Lynsey Hoxha, our Head of Sales, represented Dialect at ICE in Barcelona, the global gaming industry event, attracting over 65k+ attendees from 180 countries, setting new attendance records for the sector.

There were several themes discussed at the event such as gaming and gambling policy, regulations and business strategies, so here are our key takeaways:

1.Gaming and Payments Synergy

Both sectors are increasingly interconnected to shape seamless and frictionless player journeys. The payments providers that are able to provide fast and smart payments solutions are seen by gaming operators as a strategic enabler, not just as a transactional tool function as quick deposit or withdrawals directly impact player engagement and retention.

2.2026 Regulatory Map

A very robust regulatory map at ICE Barcelona this year, with key professionals mapping out the countries with mature markets that have a strict licensing, robust player protection and clear compliance rules and emerging countries where new regulatory or licensing regimes are going to be implemented. The key focus was on global coordination, worldwide responsible gambling and evolving compliance strategies.

3.Promoting Sustainability

ICE 2026 proved that sustainability in Gaming is becoming a core priority across the sector, with key focus areas such as responsible and ethic gambling and long term initiatives to protect players. Operators are adopting sustainable practices to generate trust, retention and match with the regulatory frameworks.

4. Improved user friendly experience

Another key focus of ICE 2026 was how the Gaming sector can provide an improved user friendly experience to users, with key themes such as frictionless onboarding, fast transactions. The real time analytics and behavioural tracking are also used to better understand the users’ preferences and transform their journey. Companies are often leveraging data and insights not just for marketing purposes, but also to prevent churn and enhance the user experience.

5.Strong community and network

At the core of the event stays a strong community that connects operators across the gaming sector with other industries and supplies. It promotes collaboration, where operators engage with partners across the globe with a shared mission: the drive value and efficiency while providing a seamless user/player experience. It is, indeed, a strong cross industry community of operators and suppliers that drive innovation and growth.

ICE 2026 is about promoting a strong and so well-connected community that drives collaboration and long-term partnerships. It provides opportunities to engage with global networks and make meaningful connections.

*Please note that these insights and takeaways reflect our observations of the event. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the event organisers, speakers or other attendees.