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Discover the topline igaming leaders Shaping the Future of Online Gaming and Gambling

The iGaming world is a very big and fast-growing industry. Which people are making a real impact on it? iGamingXP has compiled a list of the top 25 most influential people in iGaming, highlighting those who are driving innovation, expansion, and digital gaming to new levels. Today, we are starting with the first 25 legends.

25. Johann Graf: Silent Legend of Novomatic

Starting Novomatic in 1980, Graf has built an empire that employs 26,000 people and has a presence in 50+ countries. From slots to digital solutions, his innovation and acquisition strategy is unbeatable. The company’s offerings include the production of slot machines, gaming systems, sports betting terminals, and online solutions via Greentube, its digital division. Graf’s approach included acquiring well-established operators throughout Europe and Latin America, developing technology internally, and expanding internationally. He is among the wealthiest businessmen in Austria and one of the most powerful people in the world of gambling, despite keeping a low profile in the public eye.

24. Simon Johnson: Digital Visionary at Light & Wonder

Simon Johnson became the CEO of Light & Wonder’s iGaming division in 2025. His focus is on digital growth. He previously held top-level roles in regions such as Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He is now driving the company’s online reach and expansion into regulated markets.

Here are the key highlights of Simon Johnson’s journey

• Major Awards and Honours

2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences: Awarded jointly with Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson for their studies on how institutions are formed and affect prosperity. 

Top Public Intellectual of the Financial Crisis (2009): Named by Prospect magazine for his influential commentary and analysis during the global financial crisis. 

Main Street Hero Award (2013): Recognized by the Independent Community Bankers of America for his advocacy against “too-big-to-fail” financial institutions. 

• Education

Ph.D. in Economics: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1989). 

M.A. in Economics: University of Manchester (1986). 

B.A. in Economics and Politics: University of Oxford (1984).

• Leadership and Advisory Positions

CFA Institute Systemic Risk Council: Co-chair, focusing on financial regulatory reform. 

Fannie Mae Board of Directors: Serving since February 2021, including roles as Vice Chair of the Audit Committee and member of the Risk and Capital Committee. 

Congressional Budget Office’s Panel of Economic Advisors: Member, providing economic analysis and advice.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Systemic Resolution Advisory Committee: Member, contributing to discussions on financial system stability.

23. Gustaf Hagman: Mobile King of LeoVegas

Co-founder of LeoVegas, Gustaf made the mobile-first casino concept a reality. He played a major role in MGM Resorts’ global sports betting vision by acquiring Tipico’s U.S. platform. He was inducted into the Sports Betting Hall of Fame in 2023.

Here are the key highlights of Gustaf Hagman’s Journey

• Major Achievements

Co-founding LeoVegas (2011): Hagman co-founded LeoVegas, a mobile-first online casino and sports betting platform, revolutionizing the gaming industry by prioritizing mobile user experience from the outset. 

Successful IPO (2016): Under his leadership, LeoVegas went public on the NASDAQ Stockholm, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth. 

Acquisition by MGM Resorts (2022): Hagman guided LeoVegas through its acquisition by MGM Resorts International, enhancing its global reach and resources. 

Expansion of BetMGM Brand (2023): He played a pivotal role in launching the BetMGM brand in European markets, including the UK, Netherlands, and Sweden. 

Acquisition of Push Gaming (2023): Hagman oversaw the acquisition of Push Gaming, strengthening LeoVegas’s position in the gaming supply chain. 

Launch of New Tech Hubs (2022): He initiated the establishment of tech hubs in Poland and Spain, fostering innovation and development. 

Entry into Regulated Markets: Hagman led LeoVegas’s entry into newly regulated markets, including Ontario, expanding the company’s global footprint. 

Strategic Partnerships: He facilitated partnerships with prominent football clubs like AS Roma and Brentford FC, enhancing brand visibility. 

Acquisition of Expekt (2021): Hagman directed the acquisition of Expekt, a sports betting brand, for €5 million, diversifying LeoVegas’s offerings. 

Induction into Sports Betting Hall of Fame (2023): Recognized for his contributions to the industry, Hagman was inducted into the Sports Betting Hall of Fame. 

