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Q&A: Sportingwin and the Bulgaria opportunity

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Q&A: Sportingwin and the Bulgaria opportunity
Q&A: Sportingwin and the Bulgaria opportunityReading Time: 4 minutes

 

Mark Chakravarti, Head of Investment at Sportingwin, talks about why the operator sees such potential in the market and how it has found the licensing process to date

Bulgaria has had a major shake-up when it comes to how gambling operators are licensed and regulated in the country with the National Revenue Agency recently taking on the responsibility.

Amid allegations of corruption among its predecessor, the State Gambling Commission, the new regulator is moving forwards with plans to issue additional licences over the coming months.

The first in line to receive such a licence is Sportingwin, which has ambitious plans for Bulgaria once it has been given the green light to launch.

To learn more about Bulgaria and the operator’s plans for the market, we sat down with Mark Chakravarti, Head of Investment at Sportingwin.

Why do you see so much potential in Bulgaria?

You just have to look at the numbers to see the potential. We estimate the Bulgaria market to be worth around £300m right now but as new operators enter the fray it could grow at a rate of 20% per year to hit £500m over the course of the next five years.

Coupled with this is the low level of competition. Only five betting licences have been issued to date and mostly to local retail bookmakers with a limited online offering. These sites simply don’t offer the depth of markets, odds and products available in other European jurisdictions.

This presents a tremendous opportunity for experienced online sportsbooks to make their mark, so long as they enter Bulgaria with a localised product that delivers a superior player experience. Those that do are very much in the driving seat to capitalise on the tremendous potential on the table.

What do Bulgarian players look for in an online sportsbook?

There is a long tradition of retail and online sports betting in Bulgaria, so players are seeking a comprehensive, quality, cutting-edge product and experience similar to that offered and found in mature markets such as the UK.

In particular, they are seeking a high volume of events, a range of bet types as well as modern features such cash out. We also believe that exchange betting, while not currently available, will be hugely popular once we secure our licence and launch the Sportingwin exchange in the market.

How will you meet those needs and localise your offering?

There are two key ways we are doing this – product and our approach to CRM. When it comes to product, we are developing a proprietary platform that is fully customisable for each market we enter, including Bulgaria. This includes localised payment options, currencies, sports, etc.

In terms of CRM, we are investing in a local customer support centre so that we can comfortably meet the staff-intensive local language CRM and marketing operations and activities we believe will enable us to communicate to and engage with Bulgarian players.

How have you found the licencing process to date?

The Bulgarian regulator has incredibly high standards and expectations when it comes to due diligence. As such, the licensing process has been a little slower than in other jurisdictions, but we are okay with this as we want to make sure we not only meet but exceed their standards.

This means taking additional steps such as appointing a dedicated Bulgarian CEO. He has a proven background in gaming and the regulator can quickly carry out the necessary checks that it needs to in order to ascertain his credibility and suitability for the role.

Owning our own technology has also allowed us to synchronise our platform with the NRA already, which in turn means we are among those on the regulator’s list of approved technologies ready for when our licence is granted.

In addition, we are a Maltese company so have requested that the Maltese consulate in Bulgaria monitor the licensing process from start to finish as our application is the first to be considered since the Nation Revenue Agency took over regulatory responsibility earlier in the year.

By having the right people on a local level, and by taking considered steps towards ensuring we meet the standards set by regulator, we expect to receive our licence in the first quarter of next year.

What has been the toughest challenge to overcome?

The toughest challenge is in respect to the due diligence and in particular the requirement of having an €800,000 investment from a local, proven source of funds. To do this, we have had to find a local banking partner which was easier said than done.

That being said, the team pulled together and we were able to find a local banking partner happy to facilitate the investment allowing us to progress through the licensing process.

What are your long-term plans for the Bulgarian market?

We want to claim 9% of the local market within the first three years. We then plan to build on this rapidly by securing further venture capital that will enable us to consolidate the market through mergers and acquisitions with local operators.

Once we have achieved the scale we are seeking, we can then effectively pursue market leader bet365. It is a tough task, but one that we are more than capable of completing thanks to the incredible team we have built out in recent years.

We also believe our cutting-edge proprietary technology and platform gives us a huge edge over the incumbent operators and brands and will allow us to compete with and defeat any other overseas operators that enter the market.

What is your long-term plan for Sportingwin?

We are currently undertaking a fundraising campaign to help accelerate our global expansion efforts, selling off more than €1m in equity.

These investments are in line with our long-term strategy for the brand which is to achieve a valuation of €50m in three years and, once achieved, would deliver a x13 increase on the current investment opportunity.


Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: Q&A: Sportingwin and the Bulgaria opportunity

George Miller (Gyorgy Molnar) started his career in content marketing and has started working as an Editor/Content Manager for our company in 2016. George has acquired many experiences when it comes to interviews and newsworthy content becoming Head of Content in 2017. He is responsible for the news being shared on multiple websites that are part of the European Gaming Media Network.

