Aleksi Virtanen’s Post

iGaming: " Are you not entertained ? " Reflecting on 30 Years of Online Casinos The journey of iGaming over the past three decades has been nothing short of remarkable. In the first 15 years, the focus was on laying the foundation for a fledgling industry. Online #casinos gradually gained legitimacy, paving the way for what we now know as iGaming. During this period, innovation was slow but steady, as the industry worked to establish itself while navigating the challenges of a nascent digital world. The second 15-year phase was characterized by increased government oversight. Regulators stepped in to ensure consumer protection and responsible gaming practices. Simultaneously, the technology that powered online gaming underwent a significant transformation. The transition from dial-up connections to high-speed internet fundamentally changed the landscape, allowing for more sophisticated and interactive gaming experiences. As computing power and devices evolved, online casinos became faster, more accessible, and more engaging. A New Era of iGaming Today, we're witnessing a shift in focus from traditional gambling to a more entertainment-centric approach. The move from "hope" to "entertainment with hope" reflects a conscious effort to redefine the iGaming experience. While changing the industry's name won't instantly transform it into an entertainment juggernaut, the intent is clear, and progress is underway. Companies are no longer just betting shops; they're becoming entertainment hubs, where iGaming is just one part of a broader experience. Innovations and Trends in iGaming To understand how iGaming is evolving, we need to look at the emerging trends. Game shows, shorter leaderboards with prizes, arcade-style content, virtual currencies, missions, and achievements are all reshaping the landscape. While these elements are often grouped under the term "gamification," it might be more accurate to call them "video game-inspired entertainment." The influence of video gaming culture is evident, and iGaming companies are embracing it to attract a broader audience. One of the most exciting developments has been the rise of streamers and the ability to bet behind them. This concept, borrowed from the video gaming world, has introduced a new level of interactivity and community to iGaming. As this trend gains traction, it has the potential to bring more engagement and excitement to online casinos. The Future of iGaming So, what's next for iGaming? To become the top #entertainment destination, the industry must continue to embrace change and innovate. Regulations will evolve, technology will advance, and player preferences will shift. iGaming companies should focus on creating immersive experiences that go beyond traditional #gambling, incorporating elements like live entertainment, social interaction, and personalized content. How can #iGaming companies further evolve to become the top entertainment destination ?

Online casinos in the US present a compelling market fit due to the convergence of digital technology, changing consumer behavior, and evolving regulatory landscapes. As more states move toward the legalization of online gambling, the market potential for online casinos is expanding rapidly. The convenience of accessing a wide variety of games from any location at any time is particularly appealing to younger demographics who prefer digital entertainment over traditional forms. With an expected surge in internet accessibility and smartphone penetration, the online gambling industry is poised for substantial growth. To elevate an online casino to unicorn status, strategic execution is key. First, capitalizing on the evolving regulatory environment is crucial. By actively engaging with policymakers and positioning the brand in states where legalization is imminent, an online casino can establish itself as a market leader. Early market entry can offer a competitive advantage and solidify brand presence before the market becomes saturated. Innovation is another critical factor. Incorporating cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and blockchain can create immersive, secure, and transparent gaming experiences. These technological advancements can differentiate the platform, attract tech-savvy users, and enhance player trust, which is vital for long-term success. Strategic partnerships and collaborations can further accelerate growth. Aligning with game developers, payment processors, and media outlets can expand the platform’s reach and diversify its offerings. Collaborating with influencers and leveraging data-driven marketing strategies can also help in creating personalized experiences that boost customer retention and engagement. Responsible gambling practices should be a cornerstone of the platform's strategy. Implementing tools that allow users to manage their spending and time, alongside offering resources for problem gambling, is essential for building a reputable brand that regulators and players trust. Lastly, exploring global expansion beyond the US can provide additional growth avenues. Tapping into international markets, particularly in regions where online gambling is already established, can diversify revenue streams and reduce reliance on the US market alone. Despite challenges such as complex regulations and cybersecurity risks, an online casino that stays agile, prioritizes innovation, and focuses on customer-centric strategies can achieve significant growth. By executing these strategies effectively, an online casino in the US has the potential to reach unicorn status in the dynamic and expanding online gambling industry. #OnlineCasino #DigitalGaming #USGambling #CasinoTech #VirtualCasino #GamingInnovation #GamblingIndustry #CasinoGrowth #TechInGaming #VRGaming #ARGaming #BlockchainCasino #CasinoPartnerships #DataDrivenMarketing #ResponsibleGambling #CasinoTrends #FutureOfGambling

