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FTDx Wins Xanada Startup Contest: Unlocking Untapped iGaming Traffic with Innovative Monetization Solutions
Recently, Xanada Investments announced FTDx as the winner of this year’s Xanada Startup Contest, an investment initiative of the fund. FTDx has demonstrated outstanding innovation in traffic monetization within the gambling industry, earning them the top spot.
In the interview below, Vladimir Malakchi, the CEO and Managing Partner of Xanada Investments, and Björn Nilsson, CEO and co-founder of FTDx, share their perspectives on this achievement and what lies ahead.
Vladimir Malakchi, CEO and Managing partner at Xanada Investments:
What were your overall impressions of this year’s Xanada Startup Contest participants, and why did you choose FTDX as the winner? What key factors stood out about their solution that aligned with Xanada Investments’ vision?”
VM: This year’s Xanada Startup Contest had nearly 250 applications from all over the world. The range of ideas was incredible, everything from gamification to AI-driven user engagement. What made FTDx stand out was how practical and impactful their solution is. They’ve tackled a big issue in iGaming, what to do with traffic that doesn’t convert because it’s from regions operators usually ignore. Their system turns that missed opportunity into real revenue while also encouraging first-time deposits.
We loved how FTDx backed up their idea with real numbers and a solid strategy. They’re not just solving a problem; they’re doing it in a way that scales and adds value for operators. That’s exactly the kind of project we look for at Xanada Investments-solutions that deliver results and create meaningful change in the industry.
Xanada Investments has a history of backing scalable solutions. How do you assess the scalability of FTDX’s technology, and what competitive advantage do you believe this gives them over other monetization platforms in the market?
VM: At Xanada Investments, scalability is a key factor in evaluating projects, and FTDx has shown a strong foundation for growth with its lightweight, adaptable platform. Its seamless integration with operators’ systems and focus on real-time revenue generation make it ideal for scaling across regions, especially in today’s fast-moving digital landscape.
FTDx’s major advantage is efficiency,it captures value from active users during live sessions, reducing the need for costly re-engagement strategies. This cost-effective approach works well in markets with varying tech infrastructure, including those with high mobile traffic but limited resources, enabling FTDx to tap into a wider audience.
The platform’s data-driven design supports continual optimization, allowing operators to refine strategies based on real-time insights. This adaptability keeps FTDx competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Overall, FTDx’s scalable and proactive monetization tools provide operators with a reliable solution for driving revenue in diverse global markets.
Looking ahead, how do you envision FTDX evolving with the support of Xanada Investments? What role does their team’s expertise play in ensuring the successful execution of these growth plans?
VM: With Xanada’s support, FTDx is well-positioned to expand its reach and develop its platform to meet the growing demands of the iGaming sector. Our resources and strategic network will provide FTDx with the connections and insights needed to enter new markets, particularly in regions like Europe and Latin America, where demand for gamified, real-time engagement solutions is on the rise. Xanada’s role will not only be financial but also advisory-we’ll work closely with FTDx to refine their approach and scale their operations effectively.
The expertise within the FTDx team is a major asset in executing these growth plans. Their background in data analytics and monetization strategies means they have a clear understanding of the market’s demands and a precise approach to addressing them. This technical and strategic expertise allows them to develop solutions that are not only innovative but also grounded in practical applications. Their ability to anticipate and adapt to industry trends is a valuable strength, ensuring they can keep up with evolving customer expectations and continue delivering results as they scale.
FTDX’s ambitions to provide measurable outcomes, whether through immediate revenue generation or long-term user retention aligns closely with Xanada’s vision for sustainable growth. By leveraging our network and expertise, FTDx will have the support needed to continually innovate while expanding into new markets. Together, we envision FTDx not only as a leader in iGaming monetization but also as a standard-setter for efficiency and effectiveness in player engagement solutions.
Björn Nilsson commenting on the win of FTDx in the Xanada Startup Contest:
Congratulations on your victory! What was your strategic motivation for participating in the Xanada Startup Contest, and what advantages do you see from this win in terms of your future development?
