Jesper Svensson: Opportunities and Challenges in Betsson's Expansion

Jesper Svensson, CEO of Betsson, exclusively shared the strategic priorities for 2026 ahead of his participation in the SBC Summit in Lisbon. The focus includes market expansion, new technologies, and his tenth year at the helm of the company. Betsson plans to expand its presence, currently in 25 key markets across Europe, South America, and North America.

Expansion in Canada

In February 2026, Betsson agreed to acquire the B2C business of Rhino Entertainment Group in Canada, along with some B2B technology assets, for approximately 100 million CAD. "We have always had an interest in Canada," Svensson commented. "This acquisition gives us the opportunity to quickly stand out in the market." With a competent team, Rhino Entertainment drives Betsson's growth in this region.

Italy as a Key Market

Italy remains a central market for Betsson. In 2025, it generated gross gaming revenues of 21.5 billion euros, representing 41.4% of the European online casino market. "Italy presents great growth potential," Svensson stated. Despite fierce competition, Betsson has managed to grow faster than the market.

Regulatory Challenges

Regulation and increased compliance demands pose challenges. Some experts consider the possibility of a pan-European gaming tax. "If it replaces other local taxes, it could unify the European framework. But otherwise, it would be unsustainable," Svensson warned. He pointed out that excessive taxes could strengthen the black market, contradicting the goal of regulation.

Global Perspective

While some operators look towards Africa or Latin America, Svensson emphasized the importance of assessing the specific conditions of each market. "Every market is unique. In Latin America and Africa, the adoption of online gaming is rapidly increasing. However, in Europe, conditions vary greatly," he commented.

Leadership and Technology

With nearly ten years at the helm of Betsson, Svensson has demonstrated stable leadership. He highlighted the importance of technological innovation and the use of AI, focusing on areas where it truly adds value, such as operations and marketing.

Preparations for the SBC Summit

The SBC Summit in Lisbon, from September 29 to October 1, 2026, will cover topics such as AI adoption, regulation, and market expansion. Svensson values these gatherings to discuss strategies with key industry players.

"SBC is a great opportunity to share insights with other industry experts," Jesper Svensson stated.

During the event, Jesper Svensson will participate in the panel "Super CEO Panel: The Industry Speaks" on September 29 at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa.