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Aspire Global Publishes Interim Report for Q1 2021


Aspire Global has posted a 42.6% year-on-year increase in revenue in Q1 2021. The Malta-headquartered firm saw revenue increase from €33.7m in Q1 2020 to €48.1m in Q1 2021, with the acquired BtoBet business helping to drive growth by adding €2.4m in Q1 revenue.
Comments from CEO Tsachi Maimon:
Aspire Global reports yet another record quarter with strong growth of 42.6% and robust profitability well above our financial target. This consistent performance demonstrates Aspire Global’s ability to execute its growth strategy and create value. All segments reported strong development in the quarter, and the Group made significant progress, especially in the US and the UK with new deals and the receipt of new licenses.
Revenues increased by 42.6% to €48.1 million with organic growth of 35.6%. Growth was particularly strong in the UK and Ireland in both the casino and sports verticals. The solid growth in the quarter is particularly impressive, given that the first quarter is historically the weakest of the year.
EBITDA increased by 64.2% to €8.6 million with an EBITDA margin of 17.8%, well above our financial target of 16%. This improved profitability is driven by the revenue growth across all segments as well as strict cost control. It is also satisfying to see that both BtoBet and Pariplay, acquired in 2020 and 2019 respectively, contribute significantly to Aspire Global’s profitability.
STRENGTHENED PRESENCE IN THE US
Establishing a strong footprint and building our brands in the fast-growing US market are key objectives for us this year, and we have already made significant progress on this front. In January, Pariplay, the leading game studio and game aggregator, was granted an Interim iGaming Supplier License for the state of West Virginia. Shortly after, Pariplay’s games went live in New Jersey with Rush Street Interactive, a market leader in online casino and sports betting in the US.
In April we took yet another key step in the US by signing a striking deal with the platform provider GAN. The partnership will see Pariplay expand its footprint through GAN’s platform, which is available to operators in three states – New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan. By partnering with GAN, a well-established supplier with leading operator partners, we will get Pariplay’s games in front of a significant audience across numerous states.
The US iGaming market is growing at an impressive rate with more states currently considering legalising online gaming. Our objective is to be at forefront of these developments. Aspire Global has already filed applications for accessibility in Pennsylvania and Michigan, with the objective to file in all accessible states.
SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS IN THE UK
The Sports market represents an important growth area for us. Until the acquisition of BtoBet, a leading sportsbook provider, sports constituted a minor part of Aspire Global’s revenues, representing only 7.6% of revenues in Q1 2020. One year later, sports now represents 15.2% of revenues.
BtoBet has established a strong position in Latin America and Africa. In the quarter, BtoBet further expanded its global footprint by being awarded certification in the UK. The UK is the biggest European iGaming market, and this license marks an important strategic step in expanding our Sports vertical to new markets. Just a few days after obtaining the license, BtoBet announced a strategic partnership with the UK-based operator Small Screen Casinos, covering the UK, Ireland and Ghana. The agreement underlines BtoBet’s ability to configure its technology to meet the needs of any operator.
Pariplay also strengthened its position in the UK in the quarter by going live with Betfred, the largest independent betting brand in the UK.
BTOBET SPORTSBOOK NOW INTEGRATED
The acquisition of BtoBet and its proprietary sportsbook has created an offering that covers the main elements of the B2B iGaming value chain and gives Aspire Global control of the IP in the full value chain. We have recently accomplished the integration of BtoBet’s sportsbook to Aspire Core’s cutting-edge technology platform. This, in combination with Pariplay’s leading game offering, provides Aspire Global with crucial competitive advantages. Aspire Global is a powerhouse for iGaming operators and is ready to compete for any deal, anywhere, at any time.
In addition to the huge growth opportunities we see by entering new regulated markets and gaining new customers, there are substantial opportunities to expand our business with existing partners. We have just kicked off the first sports related projects where partner brands will improve their offering by replacing their existing sports solution with the BtoBet sportsbook. This shift of partner brands to the BtoBet proprietary platform will positively impact our revenues and margins throughout 2021.
We are proud to add Grupo Televisa, the biggest media house in Mexico, as a partner via our local operator/partner. Grupo Televisa, which has a market cap of over USD 7 billion, migrated recently to our gaming platform and sports solution from its previous provider. We also support Grupo Televisa with new casino tabs and our knowledge about the region.
