How to enter new markets for casino and betting operators with AI technologies

May 20, 2024 — Pavle Sarcevic

Expanding into new markets presents an exciting yet challenging opportunity for casino and betting operators. As the iGaming industry grows globally, success requires more than launching a website—it involves data-driven strategies, real-time market insights, and optimizing customer engagement. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a solution by providing tools that allow operators to predict market trends, understand player behavior, and stay competitive. Let’s explore how AI technologies can be a game-changer for entering new markets.

AI's role in market expansion

Here’s a quick overview of how AI helps operators succeed in new markets:

1. Understanding market trends with AI: the power of data-driven decisions

Data-driven market insights

The iGaming industry evolves rapidly, making it essential for operators to respond quickly to changing trends. AI technologies enable fast, accurate analysis of large datasets, offering real-time insights into market dynamics that were previously difficult to detect.

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Example:
AI tools like Blask Index analyze search trends and market volume in real-time, helping operators pinpoint regions where demand is rising and competition is weak.

Why is this important?

With real-time insights, operators can make quick decisions on resource allocation and market entry strategies, potentially giving them a first-mover advantage.

Case study: casino expansion in Southeast Asia

Let’s consider a casino operator expanding into Southeast Asia. AI tools can analyze consumer behavior, search trends, and competitor activity across countries such as:

India
Bangladesh
Philippines

If AI detects rising interest in online slots in Bangladesh but not in the Philippines, the operator can prioritize Bangladesh to capitalize on high demand.

2. Predicting player behavior: getting inside the player’s mind

Anticipating Player Preferences

When entering new markets in iGaming, understanding player preferences is crucial. AI can analyze historical data to predict player behavior, betting habits, and spending patterns in specific regions.

AI Tool	Benefit
Blask Customer Profile	Provides a comprehensive understanding of the iGaming audience, including socio-demographics, preferences, motivations, and behavior patterns of players

This detailed insight allows operators to create highly targeted and personalized marketing campaigns, potentially increasing engagement and conversion rates.

Market saturation: knowing when to pause

AI isn’t just about where to enter—it also tells you when to avoid markets. By analyzing competitor data and market saturation, AI can indicate when a region is too crowded.

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Avoiding overcrowded markets: For instance, AI tools can detect if a market is becoming saturated with too many operators, potentially saving millions in failed expansion efforts.

3. Enhancing marketing strategies: from generic to targeted

Fine-tuning marketing campaigns

One-size-fits-all marketing rarely works, especially in diverse global markets. AI allows operators to analyze local player demographics, preferences, and engagement metrics.

Key AI capabilities for marketing:

Key Question	AI Answer
What games are most popular in the market?	AI tools analyze regional game preferences for tailored campaigns.
Which promotions work best?	AI helps test and optimize promotions for maximum player engagement.

Personalization is key

AI powers hyper-personalized marketing strategies, allowing operators to send targeted ads, bonuses, or special promotions based on a player’s past behavior.

4. Boosting player retention: keeping the players you’ve won

Player retention through AI

After acquiring new players, retaining them is critical for long-term success. AI helps operators by analyzing gameplay data and predicting churn, allowing for timely retention strategies.

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Proactive retention strategy: If a player’s activity drops, AI can trigger a retention campaign offering personalized bonuses to re-engage the player.

The cost of losing players

Acquiring new players is expensive, but retaining them is more valuable. AI-powered retention strategies can significantly reduce churn, increasing profitability.

5. Tracking competitor activities: staying one step ahead

AI doesn’t just help with players—it’s a powerful tool for monitoring your competition. Understanding your competitors' strengths and weaknesses can help you make informed strategic decisions.

Real-time competitor insights

With AI, you can track competitors’ market shares, player interest, and revenue performance. For example:

AI Tool	Function
Blask’s Relative Market Share	Monitors competitors’ market shares to inform strategic adjustments.

By using real-time insights, operators can react quickly to market shifts or competitor campaigns.

6. Navigating regulatory challenges: staying compliant

Entering a new market often means navigating complex regulatory requirements. AI helps operators stay compliant by offering real-time updates on legal changes and compliance requirements.

Staying ahead of legal changes

AI tools can predict regulatory shifts and suggest adjustments to your operations, ensuring you remain compliant and avoid costly penalties.

7. Making data-driven decisions: the real advantage of AI

The true power of AI lies in its ability to turn complex data into actionable insights. For casino and betting operators, AI is no longer a luxury—it’s essential for success.

AI Tool	What It Does
Blask eGGR (Estimated Gross Gaming Revenue)	Predicts revenues of all brands in the market

AI empowers operators to minimize risks and maximize returns by basing decisions on real-time data.

Conclusion: AI as your co-pilot for market expansion

AI technologies are essential for operators looking to expand into new markets. From analyzing market dynamics to personalizing player experiences, AI offers everything you need to stay ahead of the curve.

The iGaming landscape is evolving rapidly. Operators who embrace AI will find themselves well-positioned to dominate new markets, making informed decisions, mitigating risks, and ultimately maximizing success.