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Do Responsible Gaming Policies Go Far Enough? An Insider’s Perspective

Published

4 years ago

June 28, 2021

George Miller

Do Responsible Gaming Policies Go Far Enough? An Insider’s Perspective

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Exclusive Q&A with GoodLuckMate CEO and Founder Nerijus Grenda

With responsible gaming ever at the forefront of discussions around gambling and with all eyes on the UK as it conducts its once-in-a-generation review of its gambling laws, there could be big changes coming to the industry as a whole.

GoodLuckMate CEO and Founder Nerijus Grenda makes the case for the iGaming industry going even further in its efforts to protect vulnerable players. And he believes that technology holds the key to removing cases of human error that can lead to costly lawsuits and fines.

European Gaming catches up with Grenda to explore how the industry might adapt over the coming years, whether that’s via changes to the law or by mutually beneficial cooperation.

First off, how has the industry changed its stance on responsible gaming? Do you feel that things are heading in the right direction?

I must say that responsible gaming has made great strides over the last decade or so. There is far more awareness about the issues on the part of the industry, the staff working within it, and the players themselves. All this can only be regarded as a good thing. Nowadays, many players around the world have access to free online tests for gambling addiction, tools to limit playing time, deposit amounts, and overall losses, and there is the opportunity to self-exclude from gambling altogether. Add to this the fact that it’s much easier to get help from free professional help via a wealth of links and advice articles and you can see that we’ve come a very long way.

From my experience of working within the industry for many years, I can also see how staff training programs have benefitted all parts of organizations, especially when it comes to spotting the negative behavioral patterns exhibited by some gambling addicts. And this training is usually extended to all parts of the business, from the C-level staff to the customer support teams that act as the first line of defense against gambling addiction. So, yes, I can honestly say that things have been and are continuing to move in the right direction. But now it’s time to go even further!

Do you think more can be done by online casinos and sports betting sites to protect vulnerable players? Can technology play a major role in this?

Absolutely yes to both questions. Without a doubt, there is always more the industry can do to help vulnerable players before problems get out of hand. And in addition to the training I mentioned above, technology has to play the leading role in tackling the problem. From some of the cases I have read about players suing online casinos, it seems like there is either not enough technology being used to detect issues in the first place or that these processes are being overridden by staff wanting to keep a player on the hook. For example, there should be no way that source of funds checks aren’t carried out as soon as a player crosses a certain threshold for depositing and/or losing significant amounts – with no exceptions. Somewhere in the chain, some of these things are being missed or ignored and that really needs to change.

Another way in which technology should be employed is in spotting sudden changes in betting behavior. I have no doubt that some companies are already doing this, but it should become the default across the entire industry. For example, if a player suddenly goes from betting a couple of hundred per month to thousands, there should be technological mechanisms for flagging the behavior and for an additional source of funds check to be carried out. By doing this, any potential gambling addiction cases or illegal sources of money are nipped in the bud. The same goes for employing technology to help staff spot fake IDs and other supporting documents in the case of underage players, for example. There are many ways in which technology can help us.

Will the UK Review of the Gambling Act 2005 shake up the wider industry? What changes do you see being on the cards once it has concluded?

While I am not based in the United Kingdom, I have been keeping a close eye on the reports coming out and the rather negative media attention being focused on the once-in-a-generation review – as I’m sure many others within the industry are doing. From what I’ve been reading lately, I think there will be further restrictions on the advertising of gambling products on TV, particularly at times when there are a lot of teenagers and young adults watching. For example, I believe that the ban on all gambling advertising before the 9 PM watershed might extend to all major sporting events where young adults are watching. Additionally, I’ve seen a lot of concern being expressed about the Premier League’s reliance on gambling companies as commercial partners. So, it might be the case that teams will soon need to change their shirt sponsors, too.

There is also intense media scrutiny on FOBTs (fixed odds betting terminals, otherwise known as slots). Because of this, betting limits have been put in place and I expect that some of these same ideas for limiting player losses to make the leap over to online slots, too. And another related area I see mentioned in media reports is the practice of cross-selling from one gambling product to another. With the UK being a huge market for sports betting, there is a natural tendency within the industry to move these players from relatively low-profit sports betting over to the far more profitable game types such as slots. However, there could be recommendations to limit cross-selling. Alternatively, players may need to have a separate account for each game type – hence making it more difficult for online casinos to convince players to make the switch.

Do you feel that media attention on cases involving gambling addicts negatively affects the entire industry? And do these cases shape public opinion?

One hundred percent! Major cases are usually reported fairly high up in the news running order simply because the numbers make for an interesting read. People have a natural tendency to find out how a single person was able to not only bet but also lose hundreds of thousands, or even millions in some cases. And the way pretty much all of these cases are reported casts a negative shadow over the entire gaming industry. Almost invariably, we are made to see the online casino in question as the bad guy (and their statements are usually reserved for the very end of the article), with much of the focus being on how the source of funds checks were not carried out properly, or how the player was targeted with numerous offers and enticements over a sustained period of time, for example. All of this undoubtedly shapes public opinion negatively.