• Awards & Recognitions

Outstanding Contribution Award (2020): Hagman received this award for his significant impact on the gaming industry. 

Online Casino of the Year (Multiple Years): Under his leadership, LeoVegas won this award at the Global Gaming Awards London for six consecutive years. 

Malta Gaming Awards (2017): LeoVegas secured three awards: CSR of the Year, Careers Program of the Year, and Sportsbook of the Year. 

Executive of the Year Nomination (2025): Hagman was nominated for Executive of the Year by Gambling Insider, acknowledging his leadership excellence. 

22. Vardges Vardanyan: Digitain’s Tech Guru

Starting Digitain in Armenia, Vardges made this company the king of B2B iGaming. He created solutions like Totogaming, Centrivo, and Paydrom. His global expansion and strong vertical integration with new brands like Galaxsys and Relum are clearly visible.

21. George Daskalakis: Visionary Leader of Kaizen Gaming

The founder of brands like Stoiximan and Betano, George, expanded Kaizen Gaming to Europe, Africa, and Latin America. His tech-first approach and local execution strategy helped him become the first betting sponsor of UEFA Euro 2024.

His approach, which was based on in-house technology and excellent local execution, produced significant results, like Kaizen becoming the first betting sponsor of UEFA Euro 2024. Daskalakis brought a unique combination of gaming and media experience to the company’s DNA when he co-founded the digital media group 24MEDIA and founded Poker.gr before Kaizen.

20. Neal Menashe

Neal Menashe is the CEO and the founder of Super Group (SGHC) Ltd., which is a leading global holding company in online sports betting and gaming. He holds over 20 years of experience in the igaming industry and co-founded Win Technologies in 2001. He has been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategy and growth. He serves as the CEO of SGHC and Win Technologies as of now. Under his leadership, Super Group has become renowned worldwide for its customer-centric approach and innovative technology. 

Here are the key highlights of Neal Menashe’s Journey

Founder of Super Group: Neal Menashe founded the Super Group in 2001 and has led the company to become a leading holding entity for major brands like Betway and Spin. 

Co-Founder of Win Technologies: He was the co-founder of Win Technologies, which is a prominent firm in online marketing support and CRM solutions. The company’s success led to its acquisition by Betway Group in 2011. 

Operational Excellence: Under his leadership, Super Group achieved revenues of €1.6 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of €391 million in 2024. The company also set new records for customer engagement, reaching 5.3 million average monthly active customers.

Additional Roles: Beyond Super Group, Menashe has held key positions in other firms such as JCA Engineering Ltd., where he has held the position of Director since 2020. 

Education: Neal Menashe holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accountancy from the University of Cape Town and an Honours in Accounting/Chartered Accountancy from the University of South Africa.

19. Nicolas Béraud

Nicolas Béraud is the founder and CEO of Betclic, a leading European online gambling company known for its innovation and market leadership. Since its establishment, he has showcased exceptional leadership and vision and grown the company from a single employee to a workforce of over 1200. Under his leadership, the company has become the largest betting operator in France and a major player in European markets as well.

Here are the key highlights of Nicolas Béraud’s Journey

Founder of Betclic: Béraud is the co-founder of Betclic in 2005, which forever transformed the online betting landscape in France and most of Europe. By 2013, Betclic acquired almost 36% of the French online betting market and even expanded to Portugal and Poland.

Additional Roles: Beyond Betclic, Béraud has founded Sport4Fun and Triple4Fun. He was also elected as the president of AFJEL, the French online gaming platform representing all French online gambling operators. 

Strategic Sponsorships: Under his guidance, Betclic secured high-profile sponsorships with top sports teams and leagues like the Olympique Lyonnais, Juventus, Ligue 1, and the French Basketball League. 

Education: He is an engineer, having attended ENSEIRB-MATMECA.

18. Vincent Sadusky

Vincent Sandusky is the CEO of International Game Technology (IGT), a global leader in gaming and lottery. Since its inception in 2022, the company has grown due to its customer-centric approach and has employed more than 10,500 people worldwide.

Here are the key highlights of Vincent Sadusky’s Journey

Leadership Roles: He has held important positions, including the CEO of IGT, Univision Communications, Media General, and LIN Media LLC. 

