Focal Research Shares New Evidence-Based Insights at the 19th International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking
The 19th International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking brought together researchers, regulators, operators, policymakers and industry stakeholders from around the world to discuss emerging trends, evidence-based approaches and innovations in gambling research.
Hosted by the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) International Gaming Institute, the conference is widely regarded as one of the gambling sector’s leading research events, providing a forum for sharing new evidence, exploring emerging challenges and discussing practical approaches to reducing gambling-related harm.
Focal was proud to contribute to this year’s conference by moderating a session and presenting two research presentations examining financial vulnerability, affordability and AML compliance, as well as customer support and behavioural indicators of risk.
One of the Industry’s Leading Research Conferences
The International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking attracts researchers and industry professionals from across North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
Conference sessions explored a broad range of topics, including:
- Gambling behaviour and risk indicators
- Financial vulnerabilty
- Consumer protection
- Anti-money laundering initiatives
- Emerging technologies
- Artificial intelligence and behavioural analytics
- Responsible policy development
- Evidence-based intervention strategies
The conference provides an important opportunity for researchers, regulators, operators and policymakers to exchange ideas and examine how research can inform practical solutions across gambling environments.
Focal Showcases Research on Affordability, Risk and Customer Protection
Focal contributed two research presentations to the conference programme, examining different aspects of gambling-related harm, customer vulnerability and evidence-based interactions.
Tuesday, 26 May,
Detecting the Invisible: Smarter Approaches to Affordability and Overspending
Presented by Tracy Schrans, President & CEO
One of Focal’s featured presentations focused on affordability and financial vulnerability among gambling customers.
The presentation highlighted the development and validation of the Focal Adult Gambling Screen (FLAGS) and associated affordability constructs designed to assist in identifying customers who may be experiencing financial vulnerability before significant harms occur.
The research examined behavioural indicators, affordability considerations and approaches that move beyond simple spending thresholds.
A key theme of the presentation was that traditional affordability checks can sometimes fail to identify those most in need of support. Research findings demonstrated the value of combining behavioural indicators with validated screening approaches to better understand customer risk and vulnerability.
The work presented was based on peer-reviewed research involving participants across:
- Australia
- Canada
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
Attendees also learned about the Focal Affordability Model, which explores the concept of the “hidden at-risk customer” and how our model can help with AML compliance.
The model highlights how some financially vulnerable customers may not display obvious warning signs through traditional measures alone, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based behavioural approaches.
The presentation generated valuable discussion among researchers, operators and policymakers regarding future affordability initiatives and customer support strategies.
Download Focal’s Affordability Model infographic below.
Thursday, 28 May,
Is There a Right Time to Interact with Players in Long Gambling Machine Sessions?
Presented by Dr. Melissa Salmon, Senior Research Lead
Melissa’s presentation examined whether session length can provide meaningful insights into gambling risk and support more effective customer engagement strategies.
The research explored patterns associated with longer gambling machine sessions and considered how behavioural indicators may assist in identifying customers who could benefit from support.
Discussions focused on whether there are optimal opportunities for customer interactions during extended sessions and how evidence-based approaches can help venues better understand customer behaviour.
The presentation contributed to ongoing conversations regarding the use of behavioural analytics to support customer wellbeing while informing practical intervention strategies.
Sharing Knowledge and Building International Connections
Throughout the conference, attendees shared insights on emerging research, operational challenges and opportunities for collaboration.
Sessions explored topics ranging from behavioural science and customer protection to financial crime prevention and responsible innovation.
Industry leaders from research, entertainment, public policy and gaming organisations participated in keynote presentations and panel discussions examining risk-taking behaviour from multiple perspectives.
These conversations highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration when addressing complex social and behavioural issues.
One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity to engage directly with researchers, regulators, operators and industry stakeholders from around the world.
These discussions help strengthen relationships, encourage collaboration and support the ongoing exchange of ideas and best practices.
Looking Ahead
As gambling environments continue to evolve, research remains critical to understanding customer behaviour, identifying emerging risks and developing practical solutions that support both customers and operators.
Participation in events such as the International Conference on Gambling & Risk-Taking helps ensure that research findings continue to inform meaningful action across the gambling industry.
Focal remains committed to advancing evidence-based approaches through independent research, technology, stakeholder engagement and international collaboration.
By contributing research on affordability, financial vulnerability, and AML compliance as well as customer interaction strategies, Focal Research continues to support the development of practical solutions that help identify pre-harm risk and improve customer outcomes.
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