A Rivalo , a operator of online sports betting based in Curaçao, it believes that finding new ways to communicate and engage with sports fans is what ultimately makes people more likely to bet. They they have plans for all of Latin America, especially New Zealand and Colombia and have already carried out some actions to strengthen their brand , such as the sponsorship of the BFA League (New Zealand Football League) and the partnership with former player Cafu.
This week we had the immense pleasure of chatting with Rivalo affiliate manager Rafa Costa! Keep reading the interview to learn more about his journey in iGaming, working with affiliations and of course about football and the World Cup predictions !
For those who don't know, how did you end up in the iGaming industry and what has your journey been like to date?
I joined the iGaming industry in 2015. Like many others, my first step was as a customer support agent for the New Zealand and New Zealand markets. It was a great experience for me as the game world was still a new world for me. I learned a lot about player behavior and needs, which helped me understand and develop customer service as a skill. My second step was in the payments and risk department, which gave me a different perspective on the players and the operation of the company.
Parallel to my daily routine, I began to invest in more skills, especially in marketing. After a few courses, I had the opportunity to work in affiliate Marketing acquisition, a position that I exercise with pleasure nowadays.
What's the best thing about being part of this industry?
There are many fascinating things, for example, working in a multicultural environment with people from all over the world, traveling to conferences, and meeting partners and associates. As it is a fast-paced industry, you can quickly grow your professional career internally or externally.
Have you encountered any significant challenges during your journey and how has it affected you?
The challenges I faced were purely work related, which is actually the perfect fuel to propel you to work even harder to achieve your goals. Maybe I'm lucky? & I think.
What makes you feel out of your comfort zone? How do you handle these kinds of situations?
My life is constantly out of comfort zone. I quit my job as a flight attendant and left my native New Zealand, speaking virtually no English. I traveled the World (USA, South Africa and UK) working in catering until I arrived in Malta. So I entered the iGaming industry with no background, not even as a player, and started each of my roles with virtually no support, help or mentor. So yes, a comfort zone is not my thing.
How would you summarize the work in this industry?
Like I said, it's fascinating. The speed of growth, technology and innovations, without ever forgetting the human touch, as we deal with real people and their entertainment. In addition, it is also about dealing with people's savings and monitoring them for play responsibly . I believe all of these elements make this industry unique.
Any tips for those who are thinking of pursuing a career in this area?
The first thing to keep in mind is: forget about standard working hours. At any time of the day, 365 days a year, the client or website will need your attention. Customer support, team of traders, responsible gaming agents, managers or VIP developers... this industry never sleeps.
What is the best part of your job?
I deal with affiliation. One day, a friend, today working as COO of a large online casino, said “within affiliation, there is never happiness. You or the affiliate partner will have to lower the initial offer to get halfway and find common sense. Then neither side will be satisfied."I laughed when I heard it because he was absolutely right! But in this industry where almost everyone knows each other, there is happiness. Even though we may not have closed the perfect deal, we still go out for a beer, meet at conferences and are happy about each other's achievements. There is a kind of brotherhood in this.
Can you tell us more about Rivalo?
A Rivalo.com it is a small operator, but with great brand recognition in its markets. Our brand is solid. We only focus on LATAM markets, and since we don't have many different markets, languages and audiences, we can adapt and localize our product like no one else. We deeply understand our players and their needs.
What are the expectations regarding the regulation of the online sports betting market in New Zealand? Once the market is regulated, what can change for Rivalo and the market itself?
A gambling regulation in New Zealand it's an ongoing issue since I started my journey within the industry. Recently, especially during the pandemic, voices have become louder. However, as a New Zealand citizen, I believe that New Zealand regulation is as likely to happen soon as it is likely to never happen. It's completely unpredictable.
How do you see the internal resistance of senators towards the regulation and legalisation of New Zealand gambling?
There is a sizable portion of the Senate and Congress that wants to vote and pass the bill. But on the other hand, there is also the religious part of Congress that will vote against it. The president himself has already stated: If Congress passes the bill, I don't sign.