BN: Thank you very much! I’ve had experience participating in startup contests before, including one with Triggy. While we didn’t win that time, we made it to the top 10 finalists, which was an invaluable experience for the company’s growth. As I mentioned during my podcast with Vladimir Malakchi, contests like these sharpen your game. As a former athlete, I know firsthand that nothing improves you more than competing. Whether you win or not, participating forces you to refine your pitch, clarify your message, and solidify your business plan.
Beyond this, I genuinely enjoy the thrill of competition.
Your product offers a unique approach to monetizing global visits. What inspired you to develop FTDx? What market challenges did you identify that led you to create this solution?
BN: My co-founder, Fredrik Selin, and I were active in several areas, primarily on the affiliate side, when we had a conversation with Jon Bowden, the CMO of New Jersey-regulated casino PlayStar. Jon mentioned that they were receiving a significant amount of traffic from states other than New Jersey and asked if we had any ideas about how to utilize that traffic. Intrigued, we promised to explore the issue further.
Using tools like Similarweb and Ahrefs, we analyzed traffic data from various brands, both large and small. What we discovered was staggering-there’s an immense amount of “lost” traffic out there. Millions of visits end up on 403/404 blocked pages every month, representing a massive untapped resource.
Ten years ago, this issue wouldn’t have existed. At that time, being online inherently meant being “global.” However, with increasing regulation and rising competition, operators must now specialize and dominate local markets to remain relevant. This focus inevitably results in excess traffic from markets where they aren’t operational. That’s where FTDx comes in-to unlock the value hidden within this overlooked traffic and turn it into a new revenue stream.
How do you see the success of the FTDx solution based on your clients’ experiences? How does their traffic volume change, and what positive side effects have you noticed from implementing your solution?
BN: Though we’re still early in our journey with live clients, the results so far have been extremely promising. For example, blocked traffic from our largest client has generated over 8,000 new accounts with other brands in just the past three months. This is traffic that would have otherwise gone unnoticed and unrealized.
When we enable traffic exchanges—allowing clients to receive blocked traffic from other operators—the volume of relevant traffic in their target markets grows significantly. One of the most notable positive side effects, and a point we’ve emphasized from the start, is how operators begin to see the extended value of brand marketing. They realize that their efforts reach far beyond their primary focus markets and, thanks to FTDx, can now monetize that extended reach.
The post FTDx Wins Xanada Startup Contest: Unlocking Untapped iGaming Traffic with Innovative Monetization Solutions appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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From Data to VIPs: Turning Analytics into High-Value Player Growth
In iGaming, everyone claims to be data-driven. But few actually translate player data into high-value retention, especially when it comes to nurturing VIPs.
Executive Director of iGaming at Digicode, Itai Zak, brings decades of leadership and a clear message: you don’t grow a VIP base by chance. You grow it by identifying value early, acting fast, and connecting data to real engagement.
What “Data-Driven” Means in Practice
Being data-driven goes far beyond having reports or dashboards. True data maturity means using insights daily to steer product, marketing, and player interactions.
1. Let Data Drive Daily Decisions
When churn risk rises or LTV drops on a channel, action should follow immediately, not at the end of the quarter. The most agile teams monitor live metrics and adjust campaigns, budgets, and messaging in real time.
2. Break Down the Silos
Many operators suffer from fragmented data. Real impact comes when departments share a single player view, blending gameplay, deposits, support history, and withdrawal behavior. It ensures VIP managers, CRM teams, and support agents speak the same language.
3. Predict What Comes Next
Looking backwards doesn’t build loyalty. Leading operators use predictive models to surface VIP potential based on the first few sessions long before players hit traditional thresholds.
4. Connect Insight to Action
Too often, BI teams flag valuable insights, but they die in a spreadsheet. The real differentiator is execution: triggering CRM flows, personal outreach, or incentives when data demands it.
