SBC and Conversion Conf Partner for Affiliate Leaders Summit 2026

The iGaming events world is witnessing an exciting new development: SBC, a global events and media business, has forged a strategic partnership with Conversion Conf. The goal is to strengthen the Affiliate Leaders Summit 2026. This collaboration promises to become a leading event for the global affiliate and performance marketing industry. I have closely followed developments in this sector since 1997, and such alliances are often trendsetting. The event will take place from September 29 to October 1, 2026, in Lisbon. The venues are the Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) and the MEO Arena. Up to 10,000 affiliates, media buyers, operator acquisition teams, and other industry stakeholders are expected. The summit offers a mix of specialist conferences, targeted networking opportunities, and a dedicated exhibition. Everything is tailored to the specific needs of this community. This event is a must-attend for all those operating in the highly competitive online gambling market. It's about identifying new trends and solidifying one's position.

Numbers and facts

The cooperation between SBC and Conversion Conf is intended to expand the international reach of the Affiliate Leaders Summit and enhance its conference program. Conversion Conf is known for its international affiliate events and contributions to community building. They bring their expertise to shape the program and attract leading industry voices. The entire SBC Summit experience, which includes the Affiliate Leaders Summit, expects 40,000 industry professionals in Lisbon. This underscores the enormous importance of this event for the entire iGaming industry. Attendees of the Affiliate Leaders Summit will gain access to the broader event ecosystem. They can connect with operators, suppliers, payment specialists, and technology providers. Key decision-makers from the global betting and gaming industry will also be present. A true highlight will be the “Super Stage” at the MEO Arena. High-profile keynote sessions are planned there, including a discussion on “Leadership in Sports Business.” Participants include basketball icon, investor, and philanthropist Michael Jordan, Sportradar Founder and CEO Carsten Koerl, and DraftKings Co-Founder and CEO Jason Robins. A lively atmosphere is guaranteed at the official closing party, INFINITY Lisbon, with Grammy-winning DJ Tiësto headlining. All this demonstrates the effort put into creating a top-tier event.

Background

Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and founder of SBC, commented on the partnership. He emphasized that the affiliate and performance marketing sector has evolved significantly in recent years. This evolution requires a more focused event tailored to the unique priorities and opportunities of the community. He sees the new partnership as a logical step to improve the experience for participants.

"The affiliate and performance marketing sector has evolved considerably in recent years, and with that evolution has come the need for a more focused event built around the community's unique priorities and opportunities." - Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC

Lana Rossi, CEO of Conversion Conf, was also enthusiastic. She appreciates what SBC has built over the years. It is exciting to play a role in the continued growth of the Affiliate Leaders Summit. She looks forward to working closely with the SBC team. Such events are crucial for feeling the pulse of the industry.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, a conference in Lisbon might seem irrelevant at first glance. However, the Affiliate Leaders Summit indirectly impacts online gambling in Germany. Affiliate marketing is an important channel to draw players' attention to online casinos. If affiliates exchange ideas on new strategies and technologies, this can influence how German casino providers attract customers. The State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) has heavily regulated online gambling in Germany. Providers must hold a license from the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) to operate legally. The GlüStV 2021 also brings strict rules: a betting limit of 1 euro per spin on slot machines and a monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros. Furthermore, the LUGAS system monitors compliance with these limits and prevents simultaneous play at multiple providers. All these regulations must be observed by affiliates when targeting German players. The conference in Lisbon offers a platform where marketing strategies are discussed. These strategies must always be in line with local laws. The discussions in Lisbon could therefore ultimately lead to more creative and at the same time legally compliant marketing approaches for the German market. It is a constant struggle for balance between player interest and regulatory requirements. It remains to be seen what marketing innovations will emerge from this.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For GGL-licensed casinos in Germany, developments in affiliate marketing mean constant adaptation. Marketing activities must be precisely aligned with the requirements of the GlüStV 2021. Every affiliate promoting a German, GGL-licensed online casino must adhere to strict rules for gambling advertising. This includes, for example, the prohibition of advertising directed at minors or a glorifying depiction of gambling. Advertising messages must be serious and not misleading. At the Affiliate Leaders Summit, GGL casinos or their partners could discover new ways to successfully market under these conditions. It is no longer about aggressive bonus offers or dazzling promises. Instead, responsible advertising is in the foreground. This must inform players about the risks while highlighting the attractiveness of the legal offer. Exchange at such a large conference can provide valuable impulses on how GGL casinos can assert themselves in competition and at the same time fulfill their license conditions. The German market is particularly demanding due to its strict requirements. Only those who understand the rules and find creative, compliant marketing solutions will be successful here in the long term. Therefore, it is important that German interests are also represented at such international conferences.