Latest News

Navigating Blockchain’s Future in iGaming: Insights from Michał Ftouni, Head of Sales at Zondacrypto

Published

5 months ago

November 28, 2024

Reading Time: 5 minutes

The European Gaming Congress 2024 concluded with resounding success, attracting nearly 200 participants who benefitted from premier learning and networking opportunities. In this exclusive interview, we are thrilled to host Michał Ftouni, Head of Sales at zondacrypto – our Selfie Mirror Sponsor – and a key voice on blockchain’s transformative impact in iGaming.

Given your extensive experience in fintech and payments, what key developments do you see as the most transformative for the iGaming industry when it comes to blockchain technology?

I would say that making use of the inherent nature of the blockchain, meaning the transparency, immutability and security of it, is the most disruptive and transformative development for the iGaming industry. Players are able to confirm that the outcome of games is fair and make sure they are not being tampered with. Their payments are also safe, quick and cheap, something that is highly sought after by players. Of course, one has to mention also the effect DeFi and web3 has had on iGaming, by adding great features like staking and yield farming which brings a whole new dimension to user engagement. As for merchants, blockchain technology reduces operational costs by cutting out intermediaries, enabling instant settlements, lowering transaction fees. The biggest advantage in my opinion is the adherence to compliance and regulation since everything on the blockchain is transparent and traceable. Every transaction is securely recorded and easily auditable. Last but not least, we have to talk about chargebacks and fraud. These are the biggest pain for merchants when it comes to payments, and blockchain technology completely eliminates these risks.

During the panel discussion on ‘Chain Reaction: Securing and Disrupting iGaming with Blockchain Innovations,’ you shared some compelling insights on how blockchain is transforming the industry. Could you expand on the unique perspectives you brought to the panel and how your experience at zondacrypto has influenced your views on blockchain’s role in iGaming?

At zondacrypto, we see blockchain as so much more than just a tool for payments. We see it as a foundation for reshaping the entire gaming experience. It’s not just a buzzword but a foundational technology for addressing key challenges in iGaming, such as trust, security, and efficiency. My insights are rooted in real-world applications we’ve implemented at zondacrypto, particularly through our zondacrypto pay gateway. For example, our payment solution uses blockchain technology to streamline payments and cross-border transactions, reduce costs, and ensure transparency in the payment flow. All are critical elements for operators catering to a global audience.

Additionally, my experience has taught me that blockchain’s potential extends beyond payments for iGaming. A key role is in enhancing trust through permanent and unchangeable records and smart contracts that automate processes like custom wagering limits, automated payouts or unique bonus structures. This means that iGaming companies can improve efficiency and build strong trust among their clients. Throughout the years, I’ve seen firsthand how blockchain can elevate player engagement and operational integrity. This leads me to believe that Blockchain Innovations are a game-changer for the industry.

Blockchain is often praised for its potential to enhance transparency and trust in various industries. What specific blockchain features do you believe are most beneficial for iGaming platforms, particularly in the areas of security and data management?

For iGaming platforms, the most valuable aspects of blockchain are decentralization, immutability, and its built-in cryptographic security. Decentralization eliminates the reliance on a single authority, which helps ensure that game outcomes are fair and tamper-proof. Immutability is crucial because it guarantees that once data, such as bets or transaction histories, is recorded, it can’t be altered—this builds a strong sense of trust with both players and operators. Lastly, the security provided by blockchain technology protects sensitive data like personal information and payment details, which significantly reduces the risk of breaches and fraud. These features make blockchain an ideal solution for addressing the unique challenges of the iGaming industry.

Since joining the cryptocurrency space in 2017, you’ve seen significant changes in the industry. How has the perception of blockchain evolved among iGaming stakeholders, and what misconceptions still persist?

