Interviews
Jackpots Q&A w/ Max Francis, Founder at Black Cow Technology

In recent years, we have seen a number of different jackpot formats hit the market from the likes of Red Tiger and BluePrint Gaming. This in turn has seen a surge in demand for these games, with operators now having to stock them in their lobbies if they are to compete with their rivals. Jackpot slots provide tremendous acquisition and retention opportunities, but operators have yet to find a way to offer these games to players in a way that allows them to truly stand out from their rivals. By taking control of jackpots and the platforms and servers that power them, online casino brands can do just that. We sat down with Max Francis at Black Cow Technology, to learn more about how operators can, well, hit the jackpot by leveraging the cutting-edge technologies available to them.
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Jackpot slots are firm player favourites. But what actually makes them so popular?
Itâs mostly due to the life-changing cash prizes that can be hit when playing jackpot slots. This makes them thrilling to play â from a single base-game spin, players can trigger a massive win which builds unrivalled anticipation and excitement every time they tap the spin button. This is taken to the next level with progressive jackpot slots that can pay out tens of millions of pounds. These are particularly engaging to play because the player can see the ever-increasing potential win â something they canât with the base game. This keeps players captivated and coming back for more. In recent years, we have seen new jackpot formats enter the market that pay out more regularly â hourly, daily, when a prize value is hit, etc â which has seen player demand for jackpot slots rise even higher.
Given this demand for jackpot slots, are they now a must-have for online casino operators?
Absolutely. Operators must stock jackpot slots or risk losing their players to rival brands that do. There is also a major acquisition opportunity with jackpot slots, especially when it comes to running marketing campaigns when prizes get really big â Mega Moolah hitting âŹ5m can be a catalyst for new player sign-ups and reactivations if pushed in the right way. Of course, just having the most popular jackpot games in the lobby is a strong draw for players when deciding whether to play at that brand for the first time or not. Whatâs more, engagement with jackpot slots can be higher than with standard games as players dwell longer due to the draw of the monster prize up for grabs.
You mentioned some of the new jackpot formats that have hit the market in recent years, but have we really seen true innovation yet?
Jackpot slots have been a staple on the floors of land-based casinos from Macau to Las Vegas for a long time now. In fact, IGT launched its wide-area progressive, Megabucks, back in 1986 before the web even existed. While the subsequent rise of the web has brought these games to the desktops and mobiles of players, Iâd say there has been very little in the way of true innovation until recently. Itâs been great to see the likes of Red Tiger enjoy success with its Daily Drop and Must Drop Jackpots, with similar formats being quickly adopted by other studios. Blueprint Gaming is another standout success with its Jackpot King which sits across multiple games in its portfolio. Of course, there is always more that can be done when it comes to jackpot slots from the operator side as well as the supplier side.
How can operators take more ownership of the jackpot experience they offer to players?
By using the right jackpot server technology, operators can easily add a progressive jackpot that covers every single game in their lobby from any supplier. Those that do this have a significant point of difference over rival brands and a powerful acquisition and retention tool at their disposal. If players want to play for this jackpot, they can only do so with that operator. It also allows operators to run jackpots on non-jackpot games â adding a jackpot prize to the most popular slot in its lobby can drive engagement levels into the stratosphere. Of course, this can be localised depending on which games are popular in which markets. As well as opening up acquisition possibilities, rolling out jackpots generates unrivalled rates of retention, especially when combined with other CRM activities such as bonuses and loyalty schemes.
This sounds like a fairly complex undertaking. What technologies are required to do this?
The technical complexity of jackpot servers is surprisingly high, and operators also need to consider things like player preferences and compliance. Jackpot servers need to be flexible and efficient â this makes them difficult to build and even more difficult to iterate and continuously develop against. This is why it’s best for operators to work with a third-party technology specialist that handles the technical aspect, allowing them to focus their efforts on marketing the jackpots and products they offer. This is what Black Cow offers, but with a server that allows the game to determine its own jackpot rules rather than being limited by the jackpot system.
So what do operators need to look for when choosing which jackpot server to use?
The jackpot server itself needs to be efficient, resilient and robust. It also needs to be flexible so that it can facilitate the different and specialist jackpot rules that operators will want to pass through it. Of course, it must also be fully compliant in each of the markets that the operator plans to deploy it in. So far as I am aware, no operator has successfully developed its own jackpot network software, but given the technical expertise and experience required to make it work, this should come as no surprise. Ultimately, this is why many look to work with specialist technology providers as they have the understanding, experience, and technical skills to develop, manage and finesse such systems, leaving the operators to do what they do best â grow their player base using the jackpot experiences they offer.
