Speaking to AIBC News, Managing Director Olga Yaroshevsky commented that, “The mission for AIBC is to bring emerging technologies closer to the iGaming industry, to educate players, regulators and business owners on the benefits of emerging tech, and to support new tech as a major facilitator for the gaming industry.”?

Serving as a bridge between emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, Web3, and the rapidly evolving iGaming sector, AIBC’s new look reflects its broader focus on innovation. With cryptocurrencies revolutionising payments for casinos and AI enhancing responsible gaming, AIBC’s new identity and expanded tech coverage, including metaverse and digital assets, aligns with SiGMA’s global growth. This dynamic and vibrant rebranding reinforces AIBC’s commitment to becoming a key player in gaming and tech convergence worldwide.

Launched in 2018 in Malta, the inaugural summit served as a launchpad for Malta’s novel regulation on DLT, earning the country its name as the Blockchain Island, and setting the stage for mass adoption of the technology. Since then, the conference has become a globally respected nexus for an expert line up of thought leaders, government figures, and businesses to explore the future of emerging technologies and their applications.

As part of a documentary produced to celebrate the Group′s upcoming 10 year anniversary, Group Founder Eman Pulis explained that, “Based on the huge interest in blockchain in Malta, we felt there was a great opportunity to bring emerging tech closer to the world of iGaming. It was then, in 2018, that we launched the first summit for emerging tech.”

Capturing AIBC’s brand essence of strength, clarity, and precision

Speaking about the design process, Creative Manager Perpetua Kokkinou elaborated that, “With the momentum of our SiGMA World brand, it was a natural progression to elevate and refine the AIBC branding to align with this new era. AIBC and SiGMA have always worked in close synergy, making the evolution of AIBC a key milestone in our journey.?

“The rebranding, built on strong foundations and an optimised design, stands as a testament to this collaboration, ensuring that AIBC maintains a consistent design alongside the vibrant and dynamic identity of our upcoming summits, starting with our Europe Summit—the flagship event of the SiGMA World portfolio.”

?“As AIBC continues to grow and expand across global markets, attracting influential figures and industry leaders, it was essential for the brand to embody a bold, confident identity. The refreshed design, rooted in meticulously crafted graphic communication, captures AIBC’s brand essence of strength, clarity, and precision, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence.”

AIBC Europe 2024

AIBC Europe is closing out the SiGMA World Tour 2024 with a spectacular finale. Join us from 11-14 November at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub (MMH) for unforgettable experiences, networking opportunities, and the latest industry trends.

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The evolving regulatory landscape

One of the key themes that emerged at the conference was the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies. As governments and regulatory bodies grapple with the complexities of this nascent industry, the conference provided a platform for discussions on compliance requirements, consumer protection, and fraud prevention.?

“When we talk about regulation and the use of cryptocurrencies and crypto-casino activity in different ICOs, it is important to understand that there is no universal and easy answer to this topic. Yes, because each jurisdiction, each ICO has its own regulatory rules.”
– Katerina Shepetenko, Managing Partner at Legal Pilot.

Experts such as Katerina Shepetenko (Managing Partner at Legal Pilot), Elena Sabelnikova (Director at APS money), and Alexander Belov (Forbes Journalist & Media & Fund Founder of Coinstelegram) explored the varying jurisdictional approaches and the potential impact of regulations on the growth and adoption of cryptocurrencies in the iGaming sector.

A revolution in mobile payments and cryptocurrencies

The conference also highlighted the transformative power of mobile payments and cryptocurrencies. As these technologies continue to gain traction, particularly in regions with limited financial infrastructure, they are revolutionising the way transactions are conducted. Alex Volk (pictured above), Chief Business Development Officer of Betatransfer Kassa, explored the benefits and challenges associated with mobile payments and cryptocurrencies and the technological advancements driving their adoption.

Enhanced security for crypto transactions

The security of cryptocurrency transactions remains a top priority. The conference addressed the importance of robust security measures, such as biometrics and two-factor authentication, to protect users from cyber threats.

