• RTFM 257: Crash Games: The Future of iGaming, with Aviatrix’s Anastasia Rimskaya
    Apr 16 2026
    Join us for an insightful conversation with Anastasia Rimskaya, Chief Account Officer at Aviatrix, as we delve into the evolution of crash games, their integration into mainstream iGaming, and the innovative features shaping the industry’s future. We get into the category’s rise (and rise), innovations within crash games, the difficulties of regulation and licensing, how the company might grow and move forward, and some neat new tricks we will be seeing soon… Of course, we go into way more than this, but you get the idea.Chapters (but add a bit, like 30 seconds, for the intro. Mind you, I chopped some out of it as well later on so… Hey, maybe these are just right!):00:00 - Welcome and guest introduction01:17 - What does Aviatrix do and their core product02:55 - Mechanics of the crash game and NFT airplane customisation04:42 - Mainstream adoption and market evolution06:33 - Social features: Skins, clans, and community engagement08:52 - Licensing and regulatory landscape11:14 - Dealing with regulators and compliance13:32 - Reputation and perception of crash games16:03 - Future trends and innovations in crash and iGaming18:47 - Expanding into slots, instant games, and metaverse experiences21:05 - Key markets and player demographics23:24 - The simplicity and universality of crash games25:00 - The concept of crash games as a 'perfection' in game design27:38 - Closing thoughts and upcoming game titles37:40 - Final remarks and contact informationThis episode offers a comprehensive look at how innovation, social features, and strategic regulation are shaping the future of crash and iGaming. Whether you're a game developer, operator, or enthusiast, you'll gain valuable insights into what makes these games engaging, compliant, and scalable across global markets.Choice Quotes:"The simplicity of crash games is their genius; anyone can pick it up in seconds.""NFT-enabled airplanes bring a unique customisation to the gaming experience.""Our focus is on creating AAA products with high-quality design and gamification.""Crash games have become a staple in casinos worldwide, a must-have in any portfolio.""We are always adding different gamifications and features to entertain players."Anastasia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-rimskaya/https://www.aviatrix.bet/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new-ish members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/
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    39 Min.
  • RTFM 256: Inside cruise ship casinos, with Brad Broderick
    Apr 9 2026
    Join us for an engaging conversation with Brad Broderick, Director of Casino Business Development at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. Discover the mechanics of casino operations at sea, how cruise lines adapt to regulations, and the unique demographic and cultural aspects of cruising. Plus, explore Canadian icons, industry resilience post-COVID, and Brad’s personal stories from the industry. What’s not to love?Stuff we talk about but in a bullet-point list:The logistics of casino operations on international waters, including currency and licensingHow Norwegian Cruise Line's onboard casino limits and game variety compare to land-based casinosThe demographic trends of cruise passengers, focusing on North American and European marketsTrends in themed cruises and large-scale charters for events and industry groupsThe impact of COVID-19 on cruising and expected future industry evolutionThe importance of networks, reputation, and personal style in the casino industryBrad's reflections on Canadian culture, icons, and his favourite placesChapters – but you might want to add 30 seconds or so because of the music and all that:(00:00) - Introduction to the podcast and Brad Broderick(02:08) - Industry gratitude and the importance of organizations like GLI(04:02) - Sponsorship shoutouts: Gaming Laboratories International and OptiMove(07:36) - Brad’s role and background, how he's shaped by UK influences(12:14) - Brad's foundation in the industry and Canadian influences(15:50) - The impact of Terry Fox as a Canadian hero(20:42) - Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet size and brands(23:37) - How onboard casino operations work, including currency and limits(27:37) - The demographic makeup of cruise passengers and future trends(31:56) - Cruise industry resilience and COVID-19 impacts(38:19) - Legal regulations and licensing for onboard casinos(45:11) - Game variety and the appeal of cruise ship gaming(50:54) - The allure of cruise destinations and activities(62:43) - Canadian culture, movies, and favourite icons(75:45) - Canadian film and music influences(77:35) - Brad’s favourite Canadian mountains(78:55) - Final thoughts on cruise industry advantages and futureBrad on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradbroderick/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new-ish members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/
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    1 Std. und 21 Min.
  • RTFM 255: Is ChatBet AI revolutionising betting in messaging apps?
    Mar 26 2026
    In this episode of the Gambling Files Podcast, hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello engage in ‘humorous banter’ while introducing their guest, Josh, co-founder and CEO of ChatBet AI. The conversation covers various topics, including sponsorships, personal updates, and the innovative functionalities of ChatBet AI, which allows users to place bets directly within messaging apps. The hosts explore the significance of user engagement in the gambling industry and how technology is reshaping the betting landscape. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the innovative technology behind sports betting interactions, focusing on the integration of AI and messaging platforms. They discuss how AI can enhance user experience by allowing for intent-driven interactions, the importance of responsible gambling measures, and the evolution of user behaviour in betting. The conversation also touches on the challenges of regulatory compliance and the future prospects of AI in the betting industry.What we talk about, but in a list: The podcast opens with humorous banter between the hosts.Sponsorships play a crucial role in the podcast's funding.Personal updates reveal Jon's move to a disabled-adapted house.ChatBet AI allows betting through messaging apps like WhatsApp.Operators can engage users more effectively through personalized messaging.Messaging apps have a high user engagement rate.The importance of reducing friction in the betting process is emphasized.Operators can create one-to-one conversations with users.The podcast highlights the evolving landscape of iGaming.The hosts express excitement about the future of technology in gambling. The technology allows for direct messaging with betting companies.AI can autonomously place bets without human intervention.Messaging platforms are becoming the primary interface for betting.User intent can be captured more effectively through natural language.Responsible gambling measures are integrated into the AI system.The evolution of user behaviour is shifting towards messaging apps.AI systems must be trained to understand user language and intent.Regulatory compliance remains a critical aspect of AI in betting.The market is seeing a shift towards personalised user experiences.ChatBet is currently operational in regulated markets like Peru and Mexico.Choice quotes: "Sponsorships are available""Messaging is the new interface.""Intent-driven execution is the future.""Messaging is not just another channel.""We are capturing intent at the source."Chapters (but add 30 seconds or so because of the music, innit):00:00 Introduction and Banter01:28 Sponsorships and Promotions05:58 Personal Updates and Life Changes08:17 Guest Introduction and ChatBet AI Overview10:31 ChatBet AI Functionality and User Engagement14:53 Understanding the Technology Behind Betting Interactions17:02 The Role of AI in Sports Betting20:57 Transforming User Experience with Intent-Driven Interaction24:51 Addressing Responsible Gambling and Regulatory Challenges30:43 The Evolution of User Behavior in Betting37:29 Building a Robust AI System for Betting40:27 Current Market Applications and Future ProspectsJosh on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuaswerdlow/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/
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    48 Min.
  • RTFM 254: Fintan and Jon talk smack
    Mar 12 2026
    Join hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they explore a wide range of topics from marketing strategies, AI innovations, gambling industry insights, to humorous stories about marathons, mountaineering, and quirky sports team names. This episode offers industry analysis, industry humour, and future trends in gambling and gaming.Choice quotes: "My knees are great, really.""Great mugs, though.""AI can't touch me, Fint."Chapters (but add 30 seconds or so on because of the music and all that innit) 00:00 Introduction and Guest Fatigue03:01 Endurance Training and Humbling Experiences05:56 Smoking and Quitting: Personal Stories09:00 Sponsorships and Marketing Insights12:06 Merchandise and Listener Engagement15:09 AI and Its Impact on Daily Life18:49 The Rise of AI Agents19:30 Introducing the Gambling Book Club22:44 Engaging Authors and Readers27:40 Exploring the Gambling Industry29:33 Caesars Entertainment Takeover Discussion39:47 The Mystery of REIT Money40:45 Regulatory Challenges in Gambling42:49 Innovation in Gaming: The Unregulated Edge44:37 Game Discovery and Player Engagement46:30 The Role of Game Developers52:12 March Madness and the Future of Betting MarketsUseful resourcesGaming Laboratories International (GLI) - https://gaminglabs.comOptiMove - https://optimove.comWorld Gaming – www.worldgaming.comAs ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International.GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReFSubscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/
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    1 Std. und 4 Min.
  • RTFM 253: How Liquidity Provision is Transforming Online Casinos with iBankroll
    Mar 5 2026
    In this decadent, luxurious episode of The Gambling Files, we explore innovative approaches to risk management in online gambling, featuring insights from Hayden Bowman of iBankroll and Bernard Marantelli of White Swan Data. Discover how liquidity provision, data analytics, and regulation are shaping the future of gaming and betting industries.Chapters (but add maybe 25 seconds for the music and that):00:00 Introduction and Podcast Hosts01:09 Guest Introductions: Hayden Bowman and Bernard Marantelli01:41 Overview of GLI and Sponsorships04:17 Introduction to iBankroll and its Core Services05:39 What is Bankroll as a Service (BaaS)?07:03 Mechanics of Liquidity Provision in Gambling09:00 Handling Large Payouts and Risk Scenarios10:41 Fraud Risks and Player Retention Strategies12:07 Liquidity Constraints in Crypto and Top Operators13:16 The Commoditisation of House Bankroll Management14:32 Player Experience and Liquidity Challenges15:34 Deliberate Casino Management and Payout Delays16:22 Building Trust and Industry Transparency17:29 Funding and Business Model of iBankroll18:22 Future Plans and Expansion of Liquidity Services20:12 Sportsbook Liquidity and Risk Hedging21:52 Whiteswan Data: Market Mispricing and Opportunities22:53 Market Efficiency and Data Analytics in Betting23:48 The Shift from Predatory to Gamekeeper Models25:34 Adding Value Across the Gaming Ecosystem27:32 Prediction Markets and Future Trends31:33 Regulation and the Future of Prediction Markets33:56 Volatility, Entertainment, and Social Betting36:17 Recruitment of Quantitative and Data Science Talent39:24 Advice for Young Professionals in Gaming and Gambling41:14 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Driven People44:37 Lottery Payouts, Taxation, and Risk47:52 Michael Owen and Personal Anecdotes48:33 Closing Remarks and ThanksUseful resourcesGaming Laboratories International (GLI) - https://gaminglabs.comOptiMove - https://optimove.comWorld Gaming – www.worldgaming.comWhite Swan Data - https://whiteswandata.com/iBankroll - https://ibankroll.comHayden on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayden-bowman/Bernard on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/bernardmarantelliAs ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/
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    50 Min.
  • RTFM 252: Inside Sports Management: Building a Program from the Ground Up with Matt Bakowicz
    Feb 26 2026

