Latest News
Rivalry Reports Strong Q1 2025 KPI Growth, Validating Strategic Pivot Amid Temporary Margin Variance
Rivalry Corp. (TSXV: RVLY) (OTCQB: RVLCF) (“Rivalry” or the “Company”), the leading sportsbook and iGaming operator for digital-first players, today shared preliminary key performance indicators (“KPIs”) and revenue figures for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (“Q1 2025”), underscoring the success of its strategic transformation and path toward sustainable, profitable growth. All dollar figures are quoted in Canadian dollars.
Q1 2025 marks the first full quarter under Rivalry’s revamped operating model, following significant changes to product offerings, organizational structure, cost management, and user acquisition strategies. Underlying KPIs show improved unit economics, deeper engagement, and structural momentum toward long-term sustainability.
Revenue in the quarter was lower than prior periods – a result of Rivalry’s deliberate shift to a leaner, more efficient model – creating a stronger foundation that the Company is now building on. The shortfall also reflected temporary variance in sportsbook hold, amplified by a strategic focus on high-value and VIP players. The Company believes that these segments drive significantly greater long-term value but can introduce short-term volatility as they scale.
“Our Q1 KPIs are delivering tangible results that validate our strategic shift,” said Steven Salz, Co-Founder and CEO of Rivalry. “The structural changes we implemented over the past six months – from streamlining operations and refocusing the product, to modernizing our platform and concentrating on high-value players – are now clearly reflected in our KPIs. We’re operating more efficiently than ever, generating significantly more revenue per user, and moving closer to achieving sustainable profitability.”
Q1 2025 Highlights1:
- Operational Efficiency Up 400%: In Q1 2025, Rivalry generated over 400% more net revenue per user per dollar of operating expense as compared to its average before the strategic overhaul. This marks a significant leap in cost efficiency and operating leverage, validating the impact of recent changes.
- Shift to High-Value Players Driving 175% Increase in Player Monthly Deposits: Total deposits rose 36% month over month in February 2025 and another 12% in March 2025, despite a smaller active user base than past peaks. In Q1 2025, average monthly deposits per player were just over 175% higher than the periods prior to Rivalry’s October 2024 strategic overhaul – a clear result of the Company’s focus on acquiring and retaining high-value players, while improving unit economics and lowering variable costs.
- 115% Increase in Monthly Deposit Frequency: In Q1 2025, average monthly deposit frequency per player increased by 115% compared to the average prior to Rivalry’s October 2024 rebuild – signaling strong user re-engagement and validating the Company’s refined product experience and more targeted player strategy.
- All-Time High in Monthly Betting Handle per User: Monthly betting handle per active user hit a new all-time high in March 2025, marking the fifth consecutive month of record-breaking engagement and deeper player value.
- Record Revenue per User: In March 2025, monthly Gross and Net Revenue per active user reached all-time highs (normalized for margin variance), extending a four-month streak of consistent revenue per active user growth and player monetization strength.
- Month over Month Active User Growth: Monthly active players grew by 9% in March 2025, following a similar increase in February 2025, despite a significantly reduced global marketing budget compared to the same period last year.
- Ontario Regulated Market Showing Strong, Improving Unit Economics: Since the Company’s operational shift, Rivalry’s Average Revenue Per Playing Account (“ARPPA”) in Ontario – a monthly metric defined by and publicly reported by gaming regulator iGO – has generally trended in line with the market average, and in some months exceeded it by as much as 50%. ARPPA has also nearly doubled compared to pre-overhaul levels at Rivalry, reflecting strengthening unit economics supported by efficient customer acquisition, with customer acquisition cost paybacks consistently within single-digit weeks.
Operational Momentum and Efficiency Gains Reflect Structural Progress
The Company’s Q1 2025 performance reflects the first full quarter operating under a significantly leaner structure, with total monthly run rate operating expenses reduced by approximately 65% as compared to prior peak periods.
Betting handle in Q1 2025 was $58.2 million, and net revenue $1.3 million1, for a net revenue margin of 2.3%. This compares to Rivalry’s full-year 2024 net revenue margin of 4.4%1, with the Q1 2025 margin variance largely attributable to short-term fluctuations in sportsbook hold. This was amplified by the Company’s strategic pivot toward high-value and VIP players – segments that offer significantly greater long-term value but naturally introduce more short-term variability in margin performance as they scale.
On a normalized margin basis, Rivalry’s Q1 2025 net revenue would have covered approximately 75% of current run rate operating expenses, inclusive of additional cost reductions completed in early April that lowered monthly operating expenses by approximately $140,000. Growing user value, rising engagement, and stronger unit economics reflect encouraging momentum toward long-term financial sustainability.
“The KPIs are telling the real story – user value is up, efficiency is up, and player engagement is the strongest we’ve seen in the Company’s history,” said Steven Salz, Co-Founder and CEO of Rivalry. “Even with soft margin outcomes in Q1 2025, the model is showing strong underlying signals. As sportsbook hold normalizes and our cost base becomes leaner, we believe we’re moving in the right direction.”