Board Membership: He has served on the boards of IGT, Hemisphere Media Group, The Paley Centre for Media, and the National Association of Broadcasters. 

Education: Sandusky holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Pennsylvania State University. He also holds an MBA from the New York Institute of Technology.

17. Ivan Montik

Ivan Montik is the CEO and founder of SOFTSWISS. Under his leadership, the company has become a global technology powerhouse. The company’s excellence has earned it numerous awards, like the Best Platform Provider and multiple recognitions for customer service and innovation.

Here are the key highlights of Ivan Montik’s Journey

Founder of SOFTSWISS: Since its inception, the company has become a leading iGaming provider known for its innovative and scalable platform solutions.

Awards and Recognitions: Montik won the iGaming Leader of the Year award at the European iGaming Excellence Awards in 2024. 

SOFTSWISS won multiple awards in 2024 and 2025, including:

• Best Platform Provider at SiGMA Europe Awards 2024.
• Best Customer Service and Innovation in iGaming Technology at the EIGE Awards 2024.
• Best Customer Service Support at Malta’s Gaming Excellence Awards 2024.
• Best Crypto Service Provider at Malta’s Gaming Excellence Awards 2024.
• Best Advertising and Marketing Campaign at the European iGaming Awards 2025. 
• Best Customer Service at the European iGaming Awards 2025. 
• Employer of the Year at SBC Awards 2024.

16. Sacha Dragic

Sacha Dragic is the visionary founder and co-CEO of Superbet. He established the company in 2008, which became Romania’s newest unicorn and a global leader in the betting and iGaming industry. His excellence led to the company’s expansion in countries like Poland, Belgium, and Serbia.

Here are the key highlights of Sacha Dragic’s Journey

Founder and CEO: Dragic founded Superbet in 2008 and made it from a local Romanian startup to a leading international betting and gaming giant in multiple countries. Under his leadership, the company secured a landmark €175 million investment from Blackstone. 

Awards and Recognitions: Sacha Dragic was recognised as one of the most influential entrepreneurs in Central and Eastern Europe.

15. Pontus Lindwall: The Steady Force Behind Betsson’s Global Rise

Few names in European iGaming carry as much weight as Pontus Lindwall. As the CEO of Betsson AB, he’s led the brand’s transformation into a powerhouse with a presence in 20+ regulated markets. From co-founding NetEnt to previously heading Cherry, Pontus has deep roots in the industry, and it shows.

Under his leadership, Betsson has seen steady expansion, thanks to smart acquisitions, a robust tech backbone, and strategic licensing in growth markets like Brazil and Argentina. Lindwall is known for striking the perfect balance between commercial ambition and regulatory compliance, building a product suite that covers casino, sports betting, poker, bingo, and more.

And when he’s not in boardrooms, Lindwall spins tunes as DJ Pontus, proving his full-throttle energy doesn’t stop at business.

14. Adam Greenblatt: The Strategy-Driven Architect of BetMGM

At the helm of BetMGM, Adam Greenblatt is redefining how U.S. betting brands scale. Since 2018, when he helped launch the MGM Resorts–Entain joint venture, he’s focused on sustainable growth, not just flashy promotions.

Greenblatt’s approach centers on product excellence. His biggest move? Integrating Angstrom Sports to supercharge BetMGM’s pricing and parlay features. With a background in corporate strategy at Entain, he brings a long-term mindset to an industry often chasing short-term wins.

His style is clear: stay smart, stay steady, and let the product do the talking.

13. Amy Howe: FanDuel’s Trailblazer of Profit and Innovation

Since stepping in as CEO of FanDuel in 2021, Amy Howe has led the company to the #1 spot in U.S. sports betting not just in market share, but also in profitability.

Howe made headlines by making FanDuel the first major U.S. operator to turn an EBITDA profit, proving that scale and sustainability can go hand in hand. Her focus? In-play betting features like The Pulse and initiatives to boost diversity in leadership across the company.

Before FanDuel, she held top roles at Ticketmaster, bringing a level of operational discipline that has fueled FanDuel’s rapid growth.

