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Pythia Sports Stephen Davison on the crucial role of risk management for Racing1 Markets

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Congratulations on becoming the exclusive pricing and risk management supplier for Racing1 Markets. How important is this partnership for Pythia Sports?

This is a major milestone for us, and cements our position as a key racing innovation partner. This agreement sets us apart from our competition in the space, because we’re directly partnered with the four major rights holders in horse racing, which reinforces our position as a trusted partner. Horse racing is still a massive revenue driver for sportsbooks, often second only to soccer, and for one of our clients, regularly their highest trading volume sport. Offering an exciting and engaging experience for our customers is key and through the use of our new plug-and-play iFrame, running alongside our API integration, this new partnership will deliver a tier-one racing product for all our clients. These different delivery routes allow clients the flexibility to choose what best suits their needs for a horse racing and greyhounds solution.

 

Can you tell us a bit about how the overall Racing1 and Racing1 Markets alliance works and what Pythia’s role in it is?

Racing1 was put together by the four main global rights holders; 1/ST Content, Arena Racing Company [ARC], Racecourse Media Group (RMG), and Tabcorp. Those companies formed an alliance to consolidate their rights and deliver their content together internationally. Racing1 then agrees distribution deals for their content around the world.

Racing1 Markets is a fully outsourced racing solution, and Pythia is the risk management component of the partnership. When you combine Racing1’s core content package and Pythia’s racing solution, operators have a product that gives access to all the rights from those four rights holders, along with our pricing and risk management services, uniquely and exclusively via just 1 contract and 1 integration – making it the only one-stop shop solution on the market.

 

Did you have an existing relationship with ARC before the launch of Racing1 Markets? If so, how has that changed?

Yes, we have a long-standing relationship with ARC. The rebrand simplifies it so that it’s clear to operators they can find everything under one roof.

All the rights are now being packaged into one integration. That means sportsbooks don’t have to go and speak to each rights holder individually. They can simply speak to Racing1 and can then have a fully-packaged racing operation ready to go.

 

How does this tie in with Pythia Sports’ ambitions as a company this year?

We have very big ambitions this year and this is certainly the first step towards achieving those. Ideally, we want to take the product to as many partners as possible. We now have the iFrame solution, which is new for us and makes the integration process smoother and quicker for those with no front end solution for horse racing. We’re in the middle of exploring lots of exciting partnerships right now, and we should be in a position to announce those in the not-too-distant future, so watch this space.

 

What makes Pythia Sports’ pricing and risk management stand out above similar solutions in the market?

We’ve always been known for our specific expertise in the fields of horse racing and greyhound racing. We’ve been delivering healthy margins to operators as a B2B supplier for more than five years now but as a business we have experience that spans decades. In my opinion, our pricing algorithms are the strongest in the market, and we also want to make sure we offer the best customer experience. We’re excited to introduce several additions to our offering in 2025 and look forward to showcasing them to our current and potential partners throughout the year.

 

What are some current trends that Pythia Sports should be aware of?

We’ve witnessed the growth in revenue that our award-winning in-play product has been able to bring to the industry, and we’re excited to build on that growth, not just with additional markets, but also with greater on-screen content to support the in-play experience and make it easier for customers to make judgements during the race.

Following that theme, we’re focused on a mantra to “simplify and inform” across our product offering. Racing can be a challenging problem for customers to solve, so we want to place all the information at their fingertips. Early this year, in both greyhounds and horse racing, we’ll be rolling out enhanced form guides by aggregating race history into useful stats, badges and comments, while giving customers better data on which to make informed betting decisions.

SGP and Bet Builders have grown turnover and profitability in many sports, and our new Bet Builder product will be launching this year too. This will offer new opportunities for growth, both for avid fans, who can construct a bet based on exactly how they see a race playing out; through to more recreational bettors, who want the opportunity to win big from smaller stakes. That will work hand in hand with our enhanced form, highlighting market trends and opportunities in real time, and allowing bettors to really build a bet for any narrative.

 

How was exhibiting at ICE 2025 for Pythia Sports?

This year was the first time we’ve had a stand as part of Racing1, which was a great experience. As part of Racing1 Markets, we are the only provider to offer the complete package of data, risk management services and media rights, in just 1 contract and 1 integration. That is our USP and ICE provided the perfect setting for us to be able to discuss that. The interest in horse racing was as high as it has ever been, and there remains a global appetite for it among companies who clearly appreciate its importance as a product.