CORE PLATFORM ENHANCEMENTS
A key strategic area for Aspire Global is the continuous improvement of our offering and enhancements of our core technology platform. The recently launched Aspire Engage – the most advanced CRM tool in the market – along with additional payments methods and KYC processes – have been very well received in the market. The strong development for our Pay N Play solution, launched in December 2020, has also continued in this quarter. These new features and improvements are important contributions to Aspire Global’s robust performance.
STRONG B2C PERFORMANCE
The B2C segment continued its strong growth from Q4 2020. As announced in March 2021, we have initiated a review of the role of the B2C segment within the Group structure. We are pleased with the growth recorded by the B2C segment, but we think a review will assist us to better assess our options to further accelerate growth. Such a move could help improve Aspire Global’s overall margins and EBITDA and potentially support us in accelerating new B2B initiatives and enter fresh markets. The review is still ongoing and we will provide more information about the outcome in a timely manner.
OUTLOOK
Aspire Global consistently demonstrates its ability to execute its growth strategy and create value. In addition to continuous improvement of the offering, geographic expansion and good organic growth, we are of course especially happy with the outcome of our M&A activities. Pariplay has doubled its revenues since Q1 2020 and reports an EBITDA margin of almost 30%. BtoBet has also developed favourably since the acquisition with revenue growth of 51.0% compared to Q1 2020 and reports similar EBITDA margins to Pariplay.
We see tremendous growth opportunities for Aspire Global. With our complete iGaming offering, we will target both new customers and broaden our presence with existing partners. We have proven our ability to gain tier 1 operators as customers with names such as Rush Street Interactive (RSI), Betfair, William Hill and 888casino. The strategy to grow in regulated markets is proven efficient, and we will continue to license our offering in more regulated markets and enter new markets.
We remain confident in our ability to deliver on our 2021 financial targets and are truly excited by Aspire Global’s future prospects.

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WSOP® PARADISE 2025 TO BREAK RECORDS AGAIN WITH $60M-GUARANTEED SUPER MAIN EVENT
The World Series of Poker winter series boasts the biggest prize guarantee in live poker history
The World Series of Poker (WSOP®) today revealed electrifying details of its highly anticipated WSOP Paradise winter tournament series, headlined by the $60,000,000-guaranteed Super Main Event – the largest prize guarantee in live poker tournament history. This monumental series is set to transform Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas into poker’s ultimate winter playground from Dec. 4 through Dec. 18, hosted in exclusive partnership with GGPoker, the World’s Biggest Poker Room, and Triton, the leading high-stakes tournament organiser.
This third annual iteration of the WSOP Paradise festival will again showcase an unparalleled set of high roller and super high roller events. The tournament schedule will be jointly curated and hosted by WSOP and Triton Poker, ensuring a world-class experience for all players.
The festival’s undisputed crown jewel is the No Limit Hold’em Super Main Event Championship, with a buy-in of $25K. This record-setting tournament boasts an astounding $60,000,000 prize guarantee – a full $10,000,000 higher than last year’s landmark event. In 2024, Yinan Zhou famously outlasted a 1,977 field to claim his first coveted WSOP bracelet and the $6M winner’s prize.
Other festival highlights include:
- Event #1: WSOP Circuit Championship Mystery Bounty (Dec. 4) – $2,500 buy-in (all WSOP Circuit ring event winners from July 1 through Dec 2. will receive an exclusive $5K Ticket to Paradise package that includes entry to Event #1)
- Event #3: Triton Pot Limit Omaha Main Event (Dec. 5) – $100K buy-in
- Event #5: Triton Invitational (Dec. 7) – $250K buy-in (the field will be evenly split between invited players from the worlds of business and entertainment, and their professional poker player guests)
- Event #9: Triton No Limit Hold’em Main Event (Dec. 9) – $100K buy-in
- Event #14: GGMillion$ (Dec. 15) – $25K buy-in – $10M prize guarantee
“They called us crazy last year for launching the Super Main Event with the biggest live tournament guarantee ever, so consider this a re-raise,” said Ty Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of WSOP. “WSOP Paradise is here to stay, and we’re making poker history once again, with the $60,000,000 guarantee and some new signature events. The expanded partnership with Triton, alongside the new Super Mystery Bounty kickoff event, headlines what is a can’t-miss winter festival.”
Daniel Negreanu, GGPoker Global Ambassador, added: “I said last year that a $50M guarantee for the Super Main Event was crazy – adding another $10,000,000 on top is freaking insane! WSOP is bringing the biggest high rollers and the best poker experience possible back to Paradise, and I cannot wait to be part of it.”
