Advancing Player Safety at SBC Summit 2024

The #gambling and #sportsbetting industry is in the midst of a digital revolution, driven by technological advancements that are reshaping the landscape. From sophisticated betting platforms to innovative #marketing strategies, the industry is evolving rapidly. However, amidst these changes, one critical aspect remains constant: the importance of ensuring #playersafety. As the sector grows and diversifies, maintaining a focus on safeguarding players has never been more crucial. The upcoming #SBCSummit, scheduled to take place from September 24-26 at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa, will underscore this commitment through a dedicated ‘Player Protection Zone.' This initiative aims to foster a comprehensive gambling harm prevention ecosystem and will welcome approximately 25,000 industry professionals.

A Central Hub for Safeguarding Innovations

The ‘Player Protection Zone' at the SBC Summit will be a focal point for exploring the latest advancements in player safety. This specialized area will showcase next-generation safeguarding systems and products, providing delegates with insights into cutting-edge technologies and strategies designed to enhance responsible gambling practices. Among the confirmed participants are notable brands such as BetBlocker, Crucial Compliance, EPIC, GamCare, Gamble Alert, Gordon Moody, Mindway AI, Neccton, Recover Me, Safer Gambling Training, Verifeye Online, and W2 by FullCircl. These organizations are recognized for their dedication to developing innovative solutions that address gambling-related harm and promote safer gambling environments.

Enhancing Delegate Experience and Networking Opportunities

Strategically positioned within the show floor, the ‘Player Protection Zone' offers delegates seamless access to various amenities, including the Food Festival. This event will feature an array of food trucks offering diverse catering options, providing a relaxed setting for networking and informal discussions. The inclusion of a dedicated lounge area further enhances the delegate experience, creating a space for meaningful interactions and collaboration.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, emphasized the importance of player protection in light of the ongoing digital transformation. “The online space has brought a wealth of innovations to the industry, from advanced betting platforms to new marketing avenues. However, with each innovation, there is always a risk that a small minority may seek to exploit it,” Sojmark noted. He highlighted the zone’s goal of equipping companies with the knowledge and tools necessary to promote responsible gambling. This includes educating industry stakeholders on how to monitor player behavior, protect vulnerable groups, comply with current regulations, and connect with experts who can enhance their protective measures.

A Comprehensive Educational Program

The SBC Summit will feature a robust educational program designed to address various aspects of player protection and responsible gambling. The program is structured across three days, each focusing on different facets of safeguarding practices and industry trends.

Day One: Exploring the Future and Data Utilization

The first day of the summit will focus on the impact of emerging technologies on responsible gambling strategies. Discussions will cover how operators can leverage existing data to make a meaningful difference in the lives of at-risk players. There will be a deep dive into how operators can effectively respond to increased regulatory scrutiny and collaborate with influencers to ensure that player interactions are both safe and profitable. The sessions will also explore innovative approaches to integrating new technologies into existing gambling platforms to enhance player safety and promote responsible gambling.

Day Two: Compliance and Technological Integration

The second day will be dedicated to compliance leadership and technological integration. Panels will address how compliance leaders can stay ahead of evolving regulations and ensure robust oversight within their organizations. Discussions will also explore how technology suppliers are incorporating safer gambling initiatives into both new and existing products. Key topics will include the differences and similarities in player protection across established and emerging markets, and whether the introduction of affordability checks and loss limits will benefit or hinder industry growth. The session will also cover how operators can utilize technology, self-regulation measures, and partnerships to enhance regulatory framework implementation.

Day Three: Broader Implications and Industry Trends

The final day will address broader industry trends and their implications for player protection. Topics will include the convergence of responsible gambling with environmental and social governance (ESG) principles, the importance of internal diversity in addressing diverse external experiences, and strategies for attracting talent from various fields outside the gambling industry. Discussions will also consider whether harm prevention initiatives impact long-term profitability and how industry stakeholders can balance the need for player protection with business objectives.

