Africa
Emerging Markets: Opportunities and Strategies for iGaming Expansion
Itai Zak, Digicode’s Executive Director of iGaming at Digicode, shares how the company seamlessly connects client needs with customized strategies.
The iGaming industry is standing on the threshold of one of the most remarkable transformations as emerging markets have become accessible. Both LATAM (Latin America) and Africa are unique opportunities but also come with special challenges for iGaming operators. In this article, promising emerging markets will be explored alongside effective strategies for entry and expansion, according to expert insights.
Promising Emerging Markets
LATAM (Latin America)
Brazil is one of the important focal points in LATAM, considering that it has a huge population base accompanied by a developing middle class. It is rewriting the regulatory landscape concerning online gambling, and recent developments in the case show a much more structured approach. With the market opening up, Brazil is on course to emerge as the iGaming hotbed of investments. However, operators have to keep a close watch on regulatory changes and be ready to tweak strategies accordingly.
Mexico and Colombia are on their way to regulated iGaming markets. In this respect, the very lucrative gaming market of Mexico and the already established regime of regulatory control over Colombian gambling make these markets quite attractive for expansion. The key to succeeding in those markets would be to tailor products according to local taste and to navigate the regulatory requirements.
South Africa: Growth of the iGaming market in this African country is leading the pace. The mature regulatory environment and quite good digital infrastructure established in the country provide a stable platform for iGaming ventures. Other than the mature regulatory environment, companies entering South Africa would benefit from its relatively easy-to-navigate regulatory framework and a growing player base.
Nigeria and Kenya: Nigeria and Kenya are the two countries that are developing as the main claimants to the African iGaming scene. With large populations and growing internet access, these markets offer huge opportunities for growth. However, the regulatory environment in these countries is at an emerging stage and can be quite challenging. While the companies at the forefront keep a close vigil on these changing times, operators have to update themselves about the new regulations and develop strategies in keeping with local conditions. Manuscript Details
Successful Strategies to Enter and Succeed in the Market
-
In-Depth Research
It becomes imperative to understand local preferences and player behavior in emerging markets. Operators can then narrow down key trends from comprehensive market research and amend their product offerings accordingly to suit the local taste. This would include cultural nuances, gaming preferences, and legal requirements. Companies will want to modify their approach to make themselves more appealing and competitive within these markets; this should be aligned according to these local insights.
-
Local Partnerships
Market entry is contingent upon local strategic partnerships. This could include local operators, technology providers, or regulatory experts that make it easier to navigate the regulatory environment to fast-track the entry process. The value brought about by local partners in terms of market dynamics insights is immense and could build credibility among local players. Regulatory Compliance
Now, from the legal perspective, operations in emerging markets come under the purview of local regulations. A company has to keep itself updated with changing regulations and comply with all legal requirements, such as obtaining necessary licenses, proper KYC and AML policies in place, and protection of data. If they fail to do so, they will be met not only with legal problems but also threats against their brand image.
-
Localized Marketing and Customer Support
Developing marketing strategies that resonate with the local audience is the key to player acquisition and retention. It’s all about binding the player to the brand through tailored promotions, localizing payment methods, and culturally relevant content. Moreover, customer support in a local language improves the player’s rating of satisfaction and loyalty.
-
Mobile Optimization
In many developing markets, mobile is the leading source of internet access. Optimizing platforms for use on mobile enables reach and engagement for players. This includes responsive design, fast load times, and ease of use. A good mobile experience is very important to retain interest and reduce player churn.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
-
Innovate Constantly
In case one wants to be competitive, continuous innovation is a must. The new technologies, like AI-driven personalization and blockchain integration, advanced data analytics, shall be embraced to enhance the gaming experience. These innovations help in the offer of tailored game recommendations, provision of transparency, and gaining better insights into the player’s preferences.
-
Personalization and Engagement at the Forefront
Personalized gaming experiences are core to player retention. AI and data analytics afford the potential of individual game recommendations, dynamic bonuses, and personal customer support—players feel valued and engaged. The creation of an engaging experience, through personalization, can increase substantially loyalty and lifetime value.
-
Agile and Scalable Solutions
Such flexible and scalable platforms let companies quickly adapt to market changes and regulatory requirements. This forms a critical enabler for entry into new markets and competitive positioning. Scalable solutions ensure that, with growing demand, the increasing traffic and the addition of new features to the platform do not come with degraded performance.