12. Martin Carlesund: Evolution’s Master of iGaming Expansion

Since 2016, Martin Carlesund has turned Evolution from a live casino leader into a multi-vertical iGaming juggernaut. Under his leadership, Evolution has made huge moves acquiring giants like NetEnt, Big Time Gaming, and NoLimit City to broaden its reach.

In 2024, Evolution reported record-breaking results: €2.21 billion revenue and €1.24 billion profit. But success didn’t come easy. From strikes in Georgia to cyberattacks in Asia and a UK licensing review, Evolution faced multiple storms.

Carlesund responded with stronger compliance, technical firewalls, and an aggressive M&A strategy, including the upcoming 2025 acquisition of Galaxy Gaming.

11. Julian Jarvis: Pragmatic Play’s Multi-Vertical Maestro

When Julian Jarvis became CEO of Pragmatic Play in 2020, the brand was known mostly for slots. Today, it’s a complete iGaming provider, offering live casino, bingo, virtual sports, branded content, and more, dropping up to eight new games every month.

Thanks to Jarvis’s sharp leadership and legal background, Pragmatic’s products are now certified in 20+ jurisdictions, from the UK and Spain to Italy and Romania. He’s also led high-impact partnerships with tier-one operators and major aggregators, boosting visibility and trust.

Jarvis’s strategy is simple: diversify, expand, and never slow down

10. Uri Poliavich: The Visionary Powering Soft2Bet’s Global Surge

When Uri Poliavich launched Soft2Bet, it was just a small startup. Today? It’s one of the fastest-growing iGaming groups, with over 16 active licenses and a lineup of casino and sportsbook brands spread across the globe.

He didn’t just build a company he built a gamified platform that makes player engagement feel like a mission. Challenges, rewards, and progress bars? That’s all part of his in-house gamification vision.

In 2024, Uri launched Soft2Bet Invest, a $52 million venture fund to support next-gen gaming and casual entertainment startups. His leadership has won him major awards “Leader of the Year” at the SBC Awards, and “Executive of the Year” at the Global Gaming Awards EMEA.

Through the Yael Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, they’ve supported over 13,500 children in 37 countries with education and community initiatives.

Uri is more than just a CEO he’s a charismatic force, building businesses with passion and purpose.

Here are the key highlights of Uri Poliavich’s Journey

Business Achievements

Founder & CEO of Soft2Bet (2016–Present)

• Global Expansion: Under Poliavich’s leadership, Soft2Bet has secured 16 global licenses, including in Ontario, Canada, and opened a new office in Malta in 2024, solidifying its presence in key markets.
  
• Innovative Platform Development: He spearheaded the creation of the Motivational Engineering Gaming Application (MEGA), a gamification-driven platform designed to enhance player engagement and revenue growth. MEGA was recognized as the “Product Launch of the Year” at the 2025 Global Gaming Awards EMEA.
  
• Soft2Bet Invest: In 2024, Poliavich launched Soft2Bet Invest, a €50 million investment fund aimed at supporting emerging companies and entrepreneurs in the gaming sector. This initiative received the “Outstanding Contribution to Gaming” award at SIGMA in September 2024.
  

Awards & Industry Recognition

• Executive of the Year: Awarded at the 2025 Global Gaming Awards EMEA for his leadership and innovation in the iGaming industry.
• Leader of the Year: Recognized at the SBC Awards in September 2024 for exceptional leadership, passion for innovation, and dedication to philanthropy.
  
• Top 50 Most Influential Jews: Named among the top 50 most influential Jews worldwide in 2024 for his contributions to Jewish education and community support.
  

Background

• Early Life: Born in Ukraine in 1981, Poliavich moved to Israel at the age of 14, where he completed his high school education and mandatory military service.
  
• Education: Earned a Bachelor of Law (LLB) in Legal Studies from Bar-Ilan University between 2005 and 2009.
  
• Legal Career: Worked as a legal intern at HBW Law, specializing in M&A contracts for international commercial and real estate deals.
  

Business Development: Served as VP of Business Development at WK Group and later as a consultant for Playtech, focusing on emerging markets and expanding the company’s presence in Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

9. David Natroshvili: The Brain Behind Aviator’s Takeoff

When David Natroshvili co-founded Spribe, he didn’t invent crash games but he absolutely revolutionized them.

