Africa
Emerging Markets: Opportunities and Strategies for iGaming Expansion
Itai Zak, Digicode’s Executive Director of iGaming at Digicode, shares how the company seamlessly connects client needs with customized strategies.
The iGaming industry is standing on the threshold of one of the most remarkable transformations as emerging markets have become accessible. Both LATAM (Latin America) and Africa are unique opportunities but also come with special challenges for iGaming operators. In this article, promising emerging markets will be explored alongside effective strategies for entry and expansion, according to expert insights.
Promising Emerging Markets
LATAM (Latin America)
Brazil is one of the important focal points in LATAM, considering that it has a huge population base accompanied by a developing middle class. It is rewriting the regulatory landscape concerning online gambling, and recent developments in the case show a much more structured approach. With the market opening up, Brazil is on course to emerge as the iGaming hotbed of investments. However, operators have to keep a close watch on regulatory changes and be ready to tweak strategies accordingly.
Mexico and Colombia are on their way to regulated iGaming markets. In this respect, the very lucrative gaming market of Mexico and the already established regime of regulatory control over Colombian gambling make these markets quite attractive for expansion. The key to succeeding in those markets would be to tailor products according to local taste and to navigate the regulatory requirements.
South Africa: Growth of the iGaming market in this African country is leading the pace. The mature regulatory environment and quite good digital infrastructure established in the country provide a stable platform for iGaming ventures. Other than the mature regulatory environment, companies entering South Africa would benefit from its relatively easy-to-navigate regulatory framework and a growing player base.
Nigeria and Kenya: Nigeria and Kenya are the two countries that are developing as the main claimants to the African iGaming scene. With large populations and growing internet access, these markets offer huge opportunities for growth. However, the regulatory environment in these countries is at an emerging stage and can be quite challenging. While the companies at the forefront keep a close vigil on these changing times, operators have to update themselves about the new regulations and develop strategies in keeping with local conditions. Manuscript Details
Successful Strategies to Enter and Succeed in the Market
-
In-Depth Research
It becomes imperative to understand local preferences and player behavior in emerging markets. Operators can then narrow down key trends from comprehensive market research and amend their product offerings accordingly to suit the local taste. This would include cultural nuances, gaming preferences, and legal requirements. Companies will want to modify their approach to make themselves more appealing and competitive within these markets; this should be aligned according to these local insights.
-
Local Partnerships
Market entry is contingent upon local strategic partnerships. This could include local operators, technology providers, or regulatory experts that make it easier to navigate the regulatory environment to fast-track the entry process. The value brought about by local partners in terms of market dynamics insights is immense and could build credibility among local players. Regulatory Compliance
Now, from the legal perspective, operations in emerging markets come under the purview of local regulations. A company has to keep itself updated with changing regulations and comply with all legal requirements, such as obtaining necessary licenses, proper KYC and AML policies in place, and protection of data. If they fail to do so, they will be met not only with legal problems but also threats against their brand image.
-
Localized Marketing and Customer Support
Developing marketing strategies that resonate with the local audience is the key to player acquisition and retention. It’s all about binding the player to the brand through tailored promotions, localizing payment methods, and culturally relevant content. Moreover, customer support in a local language improves the player’s rating of satisfaction and loyalty.
-
Mobile Optimization
In many developing markets, mobile is the leading source of internet access. Optimizing platforms for use on mobile enables reach and engagement for players. This includes responsive design, fast load times, and ease of use. A good mobile experience is very important to retain interest and reduce player churn.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
-
Innovate Constantly
In case one wants to be competitive, continuous innovation is a must. The new technologies, like AI-driven personalization and blockchain integration, advanced data analytics, shall be embraced to enhance the gaming experience. These innovations help in the offer of tailored game recommendations, provision of transparency, and gaining better insights into the player’s preferences.
-
Personalization and Engagement at the Forefront
Personalized gaming experiences are core to player retention. AI and data analytics afford the potential of individual game recommendations, dynamic bonuses, and personal customer support—players feel valued and engaged. The creation of an engaging experience, through personalization, can increase substantially loyalty and lifetime value.
-
Agile and Scalable Solutions
Such flexible and scalable platforms let companies quickly adapt to market changes and regulatory requirements. This forms a critical enabler for entry into new markets and competitive positioning. Scalable solutions ensure that, with growing demand, the increasing traffic and the addition of new features to the platform do not come with degraded performance.
-
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Partnerships with industry leaders, technology providers, and creators will genuinely develop offerings and increase their reach in the market. Such strategic partnerships will fuel innovation and give a competitive edge to the entities entering into the joint venture. Collaborations can also facilitate entry into newer markets and assimilate the latest technologies into the platform.
