The Gambling Files

Hosted by Jon Buford & Fintan Costello

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286

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The global gambling industry is fast moving and always changing, staying on top of things is hard for industry professionals. Join Jon Bruford (21 years covering the casino industry) and Fintan Costello (CEO at BonusFinder.com) each week as they discuss with leading international experts the latest issues within the gambling industry. If you want to stay up to date with the gambling industry and have a laugh along the way, then this is the show for you!

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August 13, 20261 hr 1 min

RTFM 272: Simon Mach talks crypto ‘signals’ and more

Oh man, if ever there was an episode where you need Fintan, it’s this one. But alas, he is away doing things that no doubt Jon would barely comprehend. So, in this episode, Jon meets Simon Mach (in unconnected news, Jon is soon changing his name to Max Power), CEO of MyCryptoParadise. Simon shares insights into crypto trading signals, market analysis, and the psychology behind crypto trading. We explore how risk management, belief, and market manipulation influence cryptocurrency volatility and trader behaviour, and more. Things we talk about, but in a list: Crypto trading signals and their components Risk management and trade planning in crypto Market influence factors: liquidity, belief, and manipulation Psychological aspects: FOMO, anxiety, and discipline Regulation and its impact on crypto legitimacy Choice quotes: "Risk first, trade second." "Crypto value is based on belief." "FOMO influences all aspects of life." Chapters, but add 30 seconds because of our beautiful music: 00:00 Introduction to Simon Mach and MyCryptoParadise 07:04 What Are Crypto Trading Signals and How Are They Used? 14:08 Factors Influencing Crypto Volatility and Market Manipulation 22:09 The Role of Belief and Liquidity in Crypto Prices 29:56 Psychological Factors: FOMO, Anxiety, and Emotional Discipline 42:58 Why Crypto Is Different from Traditional Currencies 56:09 Crypto Regulation and Its Future Impact 01:00:02 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with Simon Mach Simon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-mach-38299033a/ Website - https://mycryptoparadise.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MyCryptoParadise Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

August 6, 202654 min

RTFM 271: Noah Rafkin introduces Bonus Bandit – pushing for sweeps transparency

So, we got an email from some dude saying hey, I want to come on the podcast, I’ve got a story to tell… And he did! Noah Rafkin had a great idea for a website, it works as both information and a unique (we think, anyway) affiliate experience for players; it’s all good. So Noah tells us about Bonus Bandit, shares insights into the sweepstakes industry, transparency issues, and how data can empower consumers. We discover how his platform aims to protect players and promote industry accountability. This episode is brought to you by our partners GLI , Optimove , and Clarion Ga World Gaming . We love you. More on this love further down… Things we talk about, in a list: Sweepstakes industry transparency Data-driven trust scores for gambling sites Consumer protection in online gambling The architecture of sweepstakes sites and LLCs Impact of regulation on gambling operators Chapters, but add a good 40 seconds because of our gorgeous music (Bowlface en Provence, by the unique Mara Carlyle) 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:00 Meet Noah Rafkin, founder of Bonus Bandit 02:04 Sponsors and sponsorship messages 04:54 The origin story of Bonus Bandit 07:05 The importance of trust and transparency in gambling 08:54 How Noah started in the sweepstakes industry 11:05 The methodology behind Bonus Bandit's trust scores 12:57 The role of news and public sentiment in site evaluation 14:54 Open data and transparency in the industry 17:03 Criteria used to assess sweepstakes sites 19:03 Common issues in redemption and verification processes 21:02 The impact of reviews and public sentiment analysis 23:09 The architecture of LLCs and site networks 25:07 Regulation, transparency, and industry challenges 27:08 The real-time data updates and industry relevance 29:05 Customer experience issues and site practices 31:02 The problem with site opacity and LLC structures 32:59 Industry regulation and site accountability 35:08 The profitability of honest gambling sites 36:52 The proliferation of sister sites and shell companies 38:53 Data privacy laws and site compliance 40:54 The story of site LLCs and opacity 42:49 Industry regulation, lawsuits, and site networks 45:01 Initial impact and user feedback on Bonus Bandit 46:50 The future of transparency and industry influence 48:45 Industry accountability, good practices, and consumer trust 50:59 Closing remarks and industry outlook The Wyoming Papers: https://bonusbandit.win/a1-utech-sweepstakes-network/ Bonus Bandit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bonus-bandit/ Bonus Bandit in the wild: https://bonusbandit.win/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