“I want all of us to be aware that these things: A. Do happen, B. It’s possible to act. And the sooner you act, the better. The better the chance that the money can be turned back. So, please, don’t wait.”
– Marina Khaustova, COO of Crystal Intelligence.

Additionally, experts discussed the role of blockchain analytics in uncovering and preventing crypto-related crimes. Marina Khaustova (pictured above), COO of Crystal Intelligence, is a key contributor to these discussions, sharing her insights on the latest security advancements and the use of blockchain analytics.

A growing trend: Real-time payments

Another significant topic at the conference was the increasing adoption of real-time payment solutions. Driven by technological advancements and regulatory initiatives, real-time payments (RTP) have transformed the way funds are transferred.

“Today, we are faced with certain decisions, and tomorrow, there will be others. However, the consistent trend will always be finding solutions and facilitating communication between two parties. This process will be utilised by both large and small companies, but generally, it will always be P2P.”
– Alex Volk, Chief Business Development Officer of Betatransfer Kassa.

Volk shared his expertise on RTP solutions and their potential impact on the payments industry. He explored the benefits of RTP, compared different solutions like SEPA Instant and P2P, and discussed the factors driving their adoption in various regions.

Insights from industry leaders

The AIBC East Europe Conference brought together a diverse range of industry experts who shared their valuable insights and perspectives. From seasoned professionals to emerging talents, the speakers provided a comprehensive overview of the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of e-commerce, emerging technologies, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain.?

“Putting cheap creatives in an attempt to target any player doesn’t work anymore. The trend has shifted over the past five years, so advertisers have learned to calculate traffic. Everyone now has analytical systems and learned to write reports, and it is crucial for webmasters to align with methods for quality player acquisition.”
– Yaroslav Babych, CCO at ZM.

Eli Desatnik, Co-founder of Pushub.net, and Yaroslav Babych (pictured above), CCO at ZM, were among the notable speakers who shared their expertise on optimising push notifications and using cutting-edge tech solutions for better results.

AIBC East Europe 2024

The AIBC East Europe 2024 served as a valuable platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and stay informed about the latest developments in e-commerce, technologies, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve and technological advancements accelerate, the insights gained from this conference will be invaluable for businesses and individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of this rapidly changing industry.

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AIBC East Europe is set to be a pivotal platform for attendees, offering a unique chance to connect with visionaries and innovators shaping the future of the tech industry. Whether you’re looking to gain insights, forge new partnerships, or explore cutting-edge technologies, this summit is your gateway to the forefront of industry transformation.

Jamie Fraser: award-winning CEO and social media influencer

Jamie Fraser, the two-time award-winning entrepreneur and CEO of InterEx Group, JF Growth, and JAMF Investments, will bring his infectious energy and proven business acumen to the stage on the 4th. As part of the conference segment on entrepreneurship, Fraser will share his success story with fellow guests, Dr Sara Al Madani, Rob Moore, and Khalid Louis. With a massive Instagram following and a proven track record, Fraser is set to inspire delegates with his insights on leadership, innovation, and overcoming challenges.

Rob Moore: podcast host and best-selling author

Rob Moore, the charismatic host of the Disruptors Podcast who gained 200 million views in a year and a 19-time bestselling author, will share his secrets to building a successful personal brand and engaging audiences on a global scale. Moore’s 358k Instagram followers undoubtedly attest to his influential impact in the industry, promising attendees profound insights into the business world.?

Khalid Louis: personal guru and CEO

Khalid Louis, known as ‘khalidknows’ to his followers, is the visionary CEO and Founder of Mena Creative, Dubai’s top personal branding agency. He will delve into the world of social media monetisation and personal branding. With 248k Instagram followers, Louis has a proven track record of helping clients achieve digital stardom. He will share how he got to the top of the industry in the panel segment he’ll be starring in during the event.

