Exclusive: Yggdrasil’s Giovanni Fodera on Partnerships, Regulation and the Future of iGaming

The global iGaming industry continues to expand across regulated markets, creating new opportunities for operators and suppliers alike. While technology and innovation remain key drivers of growth, long-term success still depends on trusted partnerships, market knowledge, and the ability to adapt to changing regulations.

In this exclusive interview with iGaming News Today, Yggdrasil’s Giovanni Fodera reflects on his journey from land-based casinos to iGaming, shares his experience managing the Italian and South African markets, and discusses the importance of relationships, compliance, AI, and sustainable commercial growth.

Q1: You started your career in land-based casinos before moving into iGaming. Looking back, how has that experience influenced the way you work with operators today?

Giovanni:

Starting my career in the land-based sector gave me a very strong foundation. Although land-based gaming is quite different from the online industry, many of the principles I learned there still influence the way I work today.

I began my journey with Rank Group in the UK in 2016, and that experience helped me understand the operational side of the business as well as the importance of customer experience. The online industry moves much faster, but having that land-based background gave me a broader perspective and helped shape my approach to building relationships with operators. Looking back, I don’t think I would be where I am today without that first experience.

Q2: You currently manage both the Italian and South African markets. From your perspective, what are the biggest differences between these two regions?

Giovanni:

At first glance, Italy and South Africa seem completely different, but in reality they share many similarities.

Both markets place a strong emphasis on personal relationships. Building trust with operators makes a real difference when it comes to game launches, promotional opportunities, and long-term cooperation. That’s one of the reasons we’ve been able to perform well in both regions.

Where they differ most is on the regulatory side. Italy has a longer and more structured certification process, while South Africa follows a different approval framework. Despite those differences, success in both markets depends on maintaining close relationships with operators and understanding the local market dynamics.

Q3: You’ve worked closely with leading operators across multiple markets. What do you think makes a successful long-term partnership?

Giovanni:

For me, successful partnerships are built on honesty, trust, and genuine relationships.

Face-to-face meetings still play an important role in this industry. Events like SiGMA and regional conferences give us the opportunity to meet operators personally, strengthen relationships, and better understand their needs.

Business becomes much easier when there is trust between both sides. Long-term partnerships aren’t built through emails alone-they’re built through consistent communication, transparency, and spending time together throughout the year.

Q4: With so many casino games launching every month, what makes a game stand out and perform well with operators and players?

Giovanni:

Everyone in the industry talks about innovation and creating unique mechanics, but in reality, truly groundbreaking concepts are becoming increasingly rare.

Of course, having a quality product is essential, but today strong relationships with operators often make the biggest difference. Those relationships influence game visibility, promotional opportunities, and placement within casino lobbies.

The biggest providers naturally have an advantage because of their market position, but suppliers can still compete successfully by delivering solid products and maintaining strong relationships with their partners.

Q5: Where do you currently see the biggest growth opportunities for operators and suppliers?

Giovanni:

South Africa is one of the most exciting growth markets at the moment. We’re already seeing more suppliers entering the market, which shows the confidence the industry has in its long-term potential.

Italy also remains an attractive market, although it has become more mature and increasingly regulated. Success in both regions requires patience, consistent investment, competitive products, and strong local relationships.

Building brand recognition over time is extremely important. The companies that stay committed to these markets and continue investing will benefit the most in the long run.

Q6: As more markets introduce new regulations, how do you balance commercial growth with compliance and responsible gaming?

Giovanni:

Compliance and commercial success need to work together-they cannot be separated.

Markets such as Italy and South Africa have strict approval processes before games can go live. If compliance teams aren’t working efficiently, commercial teams cannot move quickly enough to remain competitive.

At Yggdrasil, there is strong collaboration between commercial and compliance departments. That close cooperation allows us to launch products efficiently while ensuring we meet every regulatory requirement. Without that balance, sustainable growth simply isn’t possible.

Q7: AI is becoming an important part of the gaming industry. How do you see it changing the way suppliers and operators work together?

Giovanni:

AI is already having a noticeable impact, particularly in game development.

Many studios are using AI to speed up artwork production and creative processes. While this certainly improves efficiency, I also believe there is a risk that games become less original when everyone relies on similar AI tools.

Technology should support creativity rather than replace it. Players are becoming increasingly aware of AI-generated content, and they still value originality and authentic game design.

At Yggdrasil, we use AI where it adds value, but we also believe in maintaining the right balance between technology and human creativity to ensure we continue delivering high-quality games.

Q8: What advice would you give to someone starting a career in the iGaming industry today?

Giovanni:

Communication and empathy are probably the two most important qualities anyone can develop.

People shouldn’t be afraid to start from entry-level roles because every experience helps build valuable industry knowledge. iGaming continues to offer many opportunities for people who are willing to learn, build relationships, and grow professionally.

The industry may appear competitive, but there is always room for talented people who are proactive, communicate well, and are ready to take opportunities when they arise.

About Yggdrasil

Yggdrasil is a leading iGaming company founded in 2013, known for creating high-quality slot games and innovative gaming technology. With a portfolio of over 400 titles, including Vikings Go Berzerk and Valley of the Gods, the company combines engaging gameplay with game creation solutions such as Game in a Box™, BOOST tools, and a wide range of Game Engagement Mechanics. Headquartered in Malta, Yggdrasil also supports partner studios through programs like YGG Masters and YGG champions, helping them develop and scale successfully in the global market.