SBC Summit Lisbon features Global Market Lounge to offer expert-led sessions on key markets' development

SBC Summit, set to take place on September 24 - 26 at Feira Internacional de Lisboa, will take a global approach, offering comprehensive insights into the regulatory challenges, market opportunities, and emerging gaming industry trends.

A highlight of the summit is the Global Markets Lounge, featuring a series of brief, expert-led sessions on the latest developments in key regions. Each 15-minute session will be followed by a 45-minute discussion. In total, there will be 11 sessions set to cover a wide range of markets, including:

Mexico

As Mexico faces potential political shifts after the 2024 elections, the market must prepare for new challenges. With regulatory change a priority but no clear direction yet, operators are strategizing for various scenarios. Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez, President of AIEJA, will provide insights on navigating these uncertainties.

Africa

Africa’s growing tech-savvy population presents a huge opportunity for the gaming industry. This session, led by Jeremiah Maangi, Founder & CEO of iGaming AFRIKA, will explore whether regulation will help or hinder new entrants, focusing on key markets like South Africa and Nigeria.

Brazil

Brazil’s recent regulation of sports betting and land-based casinos has triggered industry growth. Udo Seckelmann, Head of Gambling & Crypto at Bichara & Motta, will discuss the sustainability of this boom and the evolving landscape of marketing and affiliation in Brazil’s sports culture.

Philippines

Marie Antonette “Tonet” Quiogue, Principal at Arden Consult, will share expert insights on the Philippines’ market dynamics, focusing on opportunities and challenges for operators looking to enter or expand in this market.

USA

As the sports betting market in the USA consolidates, new entrants face the challenge of competing in a saturated environment. Mark Balestra, US Special Counsel at Segev LLP, will discuss the future of iGaming expansion, potential new market entries, and the ongoing quest for regulatory harmony across states.

UK

The UK is the world’s largest regulated market by revenue. With 2024 bringing both elections and the UKGC’s anticipated white paper on gambling, this year could be pivotal for the industry. Will changes in UK laws spark a global ripple effect? Hear from Wes Himes, Executive Director of Standards and Innovation at the Betting and Gaming Council.

Portugal

Portugal’s iGaming market posted record profits in Q1 2024, driven by iCasino growth despite a retraction in sports betting. Pedro Cortes and Luís Portela de Carvalho, Partners at Rato, Ling, Lei & Cortés – Advogados, will examine the evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on operators, particularly regarding concerns over unsafe gambling practices.

Canada

Two years after Ontario opened its doors to commercial iGaming operators, only one other province (Alberta) has announced similar plans. Paul Burns, President & CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, will explore which provinces might be next and the opportunities for growth in the Canadian market.

Italy

Italy, Europe’s second-largest gambling market, is undergoing a major regulatory overhaul. Quirino Mancini, President of IMGL, will discuss the implications of these changes, including the expiry of all online licences at the end of the year and new regulations on advertising and data security.

Germany

Germany’s gaming market faces challenges such as black market activity and restrictive regulations. Luka Andric, Managing Director of the Deutscher Sportwettenverband, will offer insights into the opportunities and potential for further market development despite these hurdles.

India

India’s nascent online gaming industry was shocked by the imposition of a 28% levy on gaming revenues. Manav Bhargava, Lawyer & Head of India Desk at Segev LLP, will discuss the implications of this move and what it signals for the future of regulation in the world’s largest democracy.

Rasmus Sojmark

Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, said: "The Global Markets Lounge is a testament to SBC’s commitment to providing deep, region-specific insights for our attendees."

"By bringing together experts and industry leaders in one space, we’re ensuring that participants have access to the latest developments and opportunities across key global markets. Our aim is to empower delegates with the knowledge they need to navigate and succeed in these dynamic environments," he added.

The Global Markets Lounge is located at C202 (between entrances 3 and 4), with sessions running daily. On Tuesday, sessions will cover Mexico, Africa, and Brazil. Wednesday will focus on the Philippines, USA, UK, and Portugal. Thursday’s sessions will explore Canada, Italy, Germany, and India.

Those who wish to attend should sign up using this form and select their sessions of interest.