Dr Sara Al Madani: tech pioneer and wellness expert

Dr Sara Al Madani is the award-winning serial entrepreneur and CEO of HalaHi, the first platform in UAE that curates personal and unique video messages for their clients. She will bring her technology, entrepreneurship, and holistic wellness expertise to the event. Al Madani’s passion for innovation and empowering others is sure to resonate with the attendees.

Al Madani will also be one of the panels for the Dream Big, Work Hard panel discussion and will deliver a keynote speech titled “Entrepreneurship Inside Out.” Her speech will cover essential aspects of entrepreneurship, including the necessary steps to become an entrepreneur, the available resources for starting a business, and the specific challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the tech industry.

Beyond the star-studded lineup, attendees can expect to connect with high-value traffic, discover the next big startup, engage in exclusive networking events, experience an unforgettable closing party, and access prestigious awards and auctions at the summit.?

James Fraser, Rob Moore, Khalid Louis, and Dr Al Madani will join the AIBC East Europe panel discussion “Dream Big, Work Hard: Success Stories from Top Serial Entrepreneurs” on day two of the summit on the 4th of September.

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This comprehensive event guide is designed to help you make the most of your time at AIBC East Europe 2024.

Plan your trip

Are you visiting Budapest for the first time? No need to worry! The AIBC website has designed a “Plan Your Trip” page with all the information you need, including travel tips, hotel booking at our partner hotels, InterContinental Budapest and Corinthia Budapest, a city guide, and visa information. Don’t forget to visit the page to check if you need a visa to enter Hungary and ensure that your passport is valid for your trip.

Don’t miss out – ticket prices increase daily. Visit the AIBC website to register and discover our exciting package options, including conference access and networking events.

Getting to AIBC East Europe 2024

As AIBC East Europe 2024 aims to offer you the best of business in East Europe, we’ve made your journey to the AIBC conference as convenient as possible.?

Official shuttle service

Take advantage of our round-trip shuttle service between the InterContinental Budapest and Hungexpo on 2-4 September. This service is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm to ensure a smooth commute to the event.

Danube Cruise

The Danube Cruise on 2 September includes round-trip transportation from the InterContinental Hotel. For more details and activities, please check our online agenda.

Ride-hailing apps

Popular transportation apps like Bolt, City Taaxi Budapest, TaxiHungary, and F?taxi are readily available for your convenience.

Beat the crowds with pre-registration

Avoid long lines by pre-registering and collecting your badge in advance. Use our online badge generator to create your digital badge and connect with other attendees before the event.

Visit the Corso Bar at the InterContinental Hotel on 2 September, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Please remember to bring your digital or printed ticket and a valid ID. You can network with other attendees over drinks starting from 4:00 pm onwards.

Stay in the know

Follow AIBC on social media channels and join the official Telegram channel for real-time updates on the event programme and announcements.

AIBC East Europe 2024: expanding horizons in Hungary

AIBC East Europe will be held for the third time in the region from 2-4 September. The event is poised to make a significant impact on the Eastern European business landscape with a focus on emerging technologies, industry trends, and fostering connections across various sectors. The event is expected to draw over 9,000 attendees to Hungexpo’s Pavilion E arena.

Back-to-back with Affiliate World on 5-6 September in Budapest, AIBC East Europe presents an opportunity for operators to network, explore new markets, and gain valuable insights into the region’s business industries.

The post Unlock Budapest’s charm: AIBC East Europe 2024’s official event guide appeared first on AIBC.

A nexus for thought leadership and backed by top industry thinkers, a meticulously crafted conference agenda will delve into topics that explore the emerging technologies. Listen in to conversations in digital banking or marketing strategies for Web3 projects, and explore expert-led panels offering insight into how EDIHS networks can support companies in their digital transformation, as well as providing a deep dive into regulation and tokenization in the Central and Eastern European region (CEE). Panels dedicated to cross over content also explore Web3 gaming, and blockchain gaming in eSports.?

