Central Europe
Navigating International Regulatory Landscapes: A Guide for Expanding iGaming Businesses
Boris Pashnev, CEO of Alpha Affiliates
Taking an iGaming business global opens up vast possibilities for expansion and progress. However, along with new markets and opportunities, comes the complex regulatory landscapes of different countries. To ensure a smooth and compliant expansion, businesses must familiarise themselves with international legal frameworks and understand regulatory considerations. Still, it is much easier said than done.
As a business working closely with iGaming brands, we at Alpha Affiliates have first hand experience expanding within these new regulatory landscapes. We have helped several iGaming operators and affiliates to grow their businesses and comply with the regulations in various jurisdictions. Moreover, in the last year, we have successfully expanded our own business into new geographical markets, including France, Italy, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Hungary. This expansion not only broadened our global reach but also ensured a more comprehensive and inclusive gaming experience for iGaming enthusiasts worldwide.
This is the hope for many aspiring iGaming operators looking to go global. So, how can businesses successfully navigate new regulations when expanding their business globally?
Make regulation your team’s number one priority
In the iGaming world, regulations must be the cornerstone of your business strategy to going global. You need to go in with the mindset that it isn’t just about compliance – it’s about building a sustainable, reputable business. Only with this mindset, can you successfully launch an iGaming business, and develop long-term trust and support from regulators and consumers alike.
By making regulation your foundation, you’re sure to be on track for success. Of course, for any CEO, this starts by looking to the regulatory experts, and putting together a dedicated compliance team who can manage and advise on the regulatory landscape in the region you are looking to expand into.
For instance, in the case of licensing, operators should seek assistance from their in-house legal departments who can ensure licensing application requirements to be met and the corporate structure to be set up properly. This way they can prevent making any mistakes when switching their operations to comply with the new guidelines and ensure that they set up a well equipped and responsible environment for their players.
By having a dedicated team focused on regulation, operators can confidently and consistently ensure their operations meet regulatory guidelines within new regions.
Remain flexible and embrace new frameworks
Regulation is always subject to review and change – it’s a natural part of progress to ensure consumers, and businesses are better served and protected.
We saw this most recently with Curaçao’s new regulation known as the National Ordinance for Games of Chance, or LOK, which set out new requirements for anti-money laundering, fraud prevention and player protection. The LOK framework changes brought new change, and with that new considerations for iGaming operators to address. Operators had to reflect and adjust the ways in which they disclose certain information, ensure data protection, address anti-money laundering, privacy measures for gaming and monitoring tactics.
Alongside the regulatory changes, the licensing fees also increased, in order to foster a safer and more responsible environment. And the licensing process changed too. The Gaming Control Board (GCB) opened the new licensing portal on September 1st earlier last year, leaving iGaming companies with two options – to either apply for new licences and follow the regulations outlined in the LOK, or register as sublicensees.
This is a prime example of how quickly things can change, and the need to remain flexible and ready to adapt when expanding into different regions. To stay ahead, it’s important to conduct regular regulatory assessments, budget for potential increases in licensing fees and develop flexible systems that can adapt to new requirements.
Consider creating a regulatory roadmap for each market you’re entering and operating in, from the current requirements, anticipated changes, plus your strategy for addressing them.
Take responsibility: Prioritise player protection
Remember that any international authority or regulator will want to see that player protection is not only met, but prioritised. After all, responsible gaming isn’t just a regulatory requirement, it’s a business imperative.
Ensuring your operations develop comprehensive responsible gaming policies, including self-exclusion programmes, session time limits, and staff training in identifying and addressing problematic iGaming behaviours, will be key.
At Alpha Affiliates, we encourage users to act conscientiously by providing a safe and organised platform to advertise their offerings. We are committed to ensuring responsible gaming is upheld in our services globally and make sure to follow regulations, only expanding into regions in which iGaming is properly regulated.
It’s crucial to consider how you can improve your policies to better protect players – as this will be a number one concern for regulators internationally. We implement industry-standard measures for players who want to control their gambling habits. These include applying various limits on losses, deposits and bets. In addition, we make sure to display reminders for the amount of time spent in a casino and for players to take a step back to step away and cool off. I’d encourage other operators to do the same.
Be patient and carefully lay down the groundwork
Launching abroad successfully takes a well-thought-out and well-planned strategy. It also requires a lot of patience. “Getting your ducks in a row”, and laying down the groundwork will take time and intricate planning.
Starting the process early is important. When it comes to international expansion, regulation is a huge aspect that cannot be rushed. It can be all the difference in business success, and business failure. It requires rigorous due diligence to ensure all requirements are met, and all licensing documentation is ready.
By meticulously crafting and executing a regulation-first international expansion strategy, businesses can put themselves in the best possible footing for growth globally. Regulations are important across all sectors, but in the iGaming world where adhering to tight regulation is imperative, operators must make it the foundation of all business. The path to international expansion may be complex, but with the right approach, operators can capitalise on the exciting opportunities in new markets and drive remarkable growth.
The post Navigating International Regulatory Landscapes: A Guide for Expanding iGaming Businesses appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The Gaming in Germany Conference is set to return to Berlin on November 10, 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across the country’s regulated online gambling sector. The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Ku’damm and is expected to once again attract a wide range of industry professionals.
Organised by Gaming in Europe, the annual conference has established itself as a central meeting point for operators, regulators, legal experts, and service providers involved in Germany’s evolving iGaming landscape.