Interviews
Built for the branded reality – RubyPlayâs high velocity approach to the US market

With localisation, speed to market, and cross-state scalability at the heart of its strategy, RubyPlay is proving that relevanceâand resultsâcome from understanding both the player and the moment. Dr. Eyal Loz, Chief Product Officer at RubyPlay, discusses the companyâs fast growing US presence and how its agile, insight-driven approach is resonating with players and operators alike. From crafting bespoke branded content to rolling out favoured mechanics with modern twists, RubyPlay is positioning itself as a key partner in the evolving iGaming landscape.
Just a few months into RubyPlayâs US journey, how has player response shaped your perception of the market? And how will these insights shape your roadmap going forward?
We see very strong player preferences to games that combine a Hold and Spin mechanic with perceived persistence. We also see that American players respond well to classic themes with a clear modern flavour. None of this was very surprising, as we are very well tuned with the preferences of players in America. The RubyPlay offering was always optimised for American players, and itâs nice to see that our roll out is working so well, as we expected it to.
We also explored a handful of innovative mechanics that are less prevalent in traditional land-based casinos, and we are happy to see that these were also well received.
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Titles like Mad HitÂŽ Diamonds and Diamond Explosions 7sÂŽ SE are a few of your early standouts. What do you think is making these games click with the US audience compared to other markets?
These two titles are solid performers in all markets, so we had high expectations to see these perform very well with American players. Both these mechanics have all the elements that make for a strong US title â Hold and Spin, perceived persistency, Buy Feature and a solid art package with a classic yet modern feel.
The US iGaming market is unique, not just in regulation, but in how players engage with content. How does your strategy for the US differ from other global regions and how do you maintain global competitiveness while staying locally relevant?
Itâs important to remember that top performing mechanics tend to transcend time and space. Hold and Spin mechanics have performed well in almost all markets since they were introduced over 10 years ago. What makes a specific game more relevant to one specific region is the theme and flow of the game. For example, games featuring mahjong tiles will perform well in South East Asia but will not perform to the same level of success in the US. Similarly, games with strong Egyptian themes will not perform in Asia but have a good potential in the US.
RubyPlayâs superpower is in our velocity and adaptability. We are able to identify opportunities with operators to support their brand identity and create specialised bespoke content for them, taking into consideration elements such as the relevance of that theme to the market, and the brand of the operator. We live in a branded reality, and we consider our clientâs brand a top priority.
Youâve spoken about empowering brands through strong partnerships. How do you approach collaboration in the US market to ensure both RubyPlay and its partners succeed?
Brands are a lifestyle in the USA. We have to understand this first in order to reach the audience in the way that our US partners take as second nature. By focusing on building high velocity, we are able to create relevant bespoke content for our partners that is unique to their needs.
Velocity is really important because branding opportunities donât last very long. When a client negotiates a collaboration between their brand and a 3rd party, the deal will always close very late and will not last very long. Our ability to be in tune with the reality of such short deliveries on tight schedules, measured in weeks, not years, has given us a disproportionate advantage.
We have a stronger awareness of special events, whether sports, holidays, or cultural, and our responsiveness allow us to always stay relevant through our portfolio or bespoke content with the timings of such events in mind.
What role does localisation play in your expansion strategy?
Localisation is absolutely crucial. As I mentioned before, the combination of a robust and large variety of game mechanics, combined with the ability to minimise time to market thematically, we are able to always stay relevant to new markets we started operating in. When entering a new market, itâs hard to predict what is going to work, so building velocity, and keeping an open mind is key.
With more states opening up, how is RubyPlay preparing to scale its presence across the country? Any new or upcoming experiences or innovations players and partners can expect this year?
We are well on our way to enter Pennsylvania and West Virginia as we are well aware that US. operators are heavily focused on a cross-state strategy regarding promotions. If we can support this by having the top states, we ensure a stronger and more effective experience for players with branding in mind. After all, markets are one of the most important product features.
Other than that, we are planning to roll out our Awarded Feature with many of our direct clients. This will allow operators to award the Buy Feature for free via a back-office campaign. We saw this can be very effective in branding, retention and acquisition, and allow operators to either award players with the best part of the gaming experience, or up-sell promotions via their CRMs.
Iâm very excited to see the impact the Awarded Feature will have with our partners on all areas of their business.
Interviews
Betbazar Explores Cricket in iGaming: What Operators Need to Know

Revolutionising Cricket Premier League: Max Sevostianov – COO at Betbazar, shares insights on how AI-Cricket and hyper-local data products are helping Operators engage, convert, and retain players year-round
With the start of the Premier League cricket season in India, what key trends are you seeing in the iGaming industry around this sport?
Weâre witnessing explosive demand for faster, more immersive cricket content. Ball-by-ball gaming is really taking off, driven by players who crave real-time action and micro-engagements. This has pushed Operators to double down on mobile-first experiences â speed, accessibility, and UX are everything in this space.
