Conference Program
Here’s the program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto, which ran from 20 to 23 October 2025.
Monday 20 October
| Monday 20 October | Stream2 | |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | GLI seminarHarbour Ballroom Salons A/B GLI’s seminar is designed for gaming industry professionals eager to stay ahead of the curve in regulation, technology and cybersecurity. All conference ticketholders are welcome to attend. 9:00 9:00 – 9:45
The gaming industry faces an evolving cyber threat landscape and a patchwork of regulations that often leave critical vulnerabilities unaddressed. This session examines the current state of cybersecurity regulations in the gaming sector—what’s working, what’s falling short, and why attackers see gaming as a prime target. We will introduce the GLI Gaming Security Framework (GLI-GSF) as a practical, comprehensive approach to bridging existing gaps, enhancing resiliency, and aligning with global best practices. Through real-world breach examples, we will highlight common failure points and explore actionable steps to strengthen defences across the industry. 9:45 – 10:30 Navigating the future of iGaming compliance
This session presents best practices for balancing innovation, market growth, and compliance in emerging iGaming markets such as Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Highlighted is the $153.57B global iGaming market by 2030, driven by mobile penetration, youthful demographics, and technologies like AI, blockchain, and VR/AR. Additionally, regulatory challenges such as fragmentation, enforcement gaps, and player protection risks are contrasted with opportunities like standardized rules and sandboxes. Lastly, the session will propose a collaborative roadmap: stakeholder dialogues, regulator education, flexible policies, and sustainable growth. |
CAGRA 2025 Conference (CAGRA members only)Dockside 9 The CAGRA Conference is the annual gathering of the Canadian Association of Gaming Regulatory Agencies (CAGRA), a multi-jurisdictional association dedicated to strengthening collaboration amongst gaming regulators across Canada. This year’s CAGRA Conference in collaboration with IAGR is an exciting opportunity for discussion, learning and exchanging insights with national and international colleagues in support of our shared commitment to a secure, dynamic and responsible gaming industry. |
| 10.30 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
| 10:45 | GLI seminar continuesHarbour Ballroom Salons A/B 10:45 – 11:45 Technology disruptors
Emerging technologies being implemented in the gaming industry bring potential benefits and risks. This session will dive into the infrastructure required and the implications of such changes. Specifically, this presentation will discuss Mandatory Carded Play, Microservices, AI, Cloud-Based solutions, and the impact such technologies have on Responsible Gaming, Privacy, Security and AML/CTF. We will explore the importance and role of robust regulation and modern testing practices in the safe deployment of such technologies. The session ends with a discussion of the potential impact of Quantum Computing. 11:45 – 12:00 Final Q&A |
CAGRA 2025 Conference (CAGRA members only)Dockside 9 The CAGRA Conference is the annual gathering of the Canadian Association of Gaming Regulatory Agencies (CAGRA), a multi-jurisdictional association dedicated to strengthening collaboration amongst gaming regulators across Canada. This year’s CAGRA Conference in collaboration with IAGR is an exciting opportunity for discussion, learning and exchanging insights with national and international colleagues in support of our shared commitment to a secure, dynamic and responsible gaming industry. |
| 12.00 | IAGR ARRIVAL HOSTED LUNCHHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
|
| 13:00 | IAGR2025 Welcome and introductionHarbour Ballroom Salons A/B
|
|
| 13.15 | PANEL:Where the wind is blowing – emerging trends and market dynamics
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B Four regulators from different regions share their perspectives on the shifting dynamics of the global gambling industry — from the rise of AI and rapid product diversification to new technologies, cross-border challenges and the ongoing balance between innovation and consumer protection. |
|
| 14.15 | Resilience through change – evolution of regulation in Great Britain
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B
|
|
| 15.00 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
|
| 15:30 | PANEL:Regtech – the regulator’s ally or an unregulated shortcut?
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B The gambling sector is undergoing a profound transformation as regulatory scrutiny intensifies globally. As regulatory scrutiny evolves within jurisdictions and across borders, it’s natural that the gambling sector mirrors the use of technology in other sectors. Regulatory technology (RegTech) tools and platforms are designed to help gambling operators comply and regulators to understand that level of compliance. This panel explores how RegTech has evolved in the gambling industry, the regulatory and operational challenges it addresses, and what innovations and policy shifts are likely to shape its future. |
|
| 16.30 | Efforts to combat match-fixing and sports betting-regulated corruption: An Australian approach
|
|
| 16:50 | How the Danish Gambling Authority uses data to combat match-fixing
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B The Danish Gambling Authority has introduced new regulatory powers to strengthen its response to match-fixing — placing data at the centre of detection, investigation and international cooperation. This presentation outlines how Denmark is using mandatory reporting, unique player identification and detailed betting data to monitor the market in real-time, assess risk and respond swiftly to suspicious activity. It also explores the opportunities and challenges of data sharing between regulators to address this global issue more effectively. |
|
| 17:10 | Match-fixing: In conversation
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
|
| 17:30 | CLOSING REMARKS |
|
| 18:30 - 20:30 | OPENING RECEPTIONThe Art Gallery of OntarioDress code: Smart casual (come as you are, direct from the conference) We officially open IAGR2025 with a welcome reception at one of Toronto’s premier cultural landmarks — the Art Gallery of Ontario. This relaxed, standing event includes drinks, light appetisers and access to selected exhibits for attendees. The Art Gallery is a 35-minute walk from the conference venue, offering the perfect start to your Toronto experience. No transport provided — please plan ahead. |
Tuesday 21 October
| Tuesday 21 October | Stream2 | |
|---|---|---|
| 08:30 | Opening remarksHarbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
|
| 08:45 | PANEL:Navigating complexity – tackling key challenges in responsible gambling regulation
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B This session explores some of the most pressing challenges in responsible gambling regulation today — including emerging gambling products, VIP programs, non-traditional advertising and shifting financial behaviours. Panellists will examine current regulatory responses, identify potential gaps, and consider the real-world impact of these measures on player protection and market sustainability. |
Lotteries (IAGR members)
Pier 7/8 For the first time, IAGR is inviting members responsible for regulating lotteries in their jurisdictions to join us for a discussion about their role. We aim to create a space for discussion about lotteries, the changes in consumer behaviour and the evolving market landscape. It will be an opportunity to identify common issues and challenges and start discussing solutions associated with lottery regulation. This session will be open to all IAGR members who regulate lotteries, with a view to establishing a network that will continue beyond this year’s conference, so please get involved.
|
| 09:45 | PANEL:Regulatory toolbox 101 – the inner workings of the risk management machinery of a regulator
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B The regulator’s data and compliance functions play a crucial role in managing industry risks. Building effective risk management frameworks that facilitate the identification and processing of complex datasets supports more targeted regulatory interventions at a pre-enforcement stage, creating more opportunities for compliance. Understanding emerging risks, utilisation of data and automation are vital components in effective processing of licensed entities’ information at scale and being able to leverage the available information in a way that promotes a result-driven methodology. This panel will delve into the challenges faced by regulators, focusing on the importance of utilising data in regulatory risk management frameworks, specifically risk matrix methodologies, compliance oversight and automation, regulatory reporting, and facilitating the engagement of licensees in delivering better compliance programs. |
|
| 10:45 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
|
| 11:00 | PANEL: Considering the varied implementation of self-exclusion and its place in a wider safety framework
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B
|
|
| 12:00 | HOSTED LUNCHHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
|
| 13:00 | Lessons learned since market opening
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B Since opening its online gambling market in 2021, the Netherlands has rapidly developed a more expansive regulatory approach. This session with the Dutch Gambling Authority will explore how and why that shift occurred and what other jurisdictions can learn from the transition. With a newly released government vision now prioritising the prevention of gambling harm beyond individual player protection, the session will examine the market dynamics that prompted this change, and how Dutch policy is adapting. The discussion will also explore future regulatory directions and opportunities for international collaboration to create safer gambling environments.
|
|
| 13:30 | AI and responsible gambling – shaping the future of player protection
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B As digital transformation accelerates across gambling markets, regulators face growing pressure to strengthen player protection while supporting sustainable industry growth. This session will explore how artificial intelligence and behavioural analytics are transforming responsible gambling through early risk detection and personalised interventions. Drawing on real-world examples and academic collaborations, we’ll examine how AI systems analyse behavioural indicators to identify at-risk players before serious harm occurs. We’ll also share insights from ongoing research into the effectiveness of AI-driven interventions, including how different approaches to messaging influence player behaviour. The discussion will cover emerging applications of AI, from 24/7 personalised chatbots to sentiment analysis and reinforcement learning, and highlight how over 20 jurisdictions have already integrated behavioural analytics into regulation. Attendees will gain practical recommendations for fostering collaboration among regulators, operators and researchers to develop ethical standards for AI, support data sharing and ensure that technology complements—not replaces—human expertise. |
|
| 14:00 | Addressing the problem of gambling addiction in Africa
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B Gambling addiction is a rising public health issue across Africa, worsened by limited awareness, cultural stigma and the rapid spread of online betting platforms. This session explores the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups in Africa, especially young people, and examines how unregulated markets contribute to harm. Drawing on regional insights, Joy will highlight effective strategies — including culturally tailored awareness campaigns, community-based recovery models and tech-driven responsible gambling tools — offering practical ideas for regulators. |
|
| 14:30 | IAGR past, present and future – a fireside chat
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B Past and present IAGR presidents, Tom and Ben, will consider the role IAGR plays in the context of the gambling sector today and the power of collective action. |
|
| 15:00 | IAGR GROUP PHOTOLocation TBA |
|
| 15:10 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
|
| 15.30 | IAGR AGMHarbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
|
| 16:30 onward | FREE EVENING |
Wednesday 22 October
| Wednesday 22 October | |
|---|---|
| 08:40 | Opening remarks
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
| 08:45 | Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling – session 1A range of case studies from around the world showcasing successful actions that jurisdictions have taken independently or in collaboration.
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B
|
| 09:45 | Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling – session 2A deep dive into some of the more novel and emerging threats the IAGR illegal gambling working group have compiled that regulators are experiencing, and technological boundaries that are being pushed.
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
| 10:45 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
| 11:00 | Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling –session 3A look at the priorities of the IAGR Illegal Gambling Working Group. We’ll explore what the group is doing to harness the power of collective action at a global level.
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B |
| 12:00 | HOSTED LUNCHHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
| 13:00 | The global challenge of regulating gambling advertising in sports – insights from multi-continental studies
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B As gambling advertising becomes increasingly embedded in sports, regulators worldwide face growing challenges in balancing industry interests with consumer protection. This presentation highlights findings from multiple studies we conducted, analysing gambling marketing across soccer (Premier League, UEFA Euro 2024), basketball (NBA), ice hockey (NHL), rugby, and cricket, examining its prevalence, regulatory gaps, and potential policy responses. Our research, conducted across the UK, US, Canada (Ontario), South Africa, and Europe, investigates gambling advertising across live sports broadcasts, news coverage, radio, and social media platforms. Findings reveal the significant scale and reach of gambling marketing, for example, with 29,145 gambling messages recorded during the UK’s 2024 Premier League opening weekend alone — a 165% increase from 2023, despite additional regulations. In Canada, gambling logos were visible for over a fifth of NHL and NBA match broadcasts, while social media gambling promotions generated millions of impressions. In the US, 58% of sports betting ads on social media were not clearly identifiable as advertising, posing challenges for transparency and consumer protection. Meanwhile, emerging data from South Africa highlights the growing integration of gambling sponsorships across major sports, including cricket, rugby and soccer. These findings suggest that current regulatory measures seem insufficient in reducing the volume of gambling marketing — as well as its associated harms relating to high exposure. While efforts such as advertising codes and self-regulation exist, they struggle to keep pace with evolving marketing strategies, particularly in digital spaces. This presentation will outline key regulatory challenges, international case studies, and potential strategies for enhancing oversight, transparency, and harm reduction. By fostering a dialogue between researchers and policymakers, this session aims to support the development of evidence-based, adaptive regulatory approaches that can better address the complexities of gambling marketing in sports. |
| 13:30 | PANEL:Crypto-assets in gaming – regulation, risk and public policy consideration
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B As crypto-assets become more visible in online gambling ecosystems, regulators and operators alike are grappling with how to manage their use responsibly. This session explores the practical, regulatory and policy implications of crypto-assets in online gaming — including how they’re currently used, how volatility is managed and what obligations operators face under anti-money laundering and source-of-funds rules. Panellists will examine the challenges of overseeing crypto-based transactions in gambling environments. The session will also explore broader public policy questions, including whether consumer demand alone justifies regulatory change — and what future developments may emerge as jurisdictions weigh innovation against integrity. |
| 14:30 | Managing competing priorities towards sustainable gaming
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B How can regulators and operators balance commercial goals with meaningful harm prevention? This session from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission explores early steps taken to examine player wager limits and VIP programs through a lens of sustainability. Mark Vander Linden and Carrie Torrisi from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission will share insights into their review of operator practices and discuss how regulatory frameworks might evolve to better manage risk while supporting a healthy gambling environment. |
| 15:00 | NETWORKING BREAKHarbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5 |
| 15:15 | What works and why – assessing safer gambling outcomes to advance evidence-based decision-making
Harbour Ballroom Salon A/B As gambling products and markets continue to evolve, so too must our approaches to understanding what actually reduces harm. But without clear evaluation, how do we know if safer gambling initiatives are working? This session explores how outcomes-based evaluation can strengthen harm reduction efforts by identifying what works, for whom, and under what conditions. Panellists will introduce core principles of outcomes measurement, its integration with gambling harm assessments, and practical methodologies used across jurisdictions. Through case studies and applied examples, participants will gain insights into how evaluation can inform policy, improve practice, and support shared progress toward safer gambling goals. |
| 16:15 | PANEL:
|
| 18:00 - 22:00 | GALA DINNEROmni King Edwards HotelDress code: Cocktail or formal
Celebrate with colleagues and peers at our signature Gala Dinner, hosted at the elegant Omni King Edward Hotel – a 15-minute walk from the conference venue. This formal, seated dinner features a three-course meal, wine and the announcement of the 2025 IAGR Regulatory Award winners. It’s an evening to reflect, reconnect and toast the future of resilient regulation. No transport is provided. |
Thursday 23 October
| Thursday 23 October | |
|---|---|
| 08:40 | Opening remarksIMPORTANT: All sessions and breaks are held in the Frontenac Ballroom (street level, conference centre). Access the conference centre from the hotel via the bridge connecting the two buildings. |
| 08:45 | Rewiring responsible gaming – using AI, neuro-entertainment and the survival optimisation system to balance dopamine and reduce impulsivity
Frontenac Ballroom Traditional responsible gambling tools often assume rational player decision-making — but neuroscience suggests otherwise. This session introduces a new approach grounded in the brain’s stress and reward systems, exploring how AI-driven microbreaks and neuroentertainment can interrupt compulsive gambling behaviour in real time. Drawing on three years of data, the presentation will outline the Survival Optimization System (SOS) framework, share findings from Casino.NL trials, and show how mood-regulating digital resets can improve decision-making without disrupting play. Challenging conventional RG models, this session offers a science-backed case for reframing responsible gambling as both a regulatory priority and a strategic advantage. |
| 09:15 | Leveraging AI to enhance responsible gambling – Innovative solutions for early risk detection
Frontenac Ballroom This session explores how AI and behavioural science are transforming responsible gambling. Using real-world examples, Mindway AI will demonstrate how tools like GameScanner and Gamalyze help identify at-risk players, support early intervention and improve regulatory compliance. Attendees will gain insight into the latest developments in AI-driven risk profiling and how these technologies can support safer gambling across markets and jurisdictions. |
| 09:45 | PANELAcademic and applied research collaboration –using industry data to support evidence-based regulation
Frontenac Ballroom Land-based gambling systems generate rich behavioural data, but this resource remains underused in safer gambling efforts. In this session, Focal Research and the UNLV International Gaming Institute share insights from a collaborative, self-funded research program designed to analyse systems data in novel ways. They’ll explore how academic–industry partnerships can secure sensitive data, replicate findings across venues, and provide stronger evidence to inform regulation. Key findings include when to engage players during continuous play and how small incentives affect participation in safer gambling initiatives. |
| 10:45 | NETWORKING BREAKFrontenac Foyer |
| 11:00 | PANEL:
|
| 12:00 | Emerging and converging technologies – trading, crypto and skins: A focus on harm and harm-prevention
Frontenac Ballroom As gambling, investing and gaming converge to create new and exciting products, what can we understand about their propensity to create harm, and what must we do to prevent problems? |
| 12:30 | Technology and gaming – What was, what is and what could be
Frontenac Ballroom The gaming industry is often labelled a laggard in adopting new technology. This can be both a blessing and a curse. On the positive side, laws and regulations may have more time to adapt, if necessary. On the downside, by the time technology is adopted, newer tools may already be out. This session will examine examples of technology in our industry, where we were and where we still are. We will look ahead at what is currently being deployed and what may be on the horizon, and outline what legislators, regulators, suppliers and operators should take into consideration. We’ll also explore how standards and best practice can help ease implementation in a highly regulated industry.
|
| 13:00 | CLOSING REMARKS
|
| 13:30 | FINAL HOSTED NETWORKING LUNCHFrontenac Ballroom |
