Latest News
OKTO ready to answer industry’s cashless question, once and for all
Introducing a software-based solution carefully tailored to Britain’s retail gaming sector, Simon Dorsen, director of gaming at OKTO – joined by Gambling Business Group (GBG) CEO Peter Hannibal – explains how the financially licensed company has leveraged GBG’s new EFT protocol to provide operators with a cashless system that allows players to use, move and collect their funds instantly – whether it’s on a gaming machine, at the bar, or in their local high street shops.
International fintech provider OKTO is ready to give Britain’s retail gaming sectors a much needed post-lockdown boost by offering the definitive solution to the longstanding challenge of cashless payments.
While there remains competition to provide the sector-wide cashless solution the industry requires, OKTO’s director of gaming Simon Dorsen, an 18-year veteran of the gaming industry, believes the company’s strict financial licenses, vast technological expertise, and unrivalled wallet universality all put OKTO’s secure and complete cashless solution ahead of the pack.
“Cashless and digital payments in the UK is the norm now and today’s consumers demand the digitisation of payments across the economy, and in gaming as well. We have tailored our wallet towards the unique requirements of gaming, but we’re not just a gaming wallet,” explained Dorsen. “Money in the OKTO ecosystem can be moved or spent anywhere that accepts digital payments, whether it’s pubs, bingo clubs or high street shops – and our licenses, upholding the strictest of security standards, mean that any funds with us are always fully protected. The fact that we are financially licensed is very important, as it means both merchants and users can be confident that OKTO is backed by central banks across Europe.”
In addition to its licenses and software-based solution, a recently developed Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) protocol, made publicly available by Gambling Business Group (GBG), has given OKTO an advantage over the industry’s false-starts at a cashless solution. Without the need for any additional hardware or upfront costs, the protocol makes it possible for OKTO to bring any digital gaming machine into its payments ecosystem – finally putting the retail gaming sector on a level playing field with the rest of Britain’s high street economy.
“We are thrilled to be working on established industry protocol which is fully supported by the principle manufacturers of digital machines in pubs and AGC’s. It enables our truly cashless solution to allow users to go up to a gaming machine in the pub, press a button to use OKTO, and deposit funds to start playing. When they cashout, they get the money back in their cashless wallet instantly. Additionally, we are able to onboard pubs as merchants, so if the users want to immediately spend on food and drink in the pub, they can; either through their OKTO.WALLET app or, in the near future, from their OKTO debit card that is linked to the wallet.”
Indeed, much like increasingly popular neo-banks such as Monzo and Revolut, OKTO allows users to move and use their funds instantly, as they wish, putting the power directly in the user’s hands. It’s not just a “one-use” wallet, as users can extend the wallet usage beyond gaming machines and into the wider economy. This is not only ideal for giving players the most frictionless experience possible, but also for allowing operators to easily move, manage and count their digital cashboxes, detailed Dorsen.
“Because the transactions are instant within our ecosystem, you can dramatically move to a settlement time that is instant,” he continued. “We can automate and move towards an instant settlement process. Compared to the traditional cash dependent system, this will allow operators to reimagine the way they operate.”
GBG CEO Peter Hannibal, whose open EFT protocol allows payment providers to ‘talk’ to any connected digital gaming machines, believes that OKTO’s entry into the retail gaming sectors has come at the perfect time. Not only has the protocol made it so much easier from a technical perspective, but with Covid-19 creating a sentiment of fear around the use of cash, the increasing trend of cashless payments is affecting all sectors of the industry more than ever.
“During lockdown we learned that bingo customers were concerned about using cash after the clubs reopened,” Hannibal explained. “The operation of traditional bingo has always been dependent upon coins and cash, but that clearly needs to change, and companies like OKTO will enable them to do that. Products like OKTO’s cashless solution have the potential to transform many gambling activities including bingo – and there’s an existential need for it now, even if there wasn’t before.”
Importantly, OKTO also provides a range of social responsibility tools to players through the fintech provider’s app, incorporating a strict age verification process, self-exclusion, betting limits, and profit and loss calculator tools that further enhance consumers’ protection. In addition, there is a section embedded in the app with national problem gambling helplines.