Finally, is there enough will within the casino industry to continue to push responsible gaming, or is the profit motive always going to supersede player protection?

While profit is and always will be the main motive behind choosing to set up and run an online casino or sportsbook site, I think a little more focus on responsible gaming would help avoid very costly lawsuits and/or fines later down the line. Furthermore, even if these costs can easily be factored in as a necessary part of the business, the negative press attention that comes along with these cases simply isn’t justifiable in the long run. By getting things right in the first place, there’s more opportunity to build a respectable brand that will endure for many years to come – and with that comes long-term profit, of course. I also think that if the industry works as a whole, shares data on any potential loopholes they’ve spotted, and continues to focus on responsible gaming as an entirely positive aspect of the gambling industry, then everyone wins.

Latest News

SBC Summit 2025: Scaling Connections and Industry Dialogue in Lisbon

Published

8 minutes ago

July 15, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 3 minutes

From 16–18 September 2025, the global sports betting and iGaming community will converge at the Feira Internacional De Lisboa for SBC Summit 2025 – an industry-defining exhibition and conference designed to bring scale, structure, strategic dialogue and actionable business opportunities to the evolving gaming landscape.

This year’s edition is set to welcome 30,000 delegates and will unfold across an expanded 135,000 square metre venue space. With 700+ exhibitors, 550+ speakers, and a structured layout spanning 5 vertical-specific zones, the event reflects both the complexity and global reach of today’s gaming ecosystem.

An Evolving Format to Match Industry Needs

The layout of SBC Summit 2025 has been carefully designed to reflect the multifaceted nature of the gaming industry. Each of the five dedicated zones will focus on a key vertical, with its own exhibition floor, conference stage, and networking areas. This format aims to enhance relevance for attendees by enabling more focused exploration, conversation, and business development.

In addition to these zones, the event will host two specialist summits:

Affiliate Leaders Summit
Payment Expert Summit

These dedicated summits allow for deeper interaction among professionals operating in specific areas of the gaming value chain.

A Multi-Stage Conference Agenda

The conference programme will span seven stages, hosting over 550 speakers. Among many highlights will be headline speaker appearances from global superstars – such as marketing & tech pioneer Gary Vaynerchuck, with others to be announced shortly. Sessions are set to address core topics such as:

Application and implementation of Web3.0, AI, Blockchain and other booming technologies
Player protection and responsible gaming
Evolving regulation and compliance in Global & Emerging markets
Payment solutions and financial innovation
Advances in iGaming and casino tech
Affiliate strategies and performance marketing

Session formats will vary – including keynotes, workshops, and roundtable discussions– designed to encourage both knowledge sharing and interactive dialogue.

Beyond the Sessions: Networking and Media Infrastructure

To support both formal and informal engagement, the venue will also feature a dedicated media headquarters and a food festival area – offering relaxed settings for interviews, content creation, and spontaneous networking.

SBC Summit 2025 continues to position itself as a significant touchpoint for industry professionals seeking not only visibility, but also long-term growth opportunities and strategic partnerships.

Evenings of Connection: Networking Events & Infinity Lisbon Closing Party

SBC Summit 2025 isn’t just about the sessions and exhibition floor – it’s about the connections that spark after hours. This year’s lineup of networking events invites delegates to experience Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife through a curated series of parties, dinners, and celebrations hosted at the city’s most iconic venues.

The week kicks off with the SBC Summit Opening Party on Tuesday, 16 September, at Urban Beach – one of Lisbon’s hottest night spots – featuring headline sets by international DJs Joel Corry and Imanbek. It’s the perfect setting to unwind, network, and set the tone for the days ahead.

On Wednesday, 17 September, a trio of exclusive events will unfold across Lisbon:

The C-Level & Operator VIP Dinner & Networking Party at SUD Lisboa, offering luxury dining and breathtaking views of the 25 de Abril Bridge from its rooftop terrace
The Payment Expert Summit VIP Dinner & Party at Kais Restaurante Bar, designed for professionals in the Emerging Tech and Payments sphere
And the Affiliate Leaders Awards 2025 at MEO Arena, celebrating affiliate excellence with a glamorous awards ceremony and gala dinner

The Summit culminates in a spectacular finale: the Infinity Lisbon Closing Party 2025, held on Thursday, 18 September at the iconic MEO Arena. With superstar DJs Alok and Timmy Trumpet headlining, this event promises to be a high-energy, unforgettable close to an impactful week of business and celebration.

From casual mingling to VIP experiences, SBC Summit 2025 ensures that meaningful connections happen at every level – both on and off the show floor.

