Our guest’s bio in a few words: 

• Over 25 years of experience in SEO, performance marketing, and AI-powered strategies.
• Oversaw more than €2 billion in global advertising budgets.
• Instrumental in launching BetMGM’s transition to online in the U.S. market.
• Specialises in crisis management.
• Deep expertise in affiliate marketing, building, and scaling programs in highly competitive sectors.
• Regular speaker at international conferences (Affiliate World, SEO/Marketing summits).

Early Failures and Major Lessons

The first business Sergejs tried to build was a student travel startup. Big idea, tons of excitement, but he soon learnt his first lesson: great ideas are worth little if they don’t come with proper skills. “Even a cool idea requires thorough research, analytics, and proper forecasting and planning. When we were young and excited, we had an amazing idea that students would enjoy traveling. However, we learned that execution is equally important.”

Next up: a discount platform, long before Groupon. A solid team of 10 passionate minds, and an idea that clicked: “We created a website to provide discount codes for potential buyers across different services and products. We believed it was a perfect way for companies to meet their clients and for clients to save money. The idea was strong. We gathered a very good team of ten people who were passionate about the topic.”

But they launched only in Latvia, limiting their reach. “The biggest mistake from my perspective was that we decided to go locally. The model did not work from a financial perspective.” Over time, the team lost motivation: “We started with ten people and lost team members throughout that journey. I remember we finished the project with only two people.”

Lesson learned loud and clear:

Discovering the Passion for Marketing

Sergejs didn’t start as a marketer, but rather went into coding. He enjoyed developing websites for a while, working with medium-sized companies, but soon realized that building a website is not enough. It’s very important to get the traffic.

Seeing a client site hit top spots hooked him: “When I saw my client’s website in the top positions, it provided a personal rush of achievement. It was very rewarding for my ego, and it paid well.” And then his first big break — being noticed abroad, when Sergejs was headhunted to come to London to work in a boutique marketing agency from Eastern Europe.

Managing €2 Billion in Budgets

Now we finally arrive at the big figures. “So what is the mindset behind such big budgets, and what are the life rules to control and not just to control but effectively manage those budgets?” Vasilii asks. Yes, handling €2 billion isn’t just math — it’s a mindset. Sergejs’ answer? Focus on ROI, always.

“The size of your budget is less important than your return on investment. If you can forecast, analyze, and provide tangible results — delivering a strong return on every dollar or euro spent — then the budget can grow.”

The idea is simple: build a portfolio that could absorb failures that will be there anyway. Campaigns will fly, others will fail, some others still will fall in between — but if your return on investment in general is in the black and the clients are happy, you’re doing well.

Risk management demanded careful budget allocation. One of the really good examples Sergejs had was with a viral video campaign where his team allocated 10% of the budget, and the target was to go viral. But if the campaign was to fail, they would not accrue any real losses for the client because only 10% of the budget was allocated. This calculated approach to uncertainty became the foundation of sustainable campaign management.

Case Study: BetMGM Launch

The BetMGM launch became Sergejs’ biggest test and the most high-profile campaign. MGM, one of the largest gaming organizations in the United States, had a vision to expand online. Despite their land-based success, they recognized their lack of experience and understanding in the digital space. They possessed nearly unlimited resources and a strong passion to establish an online presence.

MGM didn’t mess around with resources.“We’ve been given very little time not only to launch the new brand, but also to start competing with existing players.” Sergejs watched their team explode from a few dozen people in a New Jersey office to over 700 employees as the campaign gained momentum.

But the real challenge was compliance. Online gambling’s state-by-state patchwork meant sports betting was legal in one jurisdiction and banned across the state line.

The execution was flawless when it mattered — MGM’s online ambitions became reality without the compliance headaches that sink other operators.

Crisis & Recovery: Traffic Crash to Scaling Teams

After BetMGM, Sergejs joined an affiliate company and walked into a disaster. Google’s algorithm update had crushed the affiliate company’s flagship websites — 80% of their traffic vanished overnight: “When I joined the organization, I arrived at the office to find it looked quite sad and gloomy due to the many empty desks.”

It was a grind with twenty-four-seven schedules. Sergejs got backing from the founders, and they started dissecting problems market by market: “I received excellent support from the founders. We began pinpointing the issues in different markets and implemented changes rapidly. It was a period of intense stress and long hours, but within just a few months, we managed to recover all the traffic.”

Recovery turned into growth. Revenue climbed, hiring resumed, and those empty desks filled up again. “We began in a gloomy, dark place and ended in an environment full of light, joy, and smiles.”

Traffic recovery was only half the battle. Brand perception mattered just as much: “It wasn’t only about the traffic — it was about the image and how we portrayed the brand. This is a very important part of public relations.”

The PR push went beyond customers. They needed talent, especially from Ukraine and other European markets:

Linkbuilding, Brands vs Affiliates, and SEO Today

Sergejs laughs when talking about the “ancient times” when link building was simpler: “In the past, link building was almost entirely organic; you could publish an article, and it would naturally attract links from other websites. Nowadays, you must invest significant time and money to provide enough value to earn those links.”

The winning formula combines everything — good links, bad links, crowd links, blog links. Google wants to see natural link profiles that prove you’re earning attention through real value, not manipulation.

Brands have advantages but face their own problems: “Building a SEO brand can be somewhat easier, but you must also contend with brand parasites.”

AI in Marketing: Content, Custom GPTs & Tools

On AI content, Sergejs is sharp. Using ChatGPT to pump out quick articles for traffic is pointless, in his opinion — the quality of the content would be poor, and the value of the content is minimal. But AI becomes powerful when you use it right. For example, to analyze big chunks of data, to create a unique angle, or to find unique facts and combine them with human expertise

Sergejs has seen pure AI articles perform well and generate traffic, but that’s not the standard approach. Custom GPTs take this further. “Custom GPTs are a tailor-made solution. When you use a custom GPT, it solves your specific problems and helps you achieve your own goals.”

His toolkit is straightforward: “We rely heavily on ChatGPT and OpenAI. I love the tool and its capabilities. In second place is Perplexity, which is amazing for research. The third is Google Gemini. I’m not a big fan, but I always try it to see how it’s developing.”

Philosophy & Work-Life Balance

Sergejs handles pressure the way most people should but rarely do — he gets outside. “Nature walks, the seaside, and the forest can provide tranquility. I started attending meditation and tried to combine work with sports as part of finding a work-life balance.” However, he admits: “I try to work 24/7 and spend the remaining time on restful activities.”

His take on Gen Z splits two ways. The old-school answer says they need to grind like previous generations did — work hard, suffer through it, earn their stripes. The evolved answer recognizes that if their approach achieves their goals, work-life balance matters more than tradition.

Sergejs mentions that Latvia anchors him. He calls it “the best place to live”. It is beautiful, safe, and has an amazing culture and wonderful people.

Money, Regrets & Advice

Sergejs started selling when he was twelve, and the first money came early: 

His biggest personal investment was British education — Oxford attempts, University of London success, all self-funded. Albion was his dream, and it was all the more enjoyable because he managed to fund his education independently.

And the deepest regret? “Not launching the discount website globally. After I saw how Groupon developed, I realized the project’s full potential. I think it was my biggest mistake.” Sometimes timing and persistence matter more than the idea itself.

His favorite advice balances planning with presence: “It is important to plan ahead, but it’s also important to live in the moment.”

Conclusion

Sergejs’ career tracks marketing’s evolution—from Google crashes to BetMGM launches, from keyword stuffing to AI content. His journey illustrates how marketing reinvents itself. Sergejs represents marketers who built their expertise through multiple technology cycles with a combination of technical depth, strategic thinking, and personal grounding. And perhaps this is exactly what’s needed for a sustainable success in our industry.

