The 2023 SiGMA Europe conference in Malta was a resounding triumph! This week-long gathering drew in excess of 25,000 participants from all corners of the iGaming sector, providing unmatched chances to connect, thought-provoking keynote addresses, captivating panel dialogues, and a tangible feeling of industry energy.
The event unfolded at the striking Mediterranean Maritime Centre (MMH), a newly-minted location that furnished a breathtaking setting for the summit. Boasting two stages, a generous outdoor dining zone, and abundant exhibition room, the MMH proved to be the ideal venue for SiGMA’s most substantial assembly yet.
The gathering attracted a varied and prominent group, encompassing industry titans such as Darryl Manning (Chief Executive of Wicked Games), Alexandre Tomic (originator and CEO of Alea), seasoned entrepreneur David Meltzer, and Uri Poliavich (Chief Executive of Soft2Bet), to mention a handful.
The summit also showcased a robust representation from the burgeoning technology realm, with specialists like Sara Al Madani, Tony Ventura, and Vinícius M. de Carvalho (Investment Partner at Ikigai Ventures) imparting their expertise.
The speakers, all trailblazers in their respective domains, delivered high-caliber perspectives and aided in shaping the discourse surrounding the trajectory of iGaming. A central theme, underscored by Uri Poliavich, was the significance of excellence in capturing notice within this fiercely competitive arena.
David Meltzer, a well-known humanitarian and business leader, eloquently summarized the spirit of the gathering, saying, “I’ve yet to encounter an affluent, charitable individual who wasn’t joyful, optimistic, and motivating others to motivate others. This is precisely why I’ve committed my life to this concept of wealth generation for such a long time.”
Tanja Dimitrijevic, a legal professional from Red Acre Group, offered perspectives on the regional sector, commenting on the island’s advanced regulations: “Adopting groundbreaking technologies demonstrates your forward-thinking approach compared to other jurisdictions.”
The Maltese Prime Minister, Robert Abela, honored the event with his presence, touring the exhibition space, interacting with industry heads, and personally observing the state-of-the-art advancements on display. He stressed that the event reinforced Malta’s standing as an international iGaming center and recognized SiGMA’s substantial input to the Maltese economy. Moreover, he reiterated the government’s pledge to invest in the sector, including the execution of a nationwide esports plan and programs to cultivate expansion in the education and digital gaming fields.
Other distinguished guests encompassed Silvio Schembri, Minister for the Economy, European Funds and Lands, and Bernard Grech, Leader of the Opposition and the Nationalist Party. The event also highlighted a Startup Pitch contest, displaying the entrepreneurial zeal within the industry.
This years Malta Week witnessed the much-anticipated comeback of the SiGMA Startup Pitch contest, with 8BIT Gaming emerging triumphant. The burgeoning company impressed the panel with their product’s caliber, cutting-edge approach, and retro charm, ultimately securing the top prize on the SiGMA platform. The AIBC Europe Startup Pitch, happening simultaneously, declared SharkGate as its champion, who expressed in their victory speech, “Our mission is to make the online world a more secure environment for all, and we aspire to transform how the sector tackles safeguarding.”
**Combat Takes Center Stage: CFC16 – Clash of the Centurions “Mursa”**
SiGMA’s premier event ran alongside another captivating spectacle – the Clash of the Centurions “Mursa.” Spearheaded by Roberto Gallo, the fight evening offered numerous SiGMA participants a glimpse into the Centurion FC world. Memorable moments included two co-featured bouts, the initial one witnessing Rafael Carvalho prevail over Marcelo Alfaya to seize the Light Heavyweight championship. The excitement culminated with the four-person Grand Prix finale, where Felipe Douglas outperformed his rivals, achieving a unanimous decision triumph and being named “Monarch of Malta” at the Takali Basketball Arena.
In addition to the networking possibilities at meals and iGatherings, the SiGMA summit provided participants with a packed schedule of engaging activities.
HighRoller.com held a thrilling charitable poker competition with notable industry figures, with prizes on players for a worthy organization.
The SiGMA Cup, a five-a-side soccer match held at the Luxol Sports Club, brought out the competitive spirit in participants, while a 6-kilometer fun run from the opulent Westin Dragonara Resort provided a scenic tour of Malta’s historic capital, Valletta.
SiGMA Play also planned a more relaxed, but equally engaging, VIP golf competition at the Royal Malta Golf Club.
Lastly, attendees experienced the allure of Malta’s stunning capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with excursions exploring its rich past both on land and water.