“We’re thrilled to return to WSOP Paradise and bring the Triton experience back to this part of the world,” said Andy Wong, Chief Executive Officer of Triton Poker Series. “WSOP Paradise is a truly exciting stop for us at Triton, and we’re proud to be part of it once again.”
“Each year, WSOP Paradise at Atlantis Paradise Island continues to soar. From the electric atmosphere and high-stakes drama to the passionate fans and unforgettable moments, the tournament is quickly becoming the can’t-miss, most sought-after event of the poker season. With ever-growing prize pools — including a record-breaking $60 million guarantee for the Super Main Event — all set against the iconic backdrop of the world-renowned Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas, there’s truly nothing else like it,” said Joe Brunini, Chief Gaming & Customer Development Officer, Atlantis Paradise Island.
Players can satellite into the WSOP Paradise Super Main Event exclusively at GGPoker, with Road to Paradise qualifier tournaments already live in the GGPoker tournament lobby and more qualifier options set to launch in the coming weeks with WSOP Express. Winning players will secure a $30K WSOP Paradise Super Main Event package, which includes their SME $25K buy-in, discounted accommodation at the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island resort, complimentary meals, and more.
To kick off the Road to Paradise in true style, WSOP is happy to announce that the player who is knocked out on the prize bubble in this year’s WSOP 2025 $10K Main Event in Las Vegas will be awarded a $30K WSOP Paradise Super Main Event package, instantly transforming the Bubble Boy’s moment of bad luck into a second shot at glory.
The full WSOP Paradise 2025 daily schedule will be revealed later this year. The WSOP reserves the right to cancel, change, or modify the tournament or any tournament event, in part or in whole, without notice.
Please follow @WSOP on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram or check WSOP.com for more event news and updates. More information about this year’s Road to Paradise and WSOP Express qualifiers will be revealed at GGPoker.com in the near future.
The post WSOP® PARADISE 2025 TO BREAK RECORDS AGAIN WITH $60M-GUARANTEED SUPER MAIN EVENT appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Fruity King Launches Bingo Offering Through Strategic Partnership with Playtech
Fruity King partners with iGaming titan Playtech to bring a diversity of new bingo options for its player base to enjoy. |
Fruity King, a well-established name in the UK online casino market and operated by ProgressPlay, has officially launched its all-new bingo product, made possible through a newly announced partnership between ProgressPlay and Playtech, one of the world’s leading gambling technology companies. The new bingo offering is powered by Playtech Bingo, one of the largest and most respected bingo networks globally. Through this integration, Fruity King players can now enjoy an elevated bingo experience, complete with a wide range of game formats, jackpot options, social rooms, and mobile-optimised features – all accessible directly via the Fruity King Bingo platform. This partnership is a significant milestone for both companies and underscores ProgressPlay’s ongoing commitment to innovation and product diversification within the online gaming sector. It also marks an exciting new chapter for Fruity King as the brand evolves from a slots and casino-focused site into a more well-rounded, multi-vertical platform. “We’re excited to bring a fresh bingo experience to our players with the backing of Playtech’s best-in-class technology and network,” said a Fruity King spokesperson. “This launch strengthens our commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment and expands our game offering in a way that reflects what UK players want — quality, variety, and trust.” Fruity King’s bingo section offers a selection of 90-ball and 75-ball bingo alongside exclusive rooms, community chat features, and daily jackpot draws. These are hosted within Playtech’s established network, which is trusted by leading UK operators and attracts tens of thousands of players daily. The integration also ensures compatibility across devices, with seamless play on desktop, tablet, and mobile, and is fully supported by responsible gaming features in line with UKGC requirements. The move aligns with broader trends in the UK iGaming space, where bingo remains a strong growth category, especially among mobile-first users seeking more social and casual gaming experiences. Fruity King’s entry into the space is timely, strategic, and designed to enhance both acquisition and retention metrics across its player base. As part of the rollout, Fruity King will also support the bingo launch with dedicated promotions, onboarding offers, and cross-vertical incentives for existing slot and table game players.
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The post Fruity King Launches Bingo Offering Through Strategic Partnership with Playtech appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Movers and Shakers – Beyond integration: Why system interoperability is the real game changer
“Movers and Shakers” is a dynamic monthly column dedicated to exploring the latest trends, developments, and influential voices in the iGaming industry. Powered by GameOn and supported by HIPTHER, this op-ed series delves into the key players, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes shaping the future of online gaming. Each month, industry experts offer their insights and perspectives, providing readers with in-depth analysis and thought-provoking commentary on what’s driving the iGaming world forward. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the scene, “Movers and Shakers” is your go-to source for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving iGaming landscape.
