and technology. These markets are often at the cutting edge of new developments, making them influential in shaping broader industry practices.

Southern Europe: Spain, Malta & Italy:

Southern Europe plays a central role in the European gambling industry. Malta, in particular, is a key hub for licensing and regulation, while Spain and Italy offer large, established markets with a blend of traditional and modern approaches to gambling.

Southeast Asia:

With its young population and rising internet penetration, Southeast Asia is an emerging market with immense potential. Operators are increasingly looking to this region as it becomes more digitally connected and economically vibrant.

UAE & India:

Both regions present unique regulatory challenges, but their sheer market size makes them critical areas for future growth. As their regulatory landscapes evolve, opportunities for iGaming and betting operators will continue to expand.

The UK:

The UK remains a global leader in iGaming and sports betting, with a mature market that sets standards for regulation and innovation. It continues to drive industry trends, making it essential to understand it’s evolving consumer behaviours and regulatory changes.

These roundtable sessions provided an opportunity to explore the complexities and opportunities within each of these regions. By engaging with experts who understand the nuances of these markets, attendees gained valuable insights that can shape their strategies in this ever-evolving global industry.

Let’s Meet the Speakers:

Africa Roundtable

Bashir Are is the Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lotteries & Gaming Authority, a role he has held since October 2019. With over 28 years of experience in both private and public sectors, he specialises in business transformation and FINTECH. He has held key roles, including Senior Systems Engineer at Lockheed Martin, Principal Consultant for major U.S. agencies, and Sole Administrator of Lagos Island East LCDA from 2016 to 2017. 

Yahaya Maikori is the Principal Partner of Law Allianz, a firm he founded in 2008. A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University (1992) and called to the Nigerian Bar in 1994, he has been a member of the Law Society of England and Wales since 2013. Yahaya has extensive expertise in mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financing, entertainment law, and corporate governance. He started his career as a Legal Advisor to Aso Savings & Loans Plc, later serving as Company Secretary for First Alliance Pension and Benefits before founding Law Allianz. He is also recognised as a leading lawyer in Africa’s Gaming and Leisure industry.

Brazil Roundtable

Luiz Felipe Maia, is a founding partner and head of the Technology and Gaming Area at FYMSA Advogados, with over 15 years of experience in business structuring, mergers and acquisitions, and gaming law. He holds a J.D. from the University of São Paulo, a Master’s degree in Law, and a certification in negotiation from Harvard. Maia is a member of several international gaming law associations and has authored key publications in the field. He has received multiple awards, including the Corporate LiveWire Excellence in Gaming Award (2016) and recognition as one of Brazil’s Top 100 lawyers in 2018.

Caribbean Roundtable

Arran McCarthy is the Commercial Director at EM Group, where he oversees regulatory compliance, corporate services, and e-commerce initiatives. With an MSc in International Business and Law, McCarthy brings over a decade of experience in driving business growth and ensuring regulatory precision. His expertise spans company formations, licensing, and anti-money laundering strategies, enabling businesses to thrive in the evolving digital economy. Since joining EM Group in 2013, McCarthy has held key leadership roles, consistently enhancing service delivery within the iGaming and corporate sectors.

Jaime Rivera-Emanuelli is a member of the Gaming Law Practice at Saiber LLC, advising casinos, online gaming operators, and technology providers on corporate and regulatory matters. He focuses on the U.S. and Latin American gaming markets, helping operators expand into the Caribbean and South America. Previously, he served as Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission and held key legal roles in Puerto Rico’s government.

DACH (Germany, Austria & Switzerland)

Dr. Joerg Hofmann is a Senior Partner at MELCHERS Law in Heidelberg, Germany, where he has practised since 1993. He is a leading expert in gaming law, having served as President of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL) from 2014 to 2015. Dr. Hofmann was awarded “Gaming Lawyer of the Year” at the Who’s Who Legal Global Awards 2023 and also lectures on gambling law at the University of Heidelberg. His extensive experience includes multiple leadership roles within the IMGL, as well as an academic background in constitutional law.

Dr. Christian Rapani is the founder of Rapani Law, a firm he established in Graz in 2013, specializing in business and corporate law. With extensive experience advising both Austrian and international clients, Dr. Rapani is also the author of numerous publications in these fields. He holds a PhD in law from the University of Graz and has been practising as an attorney for over a decade.

Dr. Simon Planzer is an attorney, advisor, and scholar with over 18 years of experience. He is the Director of the Competence Center on Gaming & Entertainment at the University of St. Gallen and a Senior Fellow in Gaming Law at the institute IFF-HSG. Since 2006, Dr. Planzer has been a partner at PLANZER LAW AG, where he focuses on technology, gaming, and entertainment law. A leading expert in his field, he also lectures in law at the University of St. Gallen, contributing to both academia and legal practice.