His flagship creation, Aviator, has become a global hit since launching in 2019. It’s now active with 5,000+ operators, handling hundreds of thousands of bets per minute. Under his leadership, Spribe landed sponsorships with UFC, AC Milan, and WWE, giving the brand a global edge.

David took a simple concept and turned it into a premium acquisition tool for iGaming operators. Aviator is more than just a game it’s a brand, a strategy, and a case study in smart execution.

His journey proves one thing: with the right vision, you don’t need to invent something new you just need to make it better than anyone else.

Key Achievements of David Natroshvili

1. Founding SPRIBE and Launching Aviator

In 2018, Natroshvili founded SPRIBE, focusing on developing innovative gaming solutions. Under his leadership, SPRIBE introduced Aviator, a groundbreaking multiplayer crash game that combines simplicity with engaging gameplay. Aviator has achieved remarkable success, boasting over 42 million monthly active players globally and integration into more than 1,700 brands across 60+ countries .

2. Strategic Global Expansion

Natroshvili has spearheaded SPRIBE’s expansion into key international markets. Notably, the Asia-Pacific region experienced a 555% increase in player acquisition by the end of 2024, with significant growth also observed in Africa and South America . This strategic focus has solidified SPRIBE’s presence in emerging markets.

3. Innovative Partnerships with UFC and WWE

In 2023, SPRIBE entered into multi-year sponsorship agreements with global entertainment giants UFC and WWE. These partnerships have enhanced Aviator’s visibility, featuring branding at major events and integrating marketing initiatives to reach broader audiences, particularly in the UK and Asia-Pacific regions.

4. Development of the Broadway Platform

Continuing his commitment to innovation, Natroshvili led the development of SPRIBE’s Broadway Platform a comprehensive sportsbook and casino suite designed for performance, scalability, and real-time insights. This platform aims to unify premium casino content with a fully integrated sportsbook, addressing the complexities of the evolving iGaming market.

5. Recognition and Awards

Under Natroshvili’s leadership, SPRIBE’s game “Tower Rush” won the ‘Best New Game 2025’ award at the AIBC Eurasia Awards, reflecting the company’s commitment to delivering fast-paced, interactive experiences that resonate with diverse player preferences.

6. Commitment to Accessibility and Infrastructure Development

Understanding the challenges in emerging markets, Natroshvili has invested in making SPRIBE’s games lightweight and accessible, ensuring compatibility with older devices and limited internet infrastructure. For instance, SPRIBE has moved to Edge AWS in Cape Town to improve gaming experiences in Africa.

7. Leadership Philosophy and Company Culture

Natroshvili emphasizes a leadership style rooted in integrity, adaptability, and long-term thinking. He fosters a company culture that encourages creativity, transparency, and a dedication to pushing boundaries, which has been instrumental in SPRIBE’s sustained growth and innovation 

Through these achievements, David Natroshvili has significantly influenced the iGaming industry, positioning SPRIBE as a pioneer in delivering innovative and engaging gaming experiences worldwide.

8. Vigen Badalyan: The Builder Behind BetConstruct and Web3 Innovation

As CEO and co-founder of BetConstruct, Vigen Badalyan has shaped one of iGaming’s most technically advanced platforms. From sportsbook software and casino solutions to affiliate systems and engagement tools, BetConstruct does it all, thanks to his leadership.

But Vigen doesn’t stop there. He also launched Fastex, a Web3 ecosystem with its own crypto token (FTN) and metaverse experience. His innovative mindset earned him the “Leader of the Year” award at SiGMA Europe 2024.

Beyond business, he serves as the Honorary Consul of Colombia in Armenia and is increasingly involved in Middle East tech diplomacy.

Vigen’s mission? Build big, build bold and always stay one step ahead of future trends.

Key Achievements of Vigen Badalyan

Early Life and Education

Born on January 10, 1975, in Jermuk, Armenia, Badalyan pursued a Bachelor’s degree in International Business at the Armenian State University of Economics from 1991 to 1995.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Badalyan’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by the establishment of several notable ventures across various industries:

• Fast Credit Capital UCO CJSC (1994): A financial institution providing credit services.
• Vivaro Betting LTD (2003): Laid the foundation for VBET and BetConstruct, both established in the same year.
• BetConstruct (2003): A leading provider of online and land-based gaming solutions, operating development, sales, and service centers in 14 countries.
• SoftConstruct (2010): An umbrella company encompassing various technology-focused brands, including FeedConstruct, FastToken, FastShift, Ucraft, Hoory, and PandaMR.
• Fastex (2017): A cryptocurrency derivatives exchange platform.
  