Hannibal summarised that OKTO’s solution presents a rare opportunity for the industry; a situation in which everyone’s a winner. The player gets more choice, the regulator gets responsible gaming tools in the players’ hands, and the operator gets a boost to business efficiency when it’s most needed. And with no upfront costs, it’s a boost that Dorsen believes operators will welcome.
“I have noticed a real change in operator’s mindsets over the past 18 months. There was a tipping point last year, even before COVID-19 came along, where operators realised that they need to learn about and adopt new cashless solutions. Now, naturally, we are seeing the consumer shift, and because of COVID-19 all demographics are becoming more comfortable using cashless payments,” said Dorsen. “The current economic circumstances are requiring operators to focus on efficiencies more than ever, and because our software based solution connects directly to the GBG/EFT protocol, we can provide fast deployment without any upfront capital expenditure. There’s not a big financial hurdle to implementing our cashless solution, so we think that operators will be eager to finally unlock the benefits they’ve been hearing about for so long, and we’re ready to show them exactly how our end-to-end cashless solution can help their business.”
Brian Goodman CEO of Golden Matrix
Golden Matrix Group Inc. Reports Strong Q3 2024 Earnings and Continued Operational Growth
-
Revenue Growth: Q3 2024 consolidated revenue increased by 85% to $41 million, with year-to-date revenue up 55% to $105.3 million, driven by consistent performance across key markets.
-
Gross Profit Increase: Gross profit grew 39% in Q3 to $22.4 million, with year-to-date gross profit rising 24% to $61.8 million, reflecting improvements in operational efficiency and product margins.
-
AEBITDA: Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 reached $4.3 million, reflecting resilient performance across multiple revenue channels with marginal impacts from currency fluctuations across subsidiaries.
-
Balance Sheet Strength: As of September 30, 2024, Golden Matrix maintained a robust financial position with over $38.4 million in cash and equivalents and short-term debt of $17.5 million. Shareholder equity also grew 60% to $94 million, reinforcing the Company’s ability to pursue strategic growth initiatives.
-
Meridianbet Strong Growth Continues: Meridianbet’s Q3 revenue grew 16% YoY, led by a 19% online increase and 6% in retail. Deposits rose to $61.9M (+13% QoQ), with new registrations up 23% to 125K. Online casino GGR margin hit 3.37% (+21% turnover), sports betting rose 7.4% YoY with GGR at 9.5%, retail sports GGR at 10.3% (record 14.1% in August), and retail slots up 17.5% YoY.
-
Expansion of GMAG Platform: The GMAG B2B aggregator platform saw substantial growth, with wagering volume increasing 84% to $1.4 billion. Enhanced customer retention tools and the addition of high-margin games have driven engagement and profitability.
-
Classics for a Cause Acquisition: This newly acquired Australian business added $2.1 million in revenue and $503,000 in EBITDA within two months, expanding Golden Matrix’s market reach and contributing to overall profitability.
-
Mexplay Growth: Mexplay, the Company’s online casino in Mexico, reported a 56% increase in active players and a rise in gross gaming revenue to $15 million, underscoring growth potential in Latin America.
As esports and digital entertainment surge forward, driven by tech innovations, global reach, and shifting user preferences, we’re seeing a redefined gaming landscape with unprecedented growth opportunities. Although recent regulatory shifts and the impact on live events have temporarily slowed growth, the future of esports remains incredibly promising. Key revenue drivers, including sponsorships, advertising, merchandise, ticket sales, and streaming, are expected to continue propelling the industry forward.
Betting options have also transformed, expanding well beyond traditional sports to embrace esports. This new category, focused on top video games, is drawing in players eager for engaging betting experiences on local sportsbooks that cater to their interests with a diverse array of games, leagues, and tournaments. Atlaslive iGaming Platform and Sportsbook rise to this challenge, offering a rich catalog of esports betting options. Within the “Sports” section, fans can back their favorite teams across leading games like Dota 2, Counter-Strike, Valorant, League of Legends, Fortnite, and Call of Duty.
With a seamless registration and verification process, Atlaslive brings fans closer to the action. The platform provides a vast array of betting options across multiple games, with fan favorites like League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) attracting enthusiastic participation. The live betting section is crafted for maximum engagement, allowing fans to place wagers tailored to each game’s unique competitive elements.