Eastern European & Balkans Roundtable 

Aleksandr Popov is the Director of Supervision for Gambling and Gambling Activities at the National Revenue Agency of Bulgaria. With a PhD in Political Sciences from Plehanov Russian University of Economics, he has extensive experience in public policy, public procurement, and EU project funding. Popov has served in various legal and consulting roles, including Legal Counsel at the Ministry of Environment and Water, and has been an independent consultant since 2016.

Boryana Nikolova, as Head of Department at the National Revenue Agency of Bulgaria, is responsible for overseeing the regulation and compliance of national revenue policies, including taxation and financial oversight, ensuring efficient enforcement and administration of Bulgaria’s fiscal laws.

Cosmina Maria Simion is the Managing Partner at WH Simion & Partners, a role she has held since May 2024. With extensive experience in gaming law, intellectual property, and media, she is also a General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law since 2016. Previously, she co-led SIMION & BACIU for five years and served as a Partner at NNDKP and Counsel at DLA Piper, where she headed the Intellectual Property, Media, and Technology department in Bucharest, Romania.

Latin America Roundtable

Gustavo Sánchez Castillo is the CEO of Wintech Gaming Solutions and Vice President of LATAM for XLIMA, with over 16 years of experience in corporate strategy, business development, and international marketing. He has led marketing efforts across Latin America and Asia for major brands like ESPN, FOX Sports, and UFC. In addition to his leadership roles at Wintech and XLIMA, Castillo co-founded Mercado de Apuestas.com, focusing on strategic partnerships and commercial management. His expertise spans project management, branding, and international media across multiple continents.

Karen Marcela Sierra-Hughes is the Vice President of Latin America, Caribbean & Spain at Gaming Laboratories International (GLI), where she has worked for over 20 years. She leads the development of gaming jurisdictions across these regions, focusing on regulatory and supplier strategies for land-based and iGaming industries. With a Law Degree and a Master’s in Commercial and Public Law, Sierra-Hughes assists governments in developing gaming laws and regulations. She previously served as Director of Legal Advisory for the Panama Gaming Control Board and has extensive experience in public and gaming law.

Gonzalo Perez is the CEO and Partner at ApuestaTotal, a leading sports betting and gaming platform in Peru, a role he has held since 2018. An entrepreneur at heart, Gonzalo has founded and led multiple ventures across various industries, including sports betting, transportation, baby food, and restaurants. He is also the CEO of Marcadores247.com and the owner of Valley Crops LTD and Bet Bar. 

North America Roundtable

Marc Dunbar is the Managing Partner at Jones Walker LLP in Tallahassee, specialising in iGaming, lottery, casino gambling, and regulated industries. With over 20 years of experience, Dunbar litigates complex legal matters and advises clients on regulatory compliance, legislative changes, and private equity opportunities. He also teaches as an adjunct professor at Florida State University College of Law and is actively involved in political campaigns and ethics law.

Ron Segev is a founding partner at Segev LLP, a full-service business law firm specialising in gaming, technology, finance, and DLT. With over a decade of experience, Segev provides strategic, regulatory, and transactional advice to clients across sectors like online gaming, esports, blockchain, and digital marketing. His practice includes assisting with licensing, compliance, and M&A transactions for global gaming operators and technology companies. 

Northern EU: Nordics-Baltics Roundtable

Morten Ronde is the Managing Partner at Nordic Gambling, a law firm he co-founded in 2017 that focuses on gambling regulations in the Nordic countries. He is also the CEO of the Danish Online Gambling Association (Spillebranchen), which he established in 2011, helping to shape the industry’s regulatory landscape in Denmark. Morten has extensive experience working with government regulators, gambling operators, and software suppliers. He has also contributed to the Swedish government’s gambling reform and served on the Supervisory Board of Fortuna Group.

Andrius Gabnys is the Founding Partner at Gabnys.Gabniene, where he has served as an attorney since 2010. Specialising in international gambling, gaming, and regulatory law, Gabnys provides legal expertise to clients navigating complex legal frameworks in the gaming industry. With over 14 years of experience, he is recognised for his work in international legal practice, advising on regulatory compliance and strategic legal solutions.

Southeast Asia Roundtable

Andrew W Scott is the Vice Chairman and CEO of Inside Asian Gaming (IAG) and O MEDIA, a multilingual media and events company in Macau. He is a prominent figure in the Asian gaming industry, leading various sub-brands like the IAG Academy, The IAG Power 50, and Macau After Dark. With extensive experience in casino gaming since 1986, Andrew is an expert in the field, frequently serving as a media commentator, conference speaker, and expert witness. He holds a Master’s degree in International Integrated Resort Management from the University of Macau.