The post Pythia Sports Stephen Davison on the crucial role of risk management for Racing1 Markets appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Bohdan Bulatsan CTO of the Communications Hub

Inside RedCore’s Communications Hub: The One-Integration Solution Powering Faster, Smarter Messaging

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European Gaming Media visited RedCore’s impressive multi-brand booth at SiGMA Central Europe in Rome to take a closer look at one of their most technically impactful products: the Communications Hub. Designed as an all-in-one solution for digital businesses, the Communications Hub aggregates multiple verified communication providers – from SMS and calls to high-volume messaging services – into a single platform with one integration and one admin panel.

To explore the technology behind the product, we sat down with Bohdan Bulatsan, CTO of the Communications Hub and a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of experience.

 

At iGaming, speed and reliability are everything. How does Communications Hub keep messages flowing flawlessly even under pressure?

We have developed a new engine designed specifically to keep our customers’ messages moving smoothly, even during high-pressure periods. One of the key features is our block-geo  mechanism, which allows account managers to block certain message types or specific regions when needed.

Combined with our backup system and intelligent routing, this ensures that messages continue to reach their destination reliably, no matter the load or external pressure.

You’ve made adding new providers incredibly fast. What’s the secret sauce behind this ‘integration magic’?

Our technical team is constantly improving the integration process because it’s a core priority for us. One of the main reasons we can move so fast is our universal SDK (Software Development Kit). It includes all the common features and connection points that most providers rely on, so when we start an integration, we can do it quickly and efficiently.

We also run strict pre-integration tests to catch any potential issues before going live. All of this makes the entire process smoother, more reliable, and much faster for our clients.

With so much analytics coming from every channel, how do you turn all that data into actionable insights for businesses?

That’s a good question. Our analytics model brings together all the data from every service and communication channel and aggregates it in one place. This makes it much easier for our customers to filter, understand, and work with the information quickly.

Because everything is centralized, businesses can see the full picture and make faster, more informed decisions that directly support their growth and profitability.

How is SiGMA going for the Communications Hub? What’s your feedback from the event and what are your plans for the future?

SiGMA has been a very good event for us. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from visitors and participants, which is always great to see. Looking ahead, our focus is on expanding the product even further, adding new features and continuing to scale the Communications Hub to meet the needs of our clients.

The post Inside RedCore’s Communications Hub: The One-Integration Solution Powering Faster, Smarter Messaging appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Assessing the Greek iGaming market’s potential

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Greece has quickly become one of Europe’s most closely watched regulated iGaming markets, blending high player engagement with an increasingly mature licensing framework. In this roundtable, Christos Zoulianitis, Chief Commercial Officer at ENJOY, Tassos Theocharidis Senior Sales Executive at Altenar, and Iulian Nedelcu, Account Manager at 3 Oaks Gaming examine the market’s evolution, the trends shaping Greek player behaviour, and the opportunities now open to operators and suppliers, while assessing the regulatory and commercial challenges that will define the next phase of growth.

How has the Greek iGaming market developed over the past few years, and what changes have made the biggest difference?

C: The Greek iGaming market has transformed significantly in a relatively short time. The introduction of a clear and consistent licensing framework has provided the stability needed for long-term growth, giving both operators and suppliers the confidence to invest. From a supplier’s perspective, this regulatory clarity has been instrumental in attracting greater innovation and competition. The influx of new licensees underlines the market’s growing appeal, confirming Greece’s status as one of Europe’s most dynamic regulated markets.

T: Following the launch of Greece’s regulated market in 2021, it has stabilised significantly, with more than two dozen licensed operators now active and licensed by the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC). Four years on, Greece’s GGR has grown by more than 25%, with online platforms powering that growth. Since obtaining our Greek licence in May last year, we have witnessed its high potential, with the market’s regulated GGR reaching €751.6 million. This demonstrates the huge potential for licensed operators and suppliers looking to achieve growth in the jurisdiction.

I: The Greek iGaming market has gone from something that seems like the “wild west” to a fully regulated playground. The biggest game-changer was licensing – suddenly, both players and operators knew the rules of engagement. Combine that with stricter compliance, stronger player protections, and improved tech infrastructure, and you have got a market that feels solid and sustainable, one that has matured into a competitive environment where quality and localisation matter more than ever. In short, regulation has turned something that seemed chaotic into a place of ample opportunity.

From a player perspective, what trends or behaviours stand out in Greece compared to other European markets?

