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Maxima Compliance’s Antonio Zanghi on the impact of COVID-19 on compliance

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Maxima Compliance managing director Antonio Zanghi spoke with European Gaming to discuss how the ongoing global crisis is creating new challenges across the field of compliance, and what both operators and suppliers must do to adapt.

What does the gaming industry need to consider from a compliance perspective during the global lockdown?

We need to remember that the additional scrutiny that our sector has been under over the past couple of years has not disappeared because of this crisis. If anything, we are being watched even more closely than before.

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In the UK, Labour MP Carolyn Harris has already been vocal about the additional dangers isolation will place upon those at risk of problem gambling in the UK.

And in France, regulator ARJEL has warned its licensees not to aggressively target new players with bonuses during the lockdown.

Concerns about player safety are top of the agenda right now, and a single slip up could prove costly.

The temptation for operators concerned about the financial impact of COVID-19 will be to loosen player, AML and responsible gambling checks.

In fact, the opposite is required. We are being watched closely, and a slip up by one operator will impact us all. Do not expect regulators to be forgiving of anyone seen to be exploiting the current situation.

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What new compliance challenges is the COVID-19 crisis creating?

One interesting area has been the impact on the way suppliers approach technical compliance.These suppliers are under pressure to quickly deliver new content that can thrive in the current environment.

We’ve seen operators looking to immediately roll out new virtual sports and esports products, or change the way existing products and platforms operate.

But of course, all these products must meet the same strict technical compliance requirements as ever.

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The companies that are rising best to this challenge are those which have already optimised their technical compliance processes.

It means they can be more flexible from a product perspective right now, and that has never been more important.

 

What longer term impacts will this crisis have on the future of compliance within the online gaming industry?

I think it will accelerate the trends we have observed over the past few years. The lockdown provides an opportunity for both operators and suppliers to evaluate and rethink approaches to compliance.

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We have been advocates for a new approach to compliance for a long time now. Even before this pandemic, the move towards a dot country model of regulation has made both regulatory and technical compliance more important than ever.

Speed and a comprehensive understanding of requirements are critical. The operators and suppliers who have grown quickest have been those who best execute on this.

This crisis lays bare why we talk about how speed, flexibility and agility within compliance are so important. You need to be able to adapt to sudden shifts in the market.

The operators and suppliers who had not yet taken this lesson on board are now finally facing up to this reality.

 

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Ady Totah CEO and co-founder of LuckyStreak

The Evolving Live Dealer Landscape w/Ady Totah, CEO and co-founder of LuckyStreak

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How has the live dealer landscape progressed over recent years?

Live dealer has become a core vertical in online gaming, now making up about a third of casino revenue. What’s interesting is that it’s driven by a relatively small number of studios. It’s a capital-intensive business with no guarantees, but if you get it right, the player loyalty is worth the investment.

The industry has evolved in key areas:

  • Streaming and quality: HD is standard, but now latency, mobile optimization, and stability are the focus
  • Game Variety: the core games – Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat – still dominate, but regional favorites like Teen Patti and Andar Bahar are gaining ground
  • Gamification and engagement: jackpots, tournaments, and cash drops are making live dealer more interactive
  • Customization: greenscreen technology has been a game-changer, allowing operators to brand and tailor their tables like never before
  • Hybrid formats: live dealer is no longer just about table games; game shows, wheels, and interactive experiences are expanding the category

At its core, live dealer is about creating an immersive and social experience. That’s why innovation in engagement and customization continues to be a major growth driver.

 

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With live casino being relatively new to some markets, such as the US, how do players interact with the vertical? How do player preferences differ across geos?

For players new to live dealer, the reaction is almost always ‘feels like a real casino!’ The human interaction and transparency make a big impact.

In the US, live dealer is being embraced quickly, especially in social and sweepstakes casinos. Players there are used to land-based casinos, so high-quality live games feel familiar. Blackjack is the dominant game by a wide margin.

