SCCG Management, a premier global gaming advisory firm, has officially announced the extension of its strategic partnership with Golden Whale Productions. This collaboration is set to redefine how iGaming operators handle data, moving away from traditional rule-based decisioning toward a future powered by AI and machine learning (ML).

The extension follows a successful initial phase focused on optimizing player engagement, retention, and monetization through predictive intelligence.

Moving Beyond Traditional CRM

Golden Whale’s technology is designed to solve one of the industry’s biggest challenges: the reliance on reactive, manual decision-making. By leveraging the LOOPS iterative machine learning system, operators can now forecast player behavior with unprecedented accuracy.

Key features of the Golden Whale integration include:

• Predictive Modeling: Advanced tools for churn risk, lifetime value (LTV), and player behavior forecasting.

• Seamless Integration: The platform connects directly to existing PAM, CRM, and marketing tools without requiring a complete system overhaul.

• Full Model Control (FMC): Moving iGaming systems closer to autonomous operation by automating engagement and incentive levels.

“Golden Whale Productions brings a rare combination of deep gaming expertise and advanced data science that operators can deploy quickly and effectively,” said Stephen A. Crystal, Founder and CEO of SCCG Management.

Strategic Global Expansion

With a strong foundation already established in Europe, Golden Whale is looking to SCCG to support its commercial expansion across the Americas and other high-growth global markets. SCCG’s 30+ years of expertise and international office network make them the ideal partner for this scale-up.

Eberhard Dürrschmid, CEO of Golden Whale, commented:

“Extending our partnership with SCCG is a natural next step in Golden Whale’s global growth. Together, we’re focused on helping operators apply AI-driven optimization and automation in practical ways, improving incentive efficiency and decision-making without overhauling existing operations.”

The Future of Incentive Efficiency

At the core of the offering are the Foundation optimization modules. These allow operators to determine:

1. Who to engage.

2. When the optimal time to reach out is.

3. What incentive will drive the most value.

4. How much to invest, while measuring impact against control groups in real-time.

By focusing on “forward-looking intelligence,” the partnership ensures that operators are no longer just looking at past data, but are actively shaping future player journeys.

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In a move that unites footballing excellence with cutting-edge iGaming innovation, Betinia and CampoBet—the premier sportsbook and casino brands of Soft2Bet—have officially named Diego Simeone as their global brand ambassador.

The partnership brings the “Cholo” winning mentality to the digital arena, focusing on authenticity, high-intensity engagement, and a player-focused journey.

The Synergy of a Winning Mentality

Diego Simeone is widely regarded as one of the most decorated and defining coaches of the modern era. Since taking the helm at Atlético de Madrid in 2011, he has secured two LaLiga titles, two UEFA Europa League trophies, and two UEFA Super Cups. His playing career was equally illustrious, earning 108 caps for Argentina and two Copa América titles.

“Simeone is one of this era’s defining football managers, recognised for high intensity and an uncompromising drive for progress,” stated a representative for Betinia. “That same mindset sits at the heart of our brand, turning a player’s journey into a growth story with progression and rewards.”

A Revolutionary In-Platform Football Manager

This partnership goes beyond traditional marketing. As part of the collaboration, Soft2Bet is launching a proprietary in-platform football manager game. This feature allows players to mirror Simeone’s own rise to the top:

• Progression System: Players earn points to advance from “Beginner” to “Legend.”

• Personalized Rewards: Unlocking bonuses and perks tailored to local market habits.

• Online Fantasy Matches: Players can face off in head-to-head strategic battles.

• Unique Rosters: Every user manages their own signature lineup and tactics, bringing a deep level of personalization to the sportsbook experience.

Bridging the Gap Between Fans and the Game

By leveraging Simeone’s influence, CampoBet and Betinia aim to build long-term connections with their audiences through localized content that resonates with regional football cultures.

Alex Gitsik, CMO of Soft2Bet, commented on the milestone:

“His leadership and dedication to excellence reflect the values we uphold across all our gaming platforms. Through this unique collaboration, we are excited to bring fans closer to the game they love, blending strategic gameplay with engaging gaming experiences.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

Throughout 2026, Diego Simeone will be the face of exclusive digital campaigns and promotional activities across both brands. The partnership signals a major step forward for Soft2Bet as it continues to evolve its “Platform for Champions” philosophy, ensuring that every player feels like a manager of their own success.

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BLAST, a global leader in competitive entertainment, has officially announced the appointment of Steve Rossi as Senior Vice President of Brand Partnerships. Rossi joins the team at a pivotal moment, following a record-breaking 2025 that saw the company expand its footprint into New York City, Malta, and Mumbai.

With over 20 years of experience in strategic partnerships across sports, media, and gaming, Rossi is set to lead BLAST’s next phase of commercial evolution.

A Proven Leader in Global Commercial Strategy

Rossi’s career is defined by his ability to bridge the gap between iconic intellectual properties and Fortune 100 brands. His previous roles include senior leadership positions at:

• Activision Blizzard: Where he was instrumental in the commercialization and global expansion of Activision Blizzard Esports.

• National Football League (NFL): Driving integrated sponsorships across the NFL Network and digital platforms.

• Univision Communications: Designing and activating media partnerships across live and linear platforms.

• PlayVS: Focusing on the intersection of youth esports and brand engagement.

Based in the newly established New York office, Rossi will oversee BLAST’s global Sponsorship Sales and Partner Management & Activation.

Building on a Record-Breaking 2025

The appointment comes as BLAST continues to scale at an unprecedented rate. In 2025, the company delivered:

• 15 Arena Events staged across eight different countries.

• Broadcasts in 30+ Languages reaching fans in over 100 territories.

• Expanded Portfolio: Continued investment in top-tier titles including Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, Rainbow Six, PUBG, Rocket League, Fortnite, and Brawl Stars.

“BLAST has built a truly premium proposition at the intersection of entertainment, gaming, sport and culture,” said Steve Rossi. “I’m excited to work with the team to build long-term, high-impact partnerships that deliver real value for brands, publishers and fans alike.”

A Strategic Vision for 2026

Leo Matlock, Chief Business Officer at BLAST, emphasized that Rossi’s leadership will be instrumental as the company evolves its partnership offerings. “Steve brings deep experience across esports, sport, media and entertainment. His ability to scale global commercial partnerships makes him the perfect fit for BLAST at this incredibly exciting time.”

As BLAST enters 2026, the focus remains on delivering fan-first experiences and commercially impactful collaborations that maintain BLAST’s position as a pioneer in the competitive gaming space.

Learn More

To stay updated on BLAST’s upcoming arena events and commercial ventures, visit the official BLAST website.

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