C: Greek players are among the most passionate and engaged in Europe, particularly in sports betting and casino entertainment. There is a strong demand for immersive, entertainment-led experiences, especially within live casino and slots. Localisation plays a major role in the live environment – Greek-speaking presenters, for instance, drive deeper connection and retention. Interestingly, while tailored live content performs strongly, slots with wider European themes also enjoy success without the need for heavy localisation. Overall, Greek players are highly discerning and place strong emphasis on quality, fairness and trust – often judging an operator by the strength of the suppliers it partners with.

T: Greek players exhibit distinctive behaviours compared to other European markets, with a rich history of playing games of chance. Sports betting, particularly football and basketball, remains the most popular vertical, and contributes nearly half of all online wagering turnover. There has also been a strong uptake of mobile and live products. Over 60% of iGaming activity now occurs via smartphones, and in-play betting has become one of the key engagement drivers.

This is an area we have heavily invested in at Altenar, and our intelligent bet acceptance logic has improved the user experience by minimising the number of bets which are rejected due to a live bet delay. The unique algorithm means bets can still be placed during a live event if there is no significant change to the odds. The use of official data from the industry’s leading providers also helps to ensure live betting windows are extended and cashout availability is improved.

Compared to other European markets like Italy or France, Greek players tend to bet smaller amounts but more frequently, emphasising the social and entertainment value of betting over purely transactional motives.

I: Greek players are passionate and extremely loyal, they gravitate toward engaging features and jackpots, but what really sets them apart is their appetite for localised content and games that feel culturally familiar, relevant and immersive. They want entertainment with personality, not just another spin on the reels. When features speak the language of Greek players, both culturally and experientially, they drive ongoing engagement rather than a single interaction.

What opportunities do you think the Greek market will offer in the coming years?

T: In line with expected annual growth of around 3.5% up to 2029, the market presents significant opportunities in several areas, and is expanding with a highly engaged player base, long-standing cultural acceptance of gambling and well-developed technical infrastructure.

More so than ever, localisation is key, with Greek language support and tailored payment systems in high demand. Additionally, retail-to-online integration and software expertise are essential to help operators compete.

I:
The opportunities are plentiful if you play it smart. Mobile-first experiences will dominate, as Greek players increasingly engage on the go. Localised campaigns alongside tailored jackpots and features will set successful brands apart. There is also room for growth in gamification and responsible play tools, which are increasingly valued. In short, the companies that succeed will be those that combine smart innovation with a genuine understanding of Greek player preferences. A generic slot experience simply is not enough anymore.

C: As more casinos go live under licence, competition is intensifying, opening fresh opportunities for content providers to help operators stand out. Exclusive titles, premium live content, and branded formats are all becoming key differentiators. For suppliers, there is also scope to add value through localised experiences and innovative promotional features that enhance engagement. With a robust regulatory base and consistent year-on-year growth, Greece is shaping up to be one of Europe’s most promising markets for operators and suppliers alike.

Looking ahead, what hurdles do you think the market will face in the coming years?

T: Despite growth, the market faces some structural challenges. High taxation, with GGR tax rates of up to 35%, among Europe’s highest, compresses operator margins. Meanwhile, illegal gambling continues to siphon away 10% of total wagers, prompting the HGC to establish a dedicated task force to curb unregulated activity.

The need for a refreshed regulatory framework has also become urgent. The HGC itself has noted the limitations of the current structure and advocates for a system ‘built from the ground up’ to align with international best practices.

I: The hurdles are quite clear: stricter regulations, heavier compliance burdens, market saturation, and the not-so-small matter of Greek taxation. Operators will also need to constantly balance innovation with responsibility. Yes, players want excitement, but regulators want safety. Add in fierce competition, and the market can feel like a marathon. The key challenge will be differentiation and standing out without cutting any corners. Those who prioritise sustainable strategy, localised insight and long-term trust will be the ones who move ahead.

C: Despite the strong trajectory, the market is not without its challenges. High taxation, rising operational costs, and strict compliance requirements all put pressure on margins – particularly for smaller operators and studios. Suppliers also face lengthy approval processes from the HGC, which, since 2023, have become more time-consuming. Even so, these measures ultimately uphold market integrity and professionalism, helping to ensure Greece’s long-term sustainability as a regulated market.

With factors such as high taxes and increasing competition, how do you see these shaping the future of the Greek iGaming market?

I: High taxes and competition may seem like a headache, but they are in fact forcing the industry to evolve. Margins are tighter, so operators must focus on efficiency, smarter marketing, and player retention rather than quick wins. Competition, meanwhile, drives creativity and innovation – only the best survive. The result? A leaner, more sophisticated market where localisation, responsible play, and strong brand identity separate the leaders from the pack.

