iGaming Real Talk: Tom Light on prediction markets & AI in sports betting

iGaming Real Talk has released a standout new episode from AIBC Eurasia. Host Surya Palli sits down with Tom Light from FIRST for an unfiltered look at where sports betting is heading. The conversation covers prediction markets, US regulation, and a major AI reveal.

AIBC Eurasia continues to be the premier gathering for AI, blockchain, and iGaming professionals. This episode is one of the most operator-honest conversations to come out of the event.

Prediction markets, closer to betting than you think

Tom opens with a striking observation: 95% of contracts on major prediction platforms are sports-related. That alone tells you how closely these markets mirror traditional sports betting.

Liquidity challenges remain real, particularly on micro markets, but the space is creating genuine opportunities for syndicates and sharp traders.

He also makes a pointed regulatory argument. As prediction markets grow, they may pressure US states to fast-track sports betting legislation. This is a dynamic worth watching closely.

FIRST’s AI breakthrough, revealed here first

This is the moment the episode builds toward.

Tom reveals that FIRST now simulates full 90-minute match events 20,000 times every two minutes. The goal is precise, real-time pricing for complex correlated bet builders — a problem that has long challenged the industry.

This is the first time the innovation has been discussed publicly. It signals how seriously FIRST is investing in AI-driven tools, without losing sight of trader expertise and real market performance.

Building responsibly: ethics, expansion, and the name

Tom also pulls back the curtain on FIRST’s broader direction. He shares the story behind the company name and addresses plans to expand into special and geopolitical markets — carefully and with clear ethical boundaries in place.

It is a rare glimpse into how a next-generation operator thinks about growth.

Watch or Listen Now: the full episode is available on YouTube (iGaming Real Talk channel), Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

About iGaming Real Talk

iGaming Real Talk, hosted by Surya Palli, brings authentic conversations with industry leaders to the forefront. The podcast covers personal stories, exclusive announcements, and the future of iGaming globally.

About FIRST

FIRST is a next-generation sports betting solutions provider offering:

• Advanced fixed odds platforms
• Fast loading speeds
• Competitive odds

All backed by a dedicated trading team.

AIBC Eurasia Series

This episode is part of the exclusive AIBC Eurasia Series on iGaming Real Talk. The series captures candid, on-the-ground interviews from the Dubai event floor, highlighting the latest trends in AI, blockchain, fintech, and regulated iGaming across the Middle East and beyond.

The series is presented by: Evoverse and GBO International Financial Services.