Expert Speakers and Panels

The SBC Summit will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers who are leaders in the field of player protection and responsible gambling. Among the confirmed speakers are Fredrik Wastenson (CEO, Svenska Spel Sports & Casino), Tammi Barlow (VP – Global Responsible Gaming, Bally’s), Martin Lycka (SVP for American Regulatory Affairs and Responsible Gambling, Entain), Andrea McGeachin (CEO, Neosurf), Hugo Baungartner (CCO, Aposta Ganha), Mike De Graaff (Co-Founder & Chief Compliance Officer, BetComply), Rasmus Kjaergaard (CEO, Mindway AI), and Sam McKnight (Head of UK Compliance & Deputy MLRO, Fitzdares). Their insights will provide valuable perspectives on the latest developments in player safety and responsible gambling practices.

Additional Summit Highlights

In addition to the ‘Player Protection Zone,' the SBC Summit will offer several other specialized zones, each focusing on different aspects of the gambling industry. The Sports Betting Zone will provide a platform for discussing the latest trends and innovations in sports betting. The Casino & iGaming Zone will cover advancements in casino games and online gaming. The Media Headquarters will serve as a hub for media professionals covering the event. Additionally, the summit will include dedicated summits for Affiliate Leaders, Payment Experts, and ESI Lisbon, each featuring its own show floor, targeted networking sessions, and educational programs.

Conclusion

The SBC Summit presents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to deepen their understanding of player protection and responsible gambling practices. With its comprehensive educational program, valuable networking opportunities, and insights from leading experts, the summit will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance their strategies and contribute to a safer gambling environment. As the industry continues to evolve, the commitment to player safety remains a fundamental priority, and events like the SBC Summit play a crucial role in advancing this objective.

FAQs:

What is the focus of the ‘Player Protection Zone' at the SBC Summit?
The ‘Player Protection Zone' aims to showcase the latest innovations in safeguarding systems and educate industry professionals on best practices for responsible gambling.

When and where is the SBC Summit scheduled to take place?
The SBC Summit is scheduled for September 24-26 at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa.

Which organizations are confirmed to participate in the ‘Player Protection Zone'?
Confirmed organizations include BetBlocker, Crucial Compliance, EPIC, GamCare, Gamble Alert, Gordon Moody, Mindway AI, Neccton, Recover Me, Safer Gambling Training, Verifeye Online, and W2 by FullCircl.

What topics will be addressed on the first day of the summit?
The first day will cover the future impact of emerging technologies on responsible gambling, data utilization for at-risk players, regulatory responses, and collaboration with influencers.

What will be the focus of the second day’s sessions?
The second day will focus on compliance leadership, technological integration in safer gambling, player protection in various markets, and the impact of affordability checks and loss limits.

What key areas will be discussed on the final day of the summit?
The final day will address the integration of responsible gambling with ESG principles, internal diversity, attracting talent from outside the industry, and the impact of harm prevention on profitability.

Who are some of the prominent speakers at the summit?
Prominent speakers include Fredrik Wastenson, Tammi Barlow, Martin Lycka, Andrea McGeachin, Hugo Baungartner, Mike De Graaff, Rasmus Kjaergaard, and Sam McKnight.

What other specialized zones will be featured at the SBC Summit?
The summit will include the Sports Betting Zone, Casino & iGaming Zone, Media Headquarters, and summits for Affiliate Leaders, Payment Experts, and ESI Lisbon.

How will the summit enhance the delegate experience?
The summit will offer various amenities, including a Food Festival with diverse catering options and a dedicated lounge area, along with targeted networking opportunities and educational programs.

What is the overall goal of the SBC Summit?
The goal of the SBC Summit is to advance knowledge and practices in player protection and responsible gambling, providing industry professionals with valuable insights and tools to enhance their strategies.

Why is player safety a crucial topic at the SBC Summit?
Player safety remains a critical concern as the industry evolves with new technologies and innovations. The summit aims to address these challenges and promote best practices for safeguarding players.