If you want to get more grains of wisdom from Sergejs Ponomarjovs, check out his LinkedIn page. And of course, stay tuned for more articles about affiliate marketing and all things Internet with Peaky Ads.

Сообщение AI marketing, US elections, Custom GPTs: Sergejs Ponomarjovs & 2 BILLION $ campaigns появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

In the “Where Is My Money?” podcast, Peaky Ads CEO Vasilii Gamov and Olalekan Joseph Oyekunle (iGaming Expert) share an in-depth analysis of the Kenyan iGaming market. Here’s a structured recap of their expert discussion, with added commentary, figures, and insights.

Why does Kenya stand out among iGaming GEOs?

Kenya’s digital infrastructure and youth-driven audience set it apart in Africa’s iGaming landscape. Over 88% of bettors use smartphones, and over 70% of all transactions are processed via M-Pesa, a dominant mobile money platform.

Why Kenya stands out

• Youthful demographic: Most players are between 18 and 35.
  
• Tech-savvy users: Internet access rate is 40.8% (mainly via smartphones).
  
• Market forecast: By 2029, Kenya’s market is expected to reach $1.03 billion GGR and 1.6 million active players. Sports betting alone is projected to hit $159.2 million.

Kenya’s market is distinguished by a young, tech-driven audience that prefers mobile betting over traditional desktop platforms,

Olalekan Joseph Oyekunle

iGaming Expert

Regulation for iGaming: structured but demanding

Kenya operates one of Africa’s most transparent yet demanding regulatory systems, managed by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).

To operate legally in Kenya, companies must:

• Register a local entity — this applies to all companies, even if they are foreign.
  
• Submit a detailed business plan that complies with BCLB standards.
  
• Apply for separate sports betting and online casino licenses (if planning to run both niches).
  

Licensing Requirement	Details
Local company registration	Mandatory for foreign and domestic operators
Licensing authority	Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB)
Estimated licensing fee	$20,000–$25,000 (case-specific)
Online-only licenses available	Yes, including casino and sports betting

Taxation for iGaming in Kenya: deep dive

Tax policy in Kenya is fixed and applies primarily to players:

Player behavior: volume over value

Kenyan players wager little but often. With relatively low wages, the average bet size is small, but the number of wagers is high.

Typical player profile

• Daily bet size: $1–$3.
  
• Monthly betting volume: 15 bets per user.
  
• Income: $250–$300/month (urban average).
  
• Live betting preference: 60% of players favor real-time betting.

Despite the small bet sizes, operators can still achieve profitability through volume-driven acquisition and clever retention tactics.

There is also a VIP tier of players — typically business owners or entrepreneurs — who bet between $10 and $15 daily and respond well to personal outreach and exclusive offers.

Bonuses & retention: what players expect

A bonus strategy is everything in a market with high competition and low loyalty.

Effective bonus types for iGaming in Kenya:

• Welcome bonus.
  Extra funds or free bets upon signup.
  
• Deposit bonus.
  Matches the percentage of the initial deposit.
  
• Cross-vertical bonus.
  A reward for switching between sports and the casino.
  
• Loyalty points.
  Redeemable for bets or cash.

Retention also requires local support teams, VIP managers, and personalized offers. Players in Kenya are highly responsive to direct communication, primarily through SMS and mobile push notifications.

Key payment methods in Kenya

The Kenyan iGaming ecosystem could not function without M-Pesa, with over 30 million users, it enables near-instant deposits and withdrawals via mobile phones.

Operators are strongly advised to implement multiple payment methods to ensure business continuity and avoid user frustration during technical downtimes.

Marketing sources for iGaming in Kenya

In Kenya, marketing is vibrant but tightly regulated. The BCLB must pre-approve all advertising, including slogans, jingles, and SMS campaigns.

Popular marketing channels

• Billboards (especially digital ones — only allowed during 6–9 PM).
  
• Local radio is particularly effective in rural areas.
  
• SMS marketing is legal if pre-approved.
  
• Affiliate and influencer marketing, through blogs and football pages.
  
• TV and print are less dominant than mobile formats.

SMS marketing: legal and effective
Unlike in Europe or North America, where SMS is often considered spam, Kenya treats SMS as a white-hat channel, so long as it’s registered and approved.

This makes SMS one of the most direct and reliable outreach tools, especially in areas with poor internet penetration.

Risks and challenges to expect

Despite its attractiveness, Kenya’s iGaming market has its friction points.

Key risks for operators:

• Policy instability.
  Tax rates can change with little notice (e.g., 10% → 20%).
  
• Slow approvals.
  BCLB’s bureaucracy can delay campaigns or launches.
  
• Technical downtime.
  Mobile payment systems may fail without proper redundancy.
  
• Fierce competition.
  Over 50 licensed operators plus offshore rivals.
  

Operators must also consider compliance fatigue, especially if they plan to expand cross-border into multiple African markets. Kenya may be more structured, but its rules shift fast.

What is the future of iGaming in Kenya?

Kenya’s iGaming evolution isn’t just about growth — it’s about diversification. As football seasons come, operators must offer more than sports betting.

Growing verticals to choose from:

• Crash games (e.g., Aviator)
• Virtual sports
• Esports betting
• Mobile-friendly casino games

Cultural relevance also matters. In Kenya, English-speaking leagues like the Premier League dominate. In francophone Africa, the Ligue 1 or other European leagues take precedence. Constantly localize by language and fanbase.

Conclusion

Kenya’s iGaming market offers scale, speed, and structure, but it is not without its share of work. The opportunity is real for operators who understand the nuances and can adapt to the local mindset.

As Joseph summed it up:

Want more content like this?

Check out the Peaky Ads podcast archive.
Visit our blog at https://peakyads.com/blog/.

Сообщение Kenya iGaming Market: Opportunities, Regulation, and Marketing Tactics появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

EVADAV AD NETWORK

At its core, EVADAV AD NETWORK delivers a highly flexible suite for traffic monetization. You get pop and push notifications ads, banners, native and in-page ads — all optimized by CPM, CPC, CPA, and revenue share models. It’s one of the few platforms that supports the majority of marketing verticals: from VPN to finance, from iGaming to e‑commerce. With over 150 ad network integrations and a slew of exclusive offers, this platform is a real catch. EVADAV AD NETWORK was listed in the top 20 ad platforms worldwide.

EVADAV PERFORMANCE

This is where media buying gets serious. Designed for advertisers with CPA and RevShare objectives, EVADAV PERFORMANCE makes the most of in-house R&D and media buying expertise to optimize large-scale campaigns. Benefit from dynamic budget optimization, exclusive advertising offers, and data-driven adjustments that maximize your campaign performance and ROI.

EVADAV MOBILE APPS

Not an afterthought, but a full-service branch: in-house development for iOS and Android, concentrating on utilities, VPNs, and AI apps. EVADAV MOBILE APPS isn’t just agency work, but first-party product development, distribution, and scaling into global app markets.

EVADAV SEARCH ARBITRAGE

Another strength of the platform — algorithmic media buying across Google and Yahoo feeds using AFD/AFS (RSoC) setups. EVADAV SEARCH ARBITRAGE is a tech-heavy white vertical with direct partnerships, proprietary infrastructure, and optimized bids, limitless resources and broad expertise in monetizing search traffic.

EVADAV ACADEMY

This is a true training ground for tomorrow’s ad-tech leaders. Based in Prague and Warsaw, EVADAV ACADEMY offers mentorship, real-case experience, and an immersion into their operational playbooks. For any aspiring digital marketer, it’s like an in-house MBA in a media buying academy.