July 30, 20261 hr 8 min

RTFM 270: Mel Ellis on strife and palavers in the UK

Another sooper-dooper episode of the gambling industry’s most-tolerated podcast. Hurrah! In this episode, Jon Bruford is joined by Northridge Law’s Melanie Ellis to delve into UK gambling regulations, industry changes, and the impact of recent policy shifts. They also touch on personal stories, societal issues, and the future of gambling oversight. This episode might mark a new record too, as they manage to make it to around 28 minutes before they actually talk about gambling… What we talk about in a list but not in order: UK gambling regulation updates Impact of recent policy changes on industry Personal stories and societal issues in gambling Future trends in gambling oversight Industry challenges and opportunities Baking Choice quotes: "You can be fat and active, look at me." "Who doesn't love Doogal?" "This episode is brought to you by GLI." Chapters, but add a bit because of our sensational music (which is Bowlface en Provence, by the wonderful Mara Carlyle, used with the artist’s permission): 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:57 Personal anecdotes and nicknames from childhood and adulthood 07:03 Introduction of sponsor Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) 07:59 Discussion on global gambling jurisdictions and GLI's role 11:03 Nicknames in life and their significance 15:57 Discussion on company names and rebranding, including Optimove 21:08 Personal stories about weight, health, and medical interventions 27:58 UK gambling regulation updates: affordability checks and industry response 35:02 Discussion on the departure of key regulators and industry changes 39:54 Job opportunities in gambling regulation and industry challenges 49:50 UK government proposals on unlicensed gambling sponsorships 54:57 Prediction markets and their regulation in the UK 01:00:10 Legal considerations for prediction markets and betting exchanges 01:04:56 Concluding thoughts and industry outlook Mel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-ellis/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

July 23, 202654 min

RTFM 269: Patrick Jay: Customer Trust Shapes the Gaming Industry

In this episode, Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello meet industry expert Patrick Jay about trust in gambling, customer experience, and the future of gaming regulation. They explore how trust impacts regulation, customer loyalty, and industry innovation. It’s a jolly good episode, and one that is brought to you by our sponsors GLI , Optimove , and World Gaming . More info and links to their worlds of wonder is after the episode info below. Things we discuss in said episode, in a list: Customer trust as the root of regulation and industry health The importance of seamless customer journeys and quick payouts The impact of regulation driven by trust issues Innovation cycles in gaming and betting The role of customer experience in brand and product differentiation Chapters (but add about 30 seconds because of our beautiful music): 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:53 Sponsorships and industry partnerships 06:56 Introducing Patrick J. and his background 11:00 The core argument: industry fighting the wrong war 14:11 Customer trust as the root cause of regulation 17:46 The impact of trust on regulatory actions 21:59 Customer service and trust: lessons from Amazon 25:49 Building customer trust through fast payouts 29:52 Simplifying user journeys and product focus 34:01 The importance of focus and avoiding shiny object syndrome 37:57 Experience as the core of product and brand 41:52 Comparing airline apps: British Airways vs EasyJet 44:45 The pace of change in AI and challenger brands 49:55 The value of focus and simplicity in innovation 53:20 The role of trust in the betting experience Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-jay-1493694/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

July 16, 20261 hr 4 min

RTFM 268: Is 1XCARE the real deal? Simon Westbury says it is

In another blockbuster episode of the gambling industry’s favourite podcast, Simon Westbury, Chair of 1XCare, discusses industry perceptions around 1XBET and the new project 1XCARE, regulatory challenges, player protection, and the future of responsible gambling initiatives. He shares insights on transparency, research, and collaborative efforts to improve industry standards. Yeah, we talk about a lot of stuff. No Fintan, sadly. What we discuss, in an easily-digestible list: Industry perception and misperceptions of 1X Care Regulatory evolution and licensing strategies Player protection and safer gambling initiatives Research and data in gambling harm prevention Transparency and accountability in industry practices Collaborative efforts for industry improvement Impact of regulation on market expansion Holistic approaches to gambling addiction Choice quotes: "Industry wants to work with us and engage." "We need to win the conversation with society." "Gambling has an image problem that needs addressing." Chapters, but add 30 seconds maybe for the lovely music: 00:00 Introduction and Sponsorships 09:12 1X Care and Addressing Misperceptions 15:00 Player Protection and Industry Challenges 22:06 Research and Polarization in Gambling Addiction 28:01 Collaboration and Future Directions 34:14 Understanding Regulatory Challenges in the Industry 40:18 The Importance of Transparency and Accountability 52:02 Addressing Gambling Addiction and Its Root Causes 58:24 The Future of One X Care and Industry Engagement Simon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonwestbury/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