Under his leadership, these ventures have significantly contributed to the evolution of the gaming and fintech industries.

Awards and Recognitions

Badalyan’s contributions have been acknowledged through various prestigious awards:

• Outstanding Contribution to Gaming Award (2023): Received at SiGMA Eurasia for his dedication to innovation and excellence in the gaming industry.
• Leader of the Year (2024): Honored at the SiGMA Europe B2B Awards in Malta for exceptional leadership in driving both the company and the industry forward.
• Gaming Intelligence Hot 50 (2025): Recognized for his significant impact on the gaming industry.

Additionally, under his guidance, BetConstruct was named ‘Platform Provider of the Year’ at the Global Gaming Awards London 2023.

7. Carsten Koerl: The Titan of Sports Data at Sportradar

If 2024 had a game-changing moment, it was Carsten Koerl CEO of Sportradar acquiring IMG Arena’s sports data portfolio for €1.1 billion. This mega-deal brought in rights from top global leagues and made Sportradar the undisputed leader in sports betting data.

Carsten also locked down an exclusive MLB deal through 2032, with Major League Baseball taking an equity stake in return. That’s next-level trust.

He expanded into new regions, opening a major office in Brazil, and saw a 58% revenue jump in the U.S. market alone. Koerl isn’t just growing a company he’s building a data empire that powers the betting world.

Major Achievements of Carsten Koerl

1. Founder of Bwin (1997)

In 1997, Koerl founded Bwin (originally known as betandwin), one of the pioneering online sports betting platforms. He successfully took the company public on the Vienna Stock Exchange, laying the groundwork for his future ventures in sports data and technology.

2. Establishment of Sportradar (2001)

Koerl founded Sportradar in 2001, transforming it from a startup into a global powerhouse in sports data and analytics. Under his leadership, Sportradar has become the official data partner for major sports organizations, including the NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, UEFA, and FIFA.

3. Sportradar’s IPO on NASDAQ (2021)

In September 2021, Koerl led Sportradar’s successful initial public offering on the NASDAQ stock exchange, achieving a valuation of $4.7 billion. The IPO was notable for featuring high-profile investors such as Michael Jordan, Mark Cuban, Ted Leonsis, and Todd Boehly.

4. EY Entrepreneur of the Year (2022)

Koerl was honored with the EY Entrepreneur of the Year™ award in Switzerland in 2022, recognizing his entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and impact in the service and commerce sector.

5. Advancements in Sports Integrity and Technology

Beyond business growth, Koerl has been a staunch advocate for sports integrity. He has spearheaded initiatives to combat match-fixing and promote fair play, leveraging Sportradar’s technology to monitor and detect suspicious activities in sports betting.

6. Global Expansion and Strategic Partnerships

Under Koerl’s guidance, Sportradar has expanded its global footprint, serving over 1,700 clients in more than 120 countries. The company has established strategic partnerships with major sports leagues and media companies, enhancing its position as a leader in sports data services.

7. Recognition in the Billionaires List

As of May 2025, Forbes estimated Carsten Koerl’s net worth at $2.1 billion, ranking him among the world’s billionaires. This recognition underscores his success in the sports technology industry.

Education and Personal Background

Koerl holds a Master of Science degree in electronic and microprocessor engineering from the University of Applied Sciences in Konstanz, Germany. He is known for his passion for sports and competition, traits that have fueled his entrepreneurial endeavours.

6. Ed Craven: The Young Brain Behind Stake.com’s Crypto Power Play

Ed Craven isn’t just a founder he’s the force behind one of the most explosive success stories in iGaming history: Stake.com.

At just 20-something, Ed helped build what’s now believed to be the biggest crypto casino in the world. In 2024, Stake pulled in a whopping $4.7 billion in revenue and that’s without access to huge markets like the U.S., U.K., or most of Europe.

