Responsible Gambling in Spotlight at Canadian Gaming Summit

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital gambling, the advent of cutting-edge technologies and innovative marketing strategies brings both opportunities and challenges. Among these, ensuring player safety stands out as a critical concern that must not be overlooked. The upcoming Canadian Gaming Summit aims to place responsible gambling at the forefront, providing attendees with essential insights into safeguarding practices and ethical marketing strategies designed to promote growth while prioritizing player well-being.

The 300-person Player Protection Symposium (PPS) is set to convene at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto on Tuesday, June 18, a day before the main events of the summit. This symposium will address key issues in player protection, including effective strategies for marketing responsible gambling, safeguarding high-stakes players, and building a reputable brand for operators.

The symposium will commence with a panel discussion titled ‘Safeguarding the Stakes: Strategies for Player Protection at the VIP/High Roller Level.’ This session will focus on the urgent need to protect high-stakes players. Featuring speakers Martin Lycka (SVP Regulatory Affairs and Responsible Gaming, Entain), Bill Pascrell III (Partner, PPAG), Adi Markus (Director of Customer Success, Optimove), and moderator Jay Robinson (Principal, JR Consulting), the panel will explore the latest player monitoring technologies and establish a framework to enhance the standard of care for VIP players.

Another significant panel, ‘Ethical Engagement: Harmonizing Branding and Responsible Gaming Efforts,’ will examine how effective branding can support responsible gambling initiatives. Industry experts Sarah Brennan (Sr Director Compliance, BetMGM), Aaron GlynWilliams (Director Social Responsibility, OLG), Riona Mohan (Director of Marketing, Betty), Jacob Hargaden-Llewellin (Country Manager Canada, LeoVegas), and moderator Ilkim Hincer (Partner, Fogler) will discuss the synergy between responsible gaming and marketing teams. They will also highlight strategies to portray genuine customer care and build player trust.

The ‘Navigating Responsible Marketing: Ensuring Compliance and Promoting Safe Gambling Practices’ panel will delve into best practices for marketing teams committed to promoting products ethically and responsibly. Featuring Gavin Whiteley (CMO, Great Canadian Entertainment), Ryan McCarthy (Director of Player Health, BCLC), and Tyjondah Kerr (Director of Social Responsibility, OLG), the discussion will cover how to avoid regulatory scrutiny and public backlash. It will also explore methods to prevent marketing to vulnerable players and the risks and benefits of high-profile celebrity endorsements.

The symposium will conclude with the panel ‘Unified Visions, Diverse Paths: Responsible Gaming Initiatives Across Canadian Provinces.’ Esteemed speakers Paul Burns (President, Canadian Gaming Association), Catherine Jarmaine (Director, Industry Programs and Monitoring, iGaming Ontario), and panel moderator Mike Maodus (Senior Associate, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP​) will discuss the various responsible gambling programs implemented across Canadian provinces. They will share provincial insights and exchange effective solutions that can benefit all regions.

The Canadian Gaming Summit’s focus on responsible gambling underscores the industry's commitment to fostering a safe and ethical gaming environment. By bringing these critical issues to the forefront, the summit aims to equip delegates with the knowledge and tools needed to ensure player protection in an increasingly digital age.