Another standout trend is hyper-localisation. Itâs no longer enough to offer cricket content in English â platforms are integrating regional languages, tailoring promotions based on local fandoms, and weaving in fantasy-style formats that resonate deeply with Indian audiences.
Perhaps the biggest shift weâre seeing is strategic: cricket is evolving from a seasonal event to a sustainable, year-round revenue channel. Operators arenât just riding the IPL wave â theyâre building ecosystems around domestic leagues, international fixtures, and even niche formats, ensuring engagement doesnât drop off after the final.
Do you think the league will trigger a revenue surge for South Asian Operators? What should they focus on to make the most of this opportunity?
Absolutely â the Premier League is essentially Black Friday for cricket in India and the wider South Asian market. Itâs the peak of the calendar, where user engagement and volumes skyrocket. But high traffic alone doesnât guarantee high returns.
To truly capitalize on this opportunity, Operators need robust infrastructure. That means rock-solid uptime, especially during critical moments like the toss or final overs when activity spikes. Fast bet settlements, wide market coverage â from traditional formats to more niche or prop bets â and content that keeps users hooked, like virtuals or eCricket, are all must-haves.
This season, the winners wonât just be those with the most users â theyâll be the ones who can scale seamlessly, automate efficiently, and deliver content thatâs as thrilling as the match itself.
What cricket-related products are currently making the biggest impact in the iGaming market?
Three products are really making waves right now.
First, Virtual (AI) and eCricket formats are proving to be game-changers. These always-on experiences keep players engaged even between live matches, maintaining momentum throughout the season and beyond.
Second, high-frequency data feeds are unlocking a new level of interactivity. Instant markets, player props, and ball-by-ball gaming are now the norm, providing users with a dynamic and deeply immersive experience, especially appealing to mobile users who seek fast, responsive gameplay.
Finally, localised and gamified content is crucial. Weâre seeing strong traction with fantasy-style elements and UIâs designed specifically for cricket fans. When combined with regional language support and tailored promotions, this kind of personalisation boosts both engagement and long-term retention.
These innovations are driving serious volume â and, more importantly, keeping players coming back.
Betbazar recently launched a new product â AI Cricket. Can you walk us through its key features and what makes it so promising?
AI-Cricket is the latest innovation on Betbazar’s marketplace, and it’s setting a new benchmark for virtual sports. At its core, it delivers 24/7 AI-powered cricket matches with realistic gameplay that mirrors live action â from batting styles to fielding dynamics â all generated by advanced algorithms.
What truly sets AI Cricket apart is its end-to-end automation. Everything from match creation to odds generation is fully automated, allowing Operators to run with minimal overhead and maintain a consistent 8% margin, without the need for manual trading.
On the user side, itâs all about engagement. The product supports fantasy-inspired modes and even customisable avatars, offering a highly immersive experience that feels fresh every time. And because itâs always available, it gives Operators a powerful tool to drive retention, even during downtime in the real-world sports calendar.
So AI-Cricket blends innovation with profitability, making it a standout product for todayâs cricket-focused iGaming market.
ĐĄricket coverage in Betbazarâs Live Data Feed is described as unique. How broad is the coverage, and what specific advantages does it offer to operators?
Betbazarâs Live Data Feed offers one of the most comprehensive and operator-friendly cricket solutions in the market today. We’re talking about 15,000+ pre-match and over 9,000 live Cricket & Kabaddi Events, and an additional 10,000+ AI Cricket events each year â a scale that ensures operators can engage users year-round.
But what really sets it apart is the quality behind the quantity. Settlement times for top events are incredibly fast, typically within five minutes after the match, giving players confidence and keeping the gaming process flow smooth.
From a technical perspective, weâve built it for performance, featuring low-latency updates, a high SLA for reliability, and customisable margins that allow Operators to fine-tune their offerings to suit different markets and risk profiles.
In short, itâs a powerful, high-performance data solution designed to meet the fast-paced demands of modern cricket, enabling operators to stay ahead of the game.
About Betbazar
Betbazar is a B2B worldwide iGaming marketplace which has set a new sales standard, sourcing specialist iGaming products and advising on their role within existing strategies to deliver growth to our partners. The companyâs ambition is to build a digital iGaming marketplace that connects creators with operators, accelerating growth through best-in-class products.Â
Interviews
Interview w/ Renato Almeida, Director at FBM

Looking Back: Growth & Achievements
FBMDS is celebrating five years of expansion and innovation. How would you describe the brandâs journey during this time?