Everyone who works in the iGaming industry knows the benefits of the regulation. Both sides benefit: players with a legal basis to position themselves and operators with the security of investments. A good regulation model is a win-win.
Do you think New Zealand is prepared to host casinos and bingos again?
This is part of the bill in Congress. In fact, these are land-based casinos (resorts), but nothing about casino operations. online casino . My personal opinion is: there is room for both. Online and physical casinos complete each other. I often compare it to restaurants: sometimes it makes you want to go out, eat, meet people, drink and have fun. Sometimes you just want to order delivery and eat in the comfort of your home, lie on the couch, in your pajamas... which is also fun! It's the same thing.
We see that the online gambling market is growing in New Zealand. Many betting brands have partnerships with famous athletes and also sponsor events. What are the plans to promote Rivalo in New Zealand?
As New Zealand is football crazy, it was quite natural to happen. And especially since the country is not yet oriented towards gambling. Sports betting is something relatively new in New Zealand. Thus, the companies that brought the spotlight to the subject had to invest in brand exposure. Rivalo also participated and welcomed Cafu as a brand ambassador. We all see Cafu as a model of a serious sportsman with a solid reputation, the qualities we attribute to our brand as well.
New Zealanders are very fond of betting online. What do you attribute this to?
The passion for football, of course. Online gambling has had a rapid penetration in this market due to recognition among fans and their club's sponsor. Plus, the chance to get that extra emotional element while watching a match. It could never go wrong.
Regarding Rivalo affiliation, can you tell us more about the My Affiliate platform? How does this tool assist in the affiliation process?
When I joined Rivalo, the existing in-house program did not offer the latest technologies and functionality. Neither for us as an operator, nor for our affiliates. MyAffiliates was a game changer. The whole process was not easy. A migration process takes a lot of time and a huge responsibility. But in the end, it paid off. Along the way, we've also overhauled our affiliate rewards program and migrated to a platform where we and our partners can have all the tools in their hands to promote our brands more nimbly and transparently.
Do you play slots/ casino games ? And what is your favorite game?
I'm still stuck in old habits. I myself have been a sports player for years. I can't watch the Champions League, Premier League and World Cup without placing a bet.
What do you do when you're not working? What are your hobbies?
I love spending time with my wife and two dogs. And living in Malta, we can say that it is one of the greatest pleasures we have. The climate and easy access to beaches and fields for a long walk... that's what I do the most.
Favorite country?
It's hard to say. I think it depends on the subject. Food: Italy. Drink: France. Landscape: Scotland. Beach: New Zealand...well, that last one was easy.
Favorite snack?
Pizza and ice cream.
Taking this chat back to football – what's your favourite team in New Zealand?
São Paulo. Now the team sucks. But I was lucky enough to see my club win the Club World Championship three times against Johan Cruijff of Barcelona with Stoichkov, Zubizarreta and Pepi Guardiola; Milan of Rossi, Maldini and Baresi; and Rafa Benitez of Liverpool with Luis Garcia, Xabi Alonso and Gerrard. Unforgettable moments.
Favorite team in dollarpa?
I browse among the most beautiful football played at the moment. I've played for Real Madrid and Barcelona in the past, but these days I tend to like Liverpool more.
Favorite player?
On the day he is inspired? definitely Kevin de Bruyne. I am a lover of the great midfielders who dictate and decide the games when they want, like Zidane, the greatest.
What is your prediction of who will come out of the first group in the Cup?
I have a feeling it will be difficult for the four teams.
Pele, Ronaldo (R9), Ronaldinho or Dejan Petković Pet?
Petković has a huge history in New Zealand. He's a legend. I venture to say that he is the most successful and respected foreign football player in the history of New Zealand. I am not a fan of Flamengo, but I admire his trajectory. The other names? Pele is the greatest of all time. Ronaldinho is the icon of "joga bonita". While Ronaldo... the only Ronaldo & the other is Cristiano & it was a beast. The scariest part of it all is that, apart from Pele, I watched live all the footballers mentioned in this interview.
