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TrueLayer launches PayDirect, a new approach to seamless online payments in iGaming
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PayDirect, a new service from the UK’s open banking leader, TrueLayer, combines one-click verification with instant deposits and withdrawals to deliver the most complete payments experience.
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It delivers a higher-converting, lower-fraud payments approach when compared to card and bank transfer.
TrueLayer, the leading technology company building financial infrastructure that’s open to everyone today announced the launch of PayDirect, a new open banking-based payments method enabling iGaming firms to create a higher-converting, lower-fraud payments approach when compared to card and bank transfer. TrueLayer is working with a number of iGaming operators who are embracing opening banking as a more secure, cost-effective way to deliver superior player experiences.
Today, identity and verification flows and card-based payments typically generate avoidable friction along the customer journey, affecting adoption and retention rates and generating unnecessary costs. The introduction of Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) this year adds another layer of friction to cards with workarounds that deliver a poorer customer experience.
PayDirect is the answer to those issues, enabling firms to stay compliant while delivering a frictionless customer experience. Built on open banking and the fastest available bank payment rails, it provides firms with instant payments and withdrawals, while accelerating KYC and AML processes, to deliver the most complete solution on the market.
“As players experience seamless digital services in other aspects of their lives, their expectations for iGaming are also changing. PayDirect builds on our payments expertise to solve some significant issues around onboarding, deposits and withdrawals to help operators deliver an experience that is fit for the digital age,” commented Ossama Soliman, Chief Product Officer at TrueLayer. “The ability to quickly and easily verify a customer’s identity, and move money instantly in and out of an account using bank to bank payments, while automatically complying with AML regulations, is hugely beneficial to both the player and the operator.”
With PayDirect iGaming operators, can deliver new levels of services to their customers, all from within their app, in a matter of minutes, through:
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Account verification – Instantly verify account ownership based on what’s on file at a customer’s bank.
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Instant account funding – users can initiate payments or move money between accounts effortlessly using open banking.
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Seamless online payments – that reduce fraud and chargebacks at any checkout.
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Instant withdrawals – users can initiate payouts, using the same method used for deposits, automatically meet AML requirements, while avoiding manual data entry like bank account number or IBAN.
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Instant refunds – providing customers to access their money faster, compared with up to 5 days using cards.
PayDirect improves the player experience and delivers a number of significant benefits to iGaming operators, including:
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Up to 3x faster onboarding: PayDirect gets players up and running in a matter of minutes, using open banking and biometric authentication that removes the need for users to remember usernames or passwords.
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Higher payment conversion rates: Once a player has successfully executed a deposit, payment failures tend to be four times lower with PayDirect than cards (on average cards fail up to 15% of the time vs 3.5% with PayDirect). This means more efficient deposits and, more importantly, less time managing failed payments that can ultimately lead to customer churn.
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Increased customer loyalty: Card deposits take up to 3 days to settle, whilst withdrawals can take up to 5 days. PayDirect increases retention by offering customers what they want, instant deposits and withdrawals. Recent research into the iGaming market by YouGov for TrueLayer (Q4 2020) found rapid deposits and payouts consistently topped the list of player priorities, with 8 out of 10 players rating fast payments as important – and they choose their operators accordingly.
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Lower operating costs: PayDirect saves time and reduces cost by automating otherwise manual processes such as payment reconciliation or KYC checks. PayDirect also reduces costs when processing refunds, as they are automatically issued to the same bank account that was used to make the deposit. This reduces opportunities for human error compared to cheque or manual bank transfers as well as cutting down customer support cases on lost or never issued refunds.
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Reduced risk and fraud: With PayDirect account ownership and authentication is handled by the player’s bank. No more chargebacks, no credential sharing or password storage. Service providers can also meet AML requirements by paying out via the same method used for deposits.
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A fully white labelled payment method: integrated open banking capabilities, increase customer trust by the brand owning the end-to-end customer journey, and configuring payment flows.
“The race is on to reimagine the way people pay by leveraging Open Payments architectures. We have seen in banking and ecommerce that great onboarding and payments experiences increase conversion, trust, and retention. But many payment journeys today have not been designed for a digital first world,” added Francesco Simoneschi, co-founder and CEO at TrueLayer. “With PayDirect we’re calling time on cards and their monopoly. We have used our experience and expertise as a leading open banking platform to design a digital and mobile first payment product that combines instant bank payments with instant payouts, refunds and reconciliation capabilities. PayDirect delivers an effortless way to onboard new customers and enable them to quickly initiate payments and withdraw funds. It is the easiest way to create a better, safer and lower cost payments process.”
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South Africa is once again positioning itself as a leader in ethical gambling practices, with the upcoming Responsible Gambling Summit 2025 set to take place on 13–14 November 2025 at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng. This landmark event will gather international experts, regulators, and industry professionals to address the most pressing challenges in responsible gambling across Africa.
