Latest News
Arturs Korolkovs, Media 24: “Radical Transparency Is Our Strategy”
We’ve recently sat down with Arturs Korolkovs, Head of Sales at affiliate marketing company Media 24, to talk about building long-term partnerships in iGaming, his approach to industry events, and key trends of the affiliate sector — from deal structures and listing fees to navigating increased competition.
When did you join Media 24 and how has your role evolved since then?
I joined the company in 2020, right in the middle of COVID. It was a time of big changes for a lot of people, both in work and in life. I was actually the company’s first employee, and together, we worked on launching our first website.
In the beginning, I had little formal experience in sales or partner management, so I was doing a bit of everything. Uploading content, editing videos, handling social media. But as the company grew, so did my role. Over time, I transitioned fully into partner management, starting as an account manager and working my way up to the Head of Sales.
You attend many conferences and industry events throughout the year. What are your main priorities and how do you measure success there?
In the early days, conferences were more like hunting. Pure acquisition mode, trying to get our name out there and sign initial deals. Now, it’s a far more strategic play. Maintaining relationships, gaining new insights, and staying ahead of industry trends. Conferences aren’t just about sales. It’s an opportunity to gather valuable information that helps both the company and my own professional growth.
How we measure success has shifted too. It’s not solely about the number of contracts signed right there and then, though we certainly track leads that convert into long-term partnerships. We evaluate success by asking: Did we meaningfully strengthen ties with our top-tier partners? Did we gain specific, actionable insights – perhaps about competitor moves or regulatory shifts that will impact our strategy? And did we initiate promising conversations that lay the groundwork for valuable, long-term collaborations? That deeper, strategic ROI is what defines a successful conference for us now.
What are the key factors you consider when deciding whether to start a partnership with a specific operator?
Beyond the obvious things like relevant GEOs and a strong product, the initial communication with the affiliate manager is a massive factor. Are they responsive? Do they communicate clearly? This is the person you’ll be working with long-term, so having a good connection is crucial.
And yes, reputation is critical. The industry is smaller than it looks. Over time, you build a network, and there’s always ways to ask around and get feedback about a brand.
What’s your approach to building long-term relationships with partners?
Radical transparency. We’re open about our traffic sources, our methods, and even potential challenges we foresee. And we expect the same from the operator. Hiding bad news does more harm than good in the long run.
Beyond that, it’s important to proactively add value. By sharing market insights, providing constructive feedback, and maintaining regular meaningful contact. It’s about creating a relationship where both sides feel invested in the other’s success. The more open and proactive the communication, the stronger the partnership.
A lot of affiliates are working with the CPA deals, others prefer Rev Share. What’s Media 24’s approach here and why?
Ideally, a hybrid model works best. But if I had to choose between CPA and Rev Share, I’d go with Rev Share. For SEO traffic, it’s the most effective and sustainable model in the long run. And it’s probably the fairest model for both sides of the deal.
CPA can be situationally useful. Maybe for testing a new, unproven GEO, or launching a new project. But if we’re talking about a long-term strategy and good traffic quality, Rev Share wins every time.
There’s a differing opinion about listing fees in the industry. What’s your take on this?
We see listing fees as a mechanism for building strong and sustainable partnerships. In most cases, especially with new partners, we prefer to work with listing fees. Look, when we onboard a new brand, we’re investing significant resources immediately. Creating content, SEO, traffic allocation — all that requires a budget. This happens before we see a single dollar in commission. And without any guarantees on performance, GEO stability, or long-term commitment from the operator.
At the same time, we always take a flexible approach. For trusted, long-term partners with a strong track record, we are open to alternative structures. It’s all about finding a setup that works for both sides and ensures mutual long-term growth.
How can affiliate marketing companies handle increased competition and what are the ways to stand out in the industry?
Quality over quantity. A lot of affiliates still focus on pumping out mass content, but that approach is becoming less effective. Today you seriously have to focus on product improvements and user experience. The best way to stand out is through strong branding, engaging content, and a clear value proposition.
Building long-term relationships with partners also plays a huge role. In a crowded market, reputation and the ability to collaborate strategically become powerful differentiators. At Media 24, we believe in growing together with our partners, and that long-term thinking continues to pay off.
The post Arturs Korolkovs, Media 24: “Radical Transparency Is Our Strategy” appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Kaizen Foundation and UEFA Foundation for Children send strong message on inclusion through continued partnership
The Kaizen Foundation participates in UEFA Foundation for Children’s 10th Anniversary celebration, supporting amputee football and raising awareness about inclusion through sport. The partnership will expand into the summer through the “Legacy for the Future” project.
Kaizen Foundation, the Social Purpose Foundation funded exclusively by Kaizen Gaming, is announcing its participation in the 10th Anniversary celebrations of the UEFA Foundation for Children. During the celebrations, the Kaizen Foundation will be sponsoring a showcase match of two amputee teams with players from Greece, England and Poland at the Colovray Stadium in Nyon on April 28th at 15:30-16:45 CEST. This will be followed by a dedicated cup ceremony.