Top 11 Online Casino Malaysia Play With Real Money In 2024 https://ift.tt/Qq5vhM9 For years, the rise of online casino Malaysia has become almost unstoppable. This pastime has risen from something few enjoyed in their spare time to becoming one of Malaysians’ most typical forms of entertainment. Indeed, the online gaming market is expected to grow considerably in the coming years. Despite its legal status, online gambling in Malaysia has seen a large growth in popularity and shows no signs of slowing down. With that in mind, if you want to get involved with an online casino Malaysia, you should look at the following popular online platforms. The Best 11 Online Casinos in Malaysia Malaysia-based gamers have many options when looking for an online casino. To help you make the right choice, we recommend that anyone new to the online casino Malaysia industry looks at the following platforms that are available: Maxim88 – The Best Online Casino Malaysia For Prizes And VIP Programs 96M – The Best Casino For Mobile Gamers me88 – The Best Casino For 288% Slot Bonuses BK8 – The Best Casino For Those Serious About Security AW8 – The Best Casino For Referral Bonuses And Extras Uwin33 – The Best Casino For Rapid Withdrawals Of Winnings We88 – The Best Casino For Those Who Like Progressive Jackpots MB8 – The Best Casino For Access Across Southeast Asia Dafabet – The Best Online Casino Malaysia For Casino & Sportsbook Combos MyGame Casino – The Best Online Casino For Horse Racing Winclub88 – The Best Online Casino Malaysia Has For Weekly Rewards By using one of the above online casinos in Malaysia, you are almost certain to have a good time. Each platform above differs slightly from one another, but all broadly offer the same thing: a high-quality experience. From features like brilliant welcome bonuses to sportsbooks, the above casinos make some of the best places to turn to if you want to test your luck! Detailed Review Of Each Malaysia Online Casino Maxim88 – The Best Online Casino Malaysia For Prizes And VIP Programs Of every site for online gambling Malaysia players can choose from, we rate Maxim88 as arguably the best. This platform is known for having an exceptional standard of app, making it nice and easy for you to sign in and start playing when you are ready. At the same time, the platform offers some of the best welcome bonuses around, providing as much as MYR500 on your welcome bonus – a huge sum! Another important factor to note is that Maxim88 has a sports betting platform. We like their sportsbook, but it can sometimes skew the welcome bonuses and offers towards sports betting. That aside, though, there are many promotional events, and the VIP program is well worth joining due to the prolific number of regular bonuses. We like Maxim88 for various reasons, but it is one of the best for those looking for a loyal place to play. This is because it holds a pair of licenses in Curacao and the Philippines, helping you to know that this plat...

Asking iGaming Product Owner tricky questions. Follow us for more>>> Q: There’s a point of view that most iGaming brands are of the same type and therefore competing by product doesn’t work. For example, games are mostly the same on every website, similar design and overall logic as well. Do you agree that there’s no way to make something different and players do not really care about how your website looks? A: This is a something that newcomers can express but this is not true for any of the product in the world. Basically, you can say this about anything. Every taxi service is of the same logic but we still like Uber more than others. Chinese shopping websites and local reseller are the same as well, but we all can catch the difference in quality and design. Of course, we can make something very much different and add some catching action, but do we really need that? I don’t think so. It might sound silly for someone, but players do not look for something “completely different”, they have straight and simple attitude to this stuff. They need properly working website that offers as much bonuses and entertainment as possible. If your website built on poor infrastructure and is slower than a turtle, than it doesn’t’ matter if it’s pink or blue. About same games — this is not a problem at all and more of advantage. Because some players are actually looking for the known games, even old ones sometimes, that they like the most. You don’t have a task to be “not like others” when you do online casino on some basic level, you should differentiate yourself among others that are the same. And trust me, this is much harder. What do you think of it? Share your thoughts in the comments. #fintech #igaming #payments #paymentsolutions Full interview: https://lnkd.in/gWUHPeXQ

