Sportsbook provider Altenar has reaffirmed its commitment to regulated markets after receiving a license from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
In addition to securing a gambling software license, the company has also been granted host licenses for real and virtual sports. This combination of approvals will allow Altenar to offer both its software-only package and its fully managed sports betting platform to UK operators.
Stanislav Silin, CEO at Altenar, stated that while the licensing process was extensive and took longer than expected, it was a necessary milestone for the company.
“The UK market has set the benchmark for other regions,” he said. “It has a very solid regulatory framework that independently licenses suppliers and operators, providing confidence to all participants in the ecosystem that services meet a certain quality, standard, and level of robustness.”
“We’re proud to have obtained a license in such an important market. Some of the world’s largest bookmakers originated here, and the UK remains one of the most significant markets in the global gaming landscape.
“The UK market is undoubtedly very competitive and demanding, but we believe there’s space for a sportsbook provider offering cutting-edge software, 24/7 risk management, trading and business support, and a strategy centered on being a business consultant as well as a provider.”
This marks Altenar’s third license, following a B2B license from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) in April 2019 and one from Romania’s Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc (ONJN) in September of the previous year. Altenar’s platform is designed from the ground up to support a multi-tenancy, multi-channel, and multi-jurisdictional service using the latest technology and specifications.
Meeting multiple regulatory requirements at once is certainly a challenge, but it reflects the realities of today’s market.
Through strong internal analysis and excellent collaboration with each of our operator partners, compliance has been more manageable. For the benefit of readers, I would still say Italy is the most challenging market, followed by Sweden.
SBC: What are the key things you’ve learned from 2019 so far?
DS: Altenar in 2019 is undergoing a major upgrade and investment phase that will yield results over the next decade. The takeaway isn’t something new or unique—it’s rooted in the fundamental business principles everyone should always remember.
Staying focused on the plan is the key. Combined with strong employee retention and talent acquisition, Altenar is well equipped to maintain a strong position in the market.
SBC: Finally, can you share with us any growth plans for the rest of the year?
DS: As mentioned, Altenar is investing heavily in upgrades and expansion. This includes technical resources, human capital, and infrastructure improvements, which will soon support our global presence.
At the same time, we’re investing in our relationships with partners around the world, valuing the feedback that helps them grow. Their growth is our growth, which is why they always come first.
Usually, this question is used to highlight regional targets. While I could name Europe, Latin America, or Africa, it would be misleading to say we’re focused on only one region. In reality, growth is likely to come from those areas—and likely in that order.
Altenar took a bold approach when entering the Colombian market. When we signed the agreement with Wplay, it was the result of a long series of workshops and analysis focused on building a sportsbook tailored specifically to the preferences of the average Colombian user.