Other parts of the world have different preferences. In Asia, there’s a strong preference for Teen Patti, Dragon Tiger, and Baccarat. Baccarat is also the top choice in Italy and much of Southeast Asia. In Turkey, Roulette is by far the most popular game, though we also see strong affinity toward Blackjack. In Europe, Blackjack leads, but Roulette is consistently strong, particularly in markets like India.

Across all markets, the common thread is that live dealer isn’t just about the game – it’s about the experience. Players want interaction, immersion, and trust in the gameplay.

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What technologies resonate well with players, and conversely, what is lacking engagement?

Reliable streaming is the baseline expectation. It needs to work flawlessly, especially on mobile. From an operator’s perspective, greenscreen technology has been a game-changer. It allows for branded and localized environments without physical set builds, giving operators full control over their branding and user experience.

Gamification and promotional tools, such as cash drops, leaderboards, and jackpots, also drive engagement, particularly in social and sweepstakes gaming.

And what doesn’t work? Laggy or low-quality streams are killers. If the experience isn’t seamless, players leave instantly. And fake ‘live’ games, such as pre-recorded tables and AI dealers, miss the point of live casino. Players want real human interaction.

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What is the most unexpected or disruptive trend you’ve seen in live casino development that you didn’t anticipate, and how has it shaped your approach?

One of the biggest surprises has been the rise of live dealer in social casinos and sweepstakes gaming. For a long time, social casinos were all about slots, but now we’re seeing massive demand for live dealer in that space. Players want the real casino atmosphere, even when they’re playing with virtual currency.

We’ve adapted to this by optimizing our live dealer games for sweepstakes casinos – adjusting the UI, adding engagement tools, and better game pacing to better fit the model. This shift has forced a change in the way we think about live gaming – not just as a real-money product, but as an entertainment experience that works across different models.

 

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In which markets is live casino experiencing the most growth, and why?

Our core markets of Europe, CIS, and the Middle East continue to show strong, stable growth, with high retention rates among existing players. We’re also expanding into high-growth regions like Italy and Asia where Baccarat is driving adoption. In Africa and LatAm, growth is fueled by higher gambling activity and better internet access. And in Africa specifically, our adaptive streaming technology optimizes for lower bandwidth, making live dealer more accessible in this huge and emerging market.

And it’s not just about where live dealer is growing, it’s also about how it’s expanding into new verticals like social and hybrid models. For us it’s about being ready, agile, adaptive.

 

How do you expect the live dealer landscape to develop? Are there any emerging technologies that you believe will become game changers in this space?

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AI gets a lot of attention, and while I don’t see it replacing human dealers, I do see it as a powerful tool for personalization.

We can expect to see AI-driven table recommendations which may suggest games based on player behavior data, as well as personalised and dynamic challenges and offers that adapt in real-time.

Beyond AI, greenscreen technology will continue to redefine the industry. It makes localization and branding far more cost-effective by allowing digitally generated studio environments. It unlocks innovation and imagination, and empowers operators to create unique and exclusive gaming experiences.

Live dealer is also starting to merge with other formats, so expect to see more game-show-style mechanics, interactive social elements, and even potential crossover with streaming platforms.

 

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Final Thoughts?

Live dealer is no longer a niche product; it’s a dominant vertical in online gaming. The challenge now is differentiation.

At LuckyStreak, we’re focused on making live dealer more customizable, engaging, and adaptable. Whether it’s through branded tables, gamification, or expanding into new markets, the goal is to give operators more flexibility and players a better experience.

 

 

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About LuckyStreak

LuckyStreak has been producing and streaming world-class live dealer online games since 2014. Launched and led by veterans of the land-based and online casino industry, they have a deep passion for entertainment, innovation and quality service, providing players with an unforgettable, unique and thrilling gaming experience, and impeccably delivered with an unwavering commitment to the highest levels of production, video streaming and reliability.

LuckyConnect was launched in 2017 and is the proprietary integration API for operators, connecting them to a library of over 4000 live dealer and third-party games from leading providers like Pragmatic Play, Yggdrasil, Ruby Play, PG Soft and Red Rake Gaming via seamless wallet API, and one-stop shop of critical services including invoicing, player management, reporting and billing, support centre and content management, with one fast and easy integration.