In its entirety, EVADAV isn’t just “another network.” It’s a full-stack ad powerhouse built on vertical depth, pricing flexibility, and strategically scaled expertise.If you’re ready for a career change, it’s your chance to begin a new journey with EVADAV. Explore open positions and join a dynamic team committed to innovation and excellence.

Registration and dashboard

Getting started with EVADAV feels less like wrestling with paperwork and more like diving straight into performance — and that slick onboarding experience is a recurring highlight in customer reviews. To kick things off, you will need to choose between publisher/advertiser profiles based on your needs and provide an email:

As you sign up, you’ll receive an email with the next steps, along with a promo code for an extra $10 to your balance. Once you’ve verified your account, a dedicated manager will be assigned to assist you in getting started.

To run your ad campaigns, you need to top up your balance with a minimum deposit of $100. The list of accepted payment methods is actually huge and includes all the popular systems such as PayPal, Paxum, Payoneer, Neteller, Skrill (and many more), plus crypto and wire transfers.
In a special collaboration with Peaky Ads, EVADAV is offering a limited-time bonus.

Use promo code «peakyads» on a $200 deposit and unlock additional $25.

The dashboard in general is very intuitive: it lists all the tabs one needs on the left-hand side of the screen — creatives, targeting, metrics — all on one page and just a click away.  Creating a campaign is within a single page: choose your format, geo, budget, creatives, and tracking macros, hit save, and you’re good to go.

Beyond setup, the dashboard is rich in analytics. Real-time stats, macros, and traffic source breakdowns help you spot underperformers and quickly change your approach. A manager’s suggestions (like recommending fitting traffic sources) often pop up right alongside your dashboard options:

EVADAV’s FAQ for advertisers and publishers is a whole hub  in itself: this resource is designed to get you up and running fast — whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

• Information on supported formats.
• Details on acceptable creatives and prohibited content.
• Insights into geographic, device, and browser targeting.
• Instructions on campaign moderation, frequency capping, and blacklisting.
• Assistance with code installation and widget setup for publishers.
• Tips on maximizing earnings through effective ad placement.

Whether you’re setting up your first campaign or optimizing an existing one, this guide has you covered. If you have any remaining questions, you can always contact your personal manager through your account or reach out to the support team via Skype, Telegram, or email.

EVADAV’s Ad Formats

When you dive into EVADAV AD NETWORK, you’re stepping into a whole toolbox of formats designed to work in perfect harmony — whether you’re monetizing a site or launching a campaign. Let’s run a quick breakdown of how each format delivers value.

Popunder

• For publishers: these ads open behind the main window, ensuring visibility without disrupting the user. Easy to integrate, adaptive across devices, and based on CPM — you earn per impression while maintaining UX integrity.
  
• For advertisers: popunders deliver results with high CPM rates and solid conversion in niches like igaming, finance, dating, and sweepstakes. It’s a format with solid traffic volume and scaling potential.

Push Notifications

• For publishers: a push subscriber base is game-changer — these instant notifications bypass ad blockers and land directly on user devices.
  
• For advertisers: with over 2–3 billion daily impressions, push gives you direct access to opted-in audiences. Low CPC and high CTRs make it perfect for more assertive campaigns across dating, gambling, finance, and utilities verticals.

In‑Page Ads

• For publishers: like a well-placed billboard — non-intrusive, iOS-friendly, and friction-free. With no opt-in needed, these are seamless monetization on autopilot.
  
• For advertisers: it feels native to readers but performs even better than push—CTR is reported to be 25% higher. Ideal for traffic-sensitive verticals.

Native Ads

• For publishers: these blend in so well they feel like an editorial piece — non-disruptive, but still labelled to prevent banner blindness.
  
• For advertisers: native formats deliver CTRs up to eight times higher than banners. Perfect for long-term content campaigns, especially in finance and e-commerce verticals.

And a special mention — programmatic integration. If you want automation, EVADAV , as a programmatic ad platform supports programmatic routes — APIs and RTB-ready integration to accelerate bidding, simplify workflow, and tap premium inventory. Ideal for scaling at professional speed.

These formats aren’t just diverse — they’re complementary. Publishers can seamlessly  maximize earnings while maintaining UX integrity. Advertisers can tailor each format, leveraging volume to match campaign objectives for different verticals.

EVADAV TRAFFIC GROUP Pros & Cons: Is This Ad Network Right for You?

To talk about pros and cons of EVADAV AD NETWORK , we will rely on users’ opinions that can be found online, because it’s one thing to flip through the catalogue of ad formats, and it’s another to actually launch ad campaigns or integrate ads into your web resources.

As for the upsides, users note the following:

• High‑quality, convertible traffic: many users report strong ROI, especially in verticals like finance, dating, and e‑commerce — a key indicator of their targeting quality.
• Flexible ad formats and powerful targeting: whether it’s pops, push, native, banners, or in‑page messaging, and CPC to CPA models — EVADAV offers the full toolkit to support diverse campaign strategies.
• Responsive and professional support: marketers mention timely responses and hands‑on help.
• Beginner‑friendly platform: the interface is clean and intuitive, with built‑in analytics that make campaign monitoring a breeze — even for newcomers.
• Welcoming small publishers: this ad network for publishers has no minimum  thresholds and a friendly entry for indie bloggers and niche sites, but they can yet scale easily when they are ready.
• Cutting‑edge infrastructure and modern tech stack: up‑to‑date mobile ad delivery systems, efficient review processes, and a proactive technical team.
• The referral program: users also mention it as a solid plus, quoting “$50 for advertisers spending $500+, 5% from publishers’ spend”.

And by way of weaker points, there are mentions of a learning curve (the network is extensive and it might take some time for a newcomer to fully navigate its services), higher competition in certain popular verticals (like dating or iGaming), which can affect margins, and the lack of a WordPress plugin, though most users still find the integration manageable through existing third‑party plugins or header tag tools.

Conclusion

EVADAV TRAFFIC GROUP is a powerful, all-around solution for those who want more than just a simple ad network. It’s a cluster of companies  that combine media buying expertise, extensive ad format options, specialized divisions, and education initiatives — designed to maximize profits across numerous verticals. Whether you’re a publisher looking to monetize your inventory or a media buyer searching for high-converting campaigns, EVADAV brings a scalable, flexible approach backed by years of industry expertise.

Сообщение EVADAV TRAFFIC GROUP Review 2025 появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

The post explains the core difference between short-term SEO tactics and the process of building long-term digital products. Below, you’ll find out why MightyTips and SlotsJudge stand out, what defines an actual SEO product in 2025, and why technical execution without product thinking is no longer enough!

In the article, you’ll find expertise from:

• Evgenii Aralov, CEO of SEOBROTHERS
• Eugene Ravdin, Head of PR at SEOBROTHERS
• Jekaterina Dubnicka, Head of Marketing at SlotsJudge

Why do SEO products need to be more than just websites?

The SEOBROTHERS team doesn’t treat SEO as a standalone activity. It’s part of the product lifecycle. Their core principle is that rankings, traffic, and revenue should emerge from building something meaningful—something users trust and want to return to.

This means structured architecture, editorial credibility, ongoing content operations, and a recognizable brand. The focus is not on manipulating algorithms but on building ecosystems.

Benchmarking product-led SEO vs affiliate-first sites

SEOBROTHERS tracks how various industry players have fared over the past year. The performance differences between product-led and thin affiliate sites are more evident than ever.

How editorial strategy shapes modern SEO success

When Eugene Ravdin moved from editorial work at UEFA.com to SEOBROTHERS, he brought a reader-first mindset that fits the current trajectory of Google’s ranking philosophy.

