The complex compliance requirements of jurisdictions across the US and Canada mean that one size really doesn’t fit all when it comes to geolocation technology, according to mkodo’s Managing Director Stuart Godfree.
Speaking ahead of May’s SBC Summit North America conference, Godfree explained why the specialist supplier of mobile and front-end technology to the igaming industry first developed its geolocation product and what makes it particularly well suited to markets in the US and Canada.
SBC: Your geolocation product GeoLocs is currently your main drive, particularly in North America; is there a specific reason for this?
Stuart Godfree: GeoLocs has been a core part of mkodo’s provision for many years, being required in parts of Europe when Apple decreed that real-money gaming apps would only be approved if they functioned within an operators’ licensed territory.
With the steadily evolving nature of many sports betting and online casino markets within the US and Canada however, it became clear that the potential to market our geo-compliance platform as a standalone product to the wider sector was becoming greater, so that was the decision we took.
A brand name and successful launch later and we have what we consider to be the first choice for the industry.
SBC: There are a number of individual markets across North America and many have their own individual requirements. How easy is it for GeoLocs to adapt to this?
SG: GeoLocs is supremely flexible and it must be, as compliance is key for all players in the regulated space, yet the differences between each territory can be vast.
In Canada, we have somewhat of a head start as mkodo has been providing the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation with its lottery app and geolocation service since 2021, ensuring that only users within Ontario’s jurisdictional boundaries can engage with the app.
Canada’s requirements aren’t quite as rigorous as many in the US and so we see a lot of suppliers bringing their product suite to the Canadian market where their access is somewhat more streamlined.
We have found that ‘one size doesn’t fit all’ when it comes to geolocation and GeoLocs, as it offers a series of solutions based on the compliance demands of the relevant jurisdiction.
SBC: How large is the scope for mkodo in North America?
SG: It’s huge. We have already signed several deals in Ontario as a result of our certification by the local regulatory agency, AGCO.
In the US, PASPA’s repeal five years ago and the adoption of sports betting across several states, with many more to come, and the growing interest in online casino bodes very well indeed for us as a supplier of geolocation services – and we’re perfectly placed to capitalize on this opportunity.
SBC: How will the SBC Summit North America help you achieve this?
SG: The SBC Summit North America couldn’t have arrived at a better time. Anyone who is anyone will be there, from established names in the region to those preparing their brand entries, so we couldn’t ask for a better mix of decision makers.
The conference panels are of great interest too, with experts sharing their insight on local markets, so there are many learnings to be gained from the topics over the three days.
We’ve got a fantastic product in GeoLocs that offers compliance peace of mind in a region where regulatory issues are front and center, and we’re delighted to be able to share the benefits of it with visitors to New Jersey.
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The SBC Summit North America conference and tradeshow takes place at the Meadowlands Exposition Center, New Jersey on May 9-11, 2023, and features a speaker lineup comprising 300 renowned sports betting and iGaming industry experts. Click here to book your event pass.
