How Startups Can Lead the Next Wave
The iGaming sector has evolved from a niche area of interest to a major new economic power in the world. At the end of 2024, the market size was $93.26 billion, and the predictions foresee it rising to $150 billion by 2029. Startup founders, CMOs, and growth leaders in the US should see this growth not just as an expanding industry but as a playbook of innovation, disruption, and lasting success.
iGaming is a magnificent mix of high demand and rapid change where technology, regulations, and consumer expectations are changing. That tomorrow’s winners will be the leaders who embrace these changes today.
Why iGaming Growth Matters to Startups
The path of iGaming has been indicative of a bigger pattern: digital-first experiences are gaining ground as the main entertainment of the masses. The way streaming services have transformed TV, gambling through the Internet is now changing the way people play games of chance.
The only thing that iGaming would be interesting for startups is its flexibility. The iGaming operators have integrated technologies such as fintech, blockchain, AI, and cloud to maintain their position at the top. The triumph of the iGaming industry is a brilliant model of boldness needed to survive in the tough digital market.
The Rise of Cryptocurrency and Blockchain in iGaming
iGaming’s expansion is being largely powered by financial technology. The usage of cryptocurrencies is the most attractive transaction method for players because of low fees, quick processing, and security. In the meantime, distributed ledger technology is changing the terms of trust.
Here’s why blockchain is a game-changer:
Transparency: Players can verify the results of the bets on their own.
Lower Costs: Automation of payouts through smart contracts lowers the number of intermediaries.
Accessibility: New businesses can penetrate markets that require less initial capital.
One of the examples can be the crypto-focused platforms, which are already attracting more new users than online casinos that are traditionally set. It is their ability to gain customers’ trust through openness that is hooking the younger generation of technology-savvy players who are keen on character.
Lesson for entrepreneurs: If you are starting or developing your business, do not just consider blockchain as a means of payment; rather, think of it as a vital feature that makes your company more trustworthy and gives you cost advantages.
Mobile-First and Cloud Gaming: Meeting Players Where They Are
Mobile is undeniably the ruler of iGaming. Most of the wagers are done on mobile devices, and hence, the entire experience has been changed from the way it was before, just by the simple fact that the design and delivery are different. One of the factors that has made this transition even more effective is cloud gaming, which has made the process of gaming with heavy downloads a thing of the past. Now games are instantly available, and all the users’ confidential information is stored safely in the cloud.
This shift has two major implications:
User experience is the main thing. Poor onboarding or slow games will lead to losing your customers immediately.
Reachability is the main driver for popularity. Players want to have easy access to the game rather than a complicated process.
It is a reminder for the startups that design with a mobile-first approach is not an option but the starting point of their success. The products that are friendly with smartphones will spread more quickly and keep the customers for longer.
AI and Personalization: Turning Data into Growth
One of the key factors that powers modern iGaming platforms is the tailoring of the user’s experiences. One of the main drivers of this trend is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
Operators report that the use of AI for suggesting games, personalizing promotions, and changing interfaces to match player preferences can lead to a higher turnover of up to 35%. Apart from personalization, AI also offers:
Detection of fraud and security against any kind of illegal activity.
Control over safer gambling helps in recognizing possible issues in the patterns of gaming.
Smarter marketing strategies through predictive analytics.
Regulation: The Market Shaper
Regulation is often viewed as restrictive, but in iGaming, it’s a driver of credibility and growth.
Europe: The region is the top market with a 41% global share planned for 2024, due to the implementation of solid legal frameworks, the vast availability of internet access, and the high rate of mobile adoption.
North America: Real money online casino games are legalized in seven states of the USA, which currently have the greatest number of operators licensed.
Middle East & Africa: The pace of development is limited by rigorous laws; however, the rising use of PCs and smartphones is providing the sector with new prospects for the future.
Where Startups Can Break Through
iGaming is still full of niche opportunities, especially for specialized startups. Consider: Crypto-first platforms designed for digital-native users. Localized solutions that are made for the cultural markets of specific regions. AI-powered personalization tools that are available for operators on a licensing basis. New players as a service compliance products to simplify the intricate legal environment.
Practical Advice for startup leaders and cMOs
If you’re eyeing growth in 2025, here’s a strategic checklist inspired by iGaming’s success:
The rolling dice of the iGaming industry is expected to escalate from $93.26 billion in 2024 to $150 billion by 2029, which is not merely about fun, but a revelation through innovation that the other industries can draw lessons from. Startups and Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) who are cognizant of these major growth drivers, such as fintech, blockchain, AI, mobile-first design, and regulation, will be able to create businesses that are not only scalable but also future-ready.
We at Thinking IT collaborate with startups and digital leaders to turn the insights into strategies that drive growth. If you are simply starting in iGaming or are willing to use the industry’s best practices in SaaS, e-commerce, or fintech, we are the right people to help you make the most of the opportunities.
What about your growth plan for 2025 and further on? We would be delighted to assist you.