David Roshels from GoodPayments, a fintech innovator specializing in secure, instant, and global crypto payment solutions, shares his insights on the latest trends in iGaming.
According to recent industry data, crypto payouts in the iGaming sector have now surpassed the $1 billion mark — a milestone that signals how deeply digital currencies have entered the mainstream of online gaming.
While this surge points to growing trust and adoption among players, it also raises new questions about compliance, stability, and long-term sustainability. To explore what this means for the industry and what operators should prepare for next, we spoke with David.
What factors are driving the rapid adoption of crypto payouts in iGaming?
David Roshels: The driving force behind the rapid spread is most likely a combination of player demand, operator needs, and global financial trends, as all three factors are interrelated and reinforce each other. For example, player demand motivates operators to offer new products and services, while global financial trends, such as the availability of credit or investment, provide the resources to expand the market and create new technologies that, in turn, respond to increased demand.
What regulatory and compliance challenges do operators face when offering crypto payments in iGaming?
David Roshels: One of the biggest challenges operators face is the lack of clear and consistent regulation. This uncertainty creates a risk of non-compliance, particularly in jurisdictions where cryptocurrency payments are restricted or prohibited. Additional challenges include unclear legal status for cryptocurrencies as a payment method, as well as difficulties meeting AML and KYC requirements when dealing with unregulated or semi-regulated platforms.
How are changing player expectations shaping iGaming payment ecosystems?
David Roshels: Player expectations have evolved significantly, with users increasingly demanding instant, seamless, and borderless transactions. In response, iGaming companies are being pushed to redesign their payment ecosystems with a strong focus on the end user.
This shift toward digital-first payment solutions allows operators to streamline transaction processes, reduce friction and operational costs, and enhance transparency. Ultimately, these changes enable companies to deliver more efficient services while also fostering innovation and strengthening their competitive position in the market.
Which regions are leading in responsible crypto payment adoption, and where do barriers still remain?
David Roshels: The regions leading in responsible crypto payment adoption tend to be those with clear, progressive, and well-defined regulatory environments. Countries such as Switzerland, Singapore, and several European Union members have established frameworks that encourage innovation while maintaining oversight and consumer protection.
In contrast, adoption remains limited in regions where legal uncertainty persists, governments impose direct bans, or cryptocurrencies are restricted as a method of payment. These barriers are particularly evident in parts of Africa, Asia, and the CIS countries, where regulatory constraints continue to slow progress.
Will stablecoins become the preferred form of crypto payments in gaming?
David Roshels: Yes, stablecoins are likely to become the preferred form of cryptocurrency payments in games due to their stability and speed, replacing more volatile traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Could crypto and blockchain innovations reshape the player–operator relationship?
David Roshels: Yes, these innovations based on cryptocurrency and blockchain have the potential to significantly change the relationship between players and operators in the coming years. They can contribute to the formation of more transparent, fair, and player-oriented ecosystems.
What steps should the iGaming industry take to ensure secure, compliant, and scalable crypto growth?
David Roshels: To ensure the security, compliance, and scalability of the growing adoption of cryptocurrencies in online gaming, the industry needs to focus on enhanced security measures, collaboration with regulators, and scaling the technological infrastructure.
With a background in digital media and a keen eye for emerging technologies, Ronaldo bridges the gap between players and platforms through clear, insightful reporting to the iGaming industry.