Back then, there was a lot of skepticism around blockchain, particularly in the iGaming sector. Blockchain was often seen as a niche concept, mostly associated with speculation and volatility. Over time, iGaming stakeholders have become more aware of its practical benefits, especially in areas like transparency, security, and faster payments. However, some misconceptions persist. One common one is that implementing blockchain is overly complex or requires a complete overhaul of existing systems, which isn’t true—there are many plug-and-play solutions now available. Another is the idea that blockchain automatically means anonymity and is therefore linked to illegal activities, overlooking the advancements in compliance, like KYC-enabled systems, that make it secure and regulatory-friendly for businesses.

zondacrypto offers a range of B2B services, including crypto payment processing and OTC services. Could you share some insights into how these services have impacted gaming platforms, and what trends you anticipate in the near future for crypto in iGaming?

Our B2B services, especially crypto payment processing, have made a significant difference for gaming platforms by speeding up transactions, lowering costs, and enabling operators to cater to players globally. For instance, quick settlements and reduced fees give operators a competitive edge, while OTC services are perfect for managing larger transactions, particularly for VIP players. Looking ahead, I expect stablecoins to gain more traction because they address concerns about crypto volatility while keeping the benefits of blockchain intact. Another big trend I see is the growing use of NFTs within games—not just as collectibles but as tools that enhance player engagement and create new revenue streams for operators.

As zondacrypto expands its footprint across the EU, what challenges do you face in driving blockchain adoption, and how are you working to overcome them, particularly in the iGaming sector?

One of the biggest challenges we face is navigating the regulatory landscape, which varies significantly across EU countries. Some jurisdictions are very supportive of blockchain innovation, while others remain cautious or unclear about their policies. To address this, we actively engage with regulators, provide education, and advocate for clear, fair rules that balance innovation with compliance.

We must of course mention the upcoming implementation of the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation by December 2024 which marks a significant milestone for the crypto industry, as it will introduce a unified regulatory framework across all EU member states, providing much-needed clarity for businesses operating in the space. As zondacrypto was one of the first centralized exchanges to be fully MiCA-ready, it will allow us to streamline operations and scale more effectively across multiple markets.

Another challenge is convincing traditional gaming platforms to embrace blockchain. There’s often hesitation due to concerns about complexity or the resources needed for integration. To overcome this, we focus on demonstrating how blockchain simplifies operations, reduces costs, and enhances trust. Sharing real-world success stories and showing the long-term value of blockchain solutions have been effective strategies in driving adoption.

Looking ahead, how do you envision blockchain continuing to disrupt and reshape the iGaming landscape over the next five years? Are there any upcoming innovations from zondacrypto that you’re particularly excited to share?

Over the next five years, I see blockchain becoming deeply embedded in the iGaming industry, not just for payments but across the entire gaming experience. We’ll likely see innovations like DAOs giving players a voice in decision-making, blockchain-based loyalty programs enhancing player retention, and NFTs creating new ways for players to own and trade in-game assets. These developments will make gaming more interactive and engaging while giving players more control.

We’re particularly excited about enhancing zondacrypto pay with a strong focus on MiCA compliance to align with the EU’s evolving regulatory framework. By integrating MiCA-compliant features, we aim to provide gaming operators with a secure, transparent, and fully regulated payment solution that meets the highest standards. This will not only ensure smooth, legally sound operations but also build trust with operators and players alike, solidifying blockchain’s role as a dependable foundation for iGaming transactions.

Michał Ftouni provided his valuable insights at the European Gaming Congress 2024 as a panelist at the discussion “Chain Reaction: Securing and Disrupting iGaming with Blockchain Innovations”, and with his Keynote Presentation “Leveling up your payments with crypto”.

The post Navigating Blockchain’s Future in iGaming: Insights from Michał Ftouni, Head of Sales at Zondacrypto appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – April 21-27

Published

1 hour ago

April 29, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Welcome to our weekly roundup of American gambling news again! Here, we are going through the weekly highlights of the American gambling industry which include the latest news and new partnerships. Read on and get updated.

Latest News

International Game Technology PLC announced that its dynamic Wheel of Fortune DiamondRS Premium Wheel cabinet recently launched in casinos across the US. Guests of Sky River Casino in Elk Grove, Calif. and of Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn. were among the first players in the world to enjoy the Wheel of Fortune Cash Link Reels Double Diamond and Wheel of Fortune Cash Link Reels Double Gold games on IGT’s new ultra-high-tech, mechanical-reel cabinet. Designed exclusively for Wheel of Fortune game content, the Wheel of Fortune DiamondRS Premium Wheel cabinet boasts a 20-inch physical wheel, a 32-inch LCD top box and a 23-inch transmissive display.