The focus of the celebrations – held in collaboration with the UEFA Foundation’s partners Football Is More and the European Amputee Football Federation – is inclusion in sports. The amputee football match offers a unique opportunity to witness the incredible spirit and talent of amputee athletes as they compete for the trophy. Highlighting the importance of inclusion in football, the game is guaranteed to captivate the audience and showcase football’s unifying power.
In addition, the Kaizen Foundation will be supporting a Conference on Inclusion to discuss football’s role in social responsibility and inclusion. Happening at the Chateau de Bossey, scheduled to take place earlier on the same day at 11.00 – 12.30 CEST, the conference will feature high-profile guests, including Prof. Dr. Jürgen Buschmann from the German Sports University of Cologne.
Kaizen Foundation and UEFA Foundation for Children expand their partnership into the “Legacy for the Future” project
Excitingly, the Kaizen Foundation is also announcing the expansion of its successful partnership with the UEFA Foundation for Children by supporting the “Legacy for the Future” project, aiming to leave a lasting legacy which fosters the empowerment of girls and women in countries from the UEFA participating national associations.
Within the framework of this partnership, Kaizen Foundation shall support initiatives undertaken by Τhe UEFA Foundation for Children across Portugal, Belgium, Germany and Denmark. The initiatives aim to empower girls and women to dismantle barriers in football and beyond, namely in education, legal rights and access to sport. Said initiatives will be associated with the respective women’s national teams, in order to enhance visibility and promote collective social responsibility.
This builds on the Kaizen Foundation’s inaugural partnership with the UEFA Foundation for Children to support the “10,000 Smiles” project, which provided 10,000 UEFA EURO 2024™ match tickets to associations working with vulnerable children. As part of the expansion of this partnership, Kaizen Foundation shall donate €300,000 to further aid the UEFA Foundation for Children’s aims and ambitions.
“It’s a great honour to be part of the UEFA Foundation for Children’s 10th Anniversary celebrations,” said Panos Konstantopoulos, President of the Kaizen Foundation. “By championing inclusion through the amputee match, we hope to inspire clubs and communities across Europe and the globe to take meaningful steps toward breaking down barriers. The UEFA Foundation for Children does extraordinary work, and we are thrilled to expand our partnership into the Legacy for the Future project, supporting local charities with the mission to dismantle barriers for girls in and out of sports. Our joint initiatives are a powerful reminder that nothing should stand in the way of what people can achieve, regardless of who they are or where they come from.”
“Football has an extraordinary power to bring everybody together. Partnering with organisations like the Kaizen Foundation is key to building a movement that drives real impact and leaves a lasting legacy,” said Carine N’koué, General Secretary of UEFA Foundation for Children. “Not only are we celebrating our 10th Anniversary together, but by deepening our collaboration with the Legacy for the Future project, we can continue to build on our mission to use the power of football to unite and bring joy to millions of disadvantaged children around the world.”
The post Kaizen Foundation and UEFA Foundation for Children send strong message on inclusion through continued partnership appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Fanatics Sportsbook Is the Fastest Growing Sportsbook in America – and Is Expanding Its FanCash and Fair Play Initiatives
| Awarded $750k in FanCash last Week and Extended Fair Play Protection to First Half for NBA Playoffs |
|
Since its inception, Fanatics Sportsbook has been able to set itself apart from the competition with customer-first initiatives like FanCash Drops and Fair Play. Fanatics Sportsbook has expanded those efforts with the launch of the brand-new FanCash Drop game and an exclusive extension of the Fair Play policy from the first quarter to the first half for all games throughout the NBA Playoffs. Fanatics Sportsbook, now the fastest growing sportsbook in America*, recently debuted FanCash Drop, a new game giving customers the chance to win up to $10k in FanCash.** Last week, Fanatics Sportsbook awarded more than $750k in FanCash as part of the new FanCash Drop game. With 75% of sportsbook customers using FanCash and up to 10% of FanCash being redeemed each month on Fanatics.com and the Fanatics app, FanCash has become a major reason for customers to choose Fanatics Sportsbook. FanCash Drop will be available to sportsbook customers every Friday, and prizing will vary each week. Fanatics Sportsbook customers have enjoyed more than $6 million in winning payouts thanks to Fair Play since the start of the football season. Every year during the NBA playoffs, the game’s brightest stars rise to meet the moment, so it’s only fitting that Fanatics Sportsbook does the same, with an exclusive Fair Play protection extension from the first quarter to the first half for the entire NBA Playoffs. Fair Play will kick in whether it’s a straight, parlay or Same Game Parlay (SGP). In addition, Fanatics Sportsbook will introduce the Fair Play Hub in the app, where customers can track live player news and Fair Play payouts. Customers can download the Fanatics Sportsbook app on iOS and Android and for up to date news and information on Fair Play follow the Fanatics Sportsbook social channels on X @FanaticsBook and on Instagram @FanaticsSportsbook.
|
The post Fanatics Sportsbook Is the Fastest Growing Sportsbook in America – and Is Expanding Its FanCash and Fair Play Initiatives appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
Vixio’s Chief Analyst James Kilsby Honored As Silver Stevie® Award Winner In 2025 American Business Awards®
Vixio, a leading provider of regulatory intelligence solutions, is proud to announce that James Kilsby, Chief Analyst, has been named the winner of a Silver Stevie® Award in the Thought Leader of the Year – Business category in the 23rd Annual American Business Awards®. The American Business Awards are the United States’ premier business awards program.