July 9, 202650 min

RTFM 267: Frank Op de Woerd talks Netherlands industry madness

In this episode, Jon and Fintan are joined by the incomparable, inimitable Frank Op de Woerd to discuss the latest developments in Dutch gambling regulation, market challenges, and innovative marketing strategies. They also share insights on international trends, legal issues, and the future of online gambling. As ever, Frank is an absolute legend. What we talk about in a handy, concise list. Why not print it out, keep it in your pocket just in case? Dutch gambling regulation updates Market channelisation and illegal operators Impact of regulation on gambling addiction Innovative marketing and affiliate strategies International trends in gambling legislation Choice quotes: "Wow, what a week at IGB London." "Mentally, the clarity from fat jabs is extraordinary." "Fifty percent of GGR goes to the illegal market." Chapters – but add a bit because of our beautiful theme music: 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:30 IGB London Experience 06:16 Sponsorships and Marketing Solutions 09:39 Introduction of Guest Frank op de Wood 12:11 Discussion on Weight Loss Treatments and Experiences 17:11 The State of Football in the Netherlands 22:18 Gambling Regulations and Developments 30:03 Challenges in Channelization and Market Dynamics 35:29 Addressing Gambling Addiction and Support Systems 40:53 Public Perception and Future of Online Gambling Frank on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankopdewoerd/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

July 2, 20261 hr 30 min

RTFM 266: The Future of Sports, Gambling, & Data-driven Predictions with Matt Bakowicz

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of sports, gambling, and data science as Fintan and Jon are (re)joined by Matt Bakowicz of the brilliantly-named American University. Matt shares insights into how predictive models, AI, and statistical analysis are transforming the ways we understand and wager on sports, from horse racing to the World Cup and beyond. It meanders too, looking at how the World Cup has not succeeded quite so well in cities lacking a traditional tourism infrastructure, betting values on the British Open, and how to best get out of a bunker. A sandy, golfy bunker, obv. What we covered, but in a list: The role of AI and statistical models in sports betting and prediction markets The influence of crowd behavior and betting signals on golf and soccer outcomes The economics of mega-events like the World Cup and Olympics, including infrastructure and profitability The evolving landscape of sports betting regulation and the impact on bookmakers Real-world examples from horse racing, golf, and international tournaments How data-driven models shape athlete predictions and betting strategies The significance of international sports markets and their cultural influences Practical insights for sports fans, bettors, and industry professionals Chapter list (but add a bit because of our sexy music) 00:00 - Welcome and World Cup chaos 03:16 - Media wires, PR, and headline inflation 09:52 - GLI sponsorship and gaming compliance 11:37 - Introducing Matt Bakowicz 19:16 - Royal Ascot, Kentucky Derby, and AI models 23:30 - Allocating bankroll with two betting strategies 27:13 - AI vs AI in modern betting markets 30:50 - Teaching sports betting and gaming in university 42:30 - World Cup pricing, tourism, and host-city economics 50:47 - Why Americans are embracing the World Cup 57:40 - Penalties, shootouts, and the psychology of endings 62:56 - Futures markets and sportsbook risk 76:11 - The Open Championship and golf betting value Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-bakowicz-b016a738a/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

June 25, 202642 min

RTFM 265: Looking at next week’s iGB LIVE! event with World Gaming’s Stuart Hunter

Join us as Stuart Hunter discusses the upcoming iGB Live! event in London, the industry innovations, and how the show continues to evolve. Discover what makes this year's event unique and why it's set to be a must-attend for professionals in gaming and betting. What we talk about but in a list with, for reasons unknown, time stamps: The transition of IGB Live from Amsterdam to London and the new opportunities this brings (00:00-02:00) Exciting enhancements including a refreshed floor plan, sports betting focus, and new networking venues (08:00-10:57) The exclusive MA Summit, bringing together investors, regulators, and industry leaders in a private setting (33:00-35:55) Strategies for growth, optimizing the attendee experience, and maintaining high quality standards (26:00-29:24) The importance of London's proximity to finance and recent venue improvements at Excel (25:00-26:00) Unique cultural and safety insights from London and Barcelona based on personal stories (18:00-23:50) The future of industry awards hosted in iconic London landmarks and playful merchandise ideas (13:30-14:42) Insights into the 'London-centric' approach and upcoming projects targeted at high-level industry engagement (33:00-36:04) Chapters, but add a bit because of our sexy music and that: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview 02:00 - Transition of IGB Live from Amsterdam to London 08:00 - Enhancements at IGB Live 2026 10:57 - The new Fox venue takeover and post-show networking 13:30 - Affiliate Awards redesign and exclusive venues 18:00 - Personal stories of London and Barcelona safety tips 23:50 - Merchandise, branding, and fun stories 33:00 - The M&A Summit and industry engagement strategies 36:04 - Future growth opportunities and high-level project highlights Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

June 18, 202642 min

RTFM 264: Exploring the Gambling Industry, Vegas Travels, and Industry Insights with Fintan & Bruford