Future Outlook
The future of iGaming in emerging markets is, therefore, bright. Regulatory environments are slowly getting their frameworks in place, and a further improvement in digital infrastructure will unleash a wide range of opportunities for those who dare to invest in these areas. With proactive positioning, embracing technology, and more locally-geared strategies, iGaming operators can navigate the challenges and maximize growth potential in these dynamic markets.
iGaming Market Expansion in Emerging Markets: A Complex yet Potential Fertile Ground. To sum it up, one has to rely on market research, develop local partnerships, and be agile in compliance with regulations while continuously innovating to best capture the ever-budding opportunities such markets bring forth.
At Digicode, we’re seizing the opportunities in emerging markets, bringing our innovative gaming solutions to new audiences around the globe. As the result – we ensure our clients can confidently expand into these exciting new markets, turning challenges into opportunities for success. So the time to turn untapped potential into real growth is now and we’re here to support you throughout this journey.
From qualifiers to finals, EAFC 25 to Beat Saber, Over R250 000 in prizes and two champions to crown – this is South Africa’s ultimate gaming experience!
South Africa’s biggest gaming tournament is back. The 2025 MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience kicks off on 18 May, bringing months of competitive energy, in-centre activations, and serious prize money to malls across the country. This year’s edition raises the stakes with the return of the EAFC 25™ National Football Tournament and the debut of the MTN Beat Saber Challenge – two national titles, one massive celebration of gaming culture.
Over five months, eight Hyprop shopping centres will play host to a mix of online qualifiers and live in-mall events, creating a national stage where gamers of all levels can test their skills, win prizes and join a fast-growing community of South African players. The top contenders will face off in the National Finals at Canal Walk from 17 to 21 September, with R50 000 on the line in the EAFC 25™ Football Final and more prizes up for grabs in the Beat Saber showdown.
Tournament Dates and Venues:
- Rosebank Mall
Online Qualifier: 18 May | In-Centre Event: 23–25 May
- Somerset Mall
Online Qualifier: 25 May | In-Centre Event: 30 May–1 June
- Woodlands
Online Qualifier: 7 June | In-Centre Event: 13–16 June
- The Glen
Online Qualifier: 22 June | In-Centre Event: 27–29 June
- Table Bay Mall
Online Qualifier: 13 July | In-Centre Event: 18–20 July
- Clearwater Mall
Online Qualifier: 3 August | In-Centre Event: 8–10 August
- Capegate Mall
Online Qualifier: 31 August | In-Centre Event: 5–7 September
- Canal Walk (National Finals & Last Qualifier)
Online Qualifier: 7 September | In-Centre Event: 17–21 September
“The SHIFT Gaming Experience is more than a tournament; it’s where South African gamers show up, show off and celebrate what they love,” says Christie Stanbridge, Brand and Campaigns Marketing Manager at Hyprop. “From football simulations to VR rhythm battles, we’ve created something that speaks to every kind of player. Whether you’re competing or just watching, there’s always something happening.”
The format combines online, and in-person play. Qualify online on the ACGL platform, then take on your opponents in-centre across malls in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria. Each in-mall weekend features the EAFC 25™ tournament, daily Fighting Cups, a PC Gaming Zone powered by PCBuilder, Carry1st COD Mobile and the popular SuperSprint lap challenge presented by the Toyota Gaming Engine.
Gamers can also go head-to-head in Tekken, Street Fighter 6, Brawlhalla, Rocket League, Minecraft and Call of Duty: Mobile, with dozens of R1 000+ gift card prizes on offer each weekend. The Beat Saber Challenge, hosted by MTN and playable both in-mall and on MTN’s Battle+ platform, brings a high-energy VR experience into the mix. Players with the highest Beat Saber scores at each mall qualify for the National Final – and anyone who tries it stands a chance to win a gaming PC worth R50 000.
“We’re creating spaces where South Africans can compete, connect and get rewarded for their passion,” says Jason Probert, General Manager: Digital Services at MTN South Africa. “Whether it’s with Beat Saber or Battle+, we want our community to know that gaming lives here.”
The SHIFT Gaming Experience also makes space for younger players. Friday events feature tournaments designed for schools and under-18 gamers, offering dedicated Minecraft build challenges, EAFC 25™ scholars only tournament and Rocket League face-offs – all with real prizes.
The post HYPROP MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience2025: South Africa’s Biggest Gaming Showdown Returns appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Africa
Springbok Casino Honours South Africa’s Strongest Mother’s in the Wild and Gives Away 25 Free Spins
SpringbokCasino.co.za, South Africa’s premier online casino, is celebrating Mother’s Day by honoring the fiercest and most devoted mothers in the animal kingdom. To mark the occasion, players will enjoy 25 Free Spins throughout May on new mystical slot, brimming with glowing gemstones and treasures — a fitting tribute to all the amazing moms out there!