So how did he make it happen?

Simple: bold moves, smart marketing, and zero fear of risk.

• During the pandemic, Ed started paying Twitch streamers millions to stream themselves gambling.
• That turned Stake from a $100M site into a multi-billion-dollar empire in just two years.
• When Twitch banned gambling content? Ed didn’t complain he launched his own streaming platform, Kick, and kept the momentum going.
• From F1 sponsorships to UFC deals, he made Stake a household name in global sports and entertainment.

Craven’s strategy is clear disrupt the system, stay ahead of the curve, and always bet big. And so far, it’s paid off bigger than anyone expected.

5. Jason Robins: DraftKings’ Game-Changer

Jason Robins, co-founder and CEO of DraftKings, took the brand from a fantasy sports startup to a U.S. betting titan.

Today, DraftKings sits neck-and-neck with FanDuel in the U.S. online betting space. And Robins is the reason why.

Here’s how he’s built that momentum:

• Turned fantasy sports into a gateway to full-scale betting
• Led DraftKings through tough regulatory terrain
• Mastered U.S. politics, compliance, and innovation all at once

Robins isn’t just running a sportsbook he’s managing a full-blown media-tech company in a hyper-competitive market.

The DraftKings vs. FanDuel rivalry? It’s like watching an F1 race every tiny adjustment counts.

And while most U.S. operators are still trying to find their feet, Robins is building for global expansion.

He’s sharp, strategic, and always one step ahead.

4. Eman Pulis: SiGMA’s Founder

Eman Pulis, the visionary founder of SiGMA Group, transformed a one-man Maltese startup into a global leader in gaming, blockchain, and emerging tech events. Eman’s relentless drive led to the launch of AIBC and AGS, and the creation of Malta Week, uniting the world’s top minds across gaming and frontier technology. Beyond events, he’s empowering the next generation through SiGMA College’s free eLearning and Ikigai Ventures, a €20M VC fund backing startups in gaming, fintech, AI, and more. Eman’s network-driven approach and passion for cross-industry collaboration continue to shape the future of global tech.

What started as a local Malta-based event turned into a world-class mega brand. SiGMA expanded into emerging tech with AIBC, affiliate marketing with AGS, and even Med-Tech World.

By 2021, his events in Dubai were attracting 4,000+ attendees, even getting backing from the UAE government. Today, the SiGMA calendar includes international supershows across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Here are the key highlights of Eman Pulis’ journey

Academic Background

Bachelor’s Degree in Education: Graduated with First-Class Honors in Psychology and Kinesiology from the University of Malta.

Master’s Degrees

• Master of Fine Arts in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Malta.
• Master of Fine Arts in Creativity and Innovation from the University of Malta.

Awards & Recognitions

Best Entrepreneur Award (2024): Received at the National Worker of the Year 2024 ceremony in Malta, recognizing his initiatives that have positioned Malta at the forefront of the global iGaming sector.

Outstanding Service to the Industry (2019): Awarded at the iGaming Idol Awards for his innovative and passionate contributions to the gaming industry.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Educational Initiatives in Ethiopia: Through the SiGMA Foundation, spearheaded projects to build schools in Ethiopia, including a school aimed at empowering women from nearby villages.

Global Outreach: Involved in philanthropic projects in Colombia and Peru, aiming to launch 4-5 new initiatives annually to support communities in need.

3. Mor Weizer: Playtech’s Long-Game Mastermind

Mor Weizer, CEO of Playtech since 2007, has played the long game and it’s paid off.

In a world where CEOs come and go, Weizer’s longevity has helped Playtech become a powerhouse in B2B iGaming. He’s led the brand into new markets, especially the U.S., with licenses in 11 states and live casino studios in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

His strategy? Solid and steady:

• Focus on strong partnerships
• Build local market strength
• Think long-term, not just quarterly profits

Playtech isn’t chasing flashy headlines it’s building deep foundations.

Whether he’s on a stage presenting financials or talking one-on-one with employees, Mor gets it. He’s calm under pressure and listens like a real leader.

And as Playtech eyes more U.S. growth, Weizer’s vision will be key in writing its next chapter.