The First 72 Hours: Where VIP Potential Is Revealed
Early behavior is the clearest predictor of long-term value, but only if you know what to track and how to respond.
1. High-Intent Behaviors
Watch for:
- High first or second deposits
- Short time gaps between deposits
- Early high-stakes bets
- Players exploring multiple game types
These are all signs that a player isn’t casually browsing – they’re actively looking to engage.
2. The “Testing” Pattern
Many VIPs start small – not because they lack funds, but because they’re testing. A small deposit followed by a quick withdrawal is often a trust check. If the process is smooth, they’ll return with bigger deposits. If it’s slow or frustrating, they’re gone.
3. Session Frequency and Progression
A sharp increase in session frequency or bet size across the first few days often signals growing comfort and potential scaling.
4. Offer and Message Engagement
If a player interacts with your welcome email, opens push notifications, or clicks SMS links, they’re giving you an open door. Don’t wait to walk through it.
5. Support Interactions
Players who contact support early, especially with questions about withdrawal limits or VIP benefits are usually serious. They’re checking if your operation is worth their loyalty.
Combine Predictive Models with Human Judgment
Advanced operators don’t just rely on instinct. They use scoring models that factor in behavior, deposit timing, game preferences, and more to surface likely VIPs.
But human oversight still matters. Not every large deposit means high value, and not every bonus-heavy player deserves long-term investment. Blend automation with VIP manager insight for the best results.
Turning Signals Into VIP Journeys
Once a player shows potential, the next steps must be fast, personal, and frictionless.
Move Immediately
Don’t wait for a fixed deposit milestone. If the model flags potential, move them into a high-touch onboarding flow instantly.
Assign a Personal Contact
A VIP manager should reach out directly: via phone, email, or chat. Introduce the service, highlight available perks, and offer real-time support. Early personal connection builds long-term trust.
Build Operational Confidence
For VIPs, reliability is everything. That means:
- Fast, seamless withdrawals
- Clear communication
- Instant issue resolution
Operational delays are one of the most common reasons VIPs walk – often without saying a word.
Tailor Offers Immediately
Ditch the generic bonus paths. Instead, align offers to:
- Game preferences
- Deposit frequency
- Bet sizes or session patterns
Consider non-monetary perks too: early access, private tournaments, or priority support often go further than cash.
Build Emotional Loyalty
Celebrate milestones, send personalized notes, or deliver surprise perks. Loyalty stems from recognition, not just rewards.
Automation That Converts Insight to Action
To deliver consistently, operators must integrate CRM, analytics, and predictive scoring into a real-time ecosystem.
Unify Player Data
Gameplay, transactions, offers, and support logs must feed into a central CRM. Without a 360° view, personalization fails.
Use Smart Triggers
When churn risk rises, send a reactivation offer. When VIP behavior is flagged, notify the VIP team and start an automated journey. Speed is critical so is consistency.
Segment and Route Intelligently
For example:
- “Bonus-heavy” players → low-cost paths
- “Testing” depositors → fast payment messaging
- “Multi-session, high-value” players → early VIP escalation
Close the Loop
After launching a campaign, track results. Feed that data back into the model to improve future accuracy and ROI.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good data, many operators fall into predictable traps.
1. Acting Too Slowly
Waiting for a player to reach “VIP level” before acting often means missing your chance. Loyalty builds early or not at all.
Fix: Act within 48 hours of first signals, not weeks later.
2. Equating Big Deposits with Value
A one-time high roller isn’t necessarily a long-term asset.
Fix: Prioritize session consistency, gameplay diversity, and communication engagement, not just deposit size.
3. Confusing High Turnover with Profit
Bonus abusers can look like VIPs until the promotions stop.
Fix: Monitor bonus-to-deposit ratios and net revenue. True VIPs bring long-term, sustainable value.
Summing Up: VIP Growth Is Execution, Not Luck
The most successful operators don’t wait for players to raise their hands. They spot signals early, move fast, and create journeys that blend automation with human care.
VIP growth is no longer about guesswork. It’s about predicting value, delivering relevance, and doing it before your competitors do.
Because in iGaming, the player’s decision to stay (or leave) is often made in the first 72 hours.
The post From Data to VIPs: Turning Analytics into High-Value Player Growth appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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To LATAM via Europe: Platipus and Alea multi-regional partnership signed
Platipus Gaming, a global game provider for online casinos, signed a strategic partnership with Alea, the Spanish-based leading aggregation platform in Europe and the LatAm regions.
Latin America is a key strategic priority for Platipus in 2025, as the region’s fast-growing iGaming market offers both scale and strong growth potential. The Сompany already has a presence in several territories across Latin America, and its partnership with Alea will further strengthen its position in Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and beyond.
“At Alea, we see partnerships like this as true cornerstones of our growth and the value we deliver to operators. Platipus’ creativity, innovation, and dedication to quality perfectly align with our mission to provide operators in Europe and Latin America with the most engaging content through the most reliable aggregation platform. This collaboration is more than a commercial agreement; it’s a shared commitment to helping each other grow and succeed in the markets where we lead.” – says Ramon Glieneke, COO at Alea.
This alliance opens up new opportunities for Platipus to grow strategically in Latin America, as well as in some European countries. Due to Alea’s strong reputation among local operators, Platipus gains access to an extensive network of trusted partners. This will help accelerate integrations, optimize entry into new markets, and ensure a smoother, faster go-live process for its games.
“Partnering with Alea brings us closer to our main goal – to provide an exceptional gaming experience to players around the world. This time, we are pleased to introduce even more players from Europe and Latin America to our exciting gaming portfolio,”– comments Stanislav Mykhailov, Platipus Gaming CCO.
Multi-regional partnership between Platipus and Alea demonstrates strategic flexibility and geographic diversification. Moreover, this alliance allows to cover the players both from Latin American and European markets, and reach a wider audience globally.
Platipus continues building its global presence in the frames of its expansion strategy and remains committed to being a reliable partner helping to deliver high-quality experiences for the players worldwide. The Company plans to expand its presence in new countries in the region, strengthen existing partnerships and launch even more personalized content to meet the specific needs of each market. Platipus Gaming will continue to invest in innovation, quality and strategic partnerships to accelerate its growth.
The post To LATAM via Europe: Platipus and Alea multi-regional partnership signed appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Escape to Paradise: “Tropical Temptation” Slot Launches at Slotland, CryptoSlots, and CryptoWins
An Eden of excitement awaits players with the launch of the new slot, Tropical Temptation. This vibrant 5×4 game from Slotland Entertainment is now live, bringing a sun-soaked paradise to Slotland.eu, CryptoSlots.com, and CryptoWins.com.
Discover a lush tropical island where exotic flowers bloom and two alluring characters—a charismatic man and a woman in a purple bikini—await. With bets from $0.40 to $1.20 across 20 paylines, the journey to fortune is open to all.
The true temptation lies in the features:
- Dual Progressive Jackpots: Bet 60+ coins ($0.60) to qualify for the Mini Jackpot (1,000-10,000 coins). Wager 100+ coins for a shot at the Major Jackpot (10,000-100,000 coins).
- Eve’s Free Spins: Land 3+ Eve scatters for 10-30 Free Spins with Double Wilds.
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- Seductive Symbol Transformation: The bonus rounds intertwine thrillingly. During Eve’s spins, new Eve scatters transform into Adams, and vice-versa. Hit 3+ of these new scatters to immediately begin the other bonus round, adding all remaining spins for a prolonged, winning escape.
Answer the call of the wild and chase fortune in Eden. Tropical Temptation is available to play now with Free Chips and Match Bonuses at all brands until August 31st:
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The post Escape to Paradise: “Tropical Temptation” Slot Launches at Slotland, CryptoSlots, and CryptoWins appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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