LuckyStreak products and services are built on a highly secure robust technical infrastructure: utilizing a microservices architecture developed using a cloud-native approach enabling high availability (99.9% uptime), security and flexibility; whilst our critical API technology is protected by symmetric encryption and secure server-to-server connections. Ensuring an optimal playing experience without compromising our service to our customers.

The post The Evolving Live Dealer Landscape w/Ady Totah, CEO and co-founder of LuckyStreak appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Pioneering Compliance and Innovation: Atlaslive’s Strategy in the Evolving iGaming Landscape

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HIPTHER, organizer of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, is excited to welcome Atlaslive, a cutting-edge iGaming platform provider, as the Badge & Bracelet Sponsor and key participant in this year’s event. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Lasha Kupatadze, Chief Product Officer at Atlaslive, to explore the company’s readiness for Brazil’s evolving regulatory landscape, its approach to industry certifications, responsible gambling, and the product innovations driving the future of iGaming.

 

Atlaslive has achieved the Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) certification for its iGaming Platform in Brazil. What were the most critical compliance requirements for entering Brazil’s newly regulated gaming market, and how does this certification position Atlaslive for long-term success in the region? What are your next strategic steps?

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Entering Brazil’s newly regulated gaming market presented a unique set of compliance requirements that companies must navigate carefully. For Atlaslive, achieving the Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) certification was a significant milestone, as it demonstrates our commitment to maintaining high standards of fairness, security, and player protection.

Achieving this certification gives us a solid foundation for long-term success in Brazil. It not only enhances our credibility but also streamlines the regulatory approval process for entering the market. This positioning can help us attract investors and partners who prioritize ethical operations in their collaborations.

As we look to the future, our strategic focus will be on enhancing partnerships within the region. By fostering relationships with local payment processors and regulatory authorities, we can ensure a more seamless entry into the market. We also recognize the importance of creating a marketing strategy that resonates with Brazilian players, emphasizing responsible gaming and community engagement.

Furthermore, we plan to localize our game content to align with Brazilian culture, ensuring that we enhance the user experience. As we progress, continuous monitoring of compliance requirements will be vital to adapt to any regulatory changes. Investing in the technology behind our platform will also support our ability to scale and engage players effectively.

 

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You have recently shared insights about how AI revolutionizes responsible gaming and player protection. Can you share Atlaslive’s perspective with our readers?

At Atlaslive, we see artificial intelligence as a real game-changer in ensuring player well-being. By using AI-driven analytics, we can detect potential risk behaviors early and proactively assist players who might need a break or additional support. We offer self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and other responsible gaming tools. Also we’ve found that these real-time insights help us personalize responsible gaming measures and gain genuine trust with our audience. We will continue leveraging AI-driven insights to make Atlaslive a safer and more enjoyable platform for players worldwide!

 

Responsible gambling and KYC compliance are growing priorities worldwide. How does Atlaslive integrate these crucial elements into its platform to ensure a secure and player-focused experience?

At Atlaslive, we understand that responsible gambling and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance are not just regulatory necessities but essential elements in delivering a secure and player-focused experience. Our commitment to these priorities is seamlessly integrated into our platform, particularly as we tailor our solutions for the Brazilian market.

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A key component of our KYC compliance strategy is a strategic partnership with Brazil’s leading identity verification technology provider. This partnership allows us to leverage advanced tools that meet the specific requirements of the Brazilian market. Utilizing document examination through Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and 3D facial identification, our partner provides comprehensive identity verification in fewer than 30 seconds. This innovation not only streamlines the registration process, reducing player registration time by an impressive 30%, but also significantly minimizes fraud risks and ensures strict adherence to Brazilian regulations.

In addition to our robust KYC services, we are devoted to promoting responsible gaming. Atlaslive has developed a suite of features designed to empower players to engage in gaming safely and responsibly. We offer customizable settings that allow users to set their own limits on deposits, wagers, and gaming sessions. Self-exclusion options and cool-off periods are also available, providing players with the tools they need to manage their gaming behavior effectively.

