iGB L!VE 2026 is set to return to London with a renewed focus on business growth, industry trends, and high-level networking, as outlined by World Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter. Read on for key details about the event’s new initiatives and strategic direction.
Key Takeaways
- The ‘All In’ strategy aims to reinforce iGB L!VE as a central event for innovation and business development in the gambling sector.
- The 2026 edition will introduce new summits and networking opportunities, including a focus on the African market and M&A activity.
- Player protection, AI, and regulatory trends will be central topics, reflecting ongoing changes in the iGaming industry.
iGB L!VE 2026: Strategic Direction and Growth
Expanding International Presence
Stuart Hunter, Managing Director at World Gaming, has detailed the ‘All In’ strategy for iGB L!VE 2026, scheduled for 1-2 July in London. This will be the event’s second edition in London after relocating from Amsterdam. Hunter notes that the event has continued to attract a growing number of industry professionals worldwide, highlighting the importance of in-person meetings in a sector built on trust and direct relationships. The approach for iGB L!VE is to adapt in line with industry needs, ensuring the event remains relevant and business-focused. Feedback from stakeholders and post-show research directly influence the event’s format and content, making it a platform shaped by and for the industry.
The ‘All In’ Theme and Industry Integration
The ‘All In’ theme for 2026 is designed to resonate with casino, affiliate, and sports betting operators, especially in a year that includes the FIFA World Cup. The event will bring together a broad spectrum of participants, including casino operators, sports betting companies, affiliates, technology vendors, and game providers. iGB L!VE 2026 aims to build on connections established at ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona, focusing on partnerships that support business growth. The event will also showcase new technologies, offer market insights, and facilitate targeted networking opportunities.
Addressing Industry Trends and Regulation
Hunter emphasizes that iGB L!VE will address key topics such as regulation, player protection, and sustainable gambling. The Sustainable Gambling Zone (SGZ), previously known as the Consumer Protection Zone, will have its largest presence to date at the 2026 event. The SGZ will provide a platform for networking and knowledge-sharing on issues like KYC, responsible gaming, and technology-driven solutions for online gambling. AI applications, player engagement, localization, and new audience development are also expected to be prominent themes, based on feedback from industry stakeholders.
Focus on International Markets and the Africa Summit
International participation is a core element of iGB L!VE, with attendees from 149 countries in 2025. To further this reach, the 2026 event will feature the launch of the Africa Summit on 1 July. This summit will gather regulators, operators, suppliers, and stakeholders to discuss market entry, regulatory cooperation, and investment opportunities across Africa. The agenda includes topics such as taxation, adapting global products for local markets, responsible gaming, AML, mobile money, and player acquisition. The partnership with the African iGaming Alliance reflects a commitment to supporting operators and suppliers in high-growth regions.
Enhancing Networking and M&A Opportunities
Several new elements are being introduced to improve the attendee experience. The World Gaming M&A Summit, also on 1 July, will provide a dedicated forum for corporate development officers and M&A advisors in iGaming. The summit will feature sector leaders and advisors from organizations such as Morgan Stanley and Bally’s, along with roundtable sessions and networking events. The Summer Gala at The Savoy Hotel will offer an exclusive setting for senior leaders, regulators, and investors to connect. The iGB Affiliate Awards will be held at The Shard, with a revised format to encourage broader networking.
Supporting Startups and Enterprise
iGB L!VE 2026 will also host the iGB Startups Accelerator on 30 June, a half-day program for founders, investors, and operators focusing on early-stage businesses in gaming and betting. The Pitch iGB competition will allow selected startups to present their ideas to a panel of judges and industry audience, aiming to foster connections with potential partners and investors.
iGB L!VE’s Role in the Gambling Industry
Hunter describes iGB L!VE as a mid-year event where businesses can reconnect, review progress, and prepare for the future. The event is positioned as a platform for technology showcases, market insights, and deal-making, developed in close collaboration with the global gambling community. Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead to maximize the range of content and networking opportunities available throughout the week.
I remember the first time I saw Kai Tak, Hong Kong’s gambling city, I thought I was in a fairy tale. All the lights blinking, the music and the monumental buildings, what 9-year-old wouldn’t think they’ve come to a magical place? It was my father who brought me, dragging me along and when inside I was hit by the smell of frying duck. As soon as I hit 21 I returned to Kai Tak, A bit nervous to see if my mind had embellished the memory, but it hadn’t. Kai Tak was still a magical place. I decided I wanted to spend as much time as I could at this place, so I did.
