The SBC Summit 2024: Comtrade Gaming’s Strategic Focus on Brazil and LatAm Markets
As the SBC Summit concluded its latest edition in Lisbon, it marked a significant moment for the gaming industry, with attendance surging by an impressive 70% compared to the previous year. Among the companies making waves at the summit was Comtrade Gaming, represented by Chief Commercial Officer Steven Valentine. During the event, he shared insights about the company’s strategic plans and enticing opportunities emerging in Brazil and other Latin American markets.
Growth and Development at Comtrade Gaming
Valentine expressed enthusiasm regarding the summit, noting that the experience exceeded their expectations, particularly in showcasing their new games division launched earlier this year. The summit offered a valuable platform to engage with potential partners from a multitude of regions, and the influx of visitors from Brazil was especially beneficial given the country’s budding gaming market.
“Our main focus is on platform technology and games," Valentine explained, acknowledging that many inquiries from event attendees revolved around finding suitable technology solutions for Brazil, a market currently undergoing significant regulatory developments. These discussions highlighted a pressing need for foundational enhancements in local operators’ technology, paving the way for firms like Comtrade Gaming to step in and offer their expertise.
The Emergence of the Games Division
The launch of the company’s gaming division in February has rapidly gained traction, as Valentine reported an increasing number of games in their portfolio that are now going live with multiple operators. This development signifies a promising shift for Comtrade Gaming, with tangible results already evident within the first year of operation. Interactive engagement with new games was an exciting highlight at the show, attracting attention from attendees eager to experience firsthand the innovative offerings from Comtrade.
Valentine also touched on their approach to enhancing both the quantity and quality of games. Currently releasing one game per month, the goal is to double that output in the near future. His mention of manageable expansion reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining high-quality offerings without compromising service to existing clients.
The Brazilian Opportunity
In the world of gaming, Brazil stands out as a hot topic, not solely for Comtrade Gaming but also for the industry at large. Valentine remarked, "There are a lot of very good operators in Brazil who have poor or outdated technology." This gap opens a significant opportunity for advancement, particularly since international brands from Europe and other established markets are now entering Brazil, seeking to establish themselves using robust technology frameworks.
Valentine’s insights into Brazil’s regulatory environment revealed a relatively sensible approach. While the country’s tax on player winnings poses unique challenges, its overall regulatory direction appears favorable compared to other jurisdictions within the continent. He emphasized the company’s determination to focus heavily on the Latin American region, as evidenced by their ongoing efforts to recruit native speakers dedicated to understanding the local market dynamics.
Positive Reception and Licensing Progress
Reflecting on the company’s recent game launches with clients, including Mansion and Spinbet, Valentine reported overwhelmingly positive reception. The correlation between their established platform relationships and the success of their games has helped to enhance visibility and position within competitive markets.
In addition to their game launches, Comtrade Gaming has secured crucial licensing milestones, including a license in Malta, with plans for expansion into the UK and Romania next. The groundwork has also been laid for entering the Brazilian market, promising exciting growth prospects ahead.
Looking Towards the Future
As the year draws to a close, Comtrade Gaming is gearing up for crucial next steps, including the goal of having their first platform client live in Brazil by year-end. Valentine noted that a handshake deal for this platform was made during the summit, highlighting progress and establishing a foundation for future operations in 2025.
In summary, Comtrade Gaming is strategically positioned to capitalize on the burgeoning gaming market in Brazil and the wider Latin American region. Their focus on technology advancements, innovative game development, and responsive regulatory adaptation demonstrates their commitment to long-term growth and success in these dynamic markets. As they continue to ramp up their efforts, the gaming landscape in Brazil promises to become increasingly vibrant—watching Comtrade Gaming’s journey will undoubtedly be of interest as the industry evolves.