C: These pressures are likely to accelerate the market’s evolution towards greater maturity. Operators will prioritise sustainable growth, efficient operations, and long-term partnerships with trusted suppliers. High-quality, localised content will remain a central advantage, while innovation in promotions and player engagement will continue to separate market leaders from the rest. Despite the challenges, the steady influx of new licensees and consistently high player demand underscore Greece’s strong potential – a compact yet high-performing market that continues to deliver impressive annual results.

T: In the years ahead, Greece’s iGaming ecosystem will reflect the tension between innovation and regulation. High competition and tax pressure will likely push smaller firms out of the market, favouring operators that invest in responsible gaming, advanced technology, and product differentiation.

However, the fundamentals remain promising. With high internet penetration, a digitally engaged population, a clear licensing regime, and a growing reputation as a Mediterranean hub for gaming innovation, Greece’s iGaming market is well-positioned to sustain steady, high-quality growth.

The post Assessing the Greek iGaming market’s potential appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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The Brains Behind Predictive Fraud: How Frogo Turns Risk into Growth

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Fraud is evolving fast and businesses need more than reactive tools – they need a partner that can predict, prevent and adapt in real time. Frogo, the all-in-one fraud prevention platform, RedCore’s brand, is doing exactly that. From device fingerprinting and AI-powered scoring engines to graph-based forensic tools, Frogo empowers businesses to reduce losses, streamline processes and grow with confidence.

We spoke with Maksym Tkach, CTO at Frogo, about the company’s approach to fraud prevention, model management, transparency and how it’s preparing for next-generation threats.

 

How does Frogo ensure transparency and auditability while running a scoring engine and how do you balance that with real-time performance?

Transparency and speed don’t have to be at odds, we achieve this through careful architecture design. Every decision our system makes is fully traceable. If a transaction is flagged, we don’t just provide a score. We log the full context: the specific policy executed, all input variables and features and human-readable reasons that explain exactly which triggers were activated.

Yet, detailed logging doesn’t slow down the process. Our core decisioning engine responds in milliseconds, while the full audit details are published asynchronously to a message bus and stored separately. This ensures our partners get immediate responses without compromising traceability for our analysts.

How does Frogo manage model drift and concept drift across multiple fraud domains? What strategies ensure seamless retraining or evolution of your models?

Fraud is constantly evolving, so our system must adapt. We take a multi-layered approach:

Drift Detection: We monitor incoming data for inconsistencies, leverage anomaly detection within our rule engine and actively use partner feedback to identify potential issues early.

Seamless Retraining: When a model needs updating, we follow a ‘champion-challenger’ approach. The challenger model is backtested against historical data, shadow-tested in live traffic without affecting decisions and only promoted after proving its superiority.

This structured process allows us to maintain performance, adapt to new threats and minimize any impact on our partners’ operations.

In what ways does Frogo support explainable appeals or reversals? Is there a rollback mechanism?

We believe partners should feel empowered, not constrained by a black box. Every risk decision comes with a detailed, human-readable breakdown of the triggers and scores, forming the basis for appeals.

For reversals:

Case-by-Case: Our FinalReview API lets partners override individual false positives, while feeding back critical ground-truth for future improvements.
Policy Rollbacks: Partners can instantly disable underperforming triggers through our back-office control panel. Every action is fully logged, ensuring transparency and accountability.

As quantum computing and encrypted data processing gain prominence, how is Frogo preparing for next-gen fraud schemes?

We approach next-generation threats proactively.

Quantum Readiness: Our system is crypto-agile – we can swap in quantum-resistant algorithms quickly. Strong encryption, network segmentation and partner-dedicated accounts add layers of protection.
Encrypted Data Processing: We offer flexibility depending on partner needs. Privacy-conscious partners can provide hashed depersonalised data, allowing us to detect fraud without ever getting access to sensitive information.

This dual approach keeps us ahead of evolving threats while respecting privacy and compliance requirements.

Frogo is not just about stopping fraud – it’s about turning risk into growth. By combining real-time automation, AI intelligence and deep forensic capabilities, the platform helps businesses reduce losses, streamline operations and deliver seamless experiences for legitimate users.

If you want to see Frogo in action and explore how the platform can safeguard your business while driving growth, join Maksym Tkach and the Frogo team at SiGMA, November 4-6, booth #1047.

Leap into safety and catch the risks before they catch you.

The post The Brains Behind Predictive Fraud: How Frogo Turns Risk into Growth appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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