INTERVIEW: XANADA INVESTMENTS
On a mission to go boldly beyond investment
GIO: From your perspective, what are the most exciting opportunities for innovation in the iGaming sector right now, and how is Xanada positioning itself to capture them? Vladimir Malakchi: The most exciting opportunities lie in gamification and personalisation, which have shifted the industry’s focus from pure acquisition to retention. AI has become a game-changer, enabling personalised gaming experiences and real-time analysis of player behaviour, allowing businesses to adapt to user preferences and deliver more immersive interactions. AI offers unparalleled capabilities in data analysis and user segmentation, allowing companies to deliver tailored experiences based on individual preferences and behaviours. At Xanada, we’re positioning ourselves at the intersection of these innovations by backing startups that combine technological advancement with operational excellence. We focus on companies revolutionising user retention through AI-driven tools, optimising player interaction with real-time engagement solutions, and creating genuinely differentiated experiences. We don’t chase trends superficially; we invest in founders who understand how to implement these technologies strategically to create genuine business advantages.
GIO: Could you share some details about Xanada’s most recent iGaming investments, and what attracted you to these companies? VM: Our portfolio represents a strategic approach to the iGaming ecosystem. One of our recent investments focuses on the rapidly growing U.S. alternative gaming market. From day one, this company showed both clarity of vision and precision in execution. Our decision was driven not only by the unique positioning of the platform but by the team’s operational discipline and long-term thinking. What particularly impressed us was their innovative approach to navigating complex regulatory landscapes while building compliant, bank-approved payment infrastructure. We’ve also backed companies addressing untapped traffic monetisation opportunities in the industry. What stood out was how they backed up their idea with real numbers and a solid strategy. They’re not just solving a problem; they’re doing it
8 DECEMBER 2025 GIO
Xanada Investments claims not to just be about investment and capital allocation; its aspirations transcend mere startup funding. Instead, the company is striving to create a prosperous community where each startup and its leader is related and connected with access to critical resources. We sat down with Xanada’s CEO & Managing Partner, Vladimir Malakchi at the recent SBC Summit in Lisbon to find out more about the company’s ethos and get his thoughts on the future of iGaming.
in a way that scales and adds value for operators. Additionally, we’ve invested in platforms targeting underserved international markets, particularly in Asia, where localised solutions and regional expertise create significant competitive advantages. We worked closely with this portfolio company to refine their market focus, supporting them through a strategic shift that allowed them to enter a more lucrative segment.
We’ve also made strategic moves in the affiliate and organic growth space, recognising that SEO and discoverability are becoming increasingly crucial as acquisition costs rise across the industry.
GIO: Many startups say funding alone isn’t enough. How does Xanada actively support developers and operators beyond financing – for example, in product strategy, market entry, or compliance? VM: At Xanada Investments, we are more than just financial backers – we are active strategic investors. Our support extends across market positioning, industry connections, and operational scalability. We support our portfolio companies at every stage of their business journey, from early product-market fit challenges to scaling operations across multiple jurisdictions. I’ve seen founders raise large rounds and still fail because they didn’t know how to manage priorities, structure operations, or adapt to market feedback. You can raise 10 million and lose it all within a year if you lack strategy and structure. That’s why our approach is fundamentally different. With our portfolio companies, we work closely over extended periods to evolve their business infrastructure, guide strategic decisions, and help unlock market growth. We help them align operations with long-term growth goals, navigate complex licensing requirements, and open doors commercially through our network. This hands-on approach – rolling up our sleeves on product strategy, leveraging our connections for strategic market entry, and providing guidance on compliance – is what separates us from traditional investors.
GIO: Which technologies (AI, blockchain, new payment solutions, gamification, etc.) do you believe will most transform the iGaming landscape in the next few years? VM: AI will be the most transformative force. It enables personalised gaming experiences and real-time analysis of player behaviour, offering unparalleled capabilities in data analysis and user segmentation. Companies that master AI-driven insights – understanding player behaviour, optimizing retention, and creating genuinely personalised experiences – will dominate the next era of iGaming. Blockchain enhances transparency and security in transactions, adding value to both operators and users. However, I caution against the superficial use of buzzwords like ‘AI’ and ‘blockchain’ without genuine utility. What matters is strategic implementation that enhances user experiences and aligns with business goals, ensuring these technologies provide tangible benefits. Gamification is another key trend, focusing on retention over acquisition. The future of iGaming lies in retention and personalisation, driven by data and innovative technologies. The winners will be those who combine these technologies with strong fundamentals: great product design, regulatory compliance, and teams that understand the gaming experience at its core.
GIO: When assessing potential investments, what qualities or business models in iGaming developers and operators do you see as most promising today? VM: There are a few fundamental pillars on which our decisions are based. The first and most important one is the team – their mindset, experience, and adaptability. A strong team with the right approach can pivot, solve problems, and scale even when the initial execution isn’t perfect. For us, it starts with the people – the founders. Their vision, resilience, and ability to execute are what capture our attention first. These are individuals who truly understand their markets, are ready to pivot when challenges arise, and have the determination to turn ideas into reality.
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