Hosted by the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) in collaboration with major regulatory bodies such as the National Gambling Board, Eastern Cape Gambling Board, and Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, the summit aims to drive forward an evidence-based, solutions-focused agenda that ensures gambling growth does not come at the cost of public well-being.
As South Africa continues to see rising participation in both land-based and gambling online, the summit is timely. It will tackle issues ranging from technological safeguards and public health integration, to policy harmonisation and vulnerable population protection.
Advocating for Safer Online Gambling
As South Africa strengthens its role in setting responsible gambling standards, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za remains at the forefront of this effort in the online casino space. Our portal is more than a online casino listing site — it is a trusted source of expert advice, consumer guidance, and responsible gambling advocacy.
Since our inception, we have maintained a clear policy: we only recommend licensed, regulated casinos in south africa that adhere to strict player protection measures. These include transparent terms, fair bonus practices, and built-in tools such as deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options.
“The online gambling landscape in South Africa is growing rapidly,” says a spokesperson for SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za. “But with growth comes responsibility. Our mission is to ensure players have access to safe, ethical gambling environments. We support the goals of the Responsible Gambling Summit and encourage every operator to prioritise the welfare of their players.”
Practical Frameworks for Change
The Responsible Gambling Summit 2025 will focus on seven key thematic areas:
- Understanding gambling behaviour and disorders through science-led approaches.
- Overcoming barriers to effective policy implementation, including gaps in education and enforcement.
- Leveraging technology, such as AI-driven risk detection and real-time player monitoring.
- Adopting global regulatory best practices tailored to South African realities.
- Protecting at-risk individuals and communities, especially youth and those in lower-income brackets.
- Educating the public on the risks of gambling and how to stay safe.
- Building international networks to ensure future readiness and consistency across borders.
Each session is designed to lead to real-world outcomes, with progress monitored and reported biennially. This commitment to transparency aligns with broader calls for industry-wide accountability.
How Players Can Gamble Responsibly
Whether you’re new to online casinos or an experienced player, here are some essential responsible gambling tips:
- Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money.
- Set a time limit before you start and stick to it.
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
- Avoid playing when you are upset, stressed, or intoxicated.
- Use built-in responsible gaming tools provided by licensed operators.
- Keep track of your play history and regularly review your habits.
- Seek help if gambling is no longer fun, or if it begins to impact your personal life.
At SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, we make these practices easier by highlighting casinos that offer responsible gambling features as part of our review process. Each recommended site undergoes a thorough evaluation based on licensing, fairness, transparency, and player protection standards.
Our Commitment to the South African Gambling Community
With a growing base of South African users, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za plays an important educational role in the online gambling space. Our platform offers in-depth guides, news updates, free bonus casinos, free spins casinos and strategy articles designed to help players make informed decisions.
We actively follow developments in gambling regulation and work to ensure our listings are in line with the latest responsible gambling initiatives. As the conversation around ethical gambling evolves, so does our content — reflecting the high standards that South African players deserve.
South Africa’s leadership in responsible gambling sets a high standard not just for the continent, but for the global industry. By playing at casinos that are transparent, regulated, and committed to safety — such as those featured on SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za — players can enjoy the entertainment of gambling while staying in control.
Baltics
HIPTHER Confirms Exciting Networking Venues and Stage Themes for MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025
HIPTHER is thrilled to announce the official networking and social venues for the 2025 edition of the MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit, taking place on 27–28 May in Vilnius, Lithuania. With three nights of curated gatherings designed to foster connection and celebration, the summit experience is as much about meaningful encounters as it is about cutting-edge insights.
This year’s networking activities will offer attendees a perfect balance of professional engagement and relaxed atmosphere – true to HIPTHER’s signature style of blending business with warmth and hospitality.
Day 0 – 26 May: The Welcome Meet
The networking begins on the evening before the official conference, as attendees gather for a warm and informal kick-off at Piano Man Bar, a cozy local favorite in the heart of Vilnius. From 18:00 to 22:00, guests will be welcomed into a laid-back atmosphere that sets the tone for the days ahead – whether reconnecting with familiar faces or raising a glass with new ones. The Welcome Meet is all about starting the summit in a relaxed style that fosters connection: with stories, laughter, and the kind of conversations that only happen when the pressure’s off.
Day 1 – 27 May: Evening Social Gathering & BSG Awards Ceremony
On the first official conference evening, the networking continues with a celebratory gathering at Jazz Cellar 11, one of Vilnius’ most atmospheric live music venues. Kicking off at 19:45 and continuing late into the night, the event will feature the 2025 BSG Awards Ceremony, honoring excellence across the Baltic and Scandinavian gaming sectors. With HIPTHER’s well-known sense of timing, the ceremony will be brief and to the point, allowing more time for informal exchanges, smooth jazz, and a relaxed yet elegant ambiance perfect for deepening connections.
