5 Takeaways from EGC 2024: Where Future Tech Meets iGaming

The recent Hipther European Gaming Congress (EGC) held in Warsaw was more than just a notable industry event; it was a unique convergence of technology, innovation, and a shared passion for the future of online gambling. Organizing such an engaging event requires a personal touch, much like a family-run restaurant where every patron feels a sense of belonging. This intimacy permeated the panels I moderated, where industry leaders and enthusiasts explored the ever-evolving landscape of iGaming technologies. Here are my top five takeaways from EGC 2024 that shed light on where future tech meets iGaming.

1. Blockchain Panel Takeaway: Not Everything Has to Be On-Chain

One of the most enlightening discussions took place during the "Blockchain Innovations in iGaming" panel. While the ideal scenario suggests that 100% of iGaming operations could and perhaps should be on-chain, the reality is nuanced. The vision is alluring: instantaneous deposits and withdrawals via peer-to-peer transactions and smart contracts, enhanced player verification through universal digital IDs, and improved oversight for regulators through immutable data.

Despite this alluring potential, our discussion highlighted a critical point: a phased approach allows operators to embrace blockchain benefits at their own pace. iGaming businesses could selectively adopt elements of blockchain technology, such as facilitating digital currency payments or employing microtransactions for broader market access. Therefore, while the ambition should remain high, the execution can be tailored to fit immediate needs and long-term goals.

2. Future Tech and Responsible Gambling/AML Compliance Panel Takeaway: AI Needs Blockchain

As the regulatory landscape evolves with burgeoning guidelines like the EU’s AI Act, the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology becomes increasingly apparent. On Day 2, the “Navigating Responsible Gambling and AML Compliance with Future Tech” panel shed light on how blockchain can serve as an invaluable asset in AI compliance.

The complications introduced by stringent data proof requirements necessitate accountability for AI data sources. Blockchain’s immutability provides a solution, offering a transparent ledger while maintaining user privacy. Furthermore, the concept of micropayments emerged as a practical way to give users ownership of their data, allowing consumers to monetize their contributions rather than offering them freely to large corporations.

3. Progress in Gender Inclusivity in Tech

In a refreshing development, my second panel at EGC featured an all-female lineup, showcasing the strides being made toward gender equality in the tech space. Conversations around women in technology have circulated for years, often highlighting the need for improvement. However, events like EGC demonstrate meaningful engagement and representation, culminating in a more balanced environment.

This not only enhances perspectives in discussions but also encourages a community that feels inclusive and supportive. The organic atmosphere fostered by the Hipther team further nurtured these discussions, enabling all voices to engage comfortably.

4. The Benefits of Starting Your Day with Exercise

EGC also recognized the importance of overall well-being during events—prompting them to incorporate activities like morning yoga and group runs into the agenda. Exercise has proven benefits for mental focus and clarity, essential in a setting filled with dense technical talks and networking opportunities.

Starting the day with physical activity provided not only an invigorating start to each conference day but also created a space for participants to forge connections in a more relaxed environment. Fostering wellness within the often high-pressure context of conferences enhances participant engagement and promotes a healthier mindset throughout the event.

5. The Value of Intimacy in Conferences

As the industry continues trending toward larger-scale events, it’s essential to recognize the power of smaller, community-oriented gatherings like EGC. The intimate nature of the conference allowed for meaningful dialogues, fostering relationships that larger events often overlook. When you repeatedly see familiar faces throughout the event, it cultivates a sense of community, making it easier to dive deeper into discussions, ask burning questions, and appreciate diverse viewpoints.

The sense of enduring camaraderie was palpable at EGC, where all attendees felt welcomed to contribute, whether as a panelist, speaker, or eager participant. Smaller events like this also encourage newcomers to embrace the spotlight, allowing first-time speakers to share their insights without feeling overwhelmed by the scale of the occasion.

Conclusion: Simple Principles for a Complex World

In a bonus takeaway, discussions at EGC reminded us that Bitcoin was designed to simplify transactions rather than complicate them, urging industry leaders to return to foundational principles. The conversation around blockchain technology often gets bogged down by layers of complexity; however, it’s crucial to remember that simplicity is key to scalability and mass adoption.

Moving forward, as the iGaming industry continues to evolve, staying connected to these principles will serve as a benchmark for all technological innovations. While visions for the future can be ambitious, embracing the simple and effective elements of past technologies will require collaboration, patience, and an ongoing commitment to community engagement.

For those looking to explore revolutionary ideas in blockchain gaming, the journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are as expansive as the visionaries willing to explore them.