Eastern Europe
SBC Summit Tbilisi 2024 Promises Growth and a Deep-Dive into Eastern Europe & Central Asia
SBC Summit Tbilisi is poised to reclaim the spotlight on 25-26 June at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, marking its early return after a highly successful inaugural edition in October 2023.
1,500 senior sports betting and iGaming executives will reconvene in the heart of Georgia’s capital, to solidify their foothold in the promising markets of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, while gaining invaluable insights into the nuances that shape industry dynamics.
SBC has once again partnered with SMH to organise SBC Summit Tbilisi, continuing the event’s partnership that began with the SBC Summit CIS in Kyiv in 2021. SMH is an international iGaming and sports management organisation based in Georgia, bringing valuable local knowledge to an event that incorporates unique elements reflective of the vibrant Eastern European and Central Asian markets.
Lasha Machavariani, Founder and CEO of SMH, said: “I’m thrilled that the SBC Summit Tbilisi is making a comeback to my beautiful home country of Georgia. Witnessing all the engaging conversations and networking that took place last year filled me with pride, affirming that the effort that goes into organising an event of this calibre is absolutely and undoubtedly worthwhile.
“Offering a platform for those keen on Eastern European and Central Asian markets feels not only rewarding but also essential, especially given all the buzz in these markets we’re diving into. If this event wasn’t on your radar yet, now’s the perfect time to start considering it.”
Andrew McCarron, Managing Director at SBC, commented: “Operators, suppliers and affiliates who want to make a mark in the region simply have to attend SBC Summit Tbilisi if they are going to compete successfully. These markets are tricky to thrive in without local knowledge, which is why SBC has partnered with SMH in order to provide the platform for companies to perform effectively.”
Centered on these dynamic regions, the event promises an in-depth exploration of key markets, including Georgia, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan and Slovenia among others, and guarantees to be a melting pot of ideas and strategies tailored for these geographically diverse regions. The conference agenda will focus on trends including the new regulatory landscapes in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the influence of innovations from crypto to AI, and new developments in eSports, payments, and influencer marketing, among other topics.
Last year, the host country had a strong operator presence during the inaugural summit, with industry leaders like Adjarabet, Betlive, Crocobet, Europebet, Leaderbet, LVBet, Superbet, TotoGaming and Vbet making their mark.
Past event attendees responded exceptionally well to the inaugural edition of the event. Tereza Tokmajyan, CMO of TotoGaming, called it an ‘excellent opportunity for operators and service providers from the region.’ Dmitry Starostenkov, CEO of EvenBet Gaming, described it as “featuring a very active and representative audience, outstanding topics, and speakers”. Additionally, Vakhtang Mdivani, CPO and Co-Founder of Promofy, praised the event, expressing: “Hosting such an exceptional event in Georgia for the first time and setting the bar so high was truly awesome”.
This year’s show floor is set to be significantly larger, featuring over 60 exhibitors and sponsors, effectively doubling the count from the previous year. Moreover, there is an anticipated 70% growth in the count of operator representatives, and affiliate representatives are poised to experience a 50% increase compared to the figures reported last year.
To cater to the growing interest, this year’s event will expand its agenda, commencing with a half-day conference on the opening day (25 June). This addition brings the total number of featured speakers to 60, marking a significant 50% increase from last year.
The first day will feature a poker tournament followed by the Official Opening Party sponsored by Setanta Sports, taking place at Stamba Hotel. On the second day, a VIP dinner exclusively for C-level executives will be held at the Republic Restaurant, followed by a Closing Party at the Republic Event Hall.
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Soft2Bet has launched Swiper, Romania’s first online casino built around the swipe-driven design of social media apps. Designed for mobile users, Swiper blends intuitive navigation with casino gaming, making it easy for players to browse, choose, and enjoy thousands of titles with a simple swipe.
The product embraces a rising trend that brings together the best of casino entertainment and mobile gaming dynamics — fast, engaging, and tailored to today’s digital habits. At the heart of the project is short-form video content, a format familiar to all mobile users, which enhances interactivity and keeps the experience dynamic and immersive.
With over 75% of global users engaging with mobile applications for entertainment, Swiper meets players where they already are. Its interactive interface replicates intuitive gestures from known social apps, enabling users to effortlessly explore and customize their gaming universe, while the design caters to the mobile-native generation and reflects a keen awareness of evolving digital user behavior.
Fully powered by Soft2Bet’s proprietary MEGA (Motivational Engineering Gaming Application) technology, Swiper redefines user engagement, creating immersive, personalised interactions with every swipe. MEGA, developed entirely in-house by Soft2Bet, represents an independent and innovative technology dedicated to enhancing traditional gaming experiences with missions, challenges, and quests that encourage players to stay engaged for longer, increasing screen time and LTV.
The launch in the Romanian market builds upon Soft2Bet’s recent success with Don.Ro, a brand that was recently recognised as the “Best Launch of the Year 2024” at the 12th Meeting of Gambling Professionals by Casino Inside magazine. Leveraging the same powerful technology stack that propelled Don.Ro to prominence, Soft2Bet again demonstrates how its platform excellence consistently translates into compelling new market entries.
