Watch: Joseph Borg on regulatory challenges in gaming and fintech

Rami Gabriel December 12, 2024

SiGMA news

During SiGMA Europe 2024, Joseph Borg, Partner at WH Partners, shared his perspective on the evolving regulatory landscape and its implications for the gaming and fintech sectors. WH Partners, known for its comprehensive support to businesses, plays a critical role in helping clients navigate complex legal frameworks while driving innovation and growth.

Supporting innovation through legal expertise

In his discussion, Borg highlighted the firm’s involvement across the gaming and fintech ecosystems. WH Partners assists clients at every stage of their business journey—from company formation and licensing to mergers and acquisitions. The firm’s services extend to compliance, employment, and immigration, with a strong focus on helping operators overcome regulatory complexities. WH Partners also took part during SiGMA Europe 2024 by being the main support for the panel titled “Regulation & Compliance,” further showcasing their expertise in navigating complex industry frameworks. Borg noted that 80 percent of WH Partners’ workload is dedicated to the gambling and financial services sectors, emphasizing their industry focus.

Challenges facing operators

As regulatory frameworks become increasingly stringent, Borg explained that smaller operators face mounting challenges in maintaining compliance. “Regulation is becoming tougher everywhere, making it harder for smaller companies to compete,” he remarked. This has led to an uptick in mergers and acquisitions, where larger operators acquire smaller, innovative firms to strengthen their competitive edge. Borg observed that this dynamic has shifted the landscape, where many start-ups now focus on creating niche innovations to attract investment from larger players.

Role of risk and innovation

Borg elaborated on the balance between risk and innovation within the industry. Larger operators often avoid risks in research and development, leaving smaller start-ups to pioneer new technologies or solutions. When successful, these start-ups become acquisition targets, allowing larger companies to integrate innovation without assuming significant risk. “This has become a business model in itself,” Borg stated, acknowledging the efficiency of this approach while reflecting on the challenges it poses for smaller operators aiming to grow independently.

Looking ahead

As Borg’s insights reveal, the gaming and fintech industries are at a pivotal juncture, shaped by evolving regulations and consolidation trends. WH Partners continues to support businesses through this complex environment, enabling both startups and established firms to thrive.

Looking ahead to SiGMA Eurasia 2025, the industry anticipates further discussions on navigating regulatory challenges and fostering sustainable growth. Stakeholders can look forward to engaging insights and solutions that drive innovation while ensuring compliance in these dynamic sectors.