A number of networking events are also slated to take place, with cultural activities, early badge collection, and plenty of dinner and drink receptions providing ample opportunity for delegates to foster new relationships and connect with industry leaders. Things close with an official party on the 4th.

Connect to a global network at AIBC East Europe

Boosting cross-border collaboration , the event brings a broad spectrum of industries together, fostering new collaborations and exploring new growth avenues. The summit will also be held back-to-back with Affiliate World, which takes place on the 5th and 6th of September in Budapest – making the East Europe event a must attend for operators. This unique partnership promises an unrivalled networking environment, offering operators the chance to connect with top tier affiliates from a diversity of sectors. With an estimated 5,000 new affiliates expected to participate, this collaboration is set to elevate opportunities for operators and suppliers alike.

AIBC East Europe – The Hungaro Expo

Founded in 1967, Hungero Expo has been a committed and professional organiser of exhibitions, trade fairs and conferences from the beginning. Thanks to its extensive international contacts and network of representatives, it is the leading exhibition and conference organiser in Central and Eastern Europe. The centre has held major international conferences and exhibitions, such as the Congress of the European Football Association (UEFA), the annual general assembly of the UN-affiliated International Telecommunications Union (ITU) or Sirha, one of the world’s most important gastronomic events. In 2016 and 2022 Budapest and Hungexpo hosted the European final of the international cookery competition, the Bocuse d’Or.

Don’t miss last minute changes – stay up-to-date with all the latest updates through AIBC’s official social media channels and the official Podcast. Join the official Telegram Channel by clicking here.?

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This will be the third event to be held in the Philippines, following AIBC Asia’s inaugural launch back in July 2023, and will see a 40% increase in footprint, with a number of new areas included in the floorplan.

The second day of the AIBC Asia summit?is currently underway at the SMX Convention Centre – Manila’s largest expo venue, where over 350 speakers are discussing the challenges and innovations shaping the future of Asia’s gaming and emerging tech markets, and 250+ exhibitors make up a bustling, 2-floor expo.

Tonight: The Official Party?

The official party is back, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make this a night like no other. Our musical lineup for the night is off the charts, featuring musical duo Savage & SHē join DJ JJoy and Oshien Zuky. For entrance, please present your badge, wristband, or ticket at the door. Open to all ticket holders.

Stay in the know

Don’t miss last minute changes – stay up-to-date with all the latest updates through AIBC’s official social media channels and the official AIBC Podcast. Join the official AIBC Telegram Channel by clicking here.

The post AIBC Asia launches new dates for 2025 appeared first on AIBC.

Exploring the Blockchain terrain

Mariusz kicked things off by providing an overview of the blockchain landscape, emphasizing its significance as a barometer of investment trends. He highlighted the growing interest in Web3, backed by a surge in transactions – which he believes shows genuine activity rather than mere registrations. Particularly noteworthy was the upward trajectory of Web3 gaming, highlighted by growing transaction volumes and a diverse user base.

The motivations behind gaming

Delving deeper, Mariusz addressed a fundamental yet often overlooked question: why do people play games? Drawing from recent surveys, he revealed that the primary motivation across regions is fun and relaxation. However, he underscored how social dynamics can influence preference, with emerging markets placing greater emphasis on skill enhancement and a communal approach, compared to their Western counterparts, who focus more closely on leisure and individual enjoyment. By understanding these nuances, developers can tailor gaming experiences to resonate with diverse audiences.

The convergence of crypto and gaming

A key aspect of Mariusz’s keynote was the relationship between crypto and gaming. He underscored the natural affinity between crypto enthusiasts and gamers, citing a correlation between increased crypto adoption and gaming activity. Despite this alignment, Mariusz highlighted the challenge of bridging the gap between early adopters and mainstream gamers, emphasising the need for compelling content to drive adoption.

The way forward

Mariusz concluded his keynote with a forward-looking perspective, envisioning a future where Web3 gaming thrives on a global scale. He stressed the importance of user education, innovative game development strategies, and a renewed focus on fun as the cornerstone of gaming experiences. By embracing these principles, Mariusz posited that the gaming industry could unlock untapped potential, particularly in burgeoning markets like Asia.

