In a recent conversation, SOFTSWISS founder Ivan Montik discussed the evolution of his company, emphasizing its transformation into a significant global player in the gaming industry.
Montik reflected on the journey from a startup filled with uncertainty to a mature, stable B2B enterprise. He noted, "Today, SOFTSWISS is a large-scale global business that stands firmly on its own feet. Over the years, we've built an entire ecosystem of products, developed strong leadership teams and grown into a mature company operating on a global scale." The changes have fortified SOFTSWISS's foundation, yet Montik expressed pride in the company's ongoing flexibility despite its growth. "We continue to look for new management approaches, rethink the way we operate and adapt to changes in the market. That's probably the biggest difference between then and now. We've become much bigger and much more stable, but we've managed to keep the flexibility of a startup. And I think that's one of our greatest strengths."
Montik discussed shifting perceptions within the industry, specifically regarding online gaming. He mentioned that past assumptions of online gaming as a niche targeting younger audiences are becoming outdated. "Today, the reality is very different. iGaming is a major industry. It operates under established regulations in many jurisdictions, follows clear rules and continues to grow year after year," he stated. He believes that iGaming is now a mature sector, competing on equal footing with traditional gambling industries, which adds significant value to the global economy.
The emergence of new business models, such as prediction markets, illustrates the continuous innovation within iGaming. Montik pointed out that this development was not even part of mainstream conversation a few years ago but is now creating new avenues for player engagement and growth.
Looking ahead, Montik believes the most successful companies in iGaming will prioritize flexibility. He noted the challenge of maintaining dynamism as organizations scale. He cited the automotive industry as an example, where larger manufacturers have struggled to adapt quickly to market changes. "The companies that manage to combine scale with speed will be the companies leading this industry in five years," Montik remarked. He emphasized that reliability will be crucial as the sector matures alongside increasing regulatory complexity.
Growth, he posited, should equate to business performance. While the iGaming market is projected to grow about 10% annually, Montik believes companies should aim for higher growth rates to distinguish themselves. "For SOFTSWISS, that means targeting at least 20% annual growth in profit, and ideally around 30%. That's the difference between simply participating in the market and actively shaping it… Our growth is closely tied to our clients' growth. If our clients are entering new jurisdictions, building stronger businesses and succeeding with us as their long-term technology partner, we’ll grow together. That’s the kind of growth that matters most to me," he concluded.
When reflecting on SOFTSWISS today, Montik hopes to convey a company dedicated to building strong technology for the iGaming industry, as well as a team committed to quality and integrity. "For me, one of the most important principles is simple: do things in a way that you’ll be proud of later. It applies to our products, our service, and our partnerships. A company full of professionals who genuinely care about what they build and take pride in doing it well is what I hope people see.