Google has raised the bar. Simply matching keywords to pages is no longer sufficient.

Instead, relevance is determined through:

• Authorship and accountability
• Real topical expertise
• Clarity of purpose
• Internal coherence and hierarchy
• Clean technical execution

Editorial quality and SEO are no longer separate workflows; they’re now aligned.

MightyTips: example of a modular, multilingual SEO product

MightyTips is structured like a knowledge base for new or casual sports bettors. Its value lies in simplifying complex markets and helping users find trustworthy bookmakers.

Core features of MightyTips:

• Educational content on betting types and strategies
• In-depth sportsbook reviews with UX breakdowns
• Daily match predictions with tipster performance tracking
• Localization and full native-language support

“MightyTips isn’t for sharp bettors. It’s for regular people who want to understand how betting works, and do it confidently.” — Eugene Ravdin.

SlotsJudge: using slot reviews as primary traffic drivers

SlotsJudge avoids aggressive bonus-driven acquisition and focuses instead on product exploration. Slot games are treated as discovery tools that lead to conversion, not just as monetization units.

“We guide users through the slot experience first. If they enjoy it, they’re more likely to register. That’s a better signal than chasing clicks with coupons.”  — Jekaterina Dubnicka.

The editorial direction includes:

• Interactive demo modes
• Hands-on slot reviews
• Custom video content
• Feature breakdowns (RTP, volatility, special mechanics)

“This isn’t gamification for show. We’re connecting it directly to engagement metrics and retention curves.” — Jekaterina Dubnicka.

How do you scale content production with AI workflows?

SEOBROTHERS uses AI, but not to automate content unthinkingly. Instead, they treat AI as a toolset for structured drafting and internal testing.

“We use ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and other models. However, the outcome is shaped by our templates, quality controls, and editorial review. It’s not set-and-forget.” — Evgenii Aralov

Content production flow includes:

• Prompt scripting for intent-based page structures
• Consistency in terminology and formatting
• Human rewriting and expert validation
• Technical QA: schema, linking, metadata

Key insight: AI-generated content can match or exceed human-written content—if embedded within editorial logic and refined with intent.

SEOBROTHERS’ 2025 link-building framework

Their link acquisition strategy focuses on minimizing risk while building defensible authority. Volume is deprioritized in favor of contextual placement and long-term domain trust.

“The page context matters more than domain context. A clean blog post with one natural link outperforms a ‘topical’ homepage loaded with backlinks.”

How do you launch an SEO product from scratch?

Today, launching a platform like MightyTips isn’t an agency project; it’s a capital investment. The landscape is more competitive, the benchmarks are higher, and product expectations are real.

“You’d need at least $500,000 to build something like MightyTips. It’s not a question of getting a writer and buying links. It’s an operating business.” — Evgenii Aralov.

Key requirements for SEO products:

• Technical SEO and IA team
• Product and content leads
• Editors with niche literacy
• Visual and UX support
• Budget for PR, link development, and tooling
• A two-year time horizon before break-even

Why does fundamental SEO now look like product development?

If there’s a single takeaway from this conversation, Google no longer rewards SEO hacks. The ranking environment favors platforms with substance—operationally, editorially, and structurally.

“We’re not building pages. We’re building brands, media, and systems. That’s what it takes to remain competitive now.”  — Evgenii Aralov.

What SEOBROTHERS is doing isn’t so-called “advanced SEO.” It’s cross-functional product thinking applied to content ecosystems.

Conclusion

Building an SEO product today means focusing on structure, quality, and long-term user value. 

The SEOBROTHERS expertise shows that sustainable growth comes from strong content systems, real editorial processes, and investment in the brand, not shortcuts

Сообщение How to Build SEO Products That Rank? SEOBRTOTHERS’ Expertise появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

In this article, based on the “Where’s My Money?” podcast by Peaky Ads featuring Brendon Spiteri, Affiliate & SEO expert,  and hosted by Vasilii Gamov, CEO of Peaky Ads, you’ll learn how to build a boutique affiliate network that delivers sustainable ROI, deeper partnerships, and superior traffic quality.

What is a boutique affiliate network?

A boutique affiliate network is defined by selectivity and strategic focus. Rather than onboarding hundreds of affiliates with varying performance, the boutique model prioritizes deep relationships with fewer trusted, high-performing partners.

“Working with 30 strong affiliates is far more effective than trying to manage 300 average ones.” – Brendon Spiteri.

This model emphasizes performance, transparency, and manageable growth, making it ideal for companies that want to scale smart.

Why choose the boutique model?

• Focused growth.
  A boutique network allows you to scale not by expanding your affiliate list, but by maximizing value from existing partners. This approach ensures better resource allocation, deeper partner understanding, and ultimately, stronger results.
  
  
• Enhanced traffic quality.
  When the volume is low, the atrus is high, and it is easier to monitor traffic sources, detect anomalies, and avoid fraud. According to ClickGuard, open affiliate networks experience four times more fraud incidents than closed or boutique ones.
  
  
• Better relationships.
  Having fewer affiliates allows the managers to offer greater one-on-one assistance. That includes advice on funnel optimization, GEO targeting, campaign management, and even direct feedback on conversion tactics.

Affiliate recruitment and onboarding

Picking affiliates for a boutique network involves doing due diligence and building relationships. While open registration may be allowed, the path from sign-up to activation is far more rigorous.

“Everyone registers through our site, but I always insist on a call. I need to understand your funnel and intentions before proceeding.” – Brendon.

If an affiliate is unknown, a small test cap (e.g., 20 FTDs) is arranged, followed by a performance review and feedback. Those who perform well and demonstrate transparent traffic can scale further.

Metrics that Matter

Operators and affiliates often evaluate success through different lenses. Boutique networks bridge this gap by understanding and aligning both perspectives.

“If a publisher brings 20 solid FTDs with high retention, that can be more valuable than 200 low-quality leads.” – Brendon

Platform capabilities and data strategy

A boutique network must offer accurate and timely performance data to deliver value to affiliates. Brendon’s network operates on a proprietary platform designed for flexibility and transparency.

Key platform features include

• Real-time postback support for registration, FTD, and qualification.
  
• GEO-based performance benchmarks (e.g., click-to-deposit rates).
  
• Traffic source tagging for PPC, SMS, Facebook, SEO, and more.
  
• Granular reporting and feedback for both affiliates and operators.

This allows publishers to benchmark their traffic, adjust strategies, and confidently enter new markets.

Top performing GEOs and traffic sources

Boutique networks are often more agile in responding to GEO trends. Brendon highlighted the following as current strong performers:

Top GEOs:

• Nordic countries.
  High conversion and CPA rates (up to €400+).
  
  
• GCC region.
  Rising interest from operators and increasing player value.
  
  
• Latin America.
  High traffic volume, better suited for CPA than revenue share.

Best performing sources:

• PPC (Google Ads) remains the strongest, despite challenges with account bans
  
• SMS traffic is unexpectedly effective in Scandinavia and Africa
  
• Facebook and in-app traffic are becoming viable alternatives as PPC becomes riskier.

“Even some operators were surprised at how well SMS traffic performed in Finland and Sweden.” – Brendon.

Fraud prevention and quality control

Due to the smaller partner list and closer relationships, fraud detection and traffic quality control significantly easier in a boutique setting.

Scaling the boutique: strategies

Scaling doesn’t mean abandoning the boutique approach. Instead, it means doing more with less.

