Episode 56: Why Online Casino Operators Should Be Looking At M&A

In this episode of the podcast, Rich Criado, the former VP of Product at Fanatics Casino, discusses the current landscape of the US online casino market. He points out a notable similarity among casino products, largely due to players’ preference for familiar games like classic slots. While there's a call for innovation, Criado advocates for a careful, step-by-step approach to introducing new game mechanics and interfaces, drawing on his experiences at Fanatics and Penn National Gaming. The conversation also highlights the need for in-house game development to stand out in the market, explores the different strategies for acquiring casino versus sports customers, and discusses how operators can enhance user experience. To wrap up, Criado shares valuable lessons from his time as a professional wrestler, reinforcing the vital role of teamwork in product development.