SBC Summit 2026: A Deep Dive into the Crypto & Blockchain Conference Track

SBC Summit 2026: A Deep Dive into the Crypto & Blockchain Conference Track

Introduction: Why a Dedicated Crypto & Blockchain Track Matters Now

The gambling industry is moving beyond theoretical discussions about digital assets and blockchain technology. The SBC Summit, taking place from 29 September to 1 October 2026 at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) and MEO Arena in Lisbon, is responding to this shift by introducing a dedicated Crypto & Blockchain conference track. This track, scheduled for Thursday, 1 October 2026, signals a maturation in how the industry views these technologies—from speculative potential to tangible, operational value.

With an expected attendance of 40,000 industry professionals, the summit will feature this new track as part of the Payment Expert Summit stage, alongside two other focused tracks:

The Bigger Picture: From Hype to Practical Integration

For years, discussions about crypto and blockchain in gambling were dominated by what these technologies might someday achieve. That era is ending. As Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC, explains:

“For a long time, conversations around crypto and blockchain were dominated by what the technology might eventually make possible. We are now at a point where the industry can have a much more practical conversation about where it actually works.”

This shift reflects a broader industry trend: operators are no longer asking if they should integrate digital assets, but how to do so safely, compliantly, and profitably. The Crypto & Blockchain track aims to address both the opportunities and the obstacles, including:

Key Sessions and Expert Insights

1. Blockchain Banking for Gambling Operators

Session Title: Blockchain Banking for Gambling Operators

This opening session tackles the most pressing question for regulated operators: how to integrate crypto and stablecoins into existing payment ecosystems without falling foul of regulatory requirements.

Expert Panelists:

Key Discussion Points:

Real-World Example: Stablecoins like USDC or USDT can reduce payment friction for international players, but operators must ensure that their wallet infrastructure supports both compliance checks and rapid settlement.

2. Speed, Security & Conversion for Crypto Gambling

Session Title: Speed, Security & Conversion for Crypto Gambling

Transaction speed is a major competitive advantage for crypto payments, but it must be balanced with rigorous regulatory safeguards. This session explores the latest advances in blockchain settlement.

Expert Panelists:

Key Discussion Points:

Practical Insight: Layer-2 solutions and sidechains can offer faster confirmation times than mainnet transactions, but operators must ensure these are still auditable and compliant with local laws.

3. What iGaming Can Learn from Crypto Marketing

Session Title: What iGaming Can Learn from Crypto Marketing

This session goes beyond technology to examine the marketing and community-building strategies that have made crypto brands successful—even without massive advertising budgets.

Expert Panelists:

Key Discussion Points:

Example Strategy: Crypto brands often use token airdrops, community voting, and transparent reward systems to foster loyalty. Traditional operators could adapt these by offering tokenized loyalty points that players can trade or use across platforms.

4. Fundraising 101: Crypto iGaming

Session Title: Fundraising 101: Crypto iGaming

Investor interest in crypto gambling ventures is growing, but what makes a project attractive in 2026? This session breaks down the key factors:

Context: Unlike traditional gambling startups, crypto iGaming ventures can leverage token sales, decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and liquidity pools. However, regulators are increasingly scrutinizing these fundraising methods.

5. Web3 in Gambling: Risks & Rewards

Session Title: Web3 in Gambling: Risks & Rewards

Web3 promises to decentralize ownership and control, but it also introduces new risks. This session weighs the potential:

Potential Rewards:

Key Risks:

Networking Opportunities: Beyond the Conference Sessions

Attendees can extend their learning and build valuable connections through several dedicated networking events:

Fintech Show Floor Tour

Connect with leading blockchain and crypto technology providers to discover their latest solutions. This guided tour helps operators identify relevant vendors and evaluate integrations.

Payments Speed Networking

Make up to a dozen targeted introductions in just one hour. Ideal for payments professionals, compliance officers, and C-suite executives looking to expand their network efficiently.

Smart Connect

Pre-qualified, one-on-one meetings between crypto and blockchain specialists and senior operator representatives. This ensures that every meeting has a clear business objective.

Practical Details for Attendees

Pass Requirements:

Exhibitor Information: Exhibitors interested in the Fintech Show Floor Tour should contact the sales team at [email protected].

Operator Reservations: Operators can reserve their place on their preferred tour via the official SBC Summit website.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Crypto & Gambling

The introduction of a dedicated Crypto & Blockchain track at SBC Summit 2026 reflects a fundamental shift in the gambling industry. The conversation has moved from “what if” to “how to.” Operators who attend this track will gain actionable insights on:

As Rasmus Sojmark noted, the industry can now have a “much more practical conversation” about where blockchain technology actually delivers value. The SBC Summit’s Crypto & Blockchain track is where that conversation happens.