Join hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they navigate the latest happenings in the gambling world, share hilarious and frustrating Vegas hotel stories, and discuss the future of casino brands and online gambling. This episode offers a mix of industry analysis, personal anecdotes, and industry expertise – perfect for gambling industry professionals alike. Things we discuss, but in a list: The current state of the gambling industry and recent acquisition talks about MGM and Caesars The challenges and opportunities in online casino branding and international expansion Personal Vegas travel stories highlighting hotel and flight mishaps Insights from recent conferences, research on gambling addiction, and emerging industry trends Industry figures like Barry Diller and their influence on gambling and entertainment sectors Practical tips for travellers regarding hotel bookings and airport routines There’s a lot of chapters here… 00:00 - Introduction and episode teaser 00:17 - The importance of industry updates and recent mergers 00:42 - Reflection on Vegas trips and what happened there 01:18 - Fintan’s attention to detail and its industry roots 02:16 - Personal publishing career and job reference stories 03:33 - Insights into gambling industry executives and references 04:27 - The strategic value of casino brands like MGM, Caesars, and Wynn 08:24 - The high-stakes world of casino takeovers and debt analysis 11:23 - Branding versus online presence of Caesars and other casino brands 13:10 - Global online casino strategies and brand recognition 15:16 - Industry valuations and property assets 16:25 - The competitive landscape among Vegas casinos and international brands 18:42 - Vegas property assets and potential for sale 19:12 - The Las Vegas conference on risk, gambling addiction, and key speakers 21:02 - Notable presentations and insights on luck and outcomes in sports and gambling 22:54 - Highlights from conference speakers and research data access 24:37 - Industry personalities and their entertainment-style presentations 25:50 - Musical and cultural references within industry discussions 26:23 - Interviews with gambling academics and researchers on addiction 29:36 - Industry events, influential figures, and upcoming projects 30:43 - Personal Vegas hotel stories and travel tips 34:29 - Hotel renovation frustrations and service experiences 37:00 - Airline travel anecdotes and misconceptions about aircraft features 38:12 - The true cost of Vegas resort fees and amenities 40:29 - Drive from Vegas to Arizona, industry insights, and final thoughts Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

June 4, 20261 hr 0 min

RTFM 263: Exploring Gambling, Arbitrage, and the Future of Betting Markets with Sergi Mykhailenko

Dive into the fascinating world of arbitrage betting, risk management, and innovation in the gambling industry through expert insights. Sergi Mykhailenko, Chief Product Officer at Odds Market and Betburger, shares the latest trends, technological shifts, and future prospects shaping this dynamic sector. In conversation with hosts Fintan Costello and Jon Bruford, we get into evolution, risk management, prediction markets, and punters – and of course, much more. Things we talk about, but in a list: Sergi explains arbitrage as exploiting discrepancies between sportsbooks, highlighting how they use automated systems to identify thousands of opportunities every second. The discussion covers how sportsbooks' risk management is evolving with AI and data, shortening average account lifespans due to increased technological sophistication. The industry is shifting towards crypto-based platforms with minimal KYC, creating new opportunities and risks for sharp bettors. Prediction markets are seen as a significant frontier, especially with crypto integration and regulatory arbitrage in various countries. Sergi emphasizes the importance of volume and diversification for sharp players, and how bookmakers attempt to detect and restrict successful arbitrageurs. The conversation also touches on the future of in-play arbitrage, the role of data-driven decision making, and how regulation shapes market opportunities. Choice quotes: "I think I may have found the world's easiest job. It's basically hot and sunny in Las Vegas for three hundred and sixty days of the year." Bruford "The rise of crypto and prediction markets is fundamentally shifting risk management – they are lowering barriers and increasing speed." Sergii Mykhailenko "Arbitrage is a vital part of the stock market or part of efficient markets because it gets to the true price quicker." Fintan Costello Chapters and all that, but add 30 seconds or so because of all the razzamatazz: 00:00 - Introduction to the podcast and hosts' recent Vegas trip 04:24 - Sergii’s background and his role at Odds Market and Betburger 06:24 - The importance of arbitrage and sports betting tools 09:54 - How Betburger helps bettors find arbitrage opportunities 14:22 - Handling situation when outcomes include draws and overtime 17:13 - Industry evolution and risk management advancements 19:47 - The transition from gambling expertise to IT-driven risk management 23:43 - Prediction markets, meme coins, and regulatory challenges 30:42 - Shifts in crypto betting due to KYC and ease of access 35:21 - Risks and trust issues for bettors in crypto sportsbooks 40:43 - Operator behaviours around player limits and risk strategies 52:39 - The upcoming World Cup and sports arbitrage opportunities Resources & Links: Sergii on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergey-mykhailenko/ As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.com . The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts. Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

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