As the igaming industry evolves new challenges and opportunities are presented. Arcangelo Lonoce, Head of Business Development at Habanero Systems, shares insights on navigating new markets, capitalising on emerging trends, and planning for a successful future in Brazil.
2024 has been a year of numerous significant developments across the igaming space. From the industry’s perspective, where has Habanero identified significant opportunities, and how did you best take advantage of them?
It has been a groundbreaking year for the igaming industry, and Habanero has tapped into some exciting opportunities through innovation and smart regional expansions. We’ve placed a strong emphasis on crafting games with outstanding mathematics and immersive experiences that resonate with players around the globe.
By strengthening our partnerships and focusing on localised strategies, like tailored offerings for Italy, South Africa, and Latin America, we’ve solidified our presence in key markets, and our recent ventures into Greece and Switzerland further highlight our dedication to expanding internationally.
The success of games like Scopa, originally created for the Italian market, highlights the importance of creating great content that can connect with people everywhere. Its distinct cultural vibe resonated with players worldwide, showing how innovative storytelling and solid gameplay can break local boundaries. Similarly, our Haunted Harbor slot has truly made its mark with an immersive audiovisual experience, and it raised the bar for engaging gameplay.
In assessing the next 12 months from a product development perspective, what do you expect to witness in pushing the boundaries of online casino gaming to the next level?
As we approach the next year, we see some exciting trends in the igaming industry, particularly around personalisation and gamification. At Habanero, we’re dedicated to creating immersive games that mix classic elements with exciting new features. Our goal is to offer players a unique experience every time they play.
We also expect to see more ways to connect with players, like introducing tournaments and community-focused tools such as our unique Jackpot Race. These innovations create shared experiences and help build player loyalty while ensuring we meet all regional regulations.
Building on the previous questions, let’s adopt a more market-based approach. Where do you expect the greatest opportunities from new markets opening up and embracing igaming?
Brazil is gearing up for its big market launch on 1 January, and it’s creating a buzz in the global igaming scene. This opening day is more than just a date; it’s a chance for Brazil to shine and become a significant player for both local and international operators. Habanero is excited to build on its strong presence in Latin America and has plans in place to really explore what the new market has to offer.
On another front, Africa is showing impressive growth, especially in countries like South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria. We’ve teamed up with major names like Betway to establish a strong presence in these areas. Our focus is on creating innovative games that resonate with the diverse tastes of players in these regions while also navigating the unique challenges each market presents.
In terms of either new or legacy jurisdictions, where has Habanero itself identified as possessing the best growth prospects, and what strategies will you deploy to achieve these goals?
Looking ahead, we know the coming year will bring its own set of challenges, particularly with the rise of new regulations and shifting player preferences. At Habanero, we genuinely believe that regulation can be a positive influence, fostering a safer and more transparent gaming industry. Our focus on compliance means we’re always ready to adapt, fine-tuning our offerings to meet the latest standards.
On a broader scale, the industry is grappling with issues like integrating new technologies and dealing with market saturation, which will call for some innovative thinking. By staying true to what we do best: crafting engaging, math-driven gameplay and captivating stories, Habanero feels equipped to navigate these hurdles and come out stronger.
What are the biggest challenges the industry will face during the coming 12 months, and how will these be overcome?
Habanero is set on a clear path for 2025 and the future. We want to innovate, adapt, and grow. By honing our strong game design skills and the connections we’ve built in various regions, we’re excited to explore new markets while tackling the challenges in the industry. As we continue to break new ground in the igaming world, our focus on creating fantastic experiences for players is as strong as ever.
