Dan Phillips, known for his expertise in the gambling industry, is slated to join Robin Harrison and Ed Birkin on the “Right to the Source” podcast ahead of iGB L!VE. The conversation will center on product innovation and the contentious grey market debate. Phillips, now the CEO and Founder of NEL Advisory, brings over three decades of industry experience, having started his journey as a dealer in a Soho basement casino in 1996.
In This News
A Conversation on Innovation
The episode will tackle a critical question: has the gambling sector truly innovated? Ed Birkin remains skeptical, pointing out that bet builders are merely repackaged multiples, prediction markets hinge on regulatory loopholes, and live casino formats are old news. Robin Harrison argues that innovation doesn’t always come with flashy announcements — it’s often found in iterative problem-solving. Phillips offers a balanced view: the industry excels at merging existing ideas rather than creating entirely new ones. And there’s AI. Phillips sees its real potential in genuine personalisation rather than superficial product recommendations. Birkin concurs, noting the industry has talked personalization for 15 years without tangible results.
The Grey Market Debate
The discussion also delves into the grey market. Should operators who built their businesses in unregulated spaces be lauded for moving to regulated markets? Ed, Robin, and Dan bring differing perspectives. It’s a nuanced debate — and one without a clear consensus. This topic has been a recurring theme, sparking discourse among operators and regulators alike.
iGB L!VE Open Space: A New Format
Phillips will be part of an new session at iGB L!VE called Open Space, set for July 1. This audience-driven event at ExCeL London aims to foster candid conversations among operators, suppliers, and product leaders under the Chatham House rules — no recordings, just open dialogue. Dan will guide discussions, engaging around 70 participants. AI, customer engagement, and payment systems top the agenda, based on pre-event feedback.
Engage with Industry Leaders
During the event, Ed will participate in panels on taxation and channelisation and prediction markets. Still, meanwhile, Robin will host a fireside chat at the Startup Accelerator, plus MC the Africa Summit. Catching them at the show could offer insights beyond the podcast discussions. The next episode of “Right to the Source” promises to provide thought-provoking insights, especially as the industry prepares for this major event. Sessions and debates at iGB L!VE will unfold on July 1, with much anticipation from industry insiders.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