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S8UL makes StarCraft II debut with the signing of veteran South Korean player GuMiho

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S8UL strengthens its EWC roster following the announcement of their participation in multiple titles, including Chess, EAFC 25, Tekken 8, Call of Duty (COD): Warzone, and Apex Legends Mumbai, May 8, 2025: S8UL, a global force in esports and gaming content, is proud to announce its entry into the legendary world of StarCraft II with the signing of veteran South Korean player Pyung Jae Koh, better known by his iconic gamer tag GuMiho, a.k.a. “The Towel Terran.”

This marks S8UL’s first foray into the real-time strategy (RTS) genre and signals its continued commitment to global expansion across esports titles that have defined competitive gaming history.

A fan-favorite and master tactician, GuMiho is recognised across the global StarCraft community for his creative playstyle, unorthodox strategies, and trailblazing use of mech-based unit compositions. A staple of the Global StarCraft II League (GSL) since the Wings of Liberty era, GuMiho rose to global prominence after winning the GSL Code S

Championship in 2017, defeating soO in a 4–2 final that etched his name in StarCraft history. His unique style of playing with a towel draped over his hands to absorb sweat and maintain precision earned him the moniker “The Towel Terran,” while his dominance with mechanical Terran builds gave rise to another title: “The Mech God.”

GuMiho’s recent achievements reaffirm his elite status in the competitive StarCraft II scene. In December 2024, he edged out Protoss standout Clem in a tense 3–2 series at HomeStory Cup XXVI, building on the momentum of his nail-biting 4–3 grand final victory over ShoWTimE (also Protoss) at HomeStory Cup XXV just months earlier. Earlier in the year, he delivered a commanding run to the finals of WardiTV 2023, ultimately finishing second after a hard-fought series against Zerg titan Dark. These standout results reinforce GuMiho’s reputation as one of the scene’s most resilient and inventive players, proving that even after years at the top, he continues to evolve and compete at the highest level.

Speaking about his new journey with S8UL, GuMiho said: “Joining S8UL feels like stepping onto a new playing field with the same hunger to win. Their drive to break barriers in esports matches my own competitive spirit. I’m ready to give it my all and compete at the highest level again, this time with S8UL by my side.”

Animesh Agarwal a.k.a. 8Bit Thug, Co-founder and CEO of S8UL, commented on the signing: “GuMiho is a living legend, and we’re beyond thrilled to welcome him to the S8UL family. Our journey into StarCraft II is about paying homage to the roots of esports and competing with the best. GuMiho’s legacy of innovation, consistency, and competitive spirit embodies everything S8UL stands for. This is a proud moment for Indian esports as we strengthen our EWC aspirations with one of the game’s all-time greats.”

As S8UL prepares to compete across multiple titles at EWC 2025, including Apex Legends, EAFC 25, Call of Duty: Warzone, Tekken 8, Chess, and now StarCraft II, the organization continues to demonstrate that excellence in esports knows no borders, no genres, and no limits.

With three consecutive ‘Esports Content Group of the Year’ wins at the Esports Awards and global recognition through initiatives like the MOBIES Global Impact Award, S8UL is now writing a new chapter in the global esports story.

 

The post S8UL makes StarCraft II debut with the signing of veteran South Korean player GuMiho appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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FBMDS Elevates Video Bingo with New Jackpot System, Boosting Player Engagement and Operator’s Success

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FBMDS, the industry leader in Video Bingo, is raising the stakes with a never-before-seen jackpot dynamic in the industry designed to enhance engagement, increase player retention, and drive profitability for online casino operators.

This exclusive jackpot system, available only in FBMDS’ video bingo gaming portfolio, creates a more immersive and rewarding experience, reinforcing the company’s influence in this category. With more prize opportunities and an adaptive jackpot that grows with player bets, the new system introduces an unmatched level of thrill to online Video Bingo in the industry. The new FBMDS Video Bingo jackpot system offers:

  • Exclusive Jackpot – FBMDS is the only casino gaming provider that offers jackpots in the video bingo segment, offering innovative solutions which will make your portfolio standout.
  • Higher Player Engagement – Players stay more engaged with dynamic jackpot growth and frequent prize opportunities.
  • Proportional Betting Impact – The more players bet, the more exciting the jackpot becomes, increasing anticipation and excitement.
  • Stronger Operator Performance – Enhanced retention and player satisfaction drive longer play sessions and revenue growth.
  • Leading Video Bingo – FBMDS solidifies its leadership with the only Video Bingo jackpot of its kind.

“We are committed to continuously innovating in Video Bingo, and this new jackpot system is a game-changer for both operators and players,” said Renato Almeida, Director at FBMDS. “By delivering a more interactive and rewarding experience, we’re reinforcing our market leadership and giving operators a powerful tool to attract and retain players like we haven’t yet seen happening in the market”.

FBMDS has always been at the forefront of Video Bingo innovation, and this new jackpot system is proof to its commitment to elevating player experiences. These jackpots create a more immersive, dynamic, and engaging gameplay, ensuring more thrilling moments and increased loyalty.