“As a leader in the iGaming industry, we know how to build strong brands, understand what our players truly want, and deliver products that resonate,” highlighted Yoel Zuckerberg, Chief Product Officer at Soft2Bet. “Our B2C launches serve as proof of concept for the strength of our technology, data-driven insights, and market knowledge. Swiper is a clear example of this approach in action, offering a standout experience tailored to Romanian players.”
Swiper introduces several key features to local players :
- One-handed swipe navigation for rapid game discovery
- Over 3000 Games, 50 Roulette tables, 120 Blackjack tables, table games, and live casino offerings
- Over 85,000 live and 70,000 pre-match sports betting events covering diverse sports markets with competitive odds
- Localised promotions tied directly to Romanian events and holidays
- The design is adapted to local player preferences and cultural context
Zuckerberg further commented, “Customer experience is our top priority. We know what today’s players want—they value speed, simplicity, and familiarity. With Swiper’s social approach, we’re excited to see how this fresh UI/UX impacts engagement and loyalty.”
Operating under a Class I licence from Romania’s National Gambling Office (ONJN), Swiper, powered by Soft2Bet’s expertise across 19 licences and 11 jurisdictions, guarantees a regulated, safe, and responsible gaming environment that meets stringent international standards. This strong regulatory foundation not only builds credibility for Swiper but also reflects Soft2Bet’s commitment to redefining modern gaming through scalable, innovative, data-driven solutions that enhance player retention across regulated markets, as evidenced by the success of brands like Betinia, CampoBet, QuickCasino, Don.ro, ElaBet, ToonieBet and others.
Launch video:
The post Soft2Bet Unveils Romania’s First Social Media-Inspired Casino and Betting Platform appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Through this partnership, Digitain will deliver scalable sportsbook technology to enhance 888 Romania’s offerings.
Digitain, a leading sportsbook and iGaming solutions provider, is proud to announce a new partnership with 888 Romania, a key brand within the globally recognized Evoke PLC.
This partnership will see Digitain power 888 Romania with its award-winning Sportsbook, further elevating the betting experience for its players. The flexible, customizable platform allows for a tailored experience across channels and languages, underscoring Digitain’s commitment to delivering innovative and engaging sportsbook solutions to the Romanian market.
Vardges Vardanyan, Founder of Digitain, commented: “We are proud to partner with 888 Romania and provide them with our industry-leading Sportsbook. This collaboration reflects Digitain’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, flexible, and fully customizable sportsbook technology for leading operators across regulated markets.
By combining our expertise with 888 Romania’s strong market presence, we are confident this partnership will elevate the betting experience, offer unparalleled value to players, and set a new standard for sportsbook solutions in the region.”
Dragos Buriu, Founder and Director of NGS, commented: “Partnering with Digitain is a strategic step in enhancing our sports offering for Romanian players on 888.ro. Digitain’s bespoke technology, flexibility, and deep market expertise will allow us to deliver an even stronger and more localized sports betting experience. This partnership ensures that our platform remains competitive, innovative, and aligned with player expectations. We look forward to a successful collaboration that benefits both our companies.”
This agreement marks another milestone in Digitain’s growth strategy, strengthening its footprint in regulated European markets and advancing its reputation as a trusted technology partner for leading global operators. By delivering scalable and adaptable sportsbook solutions, Digitain continues to empower operators like 888 Romania to offer enhanced betting experiences, respond quickly to market trends, and remain at the forefront of innovation in the iGaming industry.
The post Digitain Secures Strategic Partnership with 888 Romania appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has adopted a resolution on licensing conditions in the gambling sector, which allows the state agency PlayCity to begin issuing licenses to gambling organisers and confirming previously issued ones.
“As a result, this will generate almost UAH 50 million (1.028.956,00 Euro) in additional revenues to the state budget from license fees in the near future,” PlayCity reported on Telegram.
It is noted that to obtain a license, impeccable business reputation, lack of ties with the aggressor state and implementation of all necessary mechanisms for responsible gaming are required.
PlayCity clarified that such requirements apply to both those who are only applying for a license and current licensees. Current licensees have two months to submit documents to PlayCity on compliance with the requirements.
The message emphasises that if the requirements are not met, sanctions in the form of fines or termination of the license may be applied to the organisers of gambling.
“The state will direct additional budget revenues to strengthen defense capabilities, in particular, to purchase drones for the Defense Forces,” PlayCity added.
The post Ukraine’s PlayCity Begins Issuing Licenses to Gambling Operators appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Belatra7 days agoWeek 40/2025 slot games releases
-
Africa4 days ago
SportPesa Goes Pink for 2025 October Breast Cancer Awareness Month
-
Eastern Europe4 days ago
Soft2Bet Unveils Romania’s First Social Media-Inspired Casino and Betting Platform
-
Frooty Troupe Sun Splash.4 days ago
GAMOMAT launches its new Frooty Troupe series with feel-good slot Sun Splash
-
Online7 days agoOnline Casino Bonuses USA: High 5 Casino’s New Welcome Bonus
-
booth 5028-23 days ago
Redefine the Rules: GR8 Tech’s Heavyweight Rulebook Lands at SiGMA Central Europe 2025
-
Compliance Updates3 days ago
BETBY JOINS ESIC AS OFFICIAL TIER 1 ANTI-CORRUPTION PARTNER
-
Balkans4 days ago
Tom Horn Gaming expands European footprint with Mr Bit