We additionally provide educational resources on our platform to inform players about the risks associated with gambling. Our customer support team is well-trained to identify signs of distress and offer appropriate guidance, ensuring that support is always available when needed.

 

Atlaslive is known for its adaptable and scalable platform. Can you share some of the latest product innovations and enhancements that set you apart in the competitive iGaming landscape?

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At Atlaslive, we focus on developing a platform that seamlessly adapts to our partners’ evolving needs. That means we’re constantly refining everything—both the user-facing interface and the powerful backend behind it. Recently, we have prioritized real-time data analytics, enabling operators to swiftly identify player trends and adapt to engagement shifts seamlessly. We’ve also introduced flexible integrations, making it effortless for businesses to plug in third-party services while keeping everything running smoothly. On top of that, we’re unveiling personalization features that let operators fine-tune everything from lobby layouts to bonus offerings according to each player’s preferences. Altogether, these updates give our clients the agility and creativity they need to stay ahead in a market that never slows down!

 

At the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, you’ll be speaking on the panel “Regulatory Crossroads: Lessons & Compliance Strategies from North America & LATAM.” Can you share a sneak peek of the key regulatory challenges and strategies you’ll be discussing with the audience?

During the panel, I’ll dive into how our platform is built to adapt to Brazil’s unique regulatory requirements, which can change quickly as legislation matures. I plan to highlight two core areas: first, how to navigate the nuanced compliance landscape to ensure operators are always a step ahead, and second, how technology-driven solutions—like real-time monitoring and reporting—make that possible. We’ll also touch on the importance of forging strong relationships with local authorities, so you can seamlessly enter and thrive in the market. When you boil it all down, a flexible, tech-savvy approach to compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about protecting players, earning trust, and ultimately growing a strong brand in one of the world’s most dynamic iGaming arenas!

 

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With Atlaslive at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, this year’s event promises invaluable insights into the future of iGaming and technology. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain exclusive market perspectives, and be part of the most dynamic gathering in the CEE region!

Join us on 25-26 March 2025 in Prague – Register now and explore the full agenda!

The post Pioneering Compliance and Innovation: Atlaslive’s Strategy in the Evolving iGaming Landscape appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Compliance Updates

Navigating Compliance and Global Expansion: Endorphina’s Journey in the iGaming Industry

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HIPTHER, the organizer of the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, is delighted to welcome Endorphina as the Awards Party Sponsor and a leading force in the iGaming sector. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Džangar Jesenov, Corporate Compliance Manager at Endorphina, to explore the company’s recent achievements, including new market entries, rigorous security certifications, and their strategic focus on the LATAM region.

 

Endorphina recently secured authorization as a supplier of online slot games in Peru and obtained B2B licenses in Sweden and Denmark. What were the key challenges in achieving these milestones, and how do they align with your broader market expansion strategy?

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Yes, it’s true—we are now officially authorized as a supplier in Peru, Sweden, and Denmark. Expanding into these regulated markets was a carefully structured process that required thorough preparation and deep regulatory understanding.

From a compliance perspective, we dedicated nearly 11 months to analyzing each market, studying regulatory frameworks, and engaging directly with local authorities. This hands-on approach allowed us to interpret legal details correctly and streamline our applications. Once we completed our groundwork, our submissions proceeded as planned, reflecting our meticulous preparation and proactive strategy.

These expansions are part of our long-term vision to strengthen our global presence, ensuring that Endorphina remains at the forefront of regulated gaming. By entering these strategic jurisdictions, we continue to build a trusted brand that delivers premium, compliant, and innovative gaming experiences.

 

Endorphina completed an ISO 27001 security certification audit, a significant achievement in information security. Can you provide more details about it, and share how this certification impacts your operations in terms of data security and compliance

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Security has always been a top priority for us—not just for compliance reasons but because we believe in building trust with our partners and players.

Our decision to pursue ISO 27001 certification was driven by our commitment to establishing the highest security standards across all operations.