2. Peter Jackson: Flutter Boss Who’s Rewriting Global iGaming

Peter Jackson isn’t just leading Flutter Entertainment he’s redefining the entire iGaming landscape.

Since stepping in as CEO back in 2018, Jackson has built Flutter into the most globally diverse gambling group. And in 2024–25, he turned up the heat.

Here’s how he did it:

• FanDuel? Crushing it in the U.S., now Flutter’s #1 revenue driver.
• Took Flutter’s primary stock listing to the New York Stock Exchange, signaling major U.S. ambitions.
• Pulled off a €2.3 billion acquisition of Snaitech in Italy.
• Grabbed a 56% stake in Brazil’s NSX Group, home of Betnacional, strengthening Flutter’s hold on LatAm.

But what makes Jackson really stand out? It’s not just scale. It’s how smartly he runs the show.

He keeps a decentralised model, meaning giants like FanDuel, Paddy Power, and Sisal all get to operate independently while still being part of the Flutter family. It’s like leading an orchestra he lets each brand play its own tune, but the end result is harmony.

And the best part? Jackson is known for being transparent, humble, and razor-sharp. He owns his mistakes, explains every move with clarity, and isn’t afraid to evolve.

1. Denise Coates: The Quiet Queen of Online Betting

Denise Coates doesn’t chase the spotlight. But she doesn’t need her numbers to speak louder than any headline.

The brains behind bet365, Coates launched the company’s online operations in 2001. Within just a few years, she had sold off the retail betting side to go all-in on digital. And that bold move? It paid off. Big time.

Under her lead:

• In-play betting? bet365 was among the first.
• 24/7 customer service? Also her doing.
• She kept the company 100% private, giving her full control without chasing shareholders.

Fast forward to 2025, bet365 made a massive decision: exit the Chinese market and shift focus toward fully regulated zones. Rumors are now swirling about a possible £9 billion sale.

But she’s not just about business Denise also runs the Denise Coates Foundation, which donated £120 million to charity last year alone.

Coates is the definition of strategic. Bold. Long-term thinker. And when she makes a move, the entire industry watches.

Major Achievements of Denise Coates

Business Achievements

• Founder and Joint CEO of Bet365: In 2000, Coates purchased the domain Bet365.com and launched the online betting platform in 2001. Under her leadership, Bet365 grew into a global leader in online gambling, facilitating over $65 billion in bets annually and employing more than 2,000 people in Stoke-on-Trent, making it the city’s largest private-sector employer.
  
• Innovator in Online Gambling: Coates revolutionized the industry by introducing features like in-play betting and 24/7 customer support, setting new standards for online gambling platforms.
  
• Major Stakeholder in Stoke City Football Club: Beyond Bet365, Coates holds a majority stake in Stoke City Football Club, reflecting her investment in local community and sports.

Financial Milestones

• Highest-Paid Executive: Coates has consistently been among the highest-paid executives in the UK. In 2021, she earned £469 million, and in 2023, she received £263 million, bringing her total earnings since 2016 to nearly £1.5 billion.
  
• Significant Tax Contributions: She was the highest taxpayer in Britain from 2019 to 2022, contributing substantial amounts to the UK treasury. 

Honors and Recognitions

• Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE): In 2012, Coates was appointed CBE for her services to the community and business.
• Honorary Doctorate: Staffordshire University awarded her an honorary doctorate in 2012, acknowledging her entrepreneurial vision and impact on the local economy.
• BBC Radio 4 Recognition: In 2013, she was named one of the 100 most powerful women in the UK by BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour.
• Sports Betting Hall of Fame: Coates was inducted into the Sports Betting Hall of Fame in 2019, recognizing her leadership in the gambling industry.

Philanthropy

• Denise Coates Foundation: Established in 2012 (originally as the Bet365 Foundation), the foundation has donated over £750 million to various causes, including healthcare, education, and disaster relief.
  
• Major Donations:
  • £10 million to University Hospitals of North Midlands during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • £1 million to support families in Ukraine.
  • £3.6 million for the revamp of Royal Stoke Hospital’s Cancer Centre.
  • £230,000 to St Joseph’s College for supporting vulnerable youth in Sierra Leone

Also Read: What Is iGaming? Understanding Online Betting