Yield Sec CEO calls for action against illegal gambling at ICE Barcelona 2025: 'Time to eliminate crime from the industry'
At the ICE Barcelona 2025 conference, which just started today, Ismail Vali, CEO of Yield Sec, tackled the issue of illegal gambling, labeling all providers in this sector as "criminals."
He stressed that there is no "grey market" in gambling; it's simply a matter of legal versus illegal betting.
Vali highlighted the growing prevalence of illegal gambling, linking it to the rise of crypto betting and illegal sports streaming services. He pointed out that consumers shouldn’t be blamed for unknowingly engaging with these offerings, as they are often targeted by illegal operators for advertising.
He also noted that illegal operators divert substantial revenue from the legitimate gambling sector, with estimates indicating that up to 73% of the market operates illegally, leaving only 27% legally regulated. Vali mentioned that his straightforward approach has even led to death threats.
In conclusion, he called for actions to promote legality in the industry, stating, "It's time to kick the shadow of crime out of the industry."