Over the past six months, Rivalry has reduced monthly run rate operating expenses by approximately $1.7 million per month, inclusive of the recently completed April 2025 reductions. These reductions have been enabled by a fully modernized core product with improved site performance and ongoing development velocity across key revenue-driving features. The Company has also realized efficiencies through vendor rationalization and the rollout of AI-driven tools across departments.
“We’ve built a stronger, leaner, and more focused Rivalry,” Salz added. “Our improved KPIs and disciplined cost management have created a healthier foundation. With continued operational momentum and a re-energized product, we believe we’re on a promising path forward.”
The post Rivalry Reports Strong Q1 2025 KPI Growth, Validating Strategic Pivot Amid Temporary Margin Variance appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Latest News
GGBET UA is the new title partner of the Basketball Federation of Ukraine
GGBET UA has officially signed a title sponsorship agreement with the Basketball Federation of Ukraine (FBU), marking a significant step in the development and promotion of Ukrainian basketball. The strategic partnership is designed to increase the sport’s visibility, expand fan engagement, and deliver innovative digital content to audiences across the country.
Under the agreement, GGBET UA and the FBU will collaborate on content creation, communication initiatives, and interactive fan experiences, ensuring that basketball continues to thrive as one of Ukraine’s most popular and dynamic sports. The partnership will focus on strengthening media presence, enhancing storytelling around teams and players, and introducing creative digital formats tailored to modern sports fans.
Basketball has long held a strong position in Ukraine’s sporting culture. Through this collaboration, both organizations plan to launch special projects, online campaigns, and fan-focused activations that bring supporters closer to national teams and domestic competitions. By leveraging digital platforms and social media, the partners aim to deliver compelling, behind-the-scenes content and immersive experiences that resonate with both existing fans and new audiences.
Sergii Mishchenko, CEO of GGBET UA, emphasized that the partnership reflects the company’s long-term commitment to Ukrainian sports. He noted that basketball’s fast-paced and high-energy nature makes it ideal for innovative communication strategies and integrated promotional efforts. According to Mishchenko, working closely with the FBU and national teams will allow GGBET UA to create engaging content that captures media attention while contributing to the broader popularization of basketball in Ukraine.
From the Federation’s perspective, the agreement represents an opportunity to expand communication channels and reinforce support for athletes and teams. Mykhailo Brodsky, President of the Basketball Federation of Ukraine, highlighted the importance of maintaining visibility for Ukrainian sports, particularly during challenging times. He stated that the title partnership with GGBET UA enables the launch of impactful joint initiatives that can bring renewed energy and attention to basketball nationwide.
The basketball partnership builds on GGBET UA’s rapid expansion within Ukrainian sports throughout 2025. The bookmaker has already secured a three-year partnership with FC Dynamo Kyiv, sponsored FC Polissya Zhytomyr, and acted as an official partner for the globally recognized Usyk vs. Dubois II boxing match. With strong footholds in football and boxing, basketball now represents the next strategic phase in GGBET UA’s multi-sport growth strategy.
Fans can expect the first announcements of joint projects and new content formats to appear soon across the official social media channels of GGBET UA and the Basketball Federation of Ukraine, signaling the start of an ambitious collaboration aimed at elevating Ukrainian basketball to new heights.
The post GGBET UA is the new title partner of the Basketball Federation of Ukraine appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Canada
CGA Announces Leadership Evolution and 2026 Board of Directors
Amanda Brewer becomes Senior Vice President of Policy & Communications and Brandon Aboultaif becomes Vice President of Western Canada; Salim Adatia (GLI) and Mike Maodus (Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP) join the CGA Board as Scott Vanderwel (PointsBet Canada) is appointed Chair.
Amanda Brewer has joined the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) as Senior Vice President of Policy and Communications, and Brandon Aboultaif has assumed the position of Vice President for Western Canada.
Amanda has served as a consultant to the Association for over 15 years, playing a pivotal role in achieving numerous CGA milestones. “I am confident she will apply her enthusiasm and expertise to this new position, which more precisely aligns with her ongoing contributions on behalf of our members,” said Paul Burns, President and CEO, CGA. Amanda remains actively engaged in AML and advertising bill initiatives in Ottawa, along with the Alberta consultation process, where the Association is collaborating with the Government of Alberta and AGLC to prepare the province for its iGaming market launch.
Brandon is the former Press Secretary to Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction and will be a great addition to the CGA. “With the Alberta market soon opening, it has been an important goal to expand our presence into the western part of the country,” added Mr. Burns. His key responsibilities include advancing industry research and education initiatives, supporting member engagement across Western Canada, and fostering collaboration on responsible gaming, innovation, and market development initiatives that strengthen Canada’s gaming ecosystem.
In addition, Salim Adatia, Managing Director, Canada for Gaming Laboratories International, LLC, and Mike Maodus, Partner, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, have joined the CGA’s Board of Directors, and Scott Vanderwel, CEO for PointsBet Canada, becomes the Association’s new Chair.