As part of its global expansion strategy, FBMDS is entering key markets like Brazil, where Video Bingo has a passionate player base, and where it has taken a part on SBC Summit Rio’s event. The company is also preparing to reveal new game releases, further strengthening its diverse and engaging portfolio.

For operators looking to attract and retain Video Bingo players with the most exciting jackpot mechanics on the market, now is the time to partner with FBMDS.

 

The post FBMDS Elevates Video Bingo with New Jackpot System, Boosting Player Engagement and Operator’s Success appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Golden Matrix Posts Strong Q1; Eliminates Debt and Accelerates Market Expansion

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Golden Matrix Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GMGI) (“Golden Matrix” or the “Company”), a developer, licensor, and global operator of online gaming platforms, today announced financial and operational results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. The quarter reflects the Company’s strong group execution, platform innovation, and continued expansion across regulated gaming markets.

Brian Goodman, CEO of Golden Matrix, commented, “We entered fiscal 2025 with elevated operating efficiency and diversified revenue streams that continue to scale across high-growth markets. Our raffle segment reached all-time highs, our debt profile strengthened meaningfully, and our B2B and B2C businesses are both operating from positions of renewed financial and strategic strength.”

Financial and Strategic Highlights

  • Record Raffle Segment Performance: The Company’s raffle businesses reported all-time highs in revenue, ticket sales, and prize values. User growth surged 146% year-over-year, with 26,000 new registrations in Q1.

  • Strategic Balance Sheet Optimization: GMGI eliminated approximately $9.6 million in Lind Global debt and converted over $9.5 million in Meridianbet acquisition-related debt into equity this year, enhancing financial flexibility.

  • Revenue Growth: Q1 2025 consolidated revenue was $42.7 million, up 72% year-over-year, partially impacted by a negative 4% FX headwind

  • Gross Profit: Gross profit reached $24.2 million, with a consolidated gross margin of approximately 57%. Meridianbet gross margin improved to 72%, while the combined GMAG and Rkings/CFAC segments improved to 29%.

  • The Company had a net loss of $300,000 or a 0-cent loss per share. This was a decline of $4.2 million, or 5-cents a share, from the same period last year. The decline was due to an increase in acquisition-related amortization of $1.7 million, interest expense of $1.5 million, and stock-based compensation of $1 million.

  • Adjusted EBITDA(1) declined by $0.3 million, or 5%, to $5.6 million, as increased gross profit was offset by an operating spend increase to expand our business geographically, improve our market share, and advance our gaming technology in support of full-year growth initiatives.

Meridianbet Performance

Zoran Milosevic, CEO of Meridianbet, commented, “Our Q1 results demonstrate focused execution across regulated markets, bolstered by operational efficiency and continuous innovation. We are deepening user engagement, expanding licensing coverage, and strengthening our position as a global operator of choice.”

  • Brazil: Secured a permanent online betting license, unlocking full national access in a projected $5.6 billion gross gaming revenue market for 2025.

  • Africa: Launched B2B operations in Nigeria through a fully licensed local entity, entering one of Africa’s most dynamic gaming economies.

  • Serbia: Renewed a 10-year online license, preserving regulatory continuity in a mature and profitable core market.

  • User Metrics: First-time deposits grew 56%, new registrations rose 22%, and total deposits increased 12% compared to Q1 2024.

  • Expanse Studios: Meridianbet’s proprietary game development arm expanded its North American footprint with five new integrations into U.S.-based sweepstakes casinos. The studio also advanced its in-house content roadmap, including an enhanced crash games portfolio and anticipates licensing in Romania for Q2.

Financial Outlook

Golden Matrix expects full-year 2025 revenue to range between $190 million and $195 million, reflecting a growth rate of 26% to 29% over 2024. The Company continues to invest in technology, content, and international licenses to drive long-term shareholder value.

Rich Christensen, CFO of Golden Matrix, added, “We’re executing on disciplined capital allocation and long-term strategic investments. Our improving net leverage, healthy free cash flow, and scalable platform position us to accelerate growth across 2025 and beyond.”

(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See also “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Earnings excluding Interest Expense, Interest Income, Tax, Depreciation Expense, Amortization Expense, Stock-based Compensation Expense and Restructuring Costs”, included in the tables at the end of this release.

In terms of GAAP accounting and Meridianbet being the accounting acquirer, the comparisons presented are correctly stated and are reflective of our new structure. Comparisons presented in terms of GAAP are the consolidated Company’s results against Meridianbet Group historical results and not against Golden Matrix Group’s, historical results.

The full visual presentation and the earnings call can be accessed at 8:00am ET on the Golden Matrix Group IR website at goldenmatrix.com/events-presentations/.

For more information, please visit goldenmatrix.com.

 

The post Golden Matrix Posts Strong Q1; Eliminates Debt and Accelerates Market Expansion appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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