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Industry Leaders Voice Strong Backing for SBC Summit Americas in Fort Lauderdale
The announcement of the SBC Summit Americas has garnered widespread support from industry leaders. The reimagined event aims to increase connectivity across North, Central, and South America, forming a single, cohesive platform for the gaming industry throughout the region.
Set to take place in Fort Lauderdale on May 13-15, 2025, the summit is poised to offer broader networking opportunities and drive forward collaboration within the industry.
Peruvian operator Apuesta Total shared their excitement about the location. “I always enjoy a change of scenery, and Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic choice. Many people like to turn conferences into extended weekends, so I’m certain attendees will appreciate the city’s beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere,” said company CEO Gonzalo Perez.
Relationship marketing hub Optimove’s VP of Revenue, Motti Colman, shared his thoughts on the potential of the new-look event. “With 8,000 attendees expected, this event is off to an excellent start. I am also keen on exploring new market insights through market-by-market conference sessions, so I am confident this is a great platform for expanded opportunities.”
Better Collective, a leading affiliate powerhouse and a frequent presence at SBC events, not only attending but also contributing as exhibitors, sponsors, and speakers, expressed their confidence in SBC’s potential with this revamped event.
“At Better Collective, we look very much forward to the SBC Summit America 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. With years of proven expertise in event organization, SBC enables unparalleled networking opportunities under one roof, reinforcing our connections and partnerships within the industry,” said Marc Frank Pedersen, company CEO for North America.
He added: “Having worked with SBC for many years, we trust in SBC’s commitment to deliver events that not only meet but exceed our expectations.”
Joseph Martin, CEO of Kinectify, a company specializing in anti-money laundering and compliance software, who has previously exhibited at SBC Summit North America, backed the decision, expressing confidence in SBC’s industry-centric ethos.
“SBC always puts on great events. They have deep connections within our industry and prioritize the right elements to optimize our experience. I’m excited about this new show covering both North and South America. Gaming companies operating in multiple markets across the two continents now have a single event focused on the entire Americas region. I look forward to another outstanding SBC event experience in Fort Lauderdale.”
FanDuel CEO, Amy Howe, commented on the growth that SBC Summit North America had previously achieved under SBC’s leadership. “The SBC North American Summit has become a mark the calendar industry event each spring. The conference seems to grow each year and brings together an impressive array regulators, legislators, operators and technologists that help power the industry’s growth.”
The CEO also confirmed that the “company is delighted to participate in the conference each year and looks forward to 2025 in Florida.”
Marina Bogard, Managing Director for North America at Betsson, also emphasized that the event caters to companies with diverse geographic interests. “SBC’s decision to launch SBC Summit Americas and host the event in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provides a convenient opportunity for businesses with diverse market strategies to connect with both North American and Latin American leads under one roof.”
Bogard underscored the significance of this unified approach, which allows Betsson to efficiently engage with partners across diverse regions. “As you know, Betsson is a global company, and both regions remain highly significant for our expansion strategies. It is great to be able to align our efforts and meet all our partners across the Americas without having to attend multiple conferences,” she said.
Colman remarked: “SBC clearly has foresight in creating SBC Summit Americas for 2025.” Just like Bogard, he also recognized the event’s appeal to companies serving multiple geos. “At Optimove, we have experienced incredible growth in North and South America that parallels the incredible growth of SBC in each region. This new, reimagined show underscores that iGaming has come of age in the Americas. Plus, it will greatly benefit iGaming operators and service providers with diverse market interests.”
Perez echoed this sentiment. “We can all agree that the industry juggles numerous commitments, especially concerning conference participation. While attending expos around the world is rewarding, it also presents logistical and financial hurdles for companies. Therefore, I really embrace the idea of combining the strengths of the SBC Summit North America and Latinoamérica events to create a larger, more networking-rich experience,” he said.
Gaming
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Bally’s Interactive, the digital and sports betting division of Bally’s Corporation, has launched the all-new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app in Ontario, Canada. This latest release marks another significant milestone for the company, following the recent app update in New Jersey and a series of successful app launches in the past year, including the introduction of Bally Bet Sportsbook across multiple states and Bally Casino in Rhode Island.
The updated Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app represents a major step forward, as it combines the functionalities of the existing Bally Casino app and Bally Bet Sportsbook app into one comprehensive platform. Powered by White Hat Gaming, this new app allows players residing in or traveling to Ontario to conveniently place wagers on both sports and casino games using a single app, account, and universal wallet.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app, marking a significant milestone for Bally’s. This integrated platform merges the features of our previous apps, providing players in Ontario with a seamless experience for both sports and casino betting. Our commitment to enhancing the player experience remains at the forefront as we strive to personalize the enjoyment of playing Bally Bet,” said Robeson Reeves, CEO of Bally’s Corporation.
PENN Entertainment Inc. has launched its stand-alone Hollywood Casino app in Pennsylvania. Built on PENN’s proprietary technology platform, Hollywood Casino offers more than 700 iCasino games, a variety of daily promotions, and exciting jackpots.
Available on Android, iOS and desktop, customers in the Keystone State can access Hollywood Casino through either the ESPN BET app or through the new Hollywood Casino app using their same ESPN BET login credentials, allowing for a seamless experience across PENN’s online betting and casino platforms. PENN plans to launch Hollywood Casino in additional jurisdictions in 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
Hollywood Casino features a variety of online slots, table games and live dealer content, including bespoke live dealer tables and a dedicated “Casino Floor” lobby that allows users to easily find virtual versions of their favorite slot games from PENN’s retail properties. Hollywood Casino also features original titles from PENN Game Studios, PENN’s in-house casino game development studio that has produced a number of popular online games, including Legendary LarryTM and Wuji MinesTM.
“We’re excited to launch Hollywood Casino as a stand-alone app in Pennsylvania, giving our customers access to their favorite games in a dedicated, casino-first experience. With four Hollywood Casino properties in the state, the app leverages our trusted retail brand and creates a seamless connection between our online and retail gaming experiences. We look forward to bringing this enhanced Hollywood Casino experience to more iCasino markets in early 2025, pending regulatory approvals,” said Aaron LaBerge, Chief Technology Officer at PENN Entertainment.
Hollywood Casino is also fully integrated with PENN Play, the Company’s omnichannel loyalty program that allows members to earn and redeem rewards, including PENN Cash, exclusive tier benefits and personalized services.
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