CT Gaming continues its strong momentum from the first quarter of 2025 with a new wave of installations in Panama. Strengthening its position in the Latin American market, the company has partnered with leading operators to introduce top-performing products, including the EZ Modulo 32/32/32 slot cabinet and the highly successful Diamond King series. Among the highlights of the installation is Diamond King 3—CT Gaming’s bestselling multigame featuring 50 captivating titles. Players can enjoy a diverse mix of content, including the legendary Mega Jack trio: Aztec Gold, Slot-O-Pol Deluxe and Champagne Party. The experience is further enhanced by the Diamond Tree progressive jackpot, which delivers elevated gameplay and exciting reward potential.

Las Vegas Sands has contributed $100,000 through the Sands Cares global community engagement programme to 100 Black Men Las Vegas in support of the organisation’s youth mentorship, scholarship and community service offerings. The 2025 donation will enable 100 Black Men Las Vegas to offer new programmes including a science, technology, engineering and math initiative; the Pathways to Public Service programme, which focuses on developing a pipeline of law enforcement and first responder professionals; and Realtist Academy, which prepares participants to become licensed real estate agents or mortgage brokers. In addition, Sands Cares funding will help 100 Black Men Las Vegas pursue efforts to identify a permanent location for the organisation.

Partnerships

SCCG Management has announced an expanded partnership with AWARE, a global leader in biometric verification software. Under this agreement, SCCG becomes a preferred reseller for AWARE’s biometric and identity verification solutions within the global gaming industry. AWARE’s advanced biometric technology offers a future-proof solution for iGaming and gambling platforms—empowering operators to ensure compliance, prevent fraud and protect players, all while delivering a seamless and secure user experience. With growing regulatory scrutiny and rising demand for frictionless onboarding, AWARE’s adaptive biometrics provide a scalable and trusted identity framework for modern gaming environments.

The Brazilian Football Confederation and Sportradar Integrity & Regulatory Services, a unit of Sportradar AG announced the extension of their long-standing partnership, set to begin with the 2025 season. The new agreement aims to enhance efforts to combat match-fixing in Brazilian football and safeguard the integrity of the sport. Sportradar, through its industry-leading Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS), will deliver integrity monitoring for more than 8200 men’s and women’s matches organised annually by the CBF. Through this renewed partnership, the UFDS will now cover all Brazilian national championships.

The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – April 21-27 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

SOFTSWISS Enhances Leadership Team to Drive Global Expansion

Published

2 hours ago

April 29, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

SOFTSWISS, a leading global provider of iGaming software, announces the appointment of three seasoned professionals to key leadership positions: Denis Ilienkov as Product & Technology Non-Executive Director; Kyryl Avdieienko as Chief Product Officer (CPO); and Viktor Iegorov as Chief Delivery Officer (CDO).

These strategic appointments are integral to SOFTSWISS’ vision of strengthening its leadership team to navigate the complexities of the global iGaming landscape, ensuring agility and innovation in product development and delivery.

Denis Ilienkov, in his new role as Product & Technology Non-Executive Director, will oversee product and technology-related operations, including control responsibilities. Kyryl Avdieienko, appointed as CPO, will lead product strategy and development across the SOFTSWISS product portfolio. With a background in iGaming, game development, and fintech, Kyryl brings a wealth of experience to the role. Viktor Iegorov, as CDO, will be responsible for developing processes and managing the strategic delivery portfolio.

These appointments are part of SOFTSWISS’ ongoing commitment to fostering a collaborative and synergistic leadership approach. Denis, Kyryl, and Viktor will work closely to drive the company’s mission of delivering cutting-edge iGaming solutions, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

Denis Ilienkov commented on the appointments: “At SOFTSWISS, we’ve always prided ourselves on our agility and innovation. As we venture into new markets like Brazil and South Africa, it’s imperative that our leadership structure evolves to meet the unique challenges and opportunities these regions present. The introduction of roles such as the Chief Delivery Officer ensures that our delivery processes are not only maintained but continuously enhanced. This strategic shift is about more than just titles; it’s about positioning SOFTSWISS to deliver unparalleled value to our clients and partners worldwide.”