Scalable strategies include:

• Offering more brands and deals to the same affiliates
  
• Expanding into new GEOs through partner testing
  
• Supporting vertical diversification (e.g., adding SEO or app-based funnels)

“We grow by staying on top of market trends, onboarding new operators, and giving affiliates deals as soon as markets open up.” – Brendon.

Revenue models and profit margins

Boutique affiliate networks typically aim for a 10–20% margin depending on deal type, affiliate leverage, and traffic quality.

Negotiation plays a significant role. The affiliate’s leverage (i.e., traffic quality and scale) often determines how much margin the network can retain.

“If the affiliate brings quality, they get what they ask for. But we can negotiate hybrid deals that benefit both sides.” – Brendon.

Operating costs and profitability

Boutique networks often maintain lean operations, which helps preserve profitability despite modest margins.

Typical boutique team structure:

• 2–3 affiliate managers
  
• 2 in-house developers
  
• No external media spend or large overheads.

“We invest in relationships and technology, not in massive advertising. Most leads come from events, panels, and personal recommendations.” – Brendon.

Common mistakes to avoid

Building a boutique network is not without risk.

Brendon warns of several common pitfalls:

1. Lack of operator relationships.
   Without trust, you won’t get good deals.
   
2. Scaling too fast.
   Managing 100 affiliates with a small team can dilute quality.
   
3. Ignoring traffic source clarity.
   You can’t protect your reputation if you don’t understand your partner’s funnel.
   
4. Failing to onboard properly.
   Circumventing the vetting process leads to poor conversions and damaged relationships.

“Your reputation with operators is everything. If you don’t have it, you’ll get poor deals and miss out on the top affiliates.» – Brendon.

Conclusion

A boutique affiliate network isn’t a smaller-scale version of a traditional one — it’s an alternate model. Instead of volume, it’s founded on trust, accuracy, strategy, and relationship.

For affiliate managers and entrepreneurs looking to build something long-lasting in the iGaming space, boutique networks offer better traffic quality, higher partner loyalty, stronger operator relationships, lower exposure to fraud, and sustainable margins.

To stay updated with the latest insights in digital marketing and iGaming, follow the Peaky Ads Blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Сообщение How to Build an Affiliate Network in iGaming? появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

On Peaky Ads’ podcast, its CEO, Vasilii Gamov, and iGaming Sales Expert, Olalekan Joseph Oyekunle, elucidated the dynamics currently shaping the Senegalese iGaming market. 

In this piece, the PeakyAds team will recap what they had to say while providing background and analysis.

Market Overview: Rapid Growth with Centralized Regulation

In Senegal, gambling is regulated by two main governmental entities: the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

They oversee compliance and licensing. LONASE also has a unique position, monopolizing the nation’s lotteries and sports betting. As Joseph explained: «LONASE is the primary gatekeeper of Senegal’s internet gambling market. Without them, access is not possible.»

Legal gambling formats include:

• Lotteries (state-controlled)
  
• Sports betting (monopolized by LONASE)
  
• Casino gambling (licensed venues)
  
• Poker (only within licensed casinos)

This tightly controlled environment poses both a challenge and an opportunity — while access is restricted, the centralized framework offers clarity and structure for those who enter.

Sports Betting: Dominant Vertical in the Region

Sports betting is by far the most dominant vertical in Senegal. Football, in particular, is deeply embedded in the culture.

A 2022 study revealed that approximately 29.09% of the population actively participates in sports betting. An estimated population of around 18 million translates to roughly 6 million bettors, a substantial and engaged user base.

The data displays a variety of accounts of gambling behavior:

• 63.26% are motivated by the desire to make money
• 20.56% get a thrill from the game
• 32.81% are more inclined to watch sports after placing a bet

This emotional engagement provides a powerful user retention incentive. Individuals don’t simply bet; they invest, support, and interact with their games and teams on a deeper level.

Alternative Betting Niches

Football is the crowd favorite, but it’s not the only game in town. Emerging verticals include:

• Crash games, especially Aviator, are what Joseph calls “the most attractive vertical to players.”
  
• Virtual sports and table games
  
• Basketball and cricket, which are gaining ground among younger audiences

For more minor affiliates and niche operators, these less saturated segments offer viable entry points into the market.

Market Competition: Space for New Entrants

Despite the booming interest in betting, the market is not yet saturated.Currently, the most dominant international operator is 1xBet, with only a handful of local platforms.

Unlike more mature markets like Kenya or Nigeria, Senegal offers a «first-mover advantage» for well-prepared operators. The regulatory gate is strict, but the field is open.

Licensing Process in Senegal

Entering the market legally requires a structured approach:

1. Register a local company
   
2. Submit a comprehensive business plan.
   
3. Apply through LONASE for a license.
   
4. Deposit a minimum guarantee (financial security for player payouts)

This relatively swift process appeals to new entrants, especially those who are flexible and willing to localize their approach.

Payment Infrastructure: Mobile Money Domination

Just as in many parts of Africa, mobile money is the foundation of financial transactions in Senegal. 

Local services include:

• Orange Money
  
• Wave
  
• Free Money

“Mobile money platforms dominate the payment landscape. They are essential for deposits and withdrawals,” said Joseph.In 2022 alone, mobile transactions in Senegal reached a staggering 12 trillion CFA francs, showcasing how integral mobile payments are to daily life and the iGaming experience.

Effective Marketing Strategies for Senegal

Marketing in Senegal requires a highly localized and culturally sensitive approach. The following strategies have proven most effective.

Mobile marketing

SMS campaigns and app notifications work well due to the universal use and limited internet bandwidth.

Social media advertising

Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow precise targeting. However, crafting messages that resonate with local culture and languages is essential.

Influencer and affiliate marketing

“Influencers today prefer fixed payments over revenue share. Operators must allocate budgets to attract and retain them,” Joseph explained.

Operators like 1xBet structure collaborations using contractual agreements with clear KPIs, such as the number of FTDs (First-Time Depositors).

Offline promotion

Traditional channels still work well:

• TV and radio ads
  
• Billboards
  
• Street activations using brand ambassadors to engage with the public

“We send young, energetic people into the streets to promote the brand. It’s very effective here,” said Joseph.

Localized content

Offering content in French and local dialects enhances trust and engagement. Operators should invest in regionally relevant branding and communication.

Challenges vs. Opportunities in Senegal’s iGaming Sector

As with any emerging market, there are challenges and opportunities in Senegal’s iGaming industry. Operators must be ready to work around a draconian regulatory framework and compete with several existing operators. But the nation’s young population and nascent digital infrastructure offer compelling reasons for those willing to be flexible.

Key challenges

• Regulatory compliance, especially for offshore operators
  
• High competition from dominant players like 1xBet
  
• Limited transparency in licensing costs and procedures

Key opportunities:

• A growing young and digital-native population
  
• Increasing smartphone penetration
  
• Underserved verticals like crash games and local sports
  
• Room for custom-tailored partnerships with local influencers and affiliates

Joseph summarized it well: “The major challenge is compliance, but the opportunities lie in the receptive audience and the growth of digital infrastructure.”

Vasilii and Joseph emphasized the importance of mutual trust and shared responsibility in influencer relationships. Prepayment should be partial, based on clear contracts and deliverables: “Know your partner, then pay 50–60% upfront. Balance the rest after targets are met,” Joseph advised.

Conclusion

Senegal provides a vibrant, rapidly developing iGaming market ripe for innovation. Operators can establish foundations for success by learning local law, developing culturally sensitive marketing drives, and investing in online and offline media.

Vasilii concluded, “Senegal is a breath of fresh air in the African iGaming ecosystem. If you do it right, there’s space, demand, and a path.”

Stay tuned with Peaky Ads for more insights and cooperate with us to boost your marketing efforts to the moon!

