Responsible Gambling at a Turning Point: Insights from the Gambling and Risk-Taking Conference The recent Gambling and Risk-Taking Conference, hosted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), brought together industry experts to discuss the state of responsible gambling. In an interview with Alan Feldman, a distinguished fellow at UNLV, conducted by Philip Beere, Head of Marketing of Gaming Analytics and Host of the No Line Podcast, attendees were given valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding responsible gambling. With the conference taking place after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a sense of urgency to address the lack of progress in promoting responsible gambling. The Need for Improved Responsible Gambling Efforts Feldman highlighted the pressing need for more effective responsible gambling initiatives. Despite years of efforts, the uptake of responsible gambling measures has been minimal. Metrics such as self-exclusion sign-ups, self-limiting behaviors, and hotline calls have shown little change over the past three decades. Furthermore, the rise of sports betting has shifted the focus of hotline calls to account-related queries rather than addressing gambling behavior. It is clear that a more nuanced approach is needed to engage individuals and deliver the right message at the right time. Redefining Responsible Gambling Feldman emphasized that responsible gambling should not solely be associated with problem gambling. The majority of individuals who gamble do so for enjoyment and do not experience harm. However, there is a significant number of people who may be at risk of harm but have not reached the clinical diagnosis of a gambling disorder. To effectively promote responsible gambling, the industry must find ways to deliver subtle and tailored messages that resonate with each individual, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Challenges in Messaging and Intervention The industry faces the challenge of crafting messages that influence behavioral change without alienating or stigmatizing individuals. Feldman drew parallels to successful marketing strategies used by various industries, emphasizing the importance of delivering the right message in the right way at the right time. He highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in revolutionizing responsible gambling efforts. AI could enable personalized interventions that provide course corrections and inform individuals about their gambling behavior in a non-intrusive manner. The Role of Companies and Accountability Feldman commended the progress made by gambling companies in assigning dedicated staff members to responsible gambling initiatives. This accountability ensures that responsible gambling efforts extend beyond compliance requirements and become ingrained in the company culture. However, he emphasized the need for companies to go further by innovating and taking a proactive approach to responsible gambling. It is crucial for companies to view responsible gambling as an integral part of sustainability, focusing on helping customers become smarter gamblers and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. UNLV’s Initiative and Future Outlook Feldman discussed UNLV’s efforts to study the intersection of gambling and health, aiming to explore the positive and negative aspects of gambling on individuals’ well-being. By understanding the motivations behind safe and healthy gambling behaviors, interventions and support can be tailored more effectively. The conversation surrounding responsible gambling has evolved significantly, incorporating data analysis, AI, and a focus on the broader community’s role in intervention. Conclusion The Gambling and Risk-Taking Conference shed light on the need for a paradigm shift in responsible gambling. The industry must move beyond the traditional narrative of problem gambling and adopt a holistic approach that emphasizes safety, health, and enjoyment. With an increased focus on personalized interventions, AI, and improved messaging strategies, the industry can empower individuals to make informed choices and create a sustainable gambling environment. The conference marked a milestone in reshaping responsible gambling efforts, inspiring hope for a future where responsible gambling is not just a compliance requirement but a genuine commitment to customer well-being. The No Line Podcast The best bet is the responsible one! The No Line Podcast is dedicated to sharing stories about those leading the gaming industry forward — making it better, making it more responsible. Interested in being a guest or sharing your organization’s “responsible” story? Contact Philip Beere at philip@nolinepodcast.com or visit the website at www.nolinepodcast.com LinkedIn YouTube Philip Beere Philip is the Head of Creative and Partnerships at Philip J. Media. He is Head of Marketing for ...
