By Ulises Gil, journalist at G&M News.
In 2025, SiGMA Central Europe will be held in the historic city of Rome. What does this new location represent for the company, and what opportunities do you see in bringing the iGaming world to Italy?
In November 2025, SiGMA Central Europe will head to Rome. This new addition to our events calendar represents more than just a scenic backdrop; it places the show at the heart of Italy’s political and regulatory landscape. This offers a direct link to key policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders. As the nation’s capital, Rome is not only easily accessible but also serves as a crucial hub for shaping the future of gaming, technology, and investment in Europe. Italy continues to present immense opportunities for growth in the iGaming sector. Recent market research highlights the country as the second-highest total gambling market in Europe, generating a staggering €16 billion in revenue. However, only 25% of this comes from online platforms, leaving a massive €12 billion segment largely untapped. This gap presents a golden opportunity for online operators eager to expand, especially as player preferences evolve toward digital experiences. Figures show that gross gaming revenue (GGR) in Italy came in at €21.6 billion in 2024, a rise of 4.4% year-on-year. This growth was driven by a 17% expansion in online gaming revenue to €5 billion. SiGMA Central Europe aims to play a pivotal role in driving this market shift, offering a platform for innovation, collaboration, and strategic partnerships. By bringing the global iGaming community to Rome, the event will foster meaningful dialogue and will position Italy as a key frontier for online gaming evolution. Meanwhile, our well-known Malta Week event (SiGMA Euro-Med) will be held on September 1-3rd, 2025, at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub (MMH).
What are the main goals for this edition of SiGMA Central Europe, and what key themes will define the conference program?
The 2025 edition of SiGMA Central Europe wants to further cement its role as a catalyst for innovation and market expansion within the gaming space, particularly in the rapidly evolving Italian territory. With Rome as the host city, our primary goal is to create a bridge between international stakeholders and local regulators, operators, and investors. Key themes for the conference will see regulation taking centre stage, with crucial debate on regulatory reform and compliance at the heart of discussions. Additionally, the rise of online gaming in traditionally land-based markets, responsible gambling, fintech and other emerging tech opportunities will find room for thought. We also intend to explore sustainability in gaming, and the growing importance of AI and data-driven personalization in player engagement.
In terms of industry trends, what verticals or technologies do you expect to gain the most attention at this year’s event?
This year’s event will likely see heightened attention on: 1) Regulation and compliance, with a thoughtful, measured look at the important role responsible gambling has to play; 2) Artificial Intelligence, especially for personalized gaming experiences, fraud detection, and marketing optimization; 3) Blockchain & Web3, with discussions on how decentralization is reshaping payment systems and player trust; 4) Italy’s emerging digital market. Esports & social gaming particularly, as operators look to engage younger demographics, and 5) Payment innovation and AML compliance, given stricter regulatory environments across Europe.
How will SiGMA Central Europe foster networking and business development opportunities for both startups and established companies?
Networking and business development remain at the core of the SiGMA experience. In 2025, we’re enhancing this through the Startup Pitch Competition, where emerging companies present to a panel of investors and industry veterans. This is supported by the Startup Village, a dedicated space for companies to gain exposure and network. Besides, we will have dedicated lounges offering quiet space for meetings, new deals, and networking, as well as Speed Networking Sessions and Matchmaking Tools via our app, ensuring targeted, high-value connections. Moreover, there will be lots of evening networking galas, such as the prestigious Awards ceremony and VIP dinners that will bring together thought leaders and decision-makers in a relaxed setting.
In previous years, G&M News did extensive coverage of SiGMA events both editorially and audiovisually. What does it mean to you to have ongoing media partners supporting the visibility and impact of these meetings?
Having longstanding media partners like G&M News on board is invaluable. Their continued editorial and audiovisual coverage plays a key role in amplifying the event’s reach and influence, not just during the show but throughout the year. Media partnerships help ensure that key insights, trends, and discussions reach a global audience, strengthening the impact of the event and reinforcing SiGMA’s mission to foster dialogue, innovation, and investment in gaming markets worldwide. We deeply appreciate your support in spotlighting the voices and ideas shaping the future of the industry.