The iGaming Real Talk podcast has just unveiled a powerful new episode recorded live at AIBC Eurasia. In this installment, host Surya Palli is joined by Tom Light, representing FIRST, for a raw and unfiltered exploration of the future of the sports betting industry.
The dialogue traverses the evolving world of prediction markets, the complexities of US regulation, and a major exclusive reveal regarding AI technology.
AIBC Eurasia continues to solidify its reputation as the essential global summit for professionals working within the AI, blockchain, and iGaming sectors. This particular episode stands out as one of the most transparent and operator-honest discussions to emerge from the Dubai event floor.
Prediction Markets: Closer to Betting Than You Think
During the interview, Tom shares a compelling observation: approximately 95% of all contracts currently traded on major prediction platforms are directly sports-related. This statistic vividly illustrates how these emerging markets essentially mirror traditional sports betting products. While liquidity hurdles remain a practical reality, especially within micro-markets, the sector is creating significant opportunities for sophisticated betting syndicates and sharp traders.
He also presents a sharp regulatory perspective regarding North America. As the volume and popularity of prediction markets continue to surge, they may exert enough pressure on US states to accelerate the passage of formal sports betting legislation. This is a regulatory shift that industry stakeholders should monitor with great interest.
FIRST’s AI Breakthrough, Revealed Here First
The conversation reaches its peak as Tom discloses a massive technological milestone for FIRST. He reveals that the company now has the capability to simulate full 90-minute sporting events 20,000 times every two minutes. This massive computational power is dedicated to achieving precise, real-time pricing for complex, correlated bet builders—a technical challenge that has long plagued the global iGaming industry.
This podcast episode marks the very first time this specific innovation has been discussed in a public forum. It serves as a clear indicator of how aggressively FIRST is pivoting toward AI-driven solutions, while ensuring that human trading expertise and organic market performance remain central to their operations.
Building Responsibly: Ethics, Expansion, and the Name
Tom Light also offers listeners a look behind the scenes at FIRST’s strategic direction. He recounts the original story that inspired the company’s name and outlines the firm’s ambition to expand into specialized and geopolitical betting markets. He emphasizes that this growth is being managed with strict ethical boundaries in place, providing a rare look at how a modern, next-generation operator balances expansion with responsibility.
Watch or Listen Now
The complete interview with Tom Light is currently streaming on the iGaming Real Talk YouTube channel, as well as on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all other major audio platforms. You can visit igamingrealtalk.com to browse the full episode library and find instructions on how to join the exclusive WhatsApp community.
About iGaming Real Talk
Hosted by Surya Palli, iGaming Real Talk is dedicated to bringing authentic, high-level conversations with industry pioneers to a global audience. The podcast explores personal leadership journeys, exclusive tech announcements, and the shifting dynamics of the worldwide iGaming market.
About FIRST
FIRST is a cutting-edge sports betting solutions provider. The company offers sophisticated fixed-odds platforms characterized by rapid loading speeds and highly competitive odds, all supported by a veteran, dedicated trading team.
AIBC Eurasia Series
This episode is a featured part of the AIBC Eurasia Series on iGaming Real Talk, which captures on-the-ground, candid insights from the heart of the Dubai event. The series highlights critical trends in AI, blockchain, fintech, and the regulated iGaming sectors across the Middle East and international markets.
The series is proudly presented by Evoverse and GBO International Financial Services. Evoverse is a specialist in developing custom crypto iGaming products designed for organic growth. GBO International Financial Services has been a trusted partner for iGaming entrepreneurs since 2009, providing expertise in company formation, licensing, offshore banking, and software procurement.
