Latest News
Football for Friendship holds expert discussion on sports development during pandemic

Experts of the international online discussion “Motivation and training in the context of the pandemic: the impact of Internet technologies on sports” reached the mutual conclusion that the pandemic will boost the development of e-sports and broaden the way sports are perceived in the world. It’s expected that the existing trend will strengthen: over the past 3-4 years, the audience of e-sports events has grown 5-6 times.
The discussion was initiated by the Gazprom International Children’s Social Programme Football for Friendship, which has, for the first time, brought the entire season online in 2020. Meanwhile, the annual World Championship for Young Participants from more than 100 countries is held in the new football simulator Football for Friendship World. In the future, the app will become a gaming platform where anyone can train, join mixed international teams, and play their favorite game in the Football for Friendship format without leaving the comfort of home.
The guest experts — football players and e-sports players — shared their views on how the pandemic is affecting the training process, and whether e-sports will be able to fully replace traditional sports in the future. Alexey Smertin, adviser to the President of the Russian Football Union and Ambassador of the Football for Friendship programme, and Alexandra Kosteniuk, grandmaster, three-times winner of the World Chess Olympiads, and European Chess Champion, spoke about the impact of the pandemic on professional sports. Igor Bugaenko, head of the Special Projects Department of the Russian eSports Federation (RESF), spoke about the development of Russian e-sports. The discussion was attended by representatives of FC Schalke 04: head of the e-sports division Tim Reichert, League of Legends coach Dylan Falco, and professional FIFA player Tim Schwartmann (“Tim Latka”). The discussion was moderated by Euronews TV host Andy Robini.
Igor Bugaenko expressed his conviction that the pandemic can also have a positive impact on sports: “Despite the cancellation of many offline sporting events, we are doing our best to maintain the quality and spirit of the competitions that are currently held online. The pandemic has affected how people spend their free time. I think the main achievement of this period has been to broaden the way sports are perceived, enabling people to re-evaluate the role of e-sports in the world”. The expert also noted that Russia was one of the first countries to officially recognize e-sports. According to Bugaenko, in the last 3-4 years alone, the audience of e-sports events has grown 5-6 times.
However, according to Alexey Smertin, e-sports are hard to compare to traditional sports, with their “physical overcoming of oneself, pain and hard-to-achieve results”. On the other hand, if we take a professional approach, in both traditional and e-sports it’s important to focus on achieving results; so, in this sense, there’s no difference between them.
Tim Schwartmann (Tim Latka) has a similar view: “If young people want to be successful — be it in e-sports or traditional football — they have to work hard, train a lot for the game, and never rest on their laurels”.
Today, many football clubs are developing e-sports as a separate area. “In recent years, the popularity of e-sports has become evident. By investing time and effort into developing e-sports, we hope to establish a dialogue with the younger generation of football fans”, explains Tim Reichert, head of FC Schalke 04’s e-sports division. Reichert expects that self-isolation will accelerate the merging process of traditional and digital sports several-fold. In his opinion, e-sports and traditional sports already have many things in common: league structures, competitions, psychological demands for players, and regular training.
Alexandra Kosteniuk noted that the past months have become a landmark in the history of sport: “The pandemic has opened up a real Pandora’s box for chess players: if earlier, part of our competitions were already being held online, now it’s the most convenient format for both the audience and participants”. As she explains, the pandemic has stimulated an increased interest in online competitions over the past few months, “even in the case of chess, which is not the most popular sport among viewers, not to mention the world of e-sports in general”.
About the programme:
The International Children’s Social Programme Football for Friendship is implemented by Gazprom since 2013. Over the previous seven seasons, the programme has united over 6 000 participants from 211 countries and regions and over 5 000 000 supporters.
Young Players and Young Journalists are the participants of the programme – boys and girls aged 12 including children with disabilities. Young Players represent different countries and cultures united in the mixed teams. They show that nationality, gender, and physical abilities aren’t a barrier to becoming a team. Young Journalists cover the events of the programme in the International Children’s Press Center. All participants become Young Ambassadors of the programme and continue to share their Football for Friendship experience and promote universal human values: friendship, equality, fairness, health, peace, devotion, victory, traditions, and honour.
