One year ago, Vladimir Malakchi, the former Chief Commercial Officer of Evoplay and industry veteran, launched Xanada Investments – an investment fund focused on financing promising startups across various markets and niches in the iGaming sector.

Vladimir’s career is marked by bold decisions and an unwavering commitment to growth. SBC Eurasia asked him 10 questions about his journey, the pivotal choices that shaped his path, and how he reached the success he enjoys today.

– What was your first job and what led you to pursue a career in the iGaming industry?

– Before stepping into the iGaming industry, I worked in Crypto and Fintech, focusing on innovative financial technologies. My career took a significant turn in 2018 during an offline meetup, where one of the speakers shared fascinating insights into iGaming – its reliance on numbers, audience behavior, and dynamic strategies – which immediately captured my interest. That moment inspired me to dive deeper into the industry, eventually landing my first major role as CBDO at Evoplay. This position became the foundation for my understanding of the industry and set the stage for everything I’ve accomplished since.

– What was the single biggest turning point in your career?

– The boldest decision I ever made was transitioning into the gambling industry—and later into investment. Gambling became the catalyst that shaped my career and opened the doors to where I am today. It taught me how to think strategically and understand the delicate balance between hard work and enjoyment – a unique aspect of this industry. It’s a business where you work intensely, yet there’s a distinct sense of relaxation. This decision paved the way for every major milestone in my career.

– What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

– The biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career revolve around adapting to the ever-changing market dynamics and learning to navigate them effectively. Some aspects, like improving processes or building strong teams, are within my control. However, external factors – regulatory changes, market shifts, or economic turbulence – demand quick thinking and flexibility. Overcoming these challenges means staying informed, analyzing trends, and always being ready to pivot when needed. It’s all about focusing on what you can influence while staying prepared for what you can’t. 

– Who has been the key mentor in your career, and what is the best piece of advice you ever received that still drives your work today?

– My first mentor had a transformative impact on my career, completely reshaping my mindset and approach for two years ahead. However, I don’t limit myself to learning from just one person. I constantly learn from colleagues, partners, and even team members. If I hire someone, I trust their expertise in a specific area. The best advice I’ve received – and still live by – is to listen carefully, analyze critically, and always keep learning from those around me.

– What advice would you offer to those just beginning their journey in the industry?

– Develop critical thinking and embrace feedback. Many people resist criticism, but learning to listen and adapt is crucial for growth. Take the time to learn from the experiences of others—there’s so much value in their lessons. I’ve seen talented individuals miss opportunities simply because they couldn’t accept input or consider alternative perspectives. Listen to the experts in your field, let their insights guide you, and use that foundation to forge your own unique path.

– You’ve seen the iGaming industry evolve over the years. What are the biggest changes you’ve witnessed, and where do you think the industry is heading next?

– While the iGaming industry hasn’t seen monumental shifts, its evolution has been steady. A significant turning point came during COVID-19, as offline audiences transitioned online. A key trend today is gamification, which focuses on retention over acquisition. Companies are leveraging loyalty programs, gamified mechanics, and social features to keep users engaged long-term.

AI has also become a game-changer, enabling personalized gaming experiences and real-time analysis of player behavior. This allows businesses to adapt to user preferences and deliver more immersive interactions. The future of iGaming lies in retention and personalization, driven by data and innovative technologies.

– You’ve made bold moves throughout your career. Do you have a personal mantra or philosophy that guides your professional decisions?

– “Aut vincere, aut mori” – either win or die. This isn’t just a mantra; it’s a mindset. Every goal I set becomes a mission, and I pursue it relentlessly. Losing doesn’t mean failure – it’s just a battle lost, not the war. When a project doesn’t succeed, I see it as an opportunity to learn, recalibrate, and rise stronger. Every setback is a stepping stone towards achieving greater heights.

– What accomplishment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

– I’m most proud of mentoring talented top managers who now lead major branches and companies. I vividly remember meeting them at the start of their careers, recognizing their potential, and helping them grow beyond their initial expectations. Knowing I’ve played a part in shaping their success is incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me why I do what I do – because creating value in others is the most rewarding accomplishment.

– iGaming is known for its fast-paced and innovative environment. How do you stay inspired and maintain your creativity amidst the industry’s rapid evolution?

– For me, it’s not about inspiration – it’s about discipline. Creativity comes and goes, but discipline is constant. When you have a clear goal, you stick to it and make it happen. Without discipline, you risk losing everything. It’s the cornerstone of my approach to work, ensuring that no matter how fast the industry evolves, I stay on track.

– Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your career? What lessons have you learned from any missteps or regrets?

– I have no regrets because every mistake has been a valuable lesson that brought me to where I am today. The key is to avoid repeating the same mistakes twice. I’m grateful for all my experiences, even the costly ones because they’ve shaped my journey. If you lose money but gain knowledge and resilience, you’re still ahead.

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