🎰 Top 10 Countries by Number of Online Casino Players Online casinos are gaining popularity worldwide, with certain countries standing out due to their high number of players and betting volumes. Let's explore the top 10 countries with the most online casino players. 1. United States 🇺🇸 Despite complex legislation, the United States leads in the number of online casino players. With more states legalizing online gambling, this number continues to grow. 2. United Kingdom 🇬🇧 The United Kingdom has one of the most developed online gambling markets. The UK Gambling Commission strictly regulates the industry, ensuring high standards and safety for players. 3. Canada 🇨🇦 Canada ranks third in the number of online casino players. Canadians appreciate the convenience and accessibility of online platforms, making the market very attractive to operators. 4. Australia 🇦🇺 Australia has a high level of participation in online gambling. Many players regularly place bets and enjoy various online casino games. 5. Germany 🇩🇪 The German gambling market continues to grow despite strict regulations. German players actively participate in online casinos and value high-quality gaming platforms. 6. Sweden 🇸🇪 Sweden is known for its advanced technology and high internet penetration, contributing to the growing number of online casino players. 7. Finland 🇫🇮 Finns are also active in online gaming. The state lottery and licensed operators provide a safe and regulated environment for players. 8. Norway 🇳🇴 Norway shows a high level of participation in online gambling despite stringent laws. Many players use international platforms. 9. Japan 🇯🇵 Interest in online casinos is growing in Japan, especially in sports betting and casino games. Japanese players are known for their preference for innovative and tech-savvy solutions. 10. Netherlands 🇳🇱 The Netherlands recently legalized online gambling, leading to a significant increase in the number of players. Strict rules and regulations ensure player safety and trust. Conclusion 🧩 These countries represent the largest online casino markets, where millions of players enjoy games and betting daily. The development of technology and the legalization of gambling contribute to the industry's continued growth and the attraction of new players. https://www.affheroes.com #affiliate #B2B #igaming #onlinecasino #affiliateprogram #gambling #casinogames #onlineslots #igamingbusiness #onlinegambling #betting #onlinegaming #affiliatemarketing #OnlineMarketing #TargetedGEOs #TrafficSources #CustomizedFees #OptimizeROI #MarketingStrategy

🎰 West Virginia’s iGaming Revenues Surge in March 🚀 The West Virginia Lottery revealed a record-breaking iGaming revenue in March, exceeding $20 million for the first time in a single month. 💸 Mountain State operators reported a massive increase in revenue, reaching almost $24 million, marking an 87.1% rise compared to March 2023. This surge topped the previous state record set in December 2023 ($18.2 million), marking the third instance since West Virginia’s legal online casino market launched in July 2020, where revenue surpassed $15 million. 📈 Total wagers reached a remarkable $567.1 million, a 57% year-on-year increase, exceeding the half-billion dollar mark for only the second time in state history. Again, December 2023 saw the previous record for online casino wagering ($501.2 million). 🤑 After a 15% administrative fee, West Virginia collected $3.1 million in taxes, bringing 2024’s Q1 total to almost $7 million. To put that to scale, the Mountain State also received around $20 million in state taxes from iGaming for all of 2023. 💵 Looking closer at the monthly revenues of West Virginia’s casinos: ·      🥇 Hollywood Casino at Charles Town achieved an all-time high in monthly revenue, coming close to $10 million. Partnered with DraftKings and Fanatics Casino, revenues in March 2023 saw a year-over-year increase of 89.6%. Total wagers also reached a new record of $233.7 million. ·      💚 The Greenbrier, previously holding the Mountain State’s record high of $7.9 million set last December, came in second with an all-time best of $9.3 million. The combined revenue from BetMGM, FanDuel, and Golden Nugget’s online casinos passed the $200 million benchmark for the first time, with March 2024’s total wagers exceeding $233.8 million. ·      ⛰ The home of BetRivers and Caesars Palace online casinos, Mountaineer Casino, also reached an all-time revenue high of $3.9 million, doubling its $1.9 million figure from March 2023. The $89.9 million in total wagers came close to breaking the $109 million record generated in October 2023. ·      ⚜ In its first year with an online presence, Mardi Gras Casino saw continued success in March with an all-time revenue high of $846,411. The month also saw a record-breaking figure for total wagers at $19.8 million, topping December’s $17.5 million. ·      🏆 Lastly, while the Betly online casino site is yet to reach a seven-figure monthly revenue total, March marked the first time it exceeded $500,000 in back-to-back months. #WestVirginiaGambling #WVGambling #WestVirginiaCasinos #WVCasinos

