Last week, the SBC Summit Americas convened industry experts from North and Latin America in Florida, igniting essential discussions on prediction markets, regulatory frameworks, responsible gambling, and the dynamic nature of licensed gaming markets. The vibrant show floor served as a testament to both the promising opportunities and the uncertainties currently influencing the sector.

Following the event’s opening day, Yogonet sat down with Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, to delve into the primary topics prompting dialogue among participants, the rising significance of prediction markets, and what attendees can anticipate for the remainder of the summit and future events, including ongoing discussions at the SBC Summit in Lisbon later this year.

What insights have you gained from this SBC Summit Americas?

The SBC Summit Americas consistently proves to be an excellent platform as it allows us to connect North America with Latin America. It’s inspiring to observe numerous representatives from both regions coming together to conduct business, network, share ideas, and enhance our interconnected industry.

Overall, the first day has been extremely positive.

You’ve likely spent considerable time exploring the exhibition floor today. What topics have emerged in conversation?

With the World Cup currently underway, it significantly influences discussions here. Being in Florida, where matches are occurring, attendees naturally focus on the tournament. Some are entirely dedicated to the event, while others have teams working tirelessly back at the office, given its critical impact on the industry.

Additionally, sweepstakes remain a pivotal topic. Prediction markets are generating substantial interest. Individuals are grappling with fundamental inquiries: Is it gambling? Is it trading? What exactly defines it? Should companies invest in platforms that could bolster this emerging sector, or is it premature? A lot remains uncertain.

I can confirm that at the SBC Summit in Lisbon this September, we plan to allocate significant attention to this matter. We aim to continue the dialogue and hope to provide greater clarity on this topic.

Is there anything else notable to mention?

Player protection and responsible gambling are also vital themes. We’re witnessing increased licensing activity across several jurisdictions. In Canada, Alberta is advancing its regulations. In the U.S., regulations continue to develop on a state-by-state basis. Latin America is experiencing similar regulatory evolutions, as countries like Chile and Peru progress with licensing, while Brazil navigates its regulatory landscape.

There is widespread acknowledgment of the advantages that a regulated industry can bring, but achieving effective regulation necessitates enhanced collaboration among governments, regulators, operators, and other stakeholders. Events like these play a crucial role in uniting these groups and fostering more productive discussions regarding the creation of effective regulatory frameworks.

Prediction markets were frequently referenced throughout the event, even in panels that weren’t particularly dedicated to the topic. Will these discussions carry on in Lisbon? Do you consider SBC’s events as interconnected platforms that allow these conversations to evolve across various jurisdictions?

Absolutely. Prediction markets are undeniably one of the industry’s most fervent topics right now.

Lisbon is set to be one of the most significant industry events worldwide. In conjunction with ICE, the SBC Summit has emerged as a premier global gathering, with approximately 40,000 attendees anticipated this year. It draws stakeholders from every corner of the industry and all regions globally.

While the discussion around prediction markets is currently heavily U.S.-centric, the larger inquiry is whether this model can thrive and expand into other markets. Lisbon presents an ideal setting to explore this, as it welcomes a diverse array of industry leaders and decision-makers.

In a broader context, there’s a robust continuity in our events. Topics often maintain their relevance across different conferences, even if the audiences shift slightly based on regional factors. Regarding prediction markets, I believe we’ll witness considerable developments in the months ahead that will further ignite this debate.

Thus, Lisbon will serve as a timely opportunity to revisit this subject.

What do you hope will be the overall takeaway from the SBC Summit Americas once it concludes?

We diligently gather feedback to evaluate the overall experience of attendees during the event.

Beyond the conference, we host evening events, such as the SBC Awards Americas and the INFINITY Florida party at the Hard Rock. We strive to create a comprehensive experience rather than merely a two-day exhibition and conference.

We hope attendees enjoy an equally fruitful second day, and when they leave, they’ll feel content with the business prospects they’ve explored, the connections they’ve established, and the overall experience provided by SBC.

Ultimately, we want people to depart with the thought: “SBC delivered an exceptional event for us, and we are looking forward to returning next year.”