    Join Fintan and Jon for an insightful discussion with Professor Matt Bakowicz, program director of the sports management program at American University in Washington D.C. Matt shares his extensive industry experience in sports betting, casino management, and academia, alongside the evolving landscape of gaming regulations, integrity in sports, and the future of entertainment. Whether you're into sports management, gambling regulation, or the intersection of entertainment and responsibility, this episode offers valuable perspectives from a seasoned expert. The integrity segment is particularly excellent.

    Things we talk about, but in a list:

    1. Matt's background in casino operations, sports betting, and esports management
    2. Designing a sports management program focused on commercial and operational skills
    3. The importance of industry experience in academic teaching
    4. Challenges and strategies in maintaining integrity in sports betting
    5. Advances in detecting and addressing match-fixing and prop bet manipulation
    6. Regulatory landscape in U.S. sports betting and prediction markets
    7. Responsible gambling, education, and the role of regulation versus personal responsibility
    8. The influence of media, marketing, and terminology on industry perception
    9. Future of the Super Bowl halftime shows and the blending of music and entertainment
    10. Tips for beginners in golf: focusing on short game and mental discipline
    11. The impact of sports betting trends on baseball, golf, and college sports
    12. The importance of niche expertise and sustained passion in career success


    Choice quotes:

    1. "Welcome to the Gambling Files podcast."
    2. "Prediction markets need strict regulation."
    3. "Find your niche and lean into it."