Rather than adapting to individual country regulations piecemeal, we chose the most rigorous and internationally recognized approach: an overarching Information Security Management System (ISMS) that meets global best practices. This certification reinforces the security of our infrastructure, protecting both operator partners and players.

Achieving ISO 27001 is a reflection of years of experience and expertise within our compliance team. By implementing this standard, we future-proof our systems against evolving security threats while ensuring seamless compliance across multiple jurisdictions. Now, our partners know that when they work with Endorphina, they’re working with a provider that takes security seriously and operates at the highest level of integrity.

 

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You recently concluded successful security audits in Spain, Italy, Argentina, and Denmark. How do you navigate the diverse compliance requirements across these regions, and what best practices would you share with other iGaming businesses?

Each country has its own regulatory framework, but ultimately, they all share a common goal: ensuring player protection and responsible gaming.

One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is that proactivity is key. Instead of reacting to regulatory changes at the last minute, we focus on staying ahead by implementing strong security standards that align with global best practices.

Here are three key best practices we follow at Endorphina:
– Think from the player’s perspective – A safe and fair gaming environment should always be the priority. Our compliance decisions are made with player security and trust in mind.
– Establish a strong, unified security framework – Rather than adapting compliance measures market by market, we implement a universal security model (ISO 27001) that seamlessly integrates into different regulatory landscapes.
– Invest in people – Compliance isn’t just about policies; it’s about the expertise and dedication of the team. Continuous education, adaptation, and training are key to staying ahead of ever-changing regulations.

That’s why for me, and I’m sure for many people on my team as well, compliance is more of a craft than just a job.

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Endorphina concluded the year with a strong focus on the LATAM region, achieving certification as one of the first suppliers of online slot games in Brazil. What opportunities does this milestone present, and how do you plan to further strengthen your presence in the region?

The LATAM region has been a long-term focus for Endorphina, and we have been expanding into these markets for several years. Argentina and Colombia were among the first jurisdictions where our games became highly popular, and Brazil was the next strategic step in our expansion.

With Brazil’s regulatory framework evolving, we saw an opportunity to leverage our experience from other regulated markets to establish a strong foothold early on. Being one of the first authorized slot suppliers in the country is a huge achievement, as it positions us as a trusted provider in a highly competitive market.

Looking ahead, we plan to actively grow our footprint in LATAM by:
– Expanding our certified game portfolio – We already have 83 games certified for Brazil, and this number will continue to grow.
– Strengthening partnerships with local operators – By offering localized content and tailored marketing support, we ensure our games resonate with Brazilian players.
– Adapting to new regulations – As Brazil tightens its iGaming laws, we expect greater regulatory enforcement, which will increase market stability and further strengthen licensed operators and suppliers like Endorphina.

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Our goal is clear: to be a leading force in LATAM’s regulated iGaming market, delivering premium, compliant, and engaging gaming experiences.

 

At the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, you will be speaking on the panel “Navigating the Maze: iGaming Compliance Across CEE”. Can you give us a taste of the key insights you’ll be sharing with the audience?

I’m really looking forward to the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025—it’s always a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with industry friends and exchange insights.

My main focus will be sharing practical, real-world compliance strategies that can help operators and suppliers navigate regulatory complexities across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). I expect there will be a lot of discussion around market-specific compliance challenges, particularly in the Czech Republic and across the EU.

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Rather than delivering a one-way presentation, I want this to be a dynamic and interactive discussion. My goal is to create a space for open dialogue, where attendees can ask direct questions, share their own experiences, and gain practical takeaways that they can apply in their own businesses.

Compliance is constantly evolving, and my mission is to make it accessible, insightful, and—dare I say—exciting for everyone attending the panel! 😊

 

With Endorphina at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, this year’s event promises invaluable insights into compliance across CEE and the evolving iGaming market. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain exclusive market perspectives, and be part of the most dynamic gathering in the CEE region!

Join us on 25-26 March 2025 in Prague – Register now and explore the full agenda!

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The post Navigating Compliance and Global Expansion: Endorphina’s Journey in the iGaming Industry appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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