Dominic Le Garsmeur (CPO) at Fincore, says integrations without a clear interoperability strategy add technical and operational debt, hampering future growth.
System integrations are hugely important for any online sportsbook or casino, adding capabilities and features to drive growth. But integrating without considering and optimising interoperability can do more harm than good by adding technical and operational debt to the business and ultimately hitting growth.
Integrating without interoperability pushes information from one system to another, but the connection itself has no intelligence. It’s a mechanical link, and the systems remain fundamentally separate, each operating with its own distinct rules. Any real understanding, like why that data was sent or what other processes it should trigger, is lost, creating data silos that are technically connected but strategically disconnected.
System interoperability provides the intelligence the connection lacks, establishing a shared operational model for the platform so all systems can act in concert. Most importantly, it creates a future-proof foundation, allowing new capabilities and features to be added with agility and confidence, turning the platform into an engine for innovation rather than a source of technical debt.
Before looking at why interoperability is more powerful than integration, and how companies can solve it, it’s important to understand how disconnects between platforms and systems occur in the first place.
Why does disconnection happen?
Operators acquire their tech stacks in different ways, but usually through a combination of building, inheriting legacy tech, acquisition and third-party providers. This often leads to platform and system silos with little to no compatibility between them.
Ultimately, disconnected systems drag down delivery and without interoperability, companies waste time reconciling platforms and tech rather than advancing forward.
Interoperability is more powerful than integration
Integration often means linking systems at a basic level, but interoperability ensures that data, logic and workflows are aligned and extensible.
It’s critical to have a strategic data layer and shared data structures that enables standardising of data representations, aligning systems at the logic level, not just the interface, and building an architecture designed to unify and extend across platforms.
In complex industries such as gaming, where tech plays such an important role in the user experience and the trust consumers have in brands, system interoperability is the only way to scale with control. In short, integration links, interoperability empowers.
Why interoperability is such a challenge in the gaming industry
Each integration is unique. Why? Because the combination of legacy systems, niche vendors and varying regulations in markets across the world means there is no blueprint for operators to follow.
Remember, most operator platforms are now decades old and were not built with modularity or openness in mind. And even those developing new platforms and systems from scratch often lack the in-house capability to design for interoperability from the get-go.
The risk of not achieving interoperability
When systems don’t interoperate, things start to fall apart. For example, delivery can grind to a halt, with every new feature launch or market entry becoming a grind. There are compliance risks, too, especially when it comes to fractured data and an increased risk of errors and audit gaps.
Then, of course, there is the poor player experience that will be provided. This could be anything from glitchy games to failed deposits and even the wrong marketing communications being sent to the wrong player cohorts.
It also impacts an operator’s ability to develop and innovate, as IT and tech become reactive rather than proactive. And in such a competitive market, this can see a brand quickly fall behind the curve.
How to solve the interoperability conundrum
Ensuring interoperability is a complex and comprehensive undertaking, but there are some high-level things operators can do.
This starts with standardising critical data flows and logic, not just the interface. Remember, a single view of data is what ensures all the platforms, systems and networks communicate with each other in the same language.
Operators should also design for change, as architecture must support long-term growth and plug-and-play modularity. In most cases, it’s best to invest in strategic partners, not just tools.
How strategic partners can help
Partners such as Fincore can provide the strategic clarity operators need, defining what interoperability looks like for them and based on their business goals. We also bring execution muscle – we don’t just design it, we build it.
The right partner also brings compliance confidence. Companies such as Fincore are highly experienced when it comes to interoperability, and everything we do stands up to regulatory scrutiny.
This can be seen in our proven track record for delivering interoperability for everything from complex migrations to global-scale game roll-outs.
A real-world example of interoperability
Fincore worked with a US-based gaming services provider whose legacy systems across its land-based venues had created silos in payments, loyalty and in-resort experiences.
The solution we proposed saw us design and deliver a digital wallet that became the unified digital layer across the physical properties. We also integrated deeply with multiple rigid legacy systems to provide secure and compliant interoperability at scale.
The result? We delivered on time, unlocked a new digital product line and created a long-term tech foundation for the company to continue to build on.
When it comes to integrations, you can always wire systems together, but if you don’t do it in the right way, you get chaos. Interoperability is about creating order within platforms and systems, which in turn allows for unlimited scaling and growth.
And that’s why interoperability is the real game-changer.
The post Movers and Shakers – Beyond integration: Why system interoperability is the real game changer appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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