    Chapters (but add 30 seconds or so because I added the music):

    1. 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: industry insights with Prof. Matt Bakowicz
    2. 02:10 - Matt's career transition from casino management to academia
    3. 04:12 - Building a practical, industry-connected sports management program
    4. 06:16 - Course tracks: operations, analytics, sports gaming, and marketing
    5. 09:12 - Inside the sports betting industry: operations, regulation, and integrity
    6. 11:25 - Industry and academic experience: the value of real-world insight
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    1 Std. und 9 Min.
  • RTFM 251: Get ready for the World Cup, with Jeevan Jeyaratnam
    Feb 19 2026

    In this episode of The Gambling Files podcast, hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello explore various themes related to gambling, sports betting, and the upcoming World Cup. Joined by guest Jeevan Jeyaratnam from Abelson Sports, they discuss the adaptability of the brain, the importance of marketing in engaging casual bettors, and the evolving landscape of prediction markets. The conversation also touches on the ethical implications of celebrity involvement in betting and the strategies operators can use to attract and retain customers during major sporting events.

    The things we talk about, but in a list:

    1. The brain is incredibly adaptable, adjusting to new experiences like wearing contact lenses.
    2. World Cup 2026 is expected to have a significant impact on North American sports betting.
    3. Engaging casual bettors requires building narratives around less popular matches.
    4. Prediction markets are gaining traction, but their long-term sustainability is uncertain.
    5. Celebrity involvement in betting raises questions about ethics and insider information.
    6. The importance of marketing strategies in the gambling industry cannot be overstated.
    7. Casual bettors are more likely to engage with narratives and stories around games.
    8. The betting landscape is evolving with new technologies and market dynamics.
    9. Understanding customer behaviour is crucial for operators during major sporting events.
    10. The future of sports betting will likely involve more integration of technology and data analytics.


    Choice quotes:

    1. "The brain is incredibly adaptable."
    2. "World Cup 2026 will be a big deal."
    3. "Engaging casual bettors is key."


    Chapters (but add 30 seconds because of the music, probably)

    1. 00:00 Introduction and New Format Exploration
    2. 03:05 Contact Lenses and Vision Adjustments
    3. 05:58 The Brain's Adaptability and Surgery Insights
    4. 11:59 Podcast Sponsors and Marketing Insights
    5. 14:54 Introducing the Guest and Podcast Evolution
    6. 16:10 Introduction and Background of Abelson Sports
    7. 22:10 The Impact of Major Sporting Events
    8. 30:02 World Cup Dynamics and U.S. Engagement
    9. 36:59 Betting Patterns and Market Engagement Strategies
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    1 Std. und 7 Min.
  • RTFM 250: Quarter of a thousand in and we are still no wiser
    Feb 12 2026

    In this episode of the Gambling Files podcast, hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello don’t even appear to realise it’s their 250th episode. Oh well, at least we spotted it. The duo discuss significant changes in the gambling industry, including the departure of Michael ‘The Doog’ Dugher from the Betting and Gaming Council, and Andrew Rhodes from the Gambling Commission. They analyse the implications of recent budget changes on online operators and the horse racing industry. The conversation also covers the recent $1.2 billion acquisition of Legend by Genius, highlighting the negotiation strategies involved. Finally, they preview upcoming events and conferences in the gambling sector, emphasising the importance of networking and knowledge sharing.

    Choice quotes:

    1. "We would love to have you on."
    2. "It's a tough gig. It's a tough gig."
    3. "It's only held every three years."

    Chapters, but you might want to add on 30 seconds because of the music:

    1. 00:00 Introduction to the Gambling Industry News
    2. 00:51 Leadership Changes in Gambling Organizations
    3. 07:06 Impact of Regulatory Changes on the Gambling Sector
    4. 11:04 The Future of Gambling Leadership
    5. 18:57 Recent Major Deals in the Gambling Industry
    6. 25:36 Market Reactions to SEO Assets
    7. 26:25 Challenges in Affiliate Asset Management
    8. 27:32 The Impact of Price Tags in Negotiations
    9. 28:53 The Value of Reputation and Integrity
    10. 29:23 Sponsorships and Industry Events
    11. 34:53 Upcoming Conferences and Networking Opportunities
    12. 39:52 The Significance of the World Cup in North America


    Yeah, we’re on LinkedIn. And so is Pini!: https://www.linkedin.com/in/piniyakuel/


    As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.


    Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.


    Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.


    And the new members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International.

    GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering...

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    48 Min.