These leadership changes closely follow SOFTSWISS’ recent product and technology milestones. Notably, the company celebrated its first Sportsbook Network Jackpot win during the SiGMA Americas event in São Paulo, where a player claimed €80,294.89 – more than doubling the initial €35,000 prize pool. Additionally, SOFTSWISS’ Deputy CTO, Sergey Kastukevich, was honoured as CTO of the Year in EMEA at the 2025 Oracle Excellence Awards, recognising his strategic use of emerging technologies to advance the company’s objectives.

About SOFTSWISS

SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS holds a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 27,800 casino games, the Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoin-optimised online casino solution. The expert team counts over 2,000 employees.

The post SOFTSWISS Enhances Leadership Team to Drive Global Expansion appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

NSoft and InnovaPlay Strengthen Sportsbook Offering with Strategic Partnership

Published

2 hours ago

April 29, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

NSoft, a leading provider of premium sportsbook solutions, has partnered with InnovaPlay, enhancing its sportsbook platform with the industry-leading NextGen Sportsbook. This strategic collaboration integrates NSoft’s innovative sportsbook technology seamlessly into InnovaPlay’s comprehensive white-label and full web solution, empowering sportsbook operators to reach new heights of performance and player engagement.

NextGen Sportsbook, known for its four main pillars – stability, unparalleled speed, multifeed integration, and dynamic player experience – is perfectly tailored to meet diverse betting market demands. It adapts effortlessly to various odds presentations, aligning with local and regional preferences, and stands out as the industry’s fastest sportsbook, generating standard offers in an exceptional 20 milliseconds.

Placing the player experience at its core, NextGen Sportsbook offers personalized and highly engaging betting interactions. Features such as individualized betting options, dynamic odds, custom bonuses, individual cashout capabilities, and tailored odds layouts significantly enhance player satisfaction, fostering loyalty and sustained engagement.

Operators benefit from NextGen’s powerful integration capabilities, which manage multiple betting feeds, including sports betting, esports, and horse or dog racing, in both pre-match and live scenarios. The advanced multifeed system ensures uninterrupted operations by seamlessly switching between providers as needed.

NSoft’s NextGen Sportsbook also boasts comprehensive player engagement tools such as Cash Out, Edit Bet, Bet Builder, and advanced betting stimulation products. Its multi-language and multi-currency functionalities allow operators to expand their reach globally. The sportsbook’s flexible bonus engine and dynamic trading options, including full automation, DIY, and hybrid franchise models, give operators complete control and flexibility. Additionally, its sophisticated AI personalization capabilities further elevate the betting experience by delivering personalized recommendations to each punter.

Shaun Grech, Technical Director at InnovaPlay, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “This strategic partnership with NSoft represents a game-changer for our sportsbook operators. By integrating NSoft’s award-winning sports betting engine and virtual sports products into our platform, we’re giving operators three key competitive advantages:

Lightning-fast betting markets with the deepest liquidity pool in the industry
Seamless cross-sell opportunities between casino and sportsbook verticals
Full customization of odds, limits, and betting rules to match local market demands.

This is how modern sports betting platforms should perform – with surgical precision and total operator control.”

Drago Ćavar, Managing Director of Sportsbook Platform at NSoft, added: “Our collaboration with InnovaPlay underlines our commitment to providing sportsbook operators with groundbreaking technology that drives growth and player satisfaction. NextGen Sportsbook’s exceptional speed, versatility, and personalized betting experience make it an ideal solution for forward-thinking operators. We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership brings and confident it will set new industry standards.”

Through this collaboration, InnovaPlay and NSoft are poised to redefine excellence in sportsbook operations, positioning NextGen Sportsbook as the preferred choice for operators seeking advanced capabilities and unmatched player engagement.

The post NSoft and InnovaPlay Strengthen Sportsbook Offering with Strategic Partnership appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.