ICE World Gaming Forum Secures GCI as Lead Sponsor to Tackle Black Market Risks

As the industry focusses on combatting the black market and building integrity across the gaming landscape, GCI’s sponsorship underscores its mission to empower governments and operators to protect citizens, unlock sustainable revenue, and promote a safer, more transparent industry.

Harnessing AI-driven data analysis, GCI delivers advanced market intelligence to regulators, policymakers, and commercial stakeholders. Its technology is backed by an operational team that boasts decades of frontline experience in gaming compliance, regulation, and digital transformation.

“The ICE World Gaming Forum is the singular genuinely trusted platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration between the global gambling industry and the governments who regulate them,” said Damien Ashton-Wellman, Conference Manager and Head of Content for ICE Barcelona.

“We are committed to shaping evidence-based policy, and with Gaming Compliance International's sponsorship, we are empowered to elevate the event even further. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to combating the black market and building a fairer, and more prosperous gaming ecosystem, as well as a community where compliance drives commercial advantage.”

“In 2025 the World Gaming Forum succeeded in bringing together 1,200 delegates from 79 countries underlining its reputation for offering the highest-level thought leadership in gaming and the event where the big issues of the day are debated’ said Matt Holt, CEO of GCI.

“We work with regulated gaming jurisdictions to drive fiscal growth through accurate tax reporting, fighting back against the illegal operators, and creating a safe and secure gaming ecosystem for players. As headline sponsor of January’s ICE World Gaming Forum, we are proud to lead the industry dialogue on combating illegal markets and advancing responsible, data-led governance.”

Ismail Vali, President of GCI, added: “This represents the next stage in our mission to defeat black-market crime and protect the integrity of regulated gaming. The sponsorship of the ICE World Gaming Forum provides a high-profile platform to help expand on our core purpose which is to secure a sustainable, compliant, and fair marketplace that benefits everyone.”

Situated in the heart of Fira Gran Via Barcelona and featuring an exclusive club-style VIP lounge for delegates and speakers, a dedicated networking garden, and a range of concierge services, the ICE World Gaming Forum will run Monday 19 – Wednesday 21 January alongside the world leading ICE and iGB Affiliate exhibitions.

The World Gaming Forum agenda which is centred on the core theme of Combatting the Illegal Markek can be viewed at https://www.icegaming.com/wgf/choose-pass