Key Topics on the Agenda
The 2026 edition will focus on some of the most pressing issues facing the German market. A major highlight will be discussions around the evaluation of the GlüStV 2021 (State Gambling Treaty) and its impact on the regulated online gambling environment.
In addition, the conference will cover a broad range of topics, including:
- Regulatory developments and compliance
- Market growth and competitive dynamics
- Player protection and responsible gambling
- Marketing strategies in a regulated environment
- The role of eSports within the sector
These sessions are designed to provide actionable insights while fostering dialogue between industry participants and regulatory authorities.
Confirmed Speakers
Although the event is still several months away, a strong lineup of speakers has already been confirmed. These include:
- Dr. Jörg Hofmann, Senior Partner at Melchers Law
- A senior representative from the GGL (German Gambling Authority)
- Dr. Dirk Quermann, President of DOCV
- Mathias Dahms, President of DSWV
- VP Games at ZEAL Network
- Prof. Dr. Christian Piska, University of Vienna
- Dr. Nepomuk Nothelfer, University of Agder & Melchers Law
- Josh Hodgson, COO at H2 Gambling Capital
This mix of legal, regulatory, and commercial expertise ensures a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities within Germany’s regulated market.
A Key Industry Meeting Point
Willem van Oort, founder of Gaming in Germany, highlighted the importance of the event:
“After last year’s highly successful edition, we are extremely pleased to return to Berlin in 2026. Our goal is to connect the industry with regulatory and social stakeholders. This year, we expect to gain valuable insights into the evaluation of the 2021 State Gambling Treaty and its impact on the market.”
He also emphasized that the conference remains one of the best opportunities to meet key decision-makers in Germany’s iGaming sector.
Registration and Participation
Industry professionals are encouraged to save the date and secure their place early. The event also offers opportunities for speakers and sponsors to get involved and share their expertise with a targeted audience.
With its strong agenda and high-level networking opportunities, the Gaming in Germany Conference 2026 is set to be a must-attend event for anyone active in the German regulated iGaming market.
The post Gaming in Germany Conference returns to Berlin November 10, 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Central Europe
Gaming Laboratories International Named Best Testing Laboratory in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026
Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) has been named “Best Testing Laboratory in CEE” in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026. The awards were presented during the Hipther Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. GLI has won this award multiple times in a row.
“We are thrilled to be honored by the industry in this way. At GLI, we have been fully committed to the gaming industry across Central and Eastern Europe for decades, working with suppliers, regulators, and operators to provide the insights and technical expertise that help the industry move forward safely and securely. Being recognized for our efforts is humbling and gratifying,” said GLI Managing Director EMEIA James Boje.
According to organisers, the GamingTECH Awards celebrate the standout companies, teams and individuals shaping the future of gaming, compliance, payments and innovation across Central & Eastern Europe.
The post Gaming Laboratories International Named Best Testing Laboratory in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Wazdan has continued its European growth strategy by entering the Austrian iGaming market through a new partnership with win2day, the country’s only licensed online casino operator. The move represents a significant milestone for the developer as it strengthens its footprint in regulated markets across the region.
The agreement will see a selection of Wazdan’s most recognisable titles made available to Austrian players, including 9 Coins
, Hot Slot: 777 Cash Out, and Mighty Wild: Panther. These initial releases mark the beginning of a broader rollout strategy aimed at steadily expanding the studio’s presence on the platform.
Gradual Rollout Strategy
Following the initial launch, Wazdan plans to introduce one new title each month to the win2day portfolio. This phased approach allows the operator to continuously refresh its offering while ensuring each addition aligns with player preferences and market demand.
By focusing on quality over volume, the partnership is designed to enhance player engagement through carefully selected content that combines strong visual appeal with innovative gameplay mechanics.
Bringing Signature Features to Austria
In addition to its established titles, Wazdan will introduce Austrian players to its suite of proprietary features that have become central to its brand identity. These include Hold the Jackpot, Cash Infinity, Collect to Infinity, Sticky to Infinity, and Cash Out.
These mechanics are designed to increase player interaction and extend gameplay sessions by adding dynamic elements and customizable experiences. As operators increasingly seek differentiated content, such features play a key role in enhancing retention and overall player satisfaction.
Partnering with a Trusted Operator
win2day is operated by Austrian Lotteries, a long-established organization with more than four decades of experience in the market. As the sole licensed online casino operator in Austria, win2day holds a unique position, combining strict regulatory compliance with a strong reputation for responsible gaming.
The collaboration brings together Wazdan’s expertise in game development with win2day’s established market presence, creating a partnership focused on delivering high-quality and secure entertainment to players.
Andrzej Hyla, Chief Commercial Officer at Wazdan, said:
“Entering the Austrian market with win2day is a significant milestone for Wazdan and a rewarding step in our continued European expansion. Partnering with a trusted, long-established operator allows us to deliver the quality user experience we are known for to a new audience.”
Georg Wawer, Managing Director of win2day, added:
“As Austria’s only licensed online gaming operator, we are committed to offering a carefully curated portfolio of high-quality games. Partnering with Wazdan allows us to combine engaging gameplay with the highest levels of safety and responsibility.”
Strengthening Regulated Market Presence
As the European iGaming landscape continues to evolve, expansion into regulated jurisdictions remains a key priority for leading developers. Wazdan’s entry into Austria highlights its commitment to sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and compliance-driven market entry.
By aligning with a trusted operator and delivering proven content alongside innovative features, Wazdan is well-positioned to establish a strong presence in the Austrian market.
The post Wazdan strengthens European foothold with Austrian market entry via win2day appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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