Backed by comprehensive market research, Atlaslive identifies emerging trends in gaming and esports revenue, particularly across the top six revenue-generating regions. With a commitment to innovation, Atlaslive continues to enhance its iGaming platform, blending high-quality gaming content with adaptable, real-time technology to offer an unparalleled experience for players worldwide.
Esports Market in Focus: Global Statistics and Emerging Trends
Competitive gaming, or esports, has skyrocketed into a global phenomenon, where pro players and teams battle it out in popular multiplayer games through structured leagues, tournaments, and major events. With devoted fans, substantial sponsorships, and an enthusiastic community, esports is more profitable and visible than ever. But what factors are powering this explosive growth, and what lies ahead?
One major accelerator is the worldwide accessibility of high-speed internet and mobile technology. With mobile devices now in nearly every pocket, esports can reach a truly global audience. Atlaslive’s analytics reveal that over 90% of players prefer mobile gaming, a trend that highlights the ease of access for fans to engage with esports anytime, anywhere. This mobile-friendly environment also makes it seamless for fans to place bets on the go, keeping engagement high.
Another driving force is the impact of streaming services like Twitch, Kick, and YouTube, which collectively attract millions of viewers every month. Twitch alone garners over 240 million unique visitors monthly, demonstrating how integral streaming is to the esports community. These platforms not only allow fans to watch games live but also encourage connections between streamers and viewers, creating an interactive and immersive experience that brings fans closer to their favorite players and teams. The professionalization of esports, with structured leagues, big sponsorships, and marquee events, has cemented its place as a mainstream entertainment option.
As the industry’s momentum builds, Atlaslive is positioned to elevate the esports betting experience, enhancing accessibility and engagement in this fast-evolving digital arena. With such strong community support and technological innovation, esports is set to reach even greater heights in the years to come.
Source: Statista 2024
The global esports market has evolved remarkably, expanding from $1.2 billion in 2017 to an anticipated $6.1 billion by 2029, boasting a strong CAGR of 14.5%. This impressive rise reflects esports’ journey from a specialized interest to a mainstream entertainment force, fueled by increasing investments and a widening international audience.
Esports revenue is driven by six primary streams:
- Sponsorship and Advertising: Brand deals and advertisements associated with tournaments and events.
- Merchandise and Ticket Sales: Earnings from event tickets and esports-themed merchandise.
- Streaming, Media Rights, and Publisher Fees: Revenue from broadcasting on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- Esports Betting: Wagers placed on esports outcomes, adding a dynamic element of fan engagement.
Together, these streams create a substantial revenue foundation, underscoring the industry’s growth potential.
Average revenue per user (ARPU) in esports is on a steady incline. Currently, esports betting ARPU sits at around $33 for 2024, contributing to broader sports betting ARPU exceeding $300. Although modest, the esports ARPU indicates a growing appeal among new audiences, with demand surging for platforms that offer a wide range of games tailored to market needs.
Both merchandise and ticket sales are experiencing steady increases, highlighting fans’ enthusiasm for esports, both in live and virtual formats. While streaming revenue remains a smaller segment, it is on a gradual rise, signaling that esports content monetization is expanding, though at a gentler pace compared to other revenue channels.
This upward trajectory underscores esports as a thriving market, with continuous growth opportunities across diverse revenue streams.
Source: Statista 2024
The global reach of esports has skyrocketed, growing from 386 million users in 2017 to a projected 896.1 million by 2029, marking its shift from niche to mainstream. By 2025, esports is set to reach 772 million users, almost quadruple iGaming’s 211 million, with the market penetration of 12.6% compared to iGaming’s 2.7%. This growth reflects rising engagement among players and bettors, drawn by the excitement of competition and easy online access. For brands, this young, tech-savvy audience offers a prime opportunity to connect in a rapidly expanding market.
Source: Statista 2024
The esports market could reach a remarkable $8.3 billion by 2029 in a best-case scenario, fueled by expanding internet access, community support, and advancing technology. Moderate forecasts, however, suggest potential market sizes of $4.7 billion or $6.4 billion, depending on these influences.
These projections illustrate the range of possibilities for esports growth. While the optimistic scenario forecasts rapid expansion, even conservative estimates indicate steady progress, underscoring the market’s resilience and potential.