Kilsby was honored for his impactful leadership in providing intelligence on regulatory and compliance trends affecting the global gambling industry, particularly in emerging markets like Brazil. In an industry where compliance monitoring is cumbersome, his analysis, forecasts, and deep expertise help take the complexity out of compliance. His work in 2024 included in-depth analysis of the new regulated Brazilian gambling market and the launch of Vixio’s Technical Compliance Tool.
Roseanne Spagnuolo, Chief Research & Data Officer, Vixio, said: “James’ contributions to the gambling industry and to Vixio are significant. Some of the world’s biggest brands trust Vixio to monitor regulatory developments affecting their licences and identify new market and product opportunities. James’ expertise, especially in emerging markets in the Americas such as Brazil, is a significant contributor to those efforts.”
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from the American Business Awards,” said James Kilsby, Chief Analyst, Vixio. “This award is a reflection of the trust our clients place in us and the incredible team at Vixio that brings clarity to such a complex and fast-moving global industry. As jurisdictions like Brazil evolve, our mission remains the same: to empower organizations with the intelligence they need to navigate compliance challenges confidently and responsibly.”
Stevie® judges praised Kilsby’s clear and actionable insights in an often opaque industry. One judge said: “James Kilsby has demonstrated exceptional thought leadership in the gambling compliance sector. His deep expertise in gambling regulations, particularly in emerging markets like Brazil, has positioned him as a key industry voice. His contributions include high-impact research, frequent media appearances, and direct influence on product innovation, notably with Vixio’s Technical Compliance Tool.”
Another judge added: “The gambling industry is often an opaque field where it is hard to understand what is and what is not allowed. James’s ability to provide clarity in this area and use that to support compliance and responsible gambling are commendable.”
More than 3,600 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories.
“Organizations across the United States continue to demonstrate resilience and innovation,” said Stevie Awards president Maggie Miller. “The 2025 Stevie winners have helped drive that success through their innovation, persistence, and hard work. We congratulate all of the winners in the 2025 ABAs and look forward to celebrating their achievements during our June 10 gala event in New York.”
Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word meaning “crowned,” the awards will be presented to winners at a gala ceremony at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York on Tuesday, June 10.
Details about The American Business Awards and the list of 2025 Stevie winners are available at StevieAwards.com/ABA.
To learn more about simplifying compliance management with Vixio’s award-winning regulatory intelligence solutions, visit vixio.com.
The post Vixio’s Chief Analyst James Kilsby Honored As Silver Stevie® Award Winner In 2025 American Business Awards® appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Kaizen Foundation and UEFA Foundation for Children send strong message on inclusion through continued partnership
Fanatics Sportsbook Is the Fastest Growing Sportsbook in America – and Is Expanding Its FanCash and Fair Play Initiatives
Vixio’s Chief Analyst James Kilsby Honored As Silver Stevie® Award Winner In 2025 American Business Awards®
Casino Kings Knocks Out Partnership with Boxing Powerhouse BoxNation
Week 17/2025 slot games releases
LuckyStreak unveils optimised Mobile Live European Roulette
Bojoko.com Surpasses €100 Million in All-Time Deposits Milestone
GG World Festival Returns to GGPoker With Massive $250M Guaranteed Prize Pool
How to make an iGaming brand? Slotegrator posted a new guide
INSPIRED LAUNCHES EGYPTIAN-THEMED SLOT, GATE OF HORUS™
-
Latest News3 months agoIndia’s Biggest Gamers, Including Techno Gamerz, GamerFleet & Mythpat – battle at PlayGalaxy Cup 3.0
-
Latest News3 months agoSportradar’s Alpha Odds Receives Dual Honors at European iGaming Awards 2025
-
Latest News3 months ago
Fall in Love with Nature’s Greatest Romantics This Valentine’s Day at Springbok Casino and Claim 25 Free Spins
-
Latest News3 months agoSwintt secured ISO 27001: 2022 certification
-
Latest News2 weeks agoExclusive Q&A With Bar Konson, Chief Business Development Officer at NuxGame
-
Latest News2 days ago
Week 17/2025 slot games releases
-
Latest News3 weeks ago
SARA TENDULKAR JOINS JETSYNTHESYS’ GLOBAL E-CRICKET PREMIER LEAGUE AS MUMBAI FRANCHISE OWNER FOR SEASON 2
-
Latest News2 days agoFortuna Partners with 2025 UEFA Under-21 EURO
You must be logged in to post a comment Login