Connections That Win: iGaming Networking with Taras Pasechnik, CSO of DepToWin
- Maria Emmanuelle Arnidou
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Fresh off our vibrant presence at the MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025, we sat down with our very own Taras Pasechnik, Chief Sales Officer at DepToWin, to get his take on the event.
While our CEO Daniel Gunba took center stage at the MARE BALTICUM Summit 2025, Taras, the other driving force behind DepToWin, was just as active – building bridges, solidifying partnerships, and turning conversation into collaboration.
We caught up with Taras to reflect on his summit experience, the art of strategic iGaming networking, and what lies ahead for the Premium Choice in affiliate marketing.
iGaming Networking: The MARE BALTICUM Summit Experience
Taras, you were right in the heart of the action at MARE BALTICUM 2025. What were your first impressions of the summit?
My first impression of the MARE BALTICUM 2025 conference was that it was very warm and homely in character, like a lamp-lit affair where one feels comfortable and is ready to go deep in talk. Despite the fact that the conference was relatively small in terms of number, it actually worked in our favor. It allowed for more serious and more in-depth talks with new and prospective partners as well. The atmosphere promoted real connections and allowed for a sense of depth in our interactions that may be more difficult to find in the bigger, more sprawling conferences. That, in turn, allowed us to form stronger bonds and discover possible synergies in a manner that felt both intimate and productive.
How would you describe the energy and conversations happening in Vilnius? Were there any themes or trends you saw gaining momentum?
There was a particular charm to the MARE BALTICUM Gaming & Tech Summit in Vilnius, a close-knit feel that enabled innovative thinking and also useful connections to be established. Although a smaller conference, the feeling was such that attendees were able to mix and network during the coffee section, where individuals would duck out of panels to get a cup of coffee and meet others.
I especially enjoyed the "Inside Law: Regulatory Challenges and Legal Risks in Multijurisdictional iGaming session” in Stage 1, which was particularly informative regarding the regulatory landscape and legal risks of operating multijurisdictional iGaming.
I also stopped by my colleague Daniel Gunba's panel, "Future-Proofing iGaming: Payments, Web3, and Player-Centric Innovation", at Stage 2.
In this session, they talked about the newest trends and innovations in iGaming, such as payments, Web3, and player-centric innovation. An interesting example was how personalised loyalty programmes can be implemented and how they can enhance player engagement and retention. The presentation emphasised the need for innovation and player-centered experiences in iGaming, and how new trends such as Web3 and crypto adoption can be leveraged to provide improved player experiences and grow the industry.
Networking & Partnerships Takeaways
In your view, what makes a partnership valuable in this industry – and how do you spot the difference between hype and real synergy?
I see some key factors in this:
shared goals and vision, where partners with shared goals and a clear idea of each other's strengths and weaknesses.
complementary skills: partners with different abilities, technologies, or access to markets that complement one another's products.
Trust: A basis of reliability and transparency that allows for close collaboration and long-term affiliations.
The difference between hype and real synergy can be noticed from many angles. One I can spot is long-term commitment on a basis of trust and openness. The cooperation proven over time gives tangible results without a doubt.
Were there any conversations or connections that sparked exciting new opportunities for DepToWin?
Our participation at MARE BALTICUM opened up promising new directions for DepToWin in the form of partnerships and collaborations. The most important thing is that those collaborations are transforming to tangible business results.
DepToWin Direction – the Future Awaits!
How did our presence at MARE BALTICUM reinforce DepToWin’s positioning as the premium choice for affiliates – in the Baltics and beyond?
Our involvement in MARE BALTICUM solidified the status of DepToWin as the high-end option for Baltics and other regions. We presented our expertise, and expressed our dedication to quality services, which by the way was recognized by 2 separate awards we obtained on the conference award ceremony.
How do you see DepToWin’s affiliate strategy evolving after the summit? Are there any key takeaways that will shape your approach moving forward?
At DepToWin, our strategy remains steadfast, built on solid and transparent development with our partners, both existing and new. We prioritise win-win collaborations, where mutual success is the ultimate goal, across all product areas and verticals.
One key takeaway is the power of meaningful discussions around interesting and аctual topics as a catalyst for effective networking. Engaging with industry peers and thought leaders on relevant issues can spark valuable connections, foster collaboration.
DepToWin Partners is about building a more personal, premium affiliate ecosystem. What does that look like in practice for you as CSO?
As CSO, my approach to building a personal, premium affiliate ecosystem involves cultivating strong relationships with affiliates, brands, and traffic providers.
Only working closely with our counterparties gives us the chance to identify opportunities or mitigate the mutual risks and drive real results.
Looking Ahead – DepToWin & the Gaming Industry
Where do you see the most exciting opportunities for DepToWin in the second half of 2025?
We are looking forward to an exciting second half of 2025; we'll focus on expanding into new markets and deepening our partnerships. We're also set to launch new products and services that will drive growth and deliver more value to our partners and customers.
If you had to sum up your vision for DepToWin in one sentence – especially after this summit – what would it be?
Our vision for DepToWin is to become the easy and positive go-to partner in the iGaming industry, known for our premium services, innovative approach, and commitment to delivering exceptional results. At the end of the day it should not only bring results, but a piece of fun too!
The MARE BALTICUM Summit is a networking and learning conference for the Gaming and Tech industries in the Baltics. Taking into consideration your professional experience, and this year’s Summit, where do you see the region’s Gaming industry heading beyond 2025?
Overall, there is an obvious shift in the region from land-based casinos to the digital world. In Estonia, we expect a focus on digital innovation; in Latvia, regulatory developments will shape the market; and in Lithuania, a growing player base will create new opportunities. We'll stay agile and adapt to these changes to remain competitive and thrive in the region.