Coolbet Integrates AI Engagement Tools via Golden Whale Partnership

In an increasingly competitive global iGaming landscape, technological innovation has become the primary differentiator for leading operators. Coolbet, a prominent international brand under the ownership of Japanese gaming giant Sega Sammy Creation, has announced a significant commercial partnership with Golden Whale. The collaboration focuses on integrating machine learning-powered decision intelligence to refine player engagement strategies across eight international jurisdictions. This move represents a strategic shift from reactive operational models to proactive, predictive data management.

At the heart of this partnership is Golden Whale’s Foundation platform. This AI-driven optimization engine processes live player data to generate deep insights into behavioral intent and player lifetime value. By identifying churn risks before they manifest, Coolbet can intervene with targeted measures to retain customers. The technology is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing CRM and data infrastructures, providing a sophisticated layer of intelligence that enhances speed and accuracy in decision-making processes.

Numbers and facts

Coolbet’s trajectory has been marked by significant industry recognition in recent years. Founded in Tallinn in 2016, the operator made its debut on the EGR Power 50 list in 2025, securing the 50th position. Further solidifying its reputation, Coolbet was named Medium Operator of the Year at the 2026 SBC Awards held in Lisbon. The company currently operates across three continents and provides B2B services to the US market, showcasing its versatility beyond traditional B2C sportsbook and casino offerings.

One of the most impactful features of the new partnership is the BonusPilot tool. Unlike traditional incentive management, which often relies on broad, rules-based campaigns, BonusPilot uses AI to identify the specific rewards and offers that resonate with individual players. This level of personalization is intended to reduce manual workload for Coolbet’s teams while ensuring that bonus spending is allocated more precisely and effectively. Eberhard Dürrschmid, CEO of Golden Whale, highlighted the necessity of such tools for modern operators.

"Operating successfully across multiple markets brings enormous opportunities, but also a level of complexity that conventional approaches to player engagement simply aren’t equipped to handle. We believe fully bespoke and automated decision intelligence should be at the heart of how modern operators make shape their go-to-market strategies." - Eberhard Dürrschmid, CEO of Golden Whale

Background

Golden Whale has established itself as a pioneer in applying data science to the gaming industry. Their track record includes a partnership with High Roller Technologies initiated in late 2024, which leveraged predictive AI to optimize acquisition and retention strategies. Reports from similar integrations suggest that Golden Whale’s data-driven services can deliver uplifts between 100 and 200 percent in key performance indicators. The company also strengthened its market outreach through a strategic alliance with RPM Gaming in August 2025.

For Coolbet, the primary focus remains on the player experience. Tero Holopainen, Head of Product for Casino & Games, noted that while technology is central to their operations, its value lies in how it serves the end user. By anticipating player needs and responding more effectively, Coolbet aims to strengthen its international market position through step-by-step technological advancements.

"Golden Whale brings a level of sophistication that opens up some exciting possibilities for our business. Being able to anticipate player needs, respond more effectively and make better use of our resources will be incredibly valuable as we continue to grow." - Tero Holopainen, Head of Product at Coolbet

Why it matters for German players

For players in Germany, the introduction of sophisticated AI tools like those from Golden Whale must be viewed through the lens of the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). The German market is one of the most strictly regulated in the world, featuring mandatory cross-provider deposit limits of 1,000 Euro per month and a 1 Euro per spin cap on virtual slots. All licensed operators are required to connect to the LUGAS central monitoring system and the OASIS player block system to ensure maximum player protection.

While AI can enhance personalization, its most critical role in Germany is likely in the realm of responsible gaming. Predictive models can detect early signs of problem gambling more effectively than human monitoring, allowing GGL-licensed casinos to fulfill their duty of care. Players should always verify that an operator is on the GGL whitelist to ensure that these AI tools are used within the legal framework of German law, providing a safe and fair environment.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

Casinos operating with a GGL license face stiff competition from the unregulated black market. AI tools provide these legal operators with the means to offer a superior, safer experience that the black market cannot match. By using data to improve retention without violating strict advertising and bonus regulations, GGL-licensed sites can maintain a sustainable business model. The efficiency gains from automation also help these operators manage the high compliance costs associated with German regulation, ensuring long-term viability in a challenging market environment.