The full 2026 board is as follows:
- Salim Adatia, Gaming Laboratories International, LLC
- Bruce Caughill, Rush Street Interactive
- Peter Czegeldy, Aird & Berlis LLP
- Neil Erlick, Nuvei
- Kurt Gissane, Aristocrat
- Charmaine Hogan, Playtech
- Dale Hooper, FanDuel
- Chuck Keeling, Great Canadian Entertainment
- Mike Maodus, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
- Terry McInally, Gateway Entertainment
- Niaz Nejad, Non-Member Director
- Derek Ramm, Kinectify
- Lindsay Slader, GeoComply
- Richard Taylor, Niagara Casinos
- Shane Thompson, Konami
- Scott Vanderwel, PointsBet Canada (Chair)
- Scott Woodgate, BetMGM
We are also pleased to welcome three past chairs as Emeritus members of the board:
- Ilkim Hincer, IC360
- Carrie Kormos, CK Consulting Inc
- Bob Parente, Light & Wonder
“Amanda and Brandon have joined the CGA as full-time members to oversee several important national campaigns,” stated Scott Vanderwel, Chair of the Board. “We are also pleased to welcome Salim and Mike to the Board. The Board has worked closely with Paul over recent years to advance the Association’s leadership and board structure. We have full confidence in Amanda and Brandon as they step into these key roles, as well as in the valuable contributions that Salim and Mike are expected to bring as we prepare for an active 2026 workload.”
Mr. Burns stated that the newly announced executive and Board appointments will strengthen CGA’s position and support its expansion into Western Canada. “Amanda brings extensive CGA experience, while Brandon contributes knowledge of government policy at both federal and provincial levels. Coupled with our enhanced Board, I am confident they will help drive CGA’s objectives and ongoing growth.”
Source: canadiangaming.ca
The post CGA Announces Leadership Evolution and 2026 Board of Directors appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
Formula 1
PlayamoPartners brings Formula 1 Precision to iGB Affiliate Barcelona 2026 — Visit Booth 81-M10.
Barcelona, January 20–21, 2026 — At iGB Affiliate Barcelona, PlayamoPartners invites industry leaders to experience an affiliate program built on discipline, precision, and stability — a philosophy closer to Formula 1 than to show business. Because speed without a system is a risk, and long‑distance victories are won by control and consistency.
Meet the Program That Runs on Timing, Control, and Accountability
This year at Fira Barcelona Gran Via, PlayamoPartners will be at Booth 81-M10 with a program engineered for performance under pressure. The PlayamoPartners × TAG Heuer × Formula 1 alignment is not a “collaboration” — it’s a statement of approach: master the clock, execute with accuracy, own the result.
What to Expect at Booth 81-M10
Beyond offers and conversations, the stand is a live demonstration of service as a ritual — where premium is the standard of execution, not a marketing trick.
- Butler-Led Service: Guests are welcomed by a real butler and guided through a streamlined experience designed for clarity and confidence at every touchpoint.
- Code of Honor: An invitation-only club where recognition is earned by level. Become part of the Code by inscribing your partnership values in the Book of Honor at the stand — your commitment becomes your entry to win MacBook Air, iPhone 17 Air, and AirPods Max headphones. VIP partners reinforce their status with TAG Heuer timepieces.
- House of PlayamoPartners: The space extends this logic with a photo mirror that captures the moment of entry — not for noise, but as a mark of belonging to a system where premium is the baseline, not a marketing trick.
- Gifts as House Rules: In our House, gifts are customary. Snap your photo at the PlayamoPartners photo mirror and follow the posted instructions to enter a 3,000 USDT raffle — their way of welcoming you.
Engineered for Partners Who Choose Reliability Over Hype
At the booth, you’ll find:
- Data-driven planning with transparent pacing and measurable milestones
- Custom deal structures built for sustained, compounding ROI
- Direct manager access for integrations, optimizations, and partner onboarding
- A framework that values long-run consistency over short-term spikes
One-to-One Conversations That Move the Needle
Sit down with the team to align on:
- Conversion architecture and funnel precision
- GEO prioritization (Tier 1 mostly) and partner-specific vertical focus
- Real-time reporting cadence, compliance, and long-term workload planning
- Growth pathways inside the Code of Honor framework
How to Participate in Rewards and Raffles
- Book of Honor: Inscribe your partnership values to enter for MacBook Air, iPhone 17 Air, and AirPods Max headphones.
- Photo Mirror Raffle: Take a mirror selfie at House of PlayamoPartners and follow the on-stand posting/sharing steps to enter the 3,000 USDT draw.
- Notes: Winners will be selected on the 21st of January at 13:00 at Booth 81-M10; participation is subject to on-site rules and eligibility requirements.
Choose the System. Choose the Standard.
If your benchmark is discipline over noise, your place is on our grid.
iGB Affiliate Barcelona 2026
Fira Barcelona Gran Via
Booth 81-M10
PlayamoPartners. Where time is measured, performance is earned, and premium is the baseline.
The post PlayamoPartners brings Formula 1 Precision to iGB Affiliate Barcelona 2026 — Visit Booth 81-M10. appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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