💼 Building Online Casino HQ: A Journey Through a Changing Landscape When I first envisaged Online Casino HQ back in 2019 - well, at no point did I think I'd be here almost SIX years later, pre-launch :) As for us all, that pesky thing, "life", got in the way - but 2024 was the year I decided that enough was enough; it was finally time to bring OCHQ’s potential to life, aiming for a launch by year-end. Beyond the influx of new game developers, the opening (and closure) of world-leading casino brands, and an ever-changing regulatory framework - often, on a country-by-country basis - now, my team and I are realising that the affiliate landscape has changed significantly, too. Today, many leading iGaming sites are owned by massive networks with resources to spare—content teams, developers, entire SEO departments - and a ton of cash. Competing as a smaller, independent project may seem daunting - and it certainly isn't without its challenges. We’ve had to adapt our strategy, rethinking what success looks like in a space where big players dominate and budgets are high. But here’s the thing – I actually believe there’s a BIG benefit to staying small. On network-owned sites, it’s easy to see where they’ve lost control: thin content, out-of-date information, lazy writing (often writers with zero experience and/or passion in/for the industry) and profit taking precedence over quality. And, for me, that's the problem with GOING so big. Here at OCHQ, from day ONE, I knew that was never an approach I wanted to take. It doesn’t matter whether we’re reviewing our highest-performing casino brand or a slot from a developer almost no one has heard of; every detail must be correct, accurately presented, and with the end-user in mind. After all, why are players coming to our site? For real, unbiased insights and honest reviews. We’re in this to make money, yes, but as players ourselves, we don’t want shallow, glossed-over content that never highlights the downsides. And as Online Casino HQ nears its final few weeks of "dormant status" before officially launching, I wanted to reflect on the journey it's been, and how different the iGaming space is, in a PLETHORA of ways, for so many of us. I'm also thrilled to welcome Dave Sawyer, who, this year, decided to join me on this journey! His insights have already made a huge impact on where OCHQ is headed. So... What do YOU think? How has the last half-decade changed the industry for you? I’d love to hear from fellow affiliates, casino reps, developers, game studios - anyone in iGaming, really! A BIG thank you to everyone who's helped us along this journey – we're now (literally) counting down the days until OCHQ finally goes live. And thanks to those who spoke with us before we'd even launched. 4ThePlayer.com and Duncan Garvie from BetBlocker to name just two... Stay tuned – the best is yet to come! Alex.

I find myself naturally inclined to agree with a lot of what Alex Smith expresses here. The consolidation of the affiliate market is to be expected as our industry matures. But I do find myself looking at a lot of the content that's put out today and finding it intrinsically bland. Written by content writers who have little or no interest in/experience with gambling, check boxes are created to facilitate production line content. The capacity to look deeper than those check boxes simply doesn't exist. Effectively, the industry has learned to fake the actual knowledge/authority indicators that Google looks for and this results in a facade of knowledge, rather than truly deep content. I'm not suggesting a solution - I don't think there is one. But it is sad. What does everyone else thing? Have the changes Google has made in the last decade improved content?

How do you actually make an online casino....and how does starting one feel like. 2 years ago I was part of Casinoverse, a Web3 Casino Project So here is a quick "How To Build A Casino Manual": -> The heartbeat of any online casino is the Player Account Management System Its basically what operates the front and backend...how players get offers, which games you choose, etc etc etc. -> Well how do you get online players??? This is where affiliates come in...and do they make $$$. Affiliates earn money by pushing traffic to online casinos and they can make 25-50% of their players play ->How do you become legal?? Well there are different casino licenses. Most online casinos are on a Curacao License as its the fastest to get, but it only allows you to operate in certain markets. There are Isle of Man, Malta, USA, etc etc and each has their own regulations -> Where do you get games? Gaming providers have different games. You can either go direct to providers like Evolution or Pragmatic Play or instead you can get a gaming engine that gives you access to more games. You can expect to pay another 10-15% of what you earn to the providers. -> How do you build loyalty? Well different offers are given to entice players. Maybe its free spins etc, but players expect something if they are playing at your online casino -> Where do you network with people in the industry? There are a lot of great tradeshows in gaming that are super fun...helicopter rides, free limos to the hotel, lots of parties ... Look at SiGMA and ICE for these The time spent creating Casinoverse felt unreal...Never did I think I would get exposed to so much in such a little time. Here is a tiny glimpse: