As the global online gambling industry continues to expand, the number of online casinos available for players has surged. For entrepreneurs interested in entering this industry, building a successful online casino from scratch remains a complex and challenging issue.
Maxim Vinnikov, CEO of TrueLabel, shared his practical experience, revealing how new brands can avoid common pitfalls, quickly enter the market, and achieve growth.
Opportunities Brought by Rapid Industry Growth
By September 2024, a new online casino will launch every three days globally, with the total exceeding 3500; the number of URLs for online gambling platforms has increased from 26,000 a year ago to over 40,000. Market research predicts that from 2025 to 2030, the industry will continue to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 12.2%, with the market size potentially far exceeding the current estimate of 19.1 billion USD.
The explosive growth of online casinos is due to several key factors: increased prevalence of mobile devices, continuously enriched gaming content, and support for technologies like cryptocurrency payments. The number of global smartphone users has surpassed 5.7 billion, bringing unprecedented outreach opportunities.
How to Successfully Launch an Online Casino
TrueLabel, as an iGaming platform provider offering white label and turnkey solutions, is well aware of the key behind every successful launch. Vinnikov points out that it is essential to conduct in-depth research on the target market, assess the competitive landscape, and define a unique product value proposition before launching.
Next, operators need to decide on the model:
White label solution: Suitable for teams seeking rapid launch and reduced initial regulatory burdens.
Turnkey solution: Suitable for entrepreneurs who want full control over the brand and obtain an independent gambling license.
Once the direction is set, choosing a platform provider with technological stability, rich game content, and integrated payment capabilities is crucial.
Key Elements for Successful Operation
From user experience design and mobile adaptation to pre-launch functional testing and security compliance reviews, a successful online casino project must be comprehensive. Additionally, a good customer service system and a "responsible gambling" policy are the foundation for building user trust.
Vinnikov specifically warns that many new brands tend to overlook the following three pitfalls:
Underestimating operational complexity;
Stacking features too early while neglecting the core experience;
Ignoring retention and user engagement strategies.
The AskGamblers website shows that over 1000 online casinos have closed due to lack of strategy, compliance, or operational capabilities.
Differentiation and Regulatory Environment: The Watershed for Success or Failure
To stand out in a highly competitive market, operators must focus on differentiation strategies:
Enhancing player stickiness through gamification and loyalty systems;
Providing customized content and promotions;
Optimizing mobile operation experience and payment processes.
Regulatory compliance is often overlooked but is crucial. Each market has its specific laws, licensing processes, and KYC/AML requirements. European users prefer live dealers and sports betting, while the Latin American market benefits from gradually liberalized regulations, especially in Brazil and Colombia. In Asia, the complex legal environment poses higher demands on payments and localized experiences.
Vinnikov states that TrueLabel has mature experience in this area and can provide guidance from license application to compliance processes for white label or turnkey clients.
Launch Timing and Long-term Perspective
The launch cycle of an online casino project varies with the model and complexity:
The white label model can go online in as little as one month using standard templates;
A highly customized turnkey model may take six months to a year.
Regardless of the model, the real challenge is how to balance "speed, compliance, and customization." Vinnikov advises: It is essential to create a differentiated game portfolio, enhance user trust, and apply AI tools for personalized recommendations and efficient retention.
In today's highly homogeneous competition, truly successful operators not only need to "launch" but also to "establish" and "thrive."
"Our partnerships are not short-term transactions, but are based on a commitment to long-term profitability and sustainable development," Vinnikov concluded, "We want our clients to succeed because that is also our success."