-
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Partnerships with industry leaders, technology providers, and creators will genuinely develop offerings and increase their reach in the market. Such strategic partnerships will fuel innovation and give a competitive edge to the entities entering into the joint venture. Collaborations can also facilitate entry into newer markets and assimilate the latest technologies into the platform.
Future Outlook
The future of iGaming in emerging markets is, therefore, bright. Regulatory environments are slowly getting their frameworks in place, and a further improvement in digital infrastructure will unleash a wide range of opportunities for those who dare to invest in these areas. With proactive positioning, embracing technology, and more locally-geared strategies, iGaming operators can navigate the challenges and maximize growth potential in these dynamic markets.
iGaming Market Expansion in Emerging Markets: A Complex yet Potential Fertile Ground. To sum it up, one has to rely on market research, develop local partnerships, and be agile in compliance with regulations while continuously innovating to best capture the ever-budding opportunities such markets bring forth.
At Digicode, we’re seizing the opportunities in emerging markets, bringing our innovative gaming solutions to new audiences around the globe. As the result – we ensure our clients can confidently expand into these exciting new markets, turning challenges into opportunities for success. So the time to turn untapped potential into real growth is now and we’re here to support you throughout this journey.
Leading distributor for emerging markets announces the fulfilment of its new dedicated role for East Africa, based in Kenya
QTech Games, the leading game aggregator for all emerging markets, has recruited Agatha Wanjugu for the new role of Sales Manager for East Africa, as it continues its concerted push into the African market.
Based in Kenya, Agatha joins QTech Games after successful stints at iGaming Afrika, where she served with distinction as Business Development Manager – and, more recently, Pragmatic Play where she spent several years as Account Manager for Africa. In this previous position, she routinely proved herself in both account management and business development capacities, building and maintaining enduring client relationships, collaborating with sales forces and technical departments to optimise the overall customer experience.
This experience has seen Agatha establish a reputation as a natural leader with a communicative and consultative approach. Her igaming insights and recommendations for the region have helped deliver on revenue targets and inform strategic guidance, advancing the sales cycle and populating its pipeline with new leads.
Now Agatha brings those transferable skills to bear at the sector’s leading aggregator for developing markets, where she will be responsible for managing and growing QTech’s existing partners in East Africa.
QTech Games CEO, Philip Doftvik, said: “We’re thrilled that Agatha is already underway in her new role at QTech Games, as we train our sights and broaden our scope across East Africa. She is a precocious and natural sales lead and account manager, with the ability to develop client growth or retention strategies.
“She’ll be a true asset to both QTech Games and all our clients, as we grow in Africa to make it a substantial part of our total revenue mix. We have high growth ambitions here in the coming years. Ultimately, we want to dominate and build a stellar and agile brand in the region.”
Agatha Wanjugu added: “I’m excited to be starting at QTech Games, and really feel they have given me the support to put my shoulder to the wheel for expansion in this bubbling and evolving marketplace.
“I’ll be responsible for managing QTech’s existing East African partners, alongside stewarding our expansion into neighbouring local territories. I’ve always based my business relationships on the ability to add value. Working with QTech, I’ve not only found a string of products that complement the different igaming verticals but also a strong, experienced team who are client-focused and always eager to make it work for the client.”
The post QTech Games recruits Agatha Wanjugu as Sales Manager for East Africa appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Sponsorship deal announced ahead of headline Dillian Whyte bout in Saudi Arabia
Bet9ja – Nigeria’s leading sportsbook, powered by Logifuture – has announced a partnership with heavyweight boxing sensation Moses Itauma.
Itauma, a 20-year-old British fighter of Nigerian descent, has rapidly become one of boxing’s most compelling figures, with an unbeaten professional record, having stopped 10 of his 12 opponents since turning professional in 2023.
The sponsorship deal comes as Itauma prepares for the biggest fight of his career – against Britain’s Dillian Whyte in a headline bout in Saudi Arabia on Saturday (August 16).
Bet9ja’s logo will be prominently displayed on Itauma’s training gear, as well as his ringside team’s clothing during fights. He is also contributing to a series of videos and digital content that fans will enjoy via Bet9ja’s social channels.
For Bet9ja, this sponsorship reflects their deep commitment to supporting Nigerian excellence in sports. As Nigeria’s number one sportsbook, Bet9ja, with Logifuture’s cutting-edge technology and marketing power behind it, continues to push boundaries.