Day 2 – 28 May: Closing Party
The final evening of the summit concludes in style with the Closing Party at Invino Vilnius, a refined wine bar located in the historic center of the city. Join us for an unforgettable evening, where wine flows, conversations spark, and the energy carries on into the night. Enjoy carefully selected wines, refreshing drinks, and delicious snacks in one of Vilnius’ coziest and most atmospheric venues. Beginning at 19:30, this farewell gathering will be the ideal evening to wrap up the MARE BALTICUM experience, reflect on new insights, and say “until next time” in true HIPTHER fashion.
Gaming & TECH Insights: A Dual-Stage Theme Built for Depth & Discovery
In addition to the social calendar, HIPTHER is proud to present the two official conference stages that will host both the insightful industry panels and the highly anticipated HIPTHER Academy Workshops:
Compliance & Operations Lab – Sponsored by Pace App
Designed for regulatory minds and operational leaders, this stage will spotlight the frameworks shaping fintech, gaming, and compliance today.
TechXperience Stage – Sponsored by NuxGame
A future-forward space dedicated to innovation and tech-fueled discussions across AI, Blockchain, Fintech, virtual reality, and beyond.
Together, the stages will welcome thought leaders and industry pioneers for meaningful discussions across verticals including iGaming, eSports, Fintech, Blockchain, AI, and more – while also hosting hands-on workshops from the HIPTHER Academy.
Hands-On Learning with HIPTHER Academy Workshops
Complementing the summit’s dual-stage agenda, the HIPTHER Academy Workshops will empower professionals with actionable tools and strategic insight across critical areas of gaming, tech, and law. Topics include:
- RegTech in Action: A deep dive into AML and compliance-ready frameworks for fintechs, led by ReguLearn Founder Viktorija Poluektova.
- Creative Rights, Real Risks: A legal and strategic guide to sponsorships, IP, and branding in gaming and entertainment, delivered by Andrius Gabnys and Jovita Morta Gabne of GABNÉ.GABNYS.
- Crypto Custody Under MiCA: A practical exploration of crypto regulation, transparency, and consumer protection under MiCA, with Anna Agu of Lex Law Office OU.
- Neuroshift: A neuroscience-powered workshop on rewiring performance and leadership mindset, facilitated by Maria Loumpourdi of Made From Within.
HIPTHER’s Co-Founder, Zoltan Tuendik, stated about this year’s Social Agenda and Conference Stages “MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit has always been more than just another industry conference. It’s a community-powered experience where people connect, collaborate, and challenge ideas in an environment that feels both professional and personal. With this year’s mix of vibrant networking venues and the dual-stage format designed to fuel serious insight and discovery, we are doubling down on what makes this summit special. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Vilnius for what promises to be our most engaging edition yet.”
The MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 promises a high-impact mix of strategic content and social experiences, creating the ideal setting for learning, inspiration, and building real industry relationships.
For more information and to view the full agenda, visit:
👉 hipther.com/events/vilnius
The post HIPTHER Confirms Exciting Networking Venues and Stage Themes for MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Indian cricket hero becomes latest athlete to promote the world’s leading crash game to his fans
SPRIBE, the developer behind the world’s number one crash game, Aviator, has added Indian cricket legend, Yuzvendra Chahal, to its team of superstar sports ambassadors.
Yuzvendra is a prominent Indian cricketer, renowned for his tactical leg-spin bowling and unrivalled consistency in limited-overs formats.
As one of India’s leading wicket-takers in T20 Internationals, he has played a crucial role in many memorable victories for the national team.
He also plays in the Indian Premier League, representing the Punjab Kings and has earned a reputation for his sharp mind and game-changing spells.
Yuzvendra is just as popular off the field, where he is known for his engaging personality and strong digital presence, making him a big hit with younger audiences.
As an Aviator brand ambassador, Yuzvendra will take part in a series of high-profile campaigns that will drive awareness of the game among his fanbase and the wider cricket audience in India.
He joins other Aviator brand ambassadors such as fellow cricketer Suresh Raina, as well as UFC legends like Tom Aspinall, Alex Pereira, Johnny Walker, Merab Dvalishvili and Jully Poca.
Aviator is the original crash game with more than 50 million active players a month.
David Natroshvili, Founder and CEO of SPRIBE, said: “Yuzvendra is one of the most explosive and popular cricketers in India, which makes him the perfect fit for Aviator – a game that puts players on the edge of their seat from the first game round to the last.
“Aviator is the original crash game and today is played by more than 50 million people across the world who love the high reward gameplay it provides – something that Yuzvendra knows all about.
“With Yuzvendra as an Aviator brand ambassador, we can make more players across India aware of the game and the excitement and big win potential it provides.”
Yuzvendra Chahal, Indian cricketer and Aviator ambassador, added: “Becoming an Aviator ambassador is a true honour and I’m really looking forward to working on some great campaigns to promote the game to my fans in India and beyond.
“Aviator is thrilling and exciting, a little bit like taking to the cricket field and I can’t wait for my fans to strap in, blast off and potentially win big.”
The post Howzat! SPRIBE names Yuzvendra Chahal as Aviator brand ambassador appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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