Сообщение Senegal’s iGaming Landscape: Opportunities, Challenges, and Growth Strategies появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

Three top-tier speakers, Dmitry Shcheplyakov, Team Lead of Influence at Riddick’s Partners, Pavel Beinia, Founder of Chatterfy & Famesters, and Leonid Pudov, CEO at Mr. Booster, broke down what’s popping up in influencer performance: how it works, where it breaks, and what brings ROI.You can watch the full stream in Russian at Peaky Ads’ YouTube channel and use this article as a structured recap with speaker quotes, raw metrics, and the kind of field-tested insight you won’t find on LinkedIn.

What is Influence Traffic? Brief Explanation

Influence traffic is performance-driven user acquisition from trusted content creators, streamers, YouTubers, TikTok influencers, Telegram admins, and others, whose audience acts based on trust, not tricks. It’s not just views or likes; it’s targeted traffic with real intent, driven by authentic recommendations, not pushy funnels.

When done right, influence traffic delivers:

• Lower CAC
• Higher LTV
• Better compliance
• And a stronger brand reputation than most paid media buys

Unlike traditional ad placements or scam-driven flows, influence traffic scales with reputation, not just budget. It’s the sweet spot between brand and performance, and that’s why it’s becoming one of the most strategic sources in affiliate and gaming verticals.

Influence: Not Hype but a Working Channel

The old-school view of influencers was simple: eyeballs and brand mentions. That era is dead. Now, we talk about full-funnel influence traffic, tracked to the reg and LTV, with proper budget logic and retention metrics.

Dmitry Shcheplyakov highlights, “If your influencer’s locked in, the numbers will speak.”

Team Lead of Influence at Riddick’s Partners, Dmitry, opened his talk with a banger of a case: $86.5K NetDep from a $58K spend, all from one influencer drop.

“When you see a spread like that, first you double-check your tracker. Then you start scaling ASAP,” Dmitry said on stage.

The case breakdown:

• The promo code was baked into the script, not slapped on last minute.
  
• The influencer played with the product.
  
• The tracking was surgical, with data from click to repeat deposit.
  
• Audience trust was on point, no spoofed credibility, just real talk.

One key takeaway from Dmitry’s drop: influence traffic converts when it’s authentic. It’s not about reach. It’s about absolute conviction from the creator.

“A promo code needs to be part of the narrative, not just a line at the bottom of a caption,” he emphasized.

And that’s what makes the traffic valuable: not manufactured hype, but legit user intent triggered by a trusted voice.

Influence vs. Cheap Scam: Know the Line or Get Burned

Pavel Beinia, CEO of Famesters and founder of Chatterfy, has been in the influencer trenches since before it was cool. His talk focused on the fine line between influence and scam.

Pavel highlights from the beginning: “If there’s a chat manager involved – it’s not influence”. Pavel laid it straight out of the gate: “90% of what people call ‘influence traffic’ is just whitewashed scam.”

He broke down the difference with sniper clarity:

He didn’t stop at definitions. Pavel blew open the retention problem behind most scam-driven campaigns: “When you run users through chatbots and fake VIP clubs, yeah, you might hit KPIs, but you torch your trust and churn the player instantly.”

“Real influence means the user chooses to join. No carrot, no fake win rate, no psychological squeeze,” Pavel said. “Those users stick. They deposit again. They trust the flow.”And that’s the gold standard: sustainable traffic that doesn’t need a retarget every 5 minutes just to break even.

Twitch isn’t Dead: You’re Just Using It Wrongly

Third on the mic was Leonid Pudov, CEO at mr.Booster. While others wrote Twitch off as burned, Leonid showed what happens when you rebuild the flow from the inside.

Leonid Pudov highlights: “We built ads inside the stream UI, doubled conversion rate.”

Instead of the usual Twitch ad setup, link in bio, banner nobody clicks, the mr.Booster team rolled out an in-stream gamified widget. Think: wheel spin, prizes, bonus drops, but inside the Twitch player.

The data:

• Click-to-reg.
  +23% over standard format
  
• Reg-to-dep.
  2x lift
  
• Cost-per-dep.
  Cut in half
  
• Stream watch time.
  Up 15–20%

“People were asking the streamer to reroll the wheel. It became part of the show,” Leonid said.

What killed Twitch for affiliates wasn’t the platform; it was the lazy placements. “Links in chat? Dead. Static banners? Ignored. We had to bring the ad into the content, and let users click during the hype,” said Leonid.

He broke down the three keys to making it work:

• Emotions from the streamer
  
• Gamified ad formats that reward clicks
  
• Tailored bonuses (not generic cashback nonsense)

Influence Traffic: Long Game, Real Metrics

If there’s one throughline across all three speakers, it’s that influence traffic isn’t soft. When done right, it’s just as measurable as media buying, just as scalable, and way more brand-safe.

What defines good influence traffic:

• Clean funnels.
  No fake promise-to-dep hand-holding.
  
• Legit creators.
  Not paid actors or farmed TikTok pages.
  
• Retarget-free LTV.
  Users come back because they want to!
  
• Performance-first mindset with actual creative strategy.

Just numbers, engagement, and conversion – all with brand lift.

Conclusion

In a world full of fake stats, hype dashboards, and recycled creatives, influence done right stands out and sticks. Whether you’re a brand, a product owner, or a traffic buyer, you can’t afford to sleep on it.

To stay aware of industry trends, subscribe to the Peaky Ads YouTube channel for full interviews and podcasts from the teams pushing performance marketing forward. Reach out to our team to boost your efforts to the moon: we don’t chase trends – we scale them!

Сообщение How to Work with Influencer Traffic: Cases from Riddick’s Yerevan Meetup появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

This article by Peaky Ads provides a complete breakdown of Mikael’s insights: how a game provider operates, how you can plug into their ecosystem as an affiliate or media buyer, and how real case studies prove the value of working directly with the product side.

What is a game provider and why should affiliates care?

Galaxsys is a game developer behind titles like Plinko, Aviator, and Chicken Road. Mikael’s team is responsible for B2B integrations with casinos, co-branded campaigns, creative distribution, and community engagement.

“Most affiliates don’t fully understand how the relationship between a web and a provider works. But it can be a huge win for both sides,” Mikael explains.

Unlike affiliates, who profit mainly from bringing in deposits or players, game providers earn only when a player spends money in their games. Their share is typically around 5–10% of GGR (Gross Gaming Revenue), while affiliates can earn Rev Shares up to 70%.

“You bring in a $100 deposit — $50 of that might go to you directly. Us? We get maybe $10, and only if the player plays our titles,” he adds.

Why should affiliates work with game providers?

The industry’s common myth is that working with providers wastes time because “they don’t pay for traffic.” Mikael is here to debunk that.

He argues that game providers can be valuable long-term partners, offering affiliates a wide range of support:

• Creative materials
  
• Retargeting mechanics
  
• Budget co-sponsorship for influence and brand campaigns
  
• Direct introductions to top-performing casinos

“A lot of the time, we don’t even know that affiliates are sending traffic to our games. But if you reach out, we can help you do it better,” Mikael says.

Real example: Creative collaboration that converts

One of the most effective collaborations Galaxsys has run is with Pin-Up. Together, they launched multiple creative and product campaigns, from custom game builds to retargeting flows that brought players back to the tables.

Turning the Hamster trend into casino traffic

When the Hamster Combat game on Telegram went viral, Galaxsys and Pin-Up launched their arcade-style spin-off built around Plinko mechanics. The game leveraged the trend and pulled in massive numbers:

• 150,000 new players in the first month
  
• Full influencer and affiliate participation
  
• VIP party activation in Amsterdam to keep partners engaged

“The team at Pin-Up told us later that the party helped them retain their top affiliates,” Mikael shares.