UEFA, FIFA, football federations and the world’s leading football clubs, international charity foundations, famous athletes, politicians, and artists support Football for Friendship. The project has received multiple national and international awards in the field of social responsibility, sports, and communications, including the world record for the most nationalities in a football training session in history.
In 2020, Football for Friendship will be held in the online format. A special digital platform will unite over 10 000 players of all ages. It will become the home for international children’s competitions and a playground where anyone will be able to train, join into the international mixed teams and play their favourite game in the Football for Friendship format without leaving the comfort of their home.
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Conferences in Europe
Forging Strong Partnerships: SYNOT Games on Market Growth & Client Success

HIPTHER, organizer of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, is proud to present SYNOT Games, our Lanyards Sponsor, and a leading force in the iGaming industry. SYNOT Games has built a reputation for innovative, high-quality slot content, boasting a portfolio of 180+ certified games and “unleashing digital delights” across over 40 jurisdictions.
In this exclusive Sponsors Spotlight interview, we sit down with Dagmar Cvrckova, Head of Strategic Partnership, to discuss their expansion across global markets, business-oriented approach to clients, and what’s next for their growing portfolio.
SYNOT Games has successfully expanded into multiple regulated jurisdictions, from Europe to emerging markets. What factors drive your decision-making when entering new territories, and what challenges do you see in the current regulatory landscape?
Our expansion strategy rests on three core pillars: market potential, regulatory stability, and demand for unique content we develop. Before entering a new jurisdiction, we conduct comprehensive research to assess the player base, competitive landscape, regulatory requirements and operator demands.
Navigating compliance is one of the biggest challenges in the iGaming industry, as regulations are constantly evolving and changing. We take proactive steps by working closely with regulators, ensuring our games meet all certification standards, and staying ahead of legal changes. This approach ensures robust compliance and keeps us well positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in new markets.
With a portfolio of over 180 certified games, how does SYNOT adapt its content to meet the preferences of diverse player demographics across various regions?
Player preferences vary widely across regions, and our game development strategy is deeply rooted in data-driven decision-making. For example, while European players often favor classic slot mechanics and high-volatility games, Latin American markets prefer vibrant themes and engaging bonus features.
We analyze player behavior, session data, and engagement rates to fine-tune our content. Our localization goes well beyond language translation; it encompasses a complete adaptation of the gaming experience, including themes, payout structures, and bonus mechanics – to align with regional trends. But we’re not afraid to experiment either.
This approach allows us to deliver games that resonate with a global audience while staying true to the distinctive SYNOT Games style.
Strategic partnerships are a key focus for SYNOT Games. How do you approach collaborations with operators to ensure mutual success and long-term growth?
Strong and strategic partnerships are built on flexibility, customization, and shared goals. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, we work closely with our partners to deliver customized offerings – including exclusive games and tailored promotional tools – that drive player engagement and retention.
The key to our success is our ability to adapt, whether through customized game offerings, innovation, marketing support or technical solutions. This collaborative approach ensures sustainable growth for both parties.
SYNOT Games prides itself on “unleashing digital delights”: delivering original content adaptable to any operation configuration and needs. How do you balance innovation with maintaining a consistent and engaging player experience?
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, but our approach is always player-first. We continuously experiment with new mechanics, themes, and features, but we also maintain the core elements that players love – intuitive gameplay, engaging graphics, and rewarding experiences. However, it is essential to strike a balance between innovations and solutions that are both effective and engaging for players, whether they are directly part of the games or retention tools.
The PEAK (Player Engagement & Acquisition Kit) is a prime example of a powerful retention tool that unlocks exciting new reward options and simplifies promotion management. It allows operators to set promotions according to their needs. And the best part? We’re continuously enhancing it with new features to keep engagement at its peak.
Of course, every innovation must be developed with a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, ensuring compliance while delivering an exceptional gaming experience across different markets.
As a Lanyards Sponsor and key participant in this year’s Summit, what insights will SYNOT Games bring to the discussion, and what makes this event an essential platform for industry collaboration?
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, but our approach is always player-first. We continuously experiment with new mechanics, themes, and features, but we also maintain the core elements that players love – intuitive gameplay, engaging graphics, and rewarding experiences. However, it is essential to strike a balance between innovations and solutions that are both effective and engaging for players, whether they are directly part of the games or retention tools.
The PEAK (Player Engagement & Acquisition Kit) is a prime example of a powerful retention tool that unlocks exciting new reward options and simplifies promotion management. It allows operators to set promotions according to their needs. And the best part? We’re continuously enhancing it with new features to keep engagement at its peak.
Of course, every innovation must be developed with a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, ensuring compliance while delivering an exceptional gaming experience across different markets.
With SYNOT Games leading the way in market expansion and client partnerships, the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 is set to offer exclusive insights into the evolving iGaming landscape. Don’t miss the chance to connect with top industry professionals, explore the latest trends, and engage in thought-provoking discussions.
Join us on 25-26 March 2025 in Prague – Register now and explore the full agenda!
The post Forging Strong Partnerships: SYNOT Games on Market Growth & Client Success appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Gaming
XSOLLA LAUNCHES THE XSOLLA GOLD GIFT CARD TO ENHANCE GAME BRAND VISIBILITY THROUGH PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL CHANNELS, OFFERING GAMERS A NEW WAY TO PAY

Xsolla, a leading global video game commerce company, announces the launch of the Xsolla Gold Gift Card, a flexible payment solution designed to enhance how gamers purchase, gift, and redeem virtual goods. Available in physical and digital formats, the Xsolla Gold Gift Card provides players with an accessible and convenient way to engage with their favorite games across multiple platforms.
As the global gift card market is projected to reach $5.3 trillion by 2033, developers face increasing opportunities to expand their monetization strategies and engage players more effectively. The Xsolla Gold Gift Card offers a seamless way for players to acquire in-game items, gift content to friends, and redeem rewards, enriching their gaming experience. This solution unlocks new revenue streams for developers, enhances brand visibility, and enables targeted marketing initiatives, including co-branded promotions and customized campaigns.
Discover the standout benefits making this gift card a game-changer for players and developers:
- Flexible Distribution Options: Includes physical and digital cards, ensuring broad accessibility for players worldwide
- Enhanced Community Engagement: Encourages players to share gaming experiences through gifting, fostering deeper connections within gaming communities
- Monetization and Marketing Opportunities: Leverages gift cards for cross-promotions, partnerships with retail brands, and exclusive in-game offers, driving increased engagement and revenue for developers
- Cross-Platform Usability: Fully compatible across multiple platforms and game titles, catering to a diverse player base with various spending preferences
“We’re excited to offer a gift card to help simplify how players purchase and share virtual goods while helping developers increase player retention and engagement through strategic integrations,” said Chris Hewish, Chief Strategy Officer of Xsolla. “The Xsolla Gold Gift Card allows us to continue innovating, enhancing how players interact with their favorite games and how developers can reach a broader audience.”
The Xsolla Gold Gift Card will be available in various denominations, adapting to different player needs. Developers can integrate these cards into their ecosystems to enhance player engagement and drive monetization through tailored campaigns and promotions.
The post XSOLLA LAUNCHES THE XSOLLA GOLD GIFT CARD TO ENHANCE GAME BRAND VISIBILITY THROUGH PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL CHANNELS, OFFERING GAMERS A NEW WAY TO PAY appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Latest News
Pre-Submission Check-Up: Is Your Project Ready for an Investment Fund?

Securing investment is a crucial step in the growth of any business, but before submitting an application, it is essential to critically assess its readiness. Does the team have the necessary expertise? Is the product in demand in the market? Is there a well-thought-out development strategy and financial model?
Founders often become so engrossed in their ideas that they overlook critical aspects that are key for investors. Investors evaluate not just the concept but also the actual viability of the business—market demand, team professionalism, financial stability, and scalability potential.
One of the funds that support promising companies, teams, startups, and technologies and help them grow is PIN-UP.INVESTMENTS. The fund follows a meticulous selection process, investing in verified projects that are prepared for sustainable development. COO Ihor Denysov has outlined the key criteria that define an ideal candidate for investment, emphasizing strategic business development and scalability potential. These criteria serve as guiding principles rather than strict requirements, helping projects better align with the fund’s vision.
1. Strategic Investment Focus Areas
To attract investment, the product of potential investee must align with the verticals that match current investor focus areas. Essential alignment niches include:
- MarTech Solutions — traffic solutions, advertising agencies, and marketing tools, including arbitrage teams, media platforms, telegram channels, advertising networks, influencer marketing, and AI-driven technologies. Tier 1 and Tier 2 are of interest.
- iGaming Innovations — casino game studios and comprehensive iGaming solutions, particularly slots, instant games, and infrastructure solutions for online gaming operators.
- Fintech Advancements — digital banking services, cryptocurrency projects, and innovative payment systems.
- AI/ML Applications — advanced artificial intelligence technologies enhancing user engagement, retention, and innovative solutions across various domains.
- Analytics Platforms — operational solutions optimising user acquisition, retention strategies, marketing performance, and overall business processes. Projects falling outside these strategic domains may not align with our current investment thesis regardless of their individual merit.
2. Product with Proven Market Demand
To secure investment, businesses, companies, technology projects, and teams must have more than just an idea; they need a real, market-validated product. Minimum requirements include:
- MVP+ (Minimum Viable Product Plus) — a product with basic functionality and initial users.
- Market demand validation — stable customer base growth, user behavior analytics, early sales, market research, alignment with the key market trends.
- A clear business model — understanding how the initiative will generate revenue.
If the product has not yet demonstrated market demand, it is crucial to focus on testing hypotheses before seeking investment.
3. Innovative Features for Market Advantage
Product differentiation is a crucial element for market success. It is essential to have:
- Unique solution to an existing problem that addresses the pain points in ways competitors don’t.
- Clear superiority backed by data, user testing, experience.
- Technologies that are hard to replicate—ideally patent-protected—can help maintain a competitive edge in the market. While not a strict requirement, having such innovations significantly strengthens a project’s investment appeal.
Products lacking distinctive features significantly reduce their chances of gaining market traction and investment.
4. A Strong Team with Industry Experience
The team is a critical factor in determining a project’s success. It is essential to have:
- An experienced CEO and competent core team (devOps, marketers, technical specialists, financial experts) who understand their field.
- Clearly defined roles and efficient internal processes.
- Previous experience in launching or developing similar projects.
Teams lacking the necessary expertise significantly reduce their chances of securing investment.
5. Transparent Financial Model and Growth Forecast
It is essential that the potential investees have:
- A well-structured financial model — revenue streams, cost structure, and expected profitability.
- Key customer acquisition metrics (CAC, LTV, ROI) that demonstrate marketing strategy effectiveness would be considered as the plus.
- A profitability forecast — outlining when and under what conditions the project will become self-sustaining.
Projects that cannot justify financial viability typically do not pass the selection process.
6. Readiness for Scaling
It is crucial to demonstrate:
- Growth potential — the ability to expand into international markets or scale within the current niche.
- Adaptable business model — ability to pivot or modify offerings based on changing market conditions and feedback.
- A well-planned customer acquisition strategy — including performance marketing, SEO, and partnership programs.
Projects without a clear scaling strategy are not considered investment-attractive.
Conclusion
Meeting these criteria significantly increases the chances of securing investment. PIN-UP.INVESTMENTS considers only verified, promising projects that are ready for growth. When submitting an application, businesses must be prepared to demonstrate not just anticipated but also concrete results that confirm their sustainability and competitiveness.
The post Pre-Submission Check-Up: Is Your Project Ready for an Investment Fund? appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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