U.S. and LatAm leaders headline opening day of SBC Summit Americas

Day 1 Leaders Track features numerous high-level conversations

SBC Summit Americas will begin its conference agenda on Wednesday, May 14, at the Broward County Convention Center with a Leaders Track that will set the tone for a landmark event uniting North America and Latin America’s gaming sectors under one roof.

The day will begin with opening remarks titled Welcome to Florida, delivered by Julie Brown, vice-chairman and inaugural chairman of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. Brown played a pivotal role in establishing the Commission and brings a deep understanding of Florida’s regulatory landscape, making her a fitting figure to help open the first edition of this reimagined event.

The opening remarks will be followed by a conversation with Bill Miller, president and CEO of the American Gaming Association (AGA). Miller will offer a timely exploration of how the shifting political landscape — from Capitol Hill to state regulatory conversations — is shaping the future of legal gaming in the U.S., as policymakers and regulators adapt to emerging technologies, evolving consumer behaviors and increased scrutiny around responsible gaming.

It’s More Fun When It’s For Fun: In Conversation with DraftKings’ First Chief Responsible Gaming Officer will shine a spotlight on one of the industry’s most crucial priorities: player protection. DraftKingsLori Kalani will bring a fresh perspective on how the company is embedding responsible gaming practices across its platforms and player communities.

SBC’s Managing Editor, Jessica Welman, will interview Ari Borod, who will offer attendees an exclusive look into the bold ambitions and strategy of one of the most closely watched entrants in the U.S. sports betting market, Fanatics Betting and Gaming. As Chief Business Officer, Borod plays a central role in shaping how the powerhouse brand is differentiating itself in a saturated market, navigating regulatory hurdles, and aiming to merge commerce with gaming in innovative ways.

The day will also feature three Leaders panels tackling key regional and operational challenges:

LatAm Leaders — Beyond Brazil: Balancing Growth Across LatAm’s Other Markets will bring together experts from Colombia, Argentina, Peru and more to explore how operators can leverage Brazil’s momentum while sustaining growth in neighboring markets. Panelists include Julio César Tamayo Betancur (Wplay), Felipe Fraga (EstrelaBet), Sebastián Vivot (LOTBA), Ramon Glieneke (Alea) and Gonzalo Pérez (Apuesta Total), moderated by Karen Marcela Sierra-Hughes (GLI).

Sports Betting Leaders: Tech vs Sportsbooks – What Are the Odds? will address the impact of AI and innovation in U.S. sportsbooks. Speakers Stuart Simms (FairPlay Sports Media), Behshad Behzadi (Sportradar) and Endre Nesset (Coolbet) will explore whether embracing tech enhances or undermines the betting experience.

iGaming Leaders: Omnichannel Strategy for Enhanced Customer Experience will look at how operators can deliver seamless player journeys across digital and physical platforms. The panel includes Kresimir Spajic (Betfred US), Oliver Bartlett (BetMGM), Lee Terfloth (Delaware North), Shai Frank (Optimove) and Andy Mace (Sportradar).

Another key sequence of sessions will offer a deep dive into the evolution, crossover, and regulation of fantasy sports in the U.S.

The State of Fantasy Sports in America will explore the history, skill-based game types, and monetization models of the sector. Crossover Between Fantasy Sports & Sports Betting will examine how businesses can engage a shared audience of 70 million fans through aligned products and strategies. Paid Fantasy Sports & Sports Betting – Legislation & Regulation Differences will unpack the legal and operational contrasts between the two verticals. The block will conclude with 30 Years of Sports: From the Internet’s Infancy to Today’s Tech, which will reflect on the industry’s transformation through the lens of innovation.

Capping off the day, Ask the Regulators will provide a rare and high-impact opportunity for operators and suppliers to engage directly with the key figures shaping U.S. gaming legislation. In this interactive Q&A session, Ed Martin (CEO) and Tom Sage (VP) of the Sports Betting Regulators Association, alongside Shawn Fluharty, president of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States, will offer insight into the priorities, challenges, and future direction of state-level regulation.


Day Two of the event will also feature a dedicated Leaders Track, bringing together even more influential voices from North and Latin America to discuss what lies ahead for the industry.

Get your SBC Summit Americas tickets — group discounts are available!

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