This May,
SpringbokCasino.co.za celebrates the incredible “Wild Moms League,” showcasing the superhero-like abilities of these extraordinary mothers as they fight to protect and nurture their young in the toughest of conditions.
From the lioness’s unyielding defense to the elephant matriarch’s profound wisdom, these remarkable mothers go to unimaginable lengths to ensure the survival of their families.
Join us as we highlight some of the most inspiring tales of motherhood, where love, sacrifice, and fierce protection define what it truly means to be a hero:
THE WILD MOMS LEAGUE: CELEBRATING SOUTH AFRICA’S STRONGEST MOTHERS IN THE WILD
- Superhero Lion Mum shows us that true strength goes beyond the physical—it’s rooted in the heart and mind.
- Superhero Elephant Mum teaches us that true leadership isn’t just about giving orders—it’s about caring for those around you and using your wisdom and experience to help them navigate challenges.
- Superhero Cheetah Mum combines her incredible speed and sharp instincts to provide for and protect her young, teaching them how to survive in a world full of danger.
- Superhero Meerkat Mum vigilance is one of her greatest strengths. Perched high on lookout, she tirelessly watches over her family, keeping them safe from dangers like birds of prey and snakes.
- Superhero Hippo Mum shows us that strength, dedication, and sacrifice are key to protecting those we hold dear.
MAY FREE SPINS
Valid May 1-31, 2025
25 Free Spins for Gemstone Keys: The Arcane Unlocked
Coupon Code: LEAGUE
Prepare for an exciting journey with the new slot from Realtime Gaming, Gemstone Keys: The Arcane, where you could win up to 2500x your bet!
Featuring a 5-reel layout and 243 ways to win, this slot is perfect for both casual players and jackpot hunters alike. With its captivating Hold & Spin feature and multiple jackpot tiers, Gemstone Keys: The Arcane promises an adventure full of opportunities.
Springbok Casino provides customer service in English and Afrikaans, offering hundreds of slots and table games from SpinLogic, all played in Rands. Games are playable on mobile devices or instant play.
The post Springbok Casino Honours South Africa’s Strongest Mother’s in the Wild and Gives Away 25 Free Spins appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The Association of Gaming Operators in Kenya (AGOK) in partnership with government agencies, regulators and civil society are spearheading a set of proactive initiatives designed to shape the future of the gaming industry and protect innocent Kenyans from addiction to gaming.
In a press release, the Association says nationwide awareness campaigns promoting informed, mindful participation in gaming will be carried out across the country.
Advocacy for tools such as time-out mechanisms, betting and deposit limits will be put in place to ensure a healthy and controlled gaming behaviour among Kenyans.
“The gaming industry in Kenya continues to evolve rapidly, creating opportunities for economic growth, digital innovation, and employment. However, with this growth comes a heightened responsibility to safeguard the welfare of players, particularly young people and vulnerable populations,” the statement by AGOK’s board reads in part.
“AGOK acknowledges the complex challenges associated with gaming, particularly around mental health, addiction prevention, and ethical standards. These are global concerns which members of AGOK take seriously. They are at the forefront of our agenda.”
The Association furthers contends that all its members operate under a “shared code of conduct” rooted in principles of fairness, transparency and social responsibility.
Among meaningful steps it says it has taken to prevent exploitation and minimise harm include putting into place advanced age-verification systems to block underage access, self exclusion tools that provide options for and permanent restrictions to gaming activities and round-the clock toll free helplines that offer confidential mental health and addiction support.
The regulatory measures comes amid calls to regulate the sector following increase in cases of mental health and some suicide cases attributed to betting.
The post Association of Gaming Operators in Kenya Announces New Regulations appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
-
Asia4 weeks agoJetapult Strengthens AI Expertise: Onboards Industry Leaders, Oz Silahtar and Dr. Arjun Jain
-
Africa3 weeks ago
Association of Gaming Operators in Kenya Announces New Regulations
-
Press Releases3 weeks ago
Swintt stacks up a pyramid of wins in Egypt King Pearl Upgrade
-
Press Releases4 weeks ago
Colour the world your way in Supa Crew by Swintt’s Elysium Studios
-
Compliance Updates3 weeks ago
MGCB Targets 11 Illegal Online Casinos Operating Without Licenses
-
Conferences in Europe4 weeks ago
Altenar Steps in as General Sponsor of EEGS 2025
-
Africa4 weeks ago
Gaming Corps Expands African Presence with KingMakers Partnership
-
Cancún3 weeks ago
CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES REVOLUTIONIZE PALACE BINGO & SPORTS BETS IN CANCÚN