Retargeting inside the game environment

Galaxsys also helped Pin-Up run a brilliant retargeting campaign using in-game pixel data. 

How it worked

• Galaxsys integrated a pixel into their games.
  
• They passed behavioral data to Pin-Up.
  
• Pin-Up then retargeted those players with personalized offers.

Results

• +40% increase in bets placed
  
• +30% boost in total wagered volume

“If you run your casino or have the infrastructure to use this setup — we already know it works,” Mikael says.

How a game provider supports the funnel

Game providers aren’t just code shops — they’re full-stack partners with assets that can support multiple stages of your conversion funnel. 

Here’s how Galaxsys collaborates with partners.

Influence and awareness campaigns

Galaxsys actively co-funds influencer streams and branded campaigns.

“If you’re working with a streamer — great. Have them play our titles, and we’ll top up your media budget,” says Mikael.

This helps scale early-stage acquisition and boosts player trust through recognizable games.

Custom game development

Galaxsys has delivered custom-branded versions of its core games or even full reskins when a trend or cultural moment has called for it.

“See a viral moment in your GEO? Come to us. We can reskin fast and test the concept together,” highlights Mikael.

SEO sites built by affiliates, powered by provider data

Galaxsys doesn’t have a dedicated SEO department, but they have first-party user data at scale. That allows SEO-based affiliates to build authority sites with real traction.

Games as a traffic channel

For Mikael and his team, games aren’t just content but acquisition funnels.

That includes:

• Streaming-driven interest and push traffic
  
• In-game triggers that connect to Telegram bots (even in gray/black-hat flows)
  
• Virality through visual mechanics and behavior-driven engagement
  
• Familiarity and gameplay repetition that increases LTV

“Tower Rush, for example, runs on RNG. But the player feels like they can beat the timing. That feeling is what keeps them engaged,” Mikael points out.Galaxsys runs performance campaigns around Tower Rush in Venezuela, bringing in over 10,000 new players monthly.

Why don’t affiliates cooperate with game providers more often?

Mikael admits there are internal blockers to affiliate collaboration. Most of Galaxsys’ resources go toward product, not traffic. Teams focus on game development, casino partnerships, and tournament mechanics, not affiliate management.

There’s also a broader industry assumption that game providers only matter for branding, not performance. That’s simply incorrect.

“People treat us like a YouTube funnel — great visuals, but not built for performance. That’s just not true,” Mikael points out.

5 ways affiliates can work with game providers today

Let’s see on the Galaxsys example what a game provider offers to affiliate teams to explore deeper collaboration:

1. Influencer campaigns.
   Co-branded drops, budget sharing, campaign support, and viral hooks.
   
2. Creative assets and data.
   Ready-made creatives plus performance data for retargeting, optimization, and testing.
   
3. Custom game skins.
   Reskin games to fit your market, theme, or trend — fast.
   
4. Access to GGR and player behavior data.
   Use Galaxsys data to build intelligent segmentation and retarget flows.
   
5. Casino network access.
   Galaxsys is integrated with over 1,000 casinos, meaning you can test offers across multiple brands with one product.

Conclusion

Working with a game provider isn’t just about supporting their brand — it’s a strategic entry point into sustainable, diversified funnel structures.

As Mikael Poghosyan put it, “We don’t just make games. We build products you can monetize. And we want to do it together.”

Want more insights like this? Subscribe to the Peaky Ads YouTube channel for deep-dive interviews from Riddick’s Yerevan Meetup and other useful podcasts, explore our blog for tested strategies, or get in touch to start building your performance stack — powered by real marketing professionals.

Сообщение How to Work with a Game Provider in Affiliate Marketing? появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

YouTube in 2025 isn’t the same platform it was two years ago. The rules are tighter, but the reach is greater. In the hands of those who understand the mechanics, YouTube remains one of the most reliable sources of high-quality, scalable traffic. 

The article by Peaky Ads provides a full breakdown of Erdem’s approach, from working funnel structures to creative strategy and risk mitigation.

YouTube isn’t just a channel: it’s an ecosystem

“YouTube is Google’s daughter. And if you break the rules, it’s not the daughter that punishes you — it’s the father”, says Erdem.

Funnel blueprint: structuring YouTube for performance

One of the most effective strategies shared was the “multi-layer funnel,” in which traffic flows through clean channels to a controlled destination.

Funnel example: the bridge channel setup

1. The main channel is purely content — no links, no offers.
   
2. The description contains a link to a second YouTube channel.
   
3. That second channel hosts the call-to-action video and promotional links.

“YouTube doesn’t scan the secondary channel the same way. It’s less exposed, protecting the entire funnel”, Erdem. 

Even if one asset is flagged, the rest of the structure remains functional. This allows campaigns to run longer and scale more safely.

Why do longer videos now outperform short clips?

YouTube’s algorithm has shifted toward long-form content with high watch time.

Creating longer, well-edited videos (especially in widescreen or 4K format) improves your chances of appearing in recommendations and positions your channel as high-value content, something YouTube rewards organically.

Key factors that help long videos perform

• Wide resolution, optimized for smart TVs
  
• Clear topic structure
  
• Smooth editing and natural pacing
  
• Inclusion of comments, timestamps, or community interaction

No links? No problem — linkless funnels still convert

One of the most effective tactics in sensitive niches is running videos with no clickable links, especially in regions with stricter content policies (e.g., EU, India, Brazil).

“If you’re working with risky offers, don’t leave traces. No visible links. Let the user come to the next step naturally”, says Erdem.

The traffic can still convert by using

• Pinned comments with redirection
  
• Mentioning keywords or channel names verbally
  
• Redirecting to a bridge channel
  
• Adding links in banners or older community posts

This protects the video’s lifespan and allows you to focus on audience retention and engagement — two signals the algorithm values even more than raw views.

Design and voice as a part of the funnel

Erdem emphasizes that visual identity and production style directly affect how YouTube perceives your content. A clean, professional setup builds algorithmic trust and keeps your channel compliant.

Recommendations

• Avoid template-style thumbnails (they signal low quality).
  
• Use voiceovers that match the brand — avoid robotic or generic tones.
  
• Optimize thumbnails and formatting for widescreen viewing.

Consider using recurring elements like a specific intro tone, phrase, or visual motif — this builds brand familiarity and strengthens your user funnel.

The Web3 opportunity: untapped traffic with low competition

One of the more strategic angles in Erdem’s talk was focused on Web3 and GameFi brands.

“They’re strong in branding, but weak in traffic. They have budgets, but don’t know how to acquire users”, Erdem points out.

Most Web3 projects lack proper performance marketing teams.

This creates an opportunity for affiliates to develop

• Educational content explaining the product
  
• Honest comparisons between platforms
  
• Personal challenge videos or trials (e.g., “I staked for 7 days…”)

These offers often come with less competition, less compliance overhead, and strong CPMs. The funnel structure remains unchanged, but the angle shifts from entertainment to informative storytelling.

One channel is not enough — build a channel network

A single YouTube channel is vulnerable. Multiple channels working in sync form a resilient traffic ecosystem.

“YouTube respects structure. If you only have one channel, you’re replaceable. If you have a network, you’re harder to stop”, Erdem says.

This approach also gives you flexibility

• Different verticals (e.g., tutorials, reactions, reviews)
  
• Cross-linking between channels
  
• Audience segmentation
  
• Safer A/B testing environments

It’s a smart long-term strategy that allows you to scale gradually without risking your entire system on one account.

