5000 turn out for SiGMA Balkans and CIS summit in Limassol

Held for the first time in Limassol, the second edition of SiGMA Balkans and CIS saw a solid turn out, drawing a 5000-strong crowd to the City of Dreams Mediterranean’s inaugural iGaming and emerging tech event. As we sign off on 3 days of expo, conference, and networking, here are some of the highlight moments. 

An expert-led agenda: KOLs take on hot topics

Showcasing opinions and ideas from top tier thought leaders, a series of panels and keynotes tackled some of the most pressing topics dominating the frontier of innovation. Household names included National Betting Authority in Cyprus chairperson Ioanna Fiakkou, Tony Ventura, and Jayden Sage.

Popular topics included an impassioned and profound debate on crypto regulation – with MiCA in the hot seat. Panellists were divided on whether the legislation would manage to navigate the fine line between sustainable growth and regulation, but all agreed that ‘there should be effort from both sides.’

Jayden Sage delivered a highly anticipated keynote on the promises and perils of fast-developing AI tech, while Tony Ventura looked at new applications and opportunities for the technology.

Watch the full conference on our official Youtube channel.

Edo painting sells for €50k at SiGMA Balkans & CIS Awards

Bringing a splash of luxury and glamour to the first day of the event, the SiGMA Balkans & CIS Awards, sponsored by Soft2Bet, hosted a gala evening to celebrate and acknowledge game changing contributions to the iGaming sector from some of the industry’s most lauded companies and thought leaders. 

An art auction, held in support of the SiGMA Foundation, and hosted by the indomitable Rick Goddard saw fervent bidding from guests, with an Edo painting – fittingly depicting Dionysus – netting a staggering €50,000. Proceeds from the auction will benefit some of the foundation’s philanthropic projects, including several women empowerment initiatives. 

Premier networking at Limassol hotspots

The Southern city of Limassol is home to some of Cyprus’ most picturesque locations. From a fun run along the coast to a beachside end of event party, delegates were spoilt for choice when it came to networking.

iGathering dinners at swanky restaurants took place on both nights, while several drink receptions offered delegated the perfect work-play balance after a full day of business. Meanwhile headliner DJ Clinton Sparks led the entertainment lineup for the SiGMA-Soft2Bet official closing night beach party held on the 6th at Captain’s Cabin, bringing the summit to a triumphant close.

Finding the next Unicorn

Pokerload, a mobile app aiming to automate and enhance land-based poker took the crown at the SiGMA Startup Pitch, outshining 6 other competitors during the live pitching competition. The spp promises to remove tedious processes such as waiting in long queues before seating, cumbersome searches for poker games and venues, cash withdrawals and even manual records of performance to name just a few.?

Andreas Constantinou, the Co-founder and current CEO, described it as a particular honour, especially given the high standard of competition and strength of innovation at the pitch competition, stating:

“All the start-ups were equally credible competitors who we would love to see win such an award in the future.” 

A staple at SiGMA events, the Pitch seeks to support startups with innovative projects, providing them with valuable mentorship opportunities and connections to leading investors and VCs. Apply for future Pitch events through our website. 

MMA Fight night

Taking place on the verdant lawn at City of Dreams Mediterranean, the Centurion FC MMA fight night capped off the VIP iGathering dinner being held on the 6th.

Centurion FC events have become a mainstay at SiGMA, with tournaments taking place at each international summit. The 4-man tournament saw Columbian champion Mauricio Otalora crowned king of Cyprus after delivering a final-round knockout against opponent Arturs Leisens.

Join us in Cura?ao

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to be part of SiGMA Cura?ao, where you can gain valuable insights into the new gambling legislation, explore the thriving iGaming industry, and connect with key players on the island. Register now to secure your place at this landmark event.