Throughout 2026, the industry will continue to see the evolution of best-in-class compliance and safer gambling practices. The debate will no longer be about reactive, backward looking assessments. Instead, the industry will be defined by its ability to proactively identify and support financially vulnerable players in real-time. The challenge has always been to achieve this without introducing unnecessary friction that penalises the majority.

‍

The solution to this challenge will be the deep convergence of open banking and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This combination is moving us beyond outdated compliance checks – which often rely on static, backward looking or incomplete data – to a more intelligent, real-time understanding of financial vulnerability.

‍

This opportunity lies at the point of deposit. This is the moment that matters and it is where technology can make the biggest difference. We are already seeing the power of Yaspa’s Intelligent Payments, which combine instant account-to-account payments with AI-driven risk assessments for source of funds and safer gambling. With player consent, this technology allows an operator to analyse transactional data for subtle red flags - such as reliance on overdrafts, sudden spending changes, or missed bill payments - all within the payment journey.

‍

This isn't about blocking players. It's about enabling a more responsible and personalised relationship. I predict that operators will not only be asking 'Can this player afford this deposit?' but also 'Is this player showing markers of financial distress?'

‍

The ability to answer that question allows for a graduated, supportive response. Instead of a blunt refusal, an operator can dynamically adjust deposit limits or proactively offer support resources, intervening constructively at the earliest possible stage. This proactive, data- informed approach is the best way to help prevent harm while maintaining a seamless experience for positive play.

‍

The key challenge for businesses is to adapt and embrace this technology. Regulators, operators, financial institutions and fintech partners must collaborate to build a trusted framework where players are informed and consent to the use of their data for their own benefit. Businesses that adapt will not only meet their compliance demands but will build the deep, lasting player trust that is essential for a sustainable and responsible future in our industry.