Global Leaders in the Esports Landscape
As one quote goes, “The aim is to convert data into information, and information into great thoughts.” This approach is crucial for success in esports, as data reveals how various regions drive the global rise of esports. Established markets continue expanding while emerging regions promise future growth, showing where engagement is strongest today and where the next opportunities may emerge.
Source: Statista 2024
Europe, North America, and Asia lead the esports market, generating the majority of industry revenue, thanks to strong infrastructure and significant investments in key hubs like the U.S., South Korea, and Germany. Asia, with gaming-driven cultures and government backing in countries like China and South Korea, sees robust growth. Meanwhile, South America faces economic and infrastructure challenges, slowing its progress, though interest in esports is on the rise. Australia also holds a modest share, reflecting a smaller population but a dedicated esports community.
Source: Statista 2024
Europe currently leads the esports market and is set for steady growth, though North America’s strong 10% growth rate could close the gap with strategic investments and expansion. Asia, with a 6.9% growth rate, remains a key region due to its large audience and gaming culture, yet North America’s rapid growth could soon push it ahead in revenue.
Regions like South America, Africa, and Australia & Oceania, though smaller, show strong potential. South America, growing at 8.1% annually, stands out for investment opportunities, while Africa and Australia & Oceania hint at future development possibilities.
Unlock New Betting Possibilities in Esports with Atlaslive
The growth of esports has driven betting operators to expand beyond traditional pre-match bets. With Atlaslive, users experience the excitement of live betting as events unfold, enjoying competitive odds and dynamic options for in-play predictions. From pre-tournament wagers to real-time betting, Atlaslive provides a seamless and engaging betting journey.
Recognizing the importance of mobile accessibility, Atlaslive Platform offers optimized mobile solutions, allowing players to bet on their favorite esports events anytime, anywhere. The platform also delivers comprehensive stats, featuring both real-time and historical data, empowering users with valuable insights into team performance and past results for smarter betting choices.
Backed by advanced technology, Atlaslive offers esports fans an immersive live betting experience while partners benefit from increased engagement, access to vibrant player communities, and enriched iGaming options.
Lead the game with Atlaslive.
The post Esports Market Growth and the Atlaslive Advantage in Betting Innovation appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
MGM National Harbor is kicking off November with a big jackpot. A lucky guest was playing Ultimate Texas Hold’em on November 3 when he was dealt a Royal Flush of diamonds, winning $961,428.50.
“What an incredible way to kick off the holidays,” said Alex Alvarado, MGM National Harbor’s Vice President of Casino Operations. “We take great pride in offering the premier selection of table games in an industry where anything is possible. Today, that possibility became a reality with a life-changing win for our guest.”
Golden Matrix Group Inc. Reports Strong Q3 2024 Earnings and Continued Operational Growth
Esports Market Growth and the Atlaslive Advantage in Betting Innovation
Guest Wins Nearly a Million Dollars on Royal Flush Jackpot at MGM National Harbor
Stretch Network Partners with Vivaro.US to Enhance Poker Offerings
GAN Reports Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results
SOFTSWISS Gets Certification for Its Jackpot Aggregator in Bulgaria
Spinomenal celebrates Halloween with Book of the Cursed release
QiH Group completes C-suite hiring spree with new CFO appointment
Evoplay enters Czech market with exclusive Fortuna collaboration
Sweet Success: Just Slots Launches Its Debut Game, Sugar Heaven
-
gaming2 years agoODIN by 4Players: Immersive, state-of-the-art in-game audio launches into the next generation of gaming
-
EEG iGaming Directory8 years ago
iSoftBet continues to grow with new release Forest Mania
-
News7 years ago
Softbroke collaborates with Asia Live Tech for the expansion of the service line in the igaming market
-
News6 years ago
Super Bowl LIII: NFL Fans Can Bet on the #1 Sportsbook Review Site Betting-Super-Bowl.com, Providing Free Unbiased and Trusted News, Picks and Predictions
-
iGaming Industry7 years ago
Rick Meitzler appointed to the Indian Gaming Magazine Advisory Board for 2018
-
News6 years ago
REVEALED: Top eSports players set to earn $3.2 million in 2019
-
iGaming Industry7 years ago
French Senator raises Loot Boxes to France’s Gambling Regulator
-
News7 years ago
Exclusive Interview with Miklos Handa (Founder of the email marketing solutions, “MailMike.net”), speaker at Vienna International Gaming Expo 2018