YouTube funnel checklist for 2025

To recap, here are Erdem Ukhinov’s top principles for running YouTube performance funnels:

• Never link directly from your main channel; use a “bridge” system.
  
• Prioritize long-form videos (15–20 minutes) for better algorithmic support.
  
• Use comments and indirect prompts for calls-to-action.
  
• Shoot in widescreen (4K preferred) to optimize for TV visibility.
  
• Keep high-risk offers out of your main content, and segment them appropriately.
  
• Build a unique sound and visual identity for higher audience recognition.
  
• Target Web3 projects for low-competition, high-potential offers.
  
• Scale with a multi-channel approach, not single-channel dependency.

Conclusion

Erdem Ukhinov’s session at Riddick’s Yerevan Meetup didn’t just share tactics — it laid out a framework. In 2025, YouTube is still one of the best-performing and most brand-safe channels for affiliates and product teams. But the bar is higher. You need structure, patience, and a clear funnel strategy to stay alive and scale.

Whether you’re working in gambling, crypto, Web3, or finance, you’re falling behind if you’re not building YouTube funnels. This channel isn’t going anywhere — it’s just becoming more refined.
Don’t hesitate to cooperate with the Peaky Ads team: your marketing efforts will take off to the moon!

Сообщение How to Attract YouTube Traffic in the New Realities? появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.

Recently, on the Peaky Ads podcast, iGaming growth strategist Alanas Ivšinas appeared to dispel how both extremes are achievable—and, more importantly, how affiliates can set themselves up for success.

Here we will break down his journey to lucrative affiliate collaborations, including how a single operator brought in more than $4 million in net gaming revenue (NGR) via a hybrid deal.

Understanding the landscape of iGaming affiliate marketing

The terrain is more complex and competitive than ever for anyone entering the iGaming affiliate market in 2025. Alanas said the affiliate space has matured significantly over the past decade.

“There was a time when you could launch Facebook traffic in any country without cloaking or even worrying about GDPR. That world is long gone.” Alanas explains.

These trends have created a bifurcation in affiliate success: well-resourced affiliates scale, while small players struggle to enter without a deep focus on niche markets and creative deal-making.

Evaluating the right offer: metrics that matter

Whether you’re promoting a sports betting app or an online casino, not all affiliate offers are equal. Alanas emphasized that too many affiliates accept subpar terms, especially when they don’t know what to ask for.

“Ask for brand-specific statistics. Don’t rely on network averages. One brand might convert 5x better than the others, but you’ll never know unless you ask,” highlights Alanas Ivšinas.

Key metrics to evaluate affiliate offers

1. Conversion Rate (CR).
   How many registrations become depositing players?
   
2. Net Gaming Revenue (NGR).
   How much are your referred players generating?
   
3. Negative Carryover Policies.
   Does the brand zero out your earnings after a losing month?
   
4. Bundled vs. Isolated Brands.
   Are your earnings spread across weak-performing brands?
   
5. Payment Reliability.
   How consistently and quickly does the brand pay?

What makes a bad brand?

Alanas stressed that while affiliate networks may promise sky-high commissions, some brands cannot deliver them when it matters.

Characteristics of bad brands

• Poor tracking systems
  
• Delayed or missed payments
  
• Inflated promises without proof
  
• Weak customer support for players
  
• Lack of transparency on traffic performance

“Brands that don’t invest in infrastructure or fail to honor terms erode affiliate trust—and ultimately burn the relationship,” he added.

CPA, RevShare, or Hybrid: Which commission model wins?

Choosing between CPA (Cost Per Acquisition), RevShare, or Hybrid deals is one of the most crucial decisions an affiliate can make. Alanas advised matching the commission structure with the nature of your traffic.

“Hybrid models make the most sense when you want to hedge your risk but also believe in your traffic’s long-term value,” says Alanas.

From zero to $4 million: Hybrid model case study

The most compelling story from the podcast is how a single player generated over $4 million in NGR. Here’s a condensed timeline of how it unfolded!

The funnel breakdown

1. Traffic type.
   SEO targeting crypto and sports keywords.
   
2. Initial setup.
   Site ranking for crypto sports betting in emerging markets.
   
3. Deal structure.
   $150 CPA + 40% RevShare, no admin fees.
   
4. Player acquisition.
   A single user from Vietnam deposited over $9 million in 9 months.
   
5. Affiliate earnings.
   More than $2 million earned on a 40% RevShare structure.

“We didn’t know then that this one player would change the entire revenue model for us. But we negotiated hard to ensure the upside was ours to keep.” Alanas says.

This success wouldn’t have been possible with a flat CPA deal, proving the immense upside of hybrid models when managed well.

Negotiation: the art that affiliates must master

Data from Affiliate Insider reveals that only 12% of affiliates negotiate their terms, but those who do can see a 20–40% increase in earnings.

Alanas broke it down into clear steps to negotiate a better affiliate deal:

1. Bring data to the table.
   Show CTRs, bounce rates, conversions, and audience profiles.
   
2. Request custom terms.
   Don’t accept boilerplate contracts.
   
3. Leverage KPIs.
   Offer NGR-based bonuses or position-based incentives.
   
4. Be transparent.
   Declare test deposits and outline your expectations.
   
5. Be flexible.
   Offer trial placements or phased onboarding.

“Affiliate managers are more likely to work with you if they believe you’re building a long-term business, not just a campaign,” highlights Alanas.

SEO vs. PPC: Which gets better deals?

Affiliate managers value SEO traffic more highly than PPC, due to its perceived stability, loyalty, and cost efficiency.

SEO vs PPC offer comparison

This difference means PPC affiliates often face CPA caps, risk clauses, or limited brand selection. In contrast, SEO affiliates can often secure lifetime RevShare and build compounding monthly income.

Pitfalls and traps: how to avoid them?

Even experienced affiliates fall into traps hidden in contracts and fine print.

Common red flags in affiliate agreements:

• Negative carryover.
  Wipes out future RevShare after a single high win.
  
• High baselines.
  Payout only begins after hitting 20+ FTDs.
  
• No source reporting.
  You can’t optimize without knowing what’s working.
  
• Delayed payments.
  Watch for patterns in delayed wires or unclear processing.
  
• Lack of transparency.
  Avoid brands that won’t clarify terms.

“Always ask the uncomfortable questions upfront. You’re not being rude — you’re protecting your business,” says Alanas.

Future outlook: What’s next for affiliate deals?

The iGaming world is moving toward stricter compliance, diversified traffic sources, and more creative deal structures. Alanas noted several future-facing trends.

Upcoming trends of 2025 and beyond:

• More compliance documentation.
  Especially in regulated markets.
  
• Growth of Crypto brands.
  Aggressive CPAs, higher volatility.
  
• Influencer marketing.
  TikTok affiliate campaigns up 73% YoY (Insider Intelligence, 2024).
  
• Agency-style affiliate models.
  Transparent cost-per-lead or cost-per-sale partnerships.

“We’ll see affiliates operate more like mini media agencies — with budgets, KPIs, and accountability,” says Alanas.

Conclusion

The difference between a mediocre affiliate career and a million-dollar one often comes down to the ability to negotiate, to think long-term, and to build meaningful relationships. 

Whether you’re a fresh affiliate or a seasoned veteran, Alanas’ core advice remains:

Negotiate, test, measure — and above all, never settle.The upside is enormous for those willing to treat affiliate marketing as a business, not just a side hustle. Don’t hesitate to cooperate with the Peaky Ads team; your marketing efforts will take off to the moon!

Сообщение How to Get the Best iGaming Affiliate Deal? появились сначала на Peaky Ads Agency.