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Sara initiates her keynote with an introduction to social change, sharing her nearly 20 year personal journey on social media as a change maker. She highlighted the awkwardness of taking a group of people out of their culture, away from their everyday norms that they ‘have been marinating in for such a long time.’

“A lot of people who want to create social change and social impact expect that actions will lead to instant results. They get upset and they give up when the change doesn’t happen immediately,” she suggests.

She explains that when she first got started, she was focused exclusively on entrepreneurship – how to start a business, how to invest, how to raise capital – but six years ago her message changed into a deeper conversation. The truth is, she says, what’s needed is not an external factor, but internal.

“I speak about deeper things rooted internally within us.? How to take care of your mind, body, and soul, how to take care of your spirit so you can be better at business, so you can be better at all the things that happen around you.”

Passion, she highlights, is the first thing you need to do when you want to create a social impact. “You need to know what you are into, what you love, what you want to change”

My mission was to show people that they’re not hostages of their own culture and that they should break out of their culture so they can be free. The permission they need to do such a thing is not an external permission from society – it’s a permission that you need to give yourselves.”

She emphasises that everything she now does on social media is about this. Teaching people the value of freedom,? the value of being an open minded person, that, as she puts it – you’re just a hostage of your own thoughts.?

“Culture is just peer pressure from the grave. We are serving and we are following rules created by a certain group of people that no longer exist, who lived in a different lifetime. I’m going to show everyone that it’s okay to be an Arab from Dubai and to be completely different and an individual of your own. And I wanted that to be my social impact.”?

Nonetheless, it wasn’t easy. She was attacked a lot, with many challenging what she stood for, what she did. Many were women who took umbrage with her alternative choice, criticising her for not representing her culture. However, she is adamant that you shouldn’t be discouraged – despite hurdles from people who may try to stand in your way.

“But I kept on going on and on and on, until the people who attacked me are now embracing my message. So, when you want to create a social impact, you have to be patient. You can’t give up. You have to keep going and going until you bring the result you need.”?

How do you do it? Pick something you believe in and that you love and search out other individuals who are like minded and share your perspective, she recommends.?

“Make plans and don’t give up on these plans. Now I surround myself with like minded people who think the same way, so we can all create a social impact together.”?

She goes on to explain that this is something which can be applied to organisations as well. Although many ‘talk the talk, but don’t want to walk the walk’.?

“We’re the cool kids on the block, you know, but the truth is, the only way an organisation can actually create social impact is by embedding this message in the company’s DNA, which means if you want your employees, your management to embody this, it has to be an integral part of your company’s identity.”

She concludes by emphasising how vital it is to cherish your values and morals. For Sara, social media is her gateway to create social impact and educate the people around her.

“If we’re not impacting the world, if we’re not changing the world, why are we existing? You have to keep fighting for it. Don’t give up. And you will slowly see change happen. Because if change happens fast, people will fight you. There will be a conflict.”

“If you want to see change in the world, you have to be that change first. So the first question you ask yourself is, the change I want to create or influence, am I that change? Do I represent that change?”

The post If you want to see change in the world, you have to be that change first – Sara Al Madani appeared first on AIBC.

De Venecia began by highlighting the significance of the creative economy as a driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and global influence. He emphasized the convergence of creativity and technology, which has revolutionised business models and opened new avenues for growth in sectors such as digital media and technology.

The Creative Industry Law, passed in 2022, has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the creative economy in the Philippines. De Venecia shared key insights and statistics demonstrating the remarkable impact of the law on the country’s GDP and employment landscape. He underscored the importance of responsive regulation, intellectual property rights protection, and support for freelance workers in sustaining this growth trajectory.

