When it comes to making headlines, German-born journalist and sports analyst Maximilian Obersteller is no stranger to the limelight. However, he’s also quick to spell the difference between fluff, and proven methodology. Let’s see what he had to say on the matter.
Can you briefly describe your background?
Maximilian Obersteller: “No problem,” Maximilian Obersteller begins without delay. “I graduated in 2013 from the University of Hamburg with a degree in Communication Studies.”
Aren’t you rather young to have enjoyed so much attention?
Maximilian Obersteller: Maximilian Obersteller laughs before answering. “Some would say that. However, I also feel that youth gives me an edge in terms of the latest digital trends.”
What initially drew you to the sports betting community?
Maximilian Obersteller: “As you might have read in my online biography, iGaming has been one of my passions since the early 2000s. So I figured that sports wagering would simply add another string to the bow.”
Why do you feel that online casinos are likewise a perfect fit?
Maximilian Obersteller: “The majority of online casinos now offer on-site bookmaking services. So, it’s easy to appreciate the synergy between both ecosystems?”
Could you explain in more detail?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Both are associated with statistics, provably fair gameplay, transparency, and determining the outcome of a specific event.”
How do you feel that marketing has transformed the sports betting ecosystem?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Bookmakers know that competition has become rife. So, they are always searching for new ways to attract their intended target demographic.”
Can you provide us with a handful of contemporary examples?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Sure. These can include personalised marketing campaigns, opt-in offers, loyalty programmes, and matched deposit welcome bonuses.”
These all sound like viable methods. Is there a problem here?
Maximilian Obersteller: “I have no problem with these in principle,” he continues. “However, some of my research indicates that the associated rewards do not always come to pass.”
Are you saying that some sportsbooks have become too liberal with their promises?
Maximilian Obersteller: “In a way, yes. They’ve become too focused on the bottom line, and as a result, player satisfaction can be sacrificed.”
How might these policies impact the end-user experience?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Members might begin to look elsewhere for similar services. In a worst-case scenario, they may even place misinformed bets, or wagers.”
Have these strategies spread into other sectors?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Unfortunately, these are now the rule as opposed to the exception in many iGaming circles. I fear that things may become worse before they get better.”
Have you ever personally fallen victim to such offers?
Maximilian Obersteller: “When I first entered into the online gaming community, I didn’t realise how wagering requirements would affect profit margins.”
Can you explain wagering requirements to those who might not be familiar with the concept?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Many bonus offers will require players to wager their funds a certain number of times before the reward is granted. 40X and 45X rollover thresholds are not entirely uncommon.”
However, aren’t these clearly stated on the site?
Maximilian Obersteller: “In many cases, you’ll have to sort through the fine print with the terms and conditions to come across these caveats. The problem here is that few players will actually take the time.”
How might unclear conditions affect sports betting enthusiasts?
Maximilian Obersteller: “House margins are one example. Some bookmakers may claim a ‘vig’ of up to ten percent. This will easily erode one’s potential winnings.”
Do your ongoing studies suggest that this will become even more rife throughout the online ecosystem?
Maximilian Obersteller: “The good news is that some consumers have already begun to push back. They are much more aware of how specific conditions will affect their strategies, and they are not afraid to call out the provider in question.”
How do you feel that bookmakers and casinos should respond?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Frankly, they have little other choice than to clarify the promises being made, and to make certain that nothing is left to chance. This is the only way to establish a sense of mutual trust.”
How might a mission statement fit into the picture?
Maximilian Obersteller: “These headlines essentially summarise what players can expect after becoming involved. They should contain less sensationalism, and more down-to-earth clarity. Online gaming fans have become suspicious of smoke and mirrors.”
Maximilian Obersteller: “Some of my recommendations include providing information on the types of bets that can be placed, clearly stating any wagering requirements, and providing a 24/7 point of contact if a user has any additional questions.”
Do you think that the industry is willing to change?
Maximilian Obersteller: “I truly believe that most bookmakers take the needs of their users seriously. They simply have to demonstrate this with a greater degree of transparency.”