Earlier this year, Bet9ja announced its renewed support for Nigeria national football team’s “Let’s Do It Again” campaign in the build up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Bet9ja is powered by Logifuture, a leading provider of iGaming products, including Simulate and Zoom Soccer – flagship virtual sports titles that are transforming the way sports fans engage with their favourite sports, while providing increased revenues and consistent margins for operators.
Itauma said: “I’m delighted to be working with Bet9ja as I prepare for the biggest fight of my career so far. My Nigerian heritage and family have always been a source of pride, and this partnership is a powerful connection to my roots. I look forward to bringing my championship belts back to my father’s homeland.”
Logifuture Head of Content and Social Media Tom Beck said: “Moses Itauma is one of the most exciting young talents in global boxing.
“Moses has spoken about the strength he draws from his Nigerian roots and that makes him a natural fit for Bet9ja. For fans, he represents something special; a proud symbol of Nigerian toughness, talent and ambition on the global stage.
“Supporting his success means a lot to Logifuture and Bet9ja, and even more to our audience. We are looking forward to helping to share his journey with fans by providing exclusive access and behind-the-scenes content as he continues to build his reputation as one of the most explosive young fighters on the planet.”
Ayo Ojuroye, CEO of Bet9ja, said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Moses Itauma to the Bet9ja family. Moses embodies the spirit of resilience, power, and relentless pursuit of greatness that we champion. His Nigerian roots and global ambition make him a perfect fit for Bet9ja’s vision of empowering champions and delivering world-class player experiences. Partnering with Logifuture, we continue to elevate the standards of engagement in Nigerian sports.”
The post Logifuture-powered Bet9ja partners with heavyweight boxing sensation Moses Itauma appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Leading online gaming firm SportPesa announced a 15 million (116.207,00 US Dollar) title sponsorship package for the 2025 National Sevens Circuit (NSC) taking place across five towns from July to September.
The sponsorship, renewed for the third consecutive year, will see the gaming giant retain the title sponsorship with the circuit once again being named the SportPesa National Sevens Circuit.
Speaking during the launch held at the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) headquarters at the RFUEA Grounds, SportPesa Public Relations and Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang reiterated the firm’s commitment to supporting the local action on top of their existing sponsorship with the men’s national rugby 7s side.
“On behalf of SportPesa, our commitment to rugby goes without saying. Our CEO Ronald Karauri says no one does sports better than we do. For 3 years in a row, SportPesa has been not only part and parcel of supporting the national rugby team but also the local circuit and the impact has been unmatched,” he said.
During the launch, Ojwang also announced an exciting package that will see the sponsorship cater for top-notch livestreaming of the action in all six legs which will help viewers from around the world to follow the action and give exposure to players.
“Last year we had an existing structure but this year we are working on the livestream and broadcast area. For the first time, we will have a streamlined livestream experience just to expose the players and to cater to all the fans worldwide,” he announced.
KRU Chairperson Harriet Okatch expressed gratitude towards SportPesa for walking the journey with rugby and for coming on board as the sponsors for the circuit.
“Your support couldn’t have come at a better time. This circuit marks the beginning of our journey to qualify both our men’s and women’s teams for HSBC Tier 1 status next year. We are more than confident than ever that Kenya will rise again on the global stage,” she noted.
KRU Director of Rugby Paul Odera emphasized on the importance of the circuit which will be used as a pathway to the national teams.
“It has been exciting and interesting to prepare for this year’s circuit which began with a seminar with national team coaches and players on expectations for them on pathways to the national team.”
The post SportPesa Sponsors National 7s Circuit 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Africa6 days agoLogifuture-powered Bet9ja partners with heavyweight boxing sensation Moses Itauma
-
Balkans6 days ago
Amusnet Named Leading Software Company in Bulgaria
-
Central Europe6 days ago
Brightstar Lottery Upgrades Retail Central System for Lotto Saxony in Germany via New Seven-Year Contract
-
Australia5 days ago
Tracy Parker Joins Judging Panel for Inaugural RTG Global Awards
-
AU10TIX6 days agoAU10TIX Launches Free Assessment Tool and Readiness Guide to Help Organizations Navigate Child Safety Age Assurance Compliance
-
Australia5 days ago
JCM Global Celebrates 70 Years of Industry-leading Innovation at AGE
-
Asia5 days ago
Philippine Senate to Launch Inquiry into Online Gaming industry
-
Australia6 days ago
BMM Testlabs Brings Global Compliance Expertise to Australasian Gaming Expo in Sydney This Week