For full details, visit the official event site: sbcevents.com/sbc-summit

The post SBC Summit 2025: Scaling Connections and Industry Dialogue in Lisbon appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

Charlie Cowdrey Appointed CEO of JioBLAST, Esports Joint Venture

Published

8 minutes ago

July 15, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Global competitive entertainment company BLAST has announced the appointment of Charlie Cowdrey as Chief Executive Officer of JioBLAST, the recently announced joint venture between BLAST and RISE, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited.

As part of the appointment, Cowdrey will relocate from London to Mumbai this September to lead the joint venture’s Indian operations, marking a major milestone in the company’s global expansion into India.

Cowdrey has been a pivotal figure within BLAST over the last four years, holding multiple senior leadership roles across the business ranging from Chief of Staff to most recently, Programme Director for Epic Games, where he played a key role in managing one of BLAST’s most high-profile publisher relationships and competitive titles in Rocket League esports (RLCS) and Fortnite Competitive (FNCS).

Robbie Douek, CEO of BLAST, said: “Charlie has been a key figure behind BLAST’s growth and publisher operations over the past few years. He is a trusted leader who understands our culture, our partners and our ambitions. India represents an enormous opportunity for BLAST, and we believe Charlie is the perfect person to take this vision forward. We’re proud to have someone of his calibre opening this important new chapter for us alongside our partners at Reliance and RISE.”

Charlie Cowdrey, CEO of JioBLAST, said: “I’m incredibly honoured and excited to take this role in spearheading JioBLAST. We will be focussed on bringing together Jio’s unrivalled reach, RISE’s commercial prowess and BLAST’s esports expertise and global publisher relationships. Bringing this all together, there is no doubt that JioBLAST will supercharge the Indian esports industry. India is one of the most vibrant and promising gaming markets in the world, and working alongside Jio offers us a unique opportunity to build something extraordinary. We can’t wait to get started and bring BLAST’s unique approach to creating next level entertainment to India.”

The announcement follows the formation of the JioBLAST, a joint venture between BLAST and RISE, a wholly owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, aimed at supercharging the Indian esports market. With India now home to over 600 million gamers, accounting for 18% of the global gaming audience, JioBLAST will focus on creating new esports IP, establishing a state-of-the-art production studio, and delivering tournament experiences built for India’s dynamic gaming community.

The joint venture will bring BLAST’s award-winning production expertise and international tournament IPs to India while building localized formats, mobile esports offerings, and digital-first fan engagement initiatives through JioGames. Under Cowdrey’s leadership, the Joint Venture will deliver end-to-end tournament management, publisher services, and broadcast-ready content – ensuring India becomes a central pillar in BLAST’s global footprint.

As the joint venture ramps up its operations, last month JioBLAST opened recruitment for its first six foundational roles, all based in Mumbai. The new hires will join Cowdrey in building the future of esports and competitive entertainment in India. These roles represent the first wave of local leadership and talent being brought in to shape a new chapter in Indian esports.

The post Charlie Cowdrey Appointed CEO of JioBLAST, Esports Joint Venture appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

Global Institute of Sport and EPIC Global Solutions announce new partnership to support positive change in the sports industry

Published

8 minutes ago

July 15, 2025

George Miller

Reading Time: 2 minutes

New engagement between the two organisations that have previously collaborated on key projects such as the Gambling Harm Prevention in Sport Summit.

Global Institute of Sport (GIS) and EPIC Global Solutions are excited to announce a new partnership aimed at supporting the professional development of sports industry leaders and driving positive change worldwide.

EPIC Global Solutions is the trusted global partner for gambling harm prevention, offering consultancy, training, and education grounded in lived experience. This partnership will allow EPIC to share its expertise with GIS students and professionals, particularly focusing on key markets such as the United States and the expanding soccer sector.

“Both organisations share similar aspirations on a global scale, especially in the territories where we operate and grow, including the American market and soccer,” said John Millington, SVP Programmes and Delivery at EPIC Global Solutions.

“This partnership provides a great opportunity to share knowledge and insights across the sporting industry, benefiting those entering or already working in sport, as well as organisations across teams, governing bodies, and service providers.”

Through this collaboration, GIS students will gain access to expert-led learning opportunities and real-world insights that enhance their understanding of industry challenges and professional growth.

“Partnering with EPIC Global Solutions allows us to provide meaningful insights that will support our students throughout their careers,” said Alisa Khakhar, Head of Student Recruitment at the Global Institute of Sport.

Together, EPIC Global Solutions and GIS are committed to fostering education, integrity, and progress in sport on a global scale.

The two organisations have previous experience of collaborating on major projects, including the Gambling Harm Prevention in Sport Summit at GIS’ prestigious Wembley Stadium facilities in 2023, when both parties invited their respective networks to discuss the impact of gambling on athletes and the broader sports community, with the goal of developing best practices for prevention and intervention.

This included the launch of a white paper from EPIC’s Pro Sport Advisory Board at the event, which presented research into the issue and proposals for the sports industry to adopt when mitigating gambling-related harm.

The post Global Institute of Sport and EPIC Global Solutions announce new partnership to support positive change in the sports industry appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.