By Stephen A. Crystal – Founder & CEO, SCCG
The iGaming NEXT Conference in New York City was nothing short of exceptional. Unlike larger expos that often feel overwhelming, this event delivered a more intimate experience where the right people—true decision-makers—came together to discuss the most pressing topics in sports betting, iGaming, social gaming, Class 2 mobile on-premise gaming, and the ever-growing world of sweepstakes casinos.
For SCCG Management, the conference was not just an opportunity to connect with long-standing partners but also to forge new relationships in an environment buzzing with innovation and energy. The sheer level of engagement, insightful discussions, and forward-thinking technology on display solidified what we already knew: the iGaming industry is on the cusp of major transformation.
Social Gaming & Class 2 Mobile: The Next Frontier
One of the strongest themes at NEXT.io was the rapid expansion of social gaming and Class 2 mobile on-premise gaming. The increasing adoption of these models signals an industry-wide shift, as operators and suppliers alike recognize the demand for alternative gaming experiences that don’t rely on traditional iGaming frameworks.
Social casino gaming continues to carve out its place in the market. As iGaming legislation stalls in various U.S. states, social gaming is proving to be an effective, compliant, and scalable model for operators looking to engage players without running into regulatory roadblocks. The success of platforms like Publishers Clearing House (PCH) and Captain Up demonstrates the viability of these models, and we expect to see even more innovation in this space in the coming years.
Innovation in Technology and Platforms
The conversations at NEXT.io were not just about where the industry is heading but how we’re getting there. The event showcased cutting-edge advancements in gaming platforms, engagement tools, and compliance technology, many of which are being pioneered by SCCG client partners like Altenar, Kalamba Games, Booming Games, EGT, Approvely, and more.
SCCG was also proud to announce our strategic partnership with Approvely, a payments powerhouse set to streamline transactions and optimize payment solutions for gaming operators worldwide. Payments remain a critical component of the iGaming and social gaming ecosystem, and having the right partners in place ensures smoother player experiences and stronger operational efficiencies.
The Role of Prediction Markets
Another fascinating takeaway from NEXT.io was the growing conversation around prediction markets and their potential impact on traditional gambling operators. As highlighted by Grove, these markets could challenge the existing federal and state regulatory framework, forcing a rethink of how betting is structured in the U.S. While still in its early days, the emergence of prediction markets represents both an opportunity and a potential disruptor to conventional gaming models. Keeping an eye on regulatory developments in this area will be key for operators looking to stay ahead of the curve.
Final Thoughts
The iGaming NEXT Conference in NYC reaffirmed what we at SCCG Management have long believed: the future of gaming is being shaped by innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and forward-thinking regulatory solutions. Whether it’s the continued rise of social gaming, the expansion of Class 2 mobile gaming, or the impact of emerging betting models, the industry is evolving at a rapid pace.
At SCCG, we take pride in being at the forefront of these advancements, working alongside some of the most innovative companies in the gaming space. As always, our mission remains the same—to provide expertise, connections, and strategic insights that drive success in this ever-changing landscape.
Thank you to everyone who made NEXT.io NYC 2025 an unforgettable experience. We look forward to continuing these conversations and shaping the future of gaming together.
