WPT Targets Two Growth Markets with FansUnite Deal

October 10th, 2018 | by Brian Corlisse

The convergence between online poker and blockchain-based technology continued recently after the World Poker Tour (WPT) joined forces with FansUnite Entertainment Inc.

FansUnite co-founders Duncan McIntyre and Darius Eghdami have struck a deal with the WPT. (Image: medium.com)

Announced on October 9, the a multi-faceted-deal that will see the two companies promote each other’s services across various platforms, including live events, TV and social media.

WPT Embracing Innovation

In addition to providing new marketing opportunities, the deal partnership be a chance for poker players to become more familiar with the next generation of betting technology.

“This partnership introduces FansUnite to millions of poker fans across the globe and gives WPT partners the first look at our industry-changing technology,” FansUnite CEO Darius Eghdami said in the October 9 press release.

For the WPT, the timing of the deal ties in with the ongoing cryptocurrency boom as well as the advent of regulated sports betting in the US. Although the tournament operator hasn’t announced plans to offer a blockchain-based poker product, its partner does.

This not only gives the WPT a footing in the crypto space but the potential to utilize FansUnite’s technology in the future.

While 2018 has seen the hype surrounding cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin subside, the industry is still growing. As well as innovations outside the poker world, a number of companies are working with blockchain technology to develop the next generation of gaming sites.

The WPT will initially look to capitalize on the interest in this technology before exploring other business opportunities.

Connecting Poker, Sports and Cryptos

Beyond its new links to the crypto market, the WPT will also have the ability to ride the sports betting wave sweeping the US. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), operators across the industry have been scrambling for position.

Already, GVC and MGM have forged a $200 million partnership to offer sports betting in regulated states, as have William Hill and Paddy Power. The WPT’s involvement in the sports betting sector may be more indirect than its peers, but scope for growth is there.

What’s more, for the poker industry at large, the latest collaboration is another example of the industry’s evolution. As technology improves and laws change, more crossover opportunities are being created.

By partnering with FansUnite, the WPT is straddling two emerging markets for its own benefit whilst simultaneously helping to connect poker players to the latest innovations outside of the game.