SiGMA Central Europe 2025 concluded in Rome on November 6, bringing together leaders from the igaming industry for a series of discussions focused on regulation, AI, technology advancements, and market expansion.
The inaugural SiGMA Central Europe, held over three days in Rome, saw industry titans, policymakers, and tech innovators converge to explore new opportunities, discuss pressing regulatory challenges, and define the path forward for the igaming sector. The bustling exhibition floor became a hub for companies to unveil strategic product roadmaps, showcase innovative content portfolios, and present turnkey solutions tailored to the diverse needs of the industry.
Regulatory frameworks were a key topic, with panel discussions comparing licensing regimes, enforcement strategies, and advertising guidelines across the EU, the Balkans, and Central/Eastern Europe. Industry insiders dissected the pressures posed by stringent marketing codes on customer acquisition and retention, and the operational implications of evolving anti-money laundering and data protection standards. Tax policy trends and regulatory expectations were prominent concerns, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between incumbents and new market entrants.
AI and technology were also scrutinized, with sessions exploring how personalisation at scale, risk modeling for safer gambling, and customer support automation are shaping the future landscape. Suppliers emphasized the importance of modular platforms and content orchestration, which are crucial for optimizing return-to-player metrics, managing game volatility, and enhancing session management. Operators focused on the competitive edge offered by rapid deployment cycles and robust observability frameworks, advocating for clear governance frameworks to oversee AI applications.
On the People, Partners, and Performance Stage, a panel supported by SOFTSWISS and featuring industry experts such as Ivan Montik, Heathcliff Farrugia, Pierre Lindh, and Denis Ristić, discussed the gradual evolution of the sector. The speakers called for collaboration over competition, noting the fragmented interests within Europe compared to the more unified industry voice in the US. They suggested that industry-led cooperation could expedite regulatory harmonisation and drive resilience.
The panel further deliberated on achieving a balance between innovation and regulatory oversight, warning that excessive regulation could stifle new product development. They proposed fresh approaches for offerings that deviate from traditional “wager-chance-prize” frameworks. For B2B studios, the increasing costs of licensing and compliance while catering to a younger audience base with entertainment-led content were noted as significant challenges. Looking towards 2026, the panelists anticipated more dynamic regulatory discussions, groundbreaking products that blend innovation with compliance, and a shift from hype-driven trends to impactful innovations, such as AI-driven personalisation and player-centric engagement.
SiGMA Pitch underscored the core of innovation vital to the gaming and technology sectors. Supported by industry giants like Amazon Web Services, ZBX, and others, the platform allowed entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas, secure funding, and forge valuable partnerships. Startups delivered concise presentations, translating complex concepts into actionable solutions that address the sector’s evolving demands. From advanced AI integrations to gamified engagement tools and responsible gaming initiatives, the presentations highlighted the ongoing evolution of igaming driven by creativity and technological prowess.
In a competitive environment, Konstantinos Antonopoulos, Founder and CEO of INTERAD AE, emerged victorious in the SiGMA Pitch competition with TOROTIPS. Judges praised his presentation for its technical depth, scalability, and practical application, positioning INTERAD AE and TOROTIPS as key players to watch in 2025.
The SiGMA B2B awards night celebrated industry excellence across various categories, acknowledging achievements in platform development, product innovation, compliance, and services. Focus Gaming News was honored as “Best iGaming Media 2025,” recognizing its contribution to trusted reporting, analysis, and comprehensive global coverage for the betting and gaming community.
Looking ahead, the roadshow continues with SiGMA South Asia in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from November 30 to December 2, where discussions will again center on regulation, market integrity, and sustainable growth in the sector.