Moreover, De Venecia highlighted the role of grassroots initiatives, such as Local Culture and Arts Councils (LCACs), in nurturing emerging talent and preserving cultural heritage at the community level. He emphasised the need for strategic partnerships and global collaborations to leverage the Philippines’ creative strengths and enhance its competitiveness on the world stage.

The keynote also addressed the Philippines’ ranking as a global leader in the export of creative goods – ‘the Philippines is poised to be a global leader in the creative economy as we envision it by the year 2030.’?

However, “The government and the private sector must address challenges like safeguarding intellectual property rights, providing responsive? regulation to matters such as AI, and of course supporting even our freelance or gig workers which are really the critical mass.”

De Venecia outlined the government’s initiatives, including the Philippine Creative Industry Fund and partnerships with UNESCO-designated creative cities, aimed at unlocking this potential and promoting socio-economic progress.

Furthermore, De Venecia underscored the potential of technology and intellectual property in driving innovation and collaboration across diverse creative sectors. He emphasised the need for synergies between traditional cultural expressions and cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality, to move the creative economy forward.

“Our commitment lies at cultivating an ecosystem that fosters creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, providing fertile ground for talent to flourish. We firmly believe in the transformative potential of the creative economy.?

“As the world increasingly recognizes the value of creative content, design, and entertainment, the Philippines stands ready to seize opportunities in this burgeoning market.”

De Venecia urged stakeholders to seize opportunities in the digital age and embrace a holistic approach to nurturing the creative economy.

The post “The Philippines is poised to be a global leader in the creative economy by the year 2030’ – Hon. Christopher de Venecia appeared first on AIBC.

With a background in banking and spearheading groundbreaking projects like China’s national Blockchain People’s Structure (BSM) and China’s National Decentralized ID (DID) system, his expertise offers a compelling perspective on the trajectory of digital currency.

Here are the key takeaways from his speech:

Investment in tech powers economic growth

He emphasized the distinction between digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies and tokenized bonds, and regulated digital currencies designed for payments. He underscored the importance of efficiency in monetary circulation, highlighting how advancements in digital currency facilitate faster transactions, ultimately driving economic growth.

He elucidated on the two primary trends in digital currency: digital assets reliant on public exchanges and regulated digital currencies tailored for payments in a permissioned, centralized environment. Focusing on the latter, He discussed the significance of token-based digital currencies, contrasting them with traditional bank accounts. While bank accounts represent a form of centralized digital currency, token-based currencies offer decentralized alternatives aimed at enhancing efficiency and accessibility.

“Almost one third of the country’s central banks are doing research on regulated digital currency, it’s a direction that will definitely move forward.”

Within the realm of regulated digital currencies, He identified various categories, including retail and wholesale central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), tokenized deposits, ‘which will become a very large market next year’, and settlement tokens. He outlined the potential of wholesale settlement tokens in revolutionizing cross-border transactions, citing significant cost savings and liquidity benefits.

Treating retail CBDCs as digitalized cash

Meanwhile, He delved into the concept of tokenized deposits, highlighting their role in fostering interoperability between banks and streamlining payment processes. He emphasized the importance of treating retail CBDCs as digitalized cash, ensuring immediate settlement and user ownership—a vision that poses technical challenges but promises transformative benefits.

Addressing existing infrastructure gaps, He introduced the Universal Digital Payments Network (UDPN), a project aimed at connecting digital currency wallets akin to SWIFT in the traditional banking system. UDPN seeks to facilitate seamless communication between diverse digital currency accounts, fostering interoperability and efficiency, ‘a bridge to connect.’

They launched last year and are in the Beta testing phase right now.

Red Date Technology’s sandbox platform

The UDPN was established by Red Date Technology, recently unveiling the introduction of sandboxes designed specifically for commercial and central banks.

He concluded by urging stakeholders to prioritize feasibility and functionality in digital currency initiatives, advocating for rigorous testing and validation before widespread implementation. With Red Date Technology’s sandbox platform enabling central banks to experiment with various digital currency models, He emphasized the importance of informed decision-making to drive meaningful innovation.

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