Melquiades Robles is the General Manager of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). In his role, he oversees the operations and management of the organisation, which is responsible for raising funds through lottery games to support public health, welfare, and charity programs across the Philippines. His leadership ensures the integrity and efficiency of PCSO’s charitable gaming initiatives.

Southern Europe Roundtable  (ES-MT-IT)

Quirino Mancini is a seasoned expert in the gambling industry, currently serving as the President of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL). He has over two decades of experience in gambling regulation and business. Mancini is also an equity partner at Tonucci & Partners, where he specialises in sports, entertainment, media, and e-commerce law. Additionally, he is the Founder and Business Development Director of SBC Advisory Partners, providing consulting services to sports and gaming organisations. He co-founded GamingLaw.eu, a leading European portal on gaming law, a leading European portal on gaming law.

Alcina de Oliveira Alves is the Managing Associate Lawyer at CCA Law Firm in the TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) department, where she has worked for over 11 years. Alves’s practice focuses on gambling law, providing legal expertise in regulatory and compliance matters.  Alves began her career at CCA as a trainee lawyer in 2013 and has since grown into a key figure in the firm’s gambling practice. She holds a law degree from Universidade Católica Portuguesa.

Patricia Lalanda is a Partner at LOYRA Abogados, where she leads the firm’s Intellectual Property, New Technologies, and Data Protection division. She specialises in the entertainment sector, advising clients in industries such as gaming (land-based and online), social games, video games, and cinema. Lalanda has significant experience in complex legal operations, including multi-jurisdictional M&As and online gambling licensing in Spain. She is also an educator, teaching at prestigious institutions such as Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

UAE & India Roundtable

Dr. Joseph F. Borg is a Partner at WH Partners, where he leads the Fintech and Gaming & Gambling Advisory divisions. His practice spans innovative technologies, including esports, blockchain, AI, and fintech. A recognised expert, Borg is ranked by Chambers and Partners and Legal500 for his work in fintech and is a ‘Global Thought Leader’ in Gaming according to Who’s Who Legal. He also lectures on Gaming Law at the University of Malta and chairs the Committee on Emerging Issues within the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL). Before joining WH Partners, he served as Chief Regulatory Officer of the Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority.

Soraia Lourenco is the Head of Compliance & Licensing at The Regulation Service, bringing over 15 years of experience in the gambling industry. Specialising in regulatory compliance, licensing, and quality assurance, Lourenco has held key roles at companies like Midnite, Play’n GO, and Betsson Group. Known for her integrity and analytical approach, she excels in delivering results in high-pressure environments. Her expertise includes implementing compliance frameworks, managing new market entries, and driving compliance-driven UX optimisation.

Manav Bhargava is a seasoned Gaming and Corporate Lawyer, licensed in both Canada and India and serves as the Head of the India Desk at Segev LLP. With over ten years of experience, he specialises in guiding gaming operators and platform providers through licensing, regulatory compliance, and commercial transactions. Bhargava leads Segev LLP’s efforts in connecting clients to the Indian market, supported by a strategic partnership with Singhania & Co. He also closely monitors the evolving legal landscapes in both Canada and India, providing clients with a strategic edge in the gaming industry.

UK Roundtable

Susan Breen is a Partner at Mishcon de Reya within the Corporate Department, with over 20 years of experience advising the gambling and technology sectors. She specialises in corporate, M&A, regulatory, and commercial matters, particularly focusing on helping clients navigate dynamic legal environments. Breen represents global operators, regulators, and governments, and has played a key role in numerous high-profile industry transactions. Recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers UK, Breen is known for her industry knowledge and strategic approach to complex legal issues. She is also a member of the Executive Committee of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL).

SBC Summit Latinoamérica 

Whether you missed these incredible roundtable sessions in Lisbon or enjoyed them so much that you’re already seeking the next opportunity, you’re in luck!

If you’re attending SBC Summit Latinoamérica later this month, you’ll have another chance to dive into insightful roundtable discussions, this time focusing on key Latin American markets. The sessions will cover:

Table 1 – Brazil 

Table 2 – Chile

Table 3 – Mexico

Table 4 – Caribbean & Central America

Table 5 – Colombia

Table 6 – Argentina

Table 7 – Peru

Haven’t secured your spot for SBC Summit Latinoamérica yet? Well dont sweat! For groups of three or more, you can purchase the ‘Group Pass’ ticket, gaining you access to both days of SBC Summit Latinoamérica for the discounted price of  $400 per person!

Additionally, operators and affiliates can apply for free passes to the event. If you are an operator, you can apply for a free pass here, if you are an affiliate, you can apply for a free pass here.