SBC Summit 2026: Direct access to regulators for enhanced exchange

The SBC Summit 2026 in Lisbon promises more than just expert presentations. From September 29 to October 1, a new networking format called "Regulatory Gaming Meetups" will be introduced. This aims to enable direct dialogue between industry representatives and regulators and experts from over 20 gaming markets. The organizers want to foster a better exchange on market developments and compliance requirements.

The meeting will take place daily in the Regulatory Gaming Meetup Lounge (F4-17). Here, participants can ask targeted questions and gain practical insights often missing from reports or presentations. This format is part of a new partnership between SBC and the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) and the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL). The goal is to expand access to regulatory expertise.

Numbers and facts

The SBC Summit 2026 expects 40,000 industry professionals from September 29 to October 1 at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa & MEO Arena. The "Regulatory Gaming Meetups" will span these three days. In addition to the meetups, there is also a comprehensive conference program covering global and emerging markets as well as regulation and compliance.

Regulators and experts from over 20 gaming jurisdictions will be present. These include representatives from Malta, Portugal, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Germany. Specific participants include Charles Mizzi, CEO of the Malta Gaming Authority, Alexander Popov, Director of Supervision of Gambling Activities at the National Revenue Agency in Bulgaria, and Joerg Hofmann, Partner at Melchers Law, who will host the Germany & DACH Regulatory Gaming Meetup.

Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC, emphasized: > "What we're creating with the Regulatory Gaming Meet Ups is direct access to the people responsible for shaping, interpreting, and navigating these markets every day. That gives delegates the opportunity to ask better questions, gain practical insights that can't be found in a report or presentation, and make more informed business decisions."

The meetups are organized by jurisdiction and region. This allows participants to focus on the markets most relevant to their business interests. Particular emphasis is placed on Europe, with dedicated sessions for countries such as Italy, Malta, Finland, Portugal, Spain, France, Germany and the DACH region, the UK and Ireland, Greece and Cyprus, and the Netherlands and Belgium. Regions such as Eurasia, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and North America are also on the agenda.

Background

The gambling industry worldwide is in a constant state of flux. Ever new rules and laws require high adaptability from providers. The conference in Lisbon aims to provide a platform for direct exchange. SBC's new initiative is a response to the growing complexity of global regulations. Instead of just gaining superficial information, participants can delve deeper into specific market conditions. The collaboration with IAGR and IMGL underlines the importance of this initiative. The SBC Summit thus aims to be not only a trade fair but also a central point of contact for compliance issues and strategic partnerships.

Why it matters for German Players

For German players directly, these industry conferences do not change licensing regulations or betting limits. Indirectly, however, such an exchange is of great significance. When regulatory authorities like the Joint Gaming Authority of the Federal States (GGL) and industry representatives communicate better, it can lead to more thoughtful and effective regulations in the long term. This could mean that casinos operating under a German GGL license receive more stable and clearer frameworks. The GGL monitors compliance with the State Gambling Treaty 2021, including its strict requirements such as the 1 Euro maximum bet per spin, the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 Euros, the 5-second rule between spins, and the central self-exclusion system LUGAS. Joerg Hofmann leading the Germany & DACH Regulatory Gaming Meetup in Lisbon shows that the German market is becoming increasingly relevant for international discussions. Improved dialogue can help optimize player protection measures while ensuring an attractive, legal offering. This benefits players by providing more security and transparency in German online gambling.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For online casinos holding a German GGL license, such meetings are essential. They can learn firsthand about the direction of regulatory developments. Compliance is becoming increasingly complex and costly. Direct interaction with regulators can prevent misunderstandings and facilitate the implementation of new requirements. The GGL is a young authority still in its consolidation phase. Feedback from the industry and comparison with other European countries are important for its further development. By participating in discussions with experts directly involved in shaping German gambling regulation, GGL-licensed providers have the opportunity to voice their concerns directly. This can help keep the German market stable and attractive, while adhering to the strict player protection regulations of the State Gambling Treaty 2021. Ultimately, clearer guidelines could lead to more planning certainty and investments in the legal German market, which in turn benefits players.