Our journey over the past five years has been one of bold moves, strategic growth, and relentless innovation. As part of the FBMÂŽ Group, we began as pioneers in Video Bingo, but our vision extended far beyond that. We have focused on delivering profitable products to our clients and engaging gaming experiences to players. By expanding into multiple gaming categories and strengthening our global presence in key markets like Mexico and Brazil, we have redefined what a localized, player-centric gaming experience should be.
What were the key milestones that shaped FBMDSâ success over the past five years?
Several milestones have defined our success. First, our solidification as a market leader in Video Bingo and Lotto Games, setting the gold standard with best-seller products like Multi Mega, Power Pick Lotto, and Champion IV. Our leadership in Video Bingo is reinforced by unique features like the jackpot system, Magic Ball, and attractive paytables, all of which drive engagement and retention.
Second, our presence at international trade shows has played a crucial role in strengthening relationships with key partners and clients while reinforcing our brand positioning, as seen in events like G2E Las Vegas 2024. Lastly, our rapid expansion in the LATAM region, particularly in Mexico and Brazil, has solidified FBMDS as a trusted and respected brand in a highly competitive landscape.
What has been the most significant challenge, and how did FBMDS overcome it?
The online gaming industry is highly competitive, and differentiation is key. Our challenge was to deliver games that not only stood out but also ensured profitability for operators and engaging experiences for players. We tackled this by investing in customization, localization, and innovationâensuring that every product aligns with the preferences of specific markets. Our ability to adapt game mechanics, themes, and retention strategies has positioned us ahead of the competition, creating unique gaming experiences that drive business success.
Product Evolution & Market Leadership
FBMDS has built a strong reputation in Video Bingo. How has this segment evolved, and what makes FBMDS a leader in this category?
Video Bingo is our DNA, and we have continuously pushed its evolution by refining gameplay mechanics, introducing engaging themes, and incorporating advanced technology to enhance user experience. Our commitment to differentiation sets us apart: our jackpot feature, the Magic Ball, and attractive paytables are tailored to maximize player engagement and operator profitability. Customization is at the heart of our strategy, ensuring our games resonate with local markets and drive long-term success.
Among FBMDSâ product portfolio, do you have a personal favorite? Why?
Itâs hard to pick just one, but Iâd highlight our Video Bingo games because they represent our legacy and continued leadership in the industry. We believe Video Bingo is an essential asset for any online casino, as it offers a nostalgic yet modern experience, combining interactive features with high retention rates. Our jackpot system enhances player excitement, while innovative game mechanics keep engagement levels high. In addition, our crash games showcase our adaptability and innovation, delivering high-quality visuals and dynamic gameplay. These two categories reflect our strategic pillars: player engagement and profitable gaming solutions for operators.
Future Outlook & Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, whatâs the vision for FBMDSâ next five years?
We are just getting started. Our vision is to expand our influence by continuously delivering innovative and engaging gaming experiences that drive profitability for operators. While we maintain our leadership in Video Bingo, we are also focused on strengthening our position in other gaming verticals. We will continue investing in localized, player-driven innovation, ensuring that every product we launch enhances both player experience and operator success.
Brazil is a key market with huge potential. How does FBMDS plan to strengthen its presence in this region?
Brazil is a strategic priority for us. With regulatory developments and increasing demand for online gaming, we see tremendous opportunities to expand. Our approach is centered on offering tailored gaming experiences that resonate with Brazilian players, ensuring our products align with their cultural and gaming preferences. Additionally, we are forging strategic partnerships with operators to facilitate seamless and impactful expansion in the region, ensuring that our games drive engagement and profitability for our partners.
Innovation & Whatâs Next
Can you share any insights about upcoming products or features that FBMDS is working on?
Absolutely. We are developing a new generation of Video Bingo games featuring advanced jackpot systems, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and even more engaging features tailored to player preferences. Our goal is to create experiences that keep players entertained while maximizing operator revenue. In addition, we are working on new slots and bonus structures designed to drive engagement and profitability, ensuring that FBMDS remains at the forefront of gaming innovation.
What can operators and players expect from FBMDS in the near future?
A: More expansion, more innovation, and an even stronger, more diverse gaming portfolio. Players can expect cutting-edge experiences featuring interactive and rewarding mechanics, while operators will benefit from flexible, high-performance gaming solutions designed to optimize engagement and profitability. We are committed to maintaining our leadership in Video Bingo while continuously evolving to meet market demands.
Final Thoughts
After five years of continuous growth, what message would you like to share with FBMDSâ partners and players?
First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to our players, partners, and the entire FBMDS team. Your trust and support have been instrumental in our journey. As we move forward, we remain committed to delivering exceptional gaming experiences, driving profitability for our partners, and continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation. The best is yet to come!
If you had to describe FBMDSâ journey in one word, what would it be?
Transformational.
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