Eduardo Lobato, Sportradar: “The industry will increasingly focus on three priorities: personalisation, operational efficiency and integrity”

<p>Eduardo Lobato, enterprise client partner lead at Sportradar, has outlined three key priorities that he believes will define the next phase of growth for the sports betting and iGaming industry: personalisation, operational efficiency, and integrity. In an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News, Lobato shared insights drawn from his participation at SBC Summit Americas, where the opening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 provided a backdrop for discussions on the evolving landscape of Latin American betting markets.</p><p>Lobato emphasised that personalisation is becoming increasingly critical as operators seek to engage players with tailored experiences. He noted that advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics are enabling companies to deliver customised content, promotions, and betting options that resonate with individual preferences. This shift, he argued, is not merely a competitive advantage but a necessity in markets where player acquisition costs are rising and retention is paramount.</p><p>Operational efficiency, the second priority, is being driven by the need for streamlined processes and cost optimisation. Lobato pointed to the growing role of AI in automating back-office functions, such as risk management, pricing, and compliance monitoring. By reducing manual intervention, operators can improve margins and scale their operations more effectively. He highlighted that Sportradar’s own AI-powered solutions are helping clients achieve these efficiencies while maintaining high standards of accuracy and speed.</p><p>Integrity, the third pillar, remains a cornerstone of the industry’s long-term sustainability. Lobato stressed that as betting volumes grow and new markets open, the threat of match-fixing and corruption becomes more pronounced. He called for continued investment in monitoring systems and collaboration between sports bodies, regulators, and technology providers. Sportradar’s Universal Fraud Detection System, he noted, has been instrumental in identifying suspicious activity across multiple sports and jurisdictions.</p><p>The interview also touched on the specific dynamics of Latin America, where regulatory frameworks are evolving rapidly. Lobato observed that countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia are moving toward clearer licensing regimes, which in turn attract international operators and technology partners. He predicted that the region will become a major battleground for innovation, particularly in mobile-first and live-betting experiences.</p><p>Looking ahead, Lobato expressed confidence that the industry’s focus on these three priorities will drive sustainable growth. He urged stakeholders to embrace data-driven strategies and to view integrity not as a cost but as an investment in consumer trust. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, the convergence of personalisation, efficiency, and integrity will likely shape the competitive landscape for years to come.</p>