As the gaming industry continues to adopt new technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrencies, Payment Expert chats with Elton Dimech, Managing Director at Payhound, about how the provider aims to foster trust with stakeholders when it comes to crypto.
Dimech also touches on the new MiCA regulations in the EU and how the framework can help to build further trust in the space.
Payment Expert: How important is trust in the crypto payments space, especially with market volatility?
ED: Trust is everything in crypto payments. The industry moves fast, and with market fluctuations, regulatory shifts and security concerns, businesses need stability. Gaming operators, in particular, want a secure, reliable payment partner—one they know won’t disappear overnight or get caught in regulatory issues. If a provider isn’t transparent or compliant, operators risk frozen funds, fraud or legal trouble.
For Payhound, trust means being consistent and compliant, so clients don’t have to worry about the ups and downs of the crypto market.
PE: How does Payhound build relationships with clients to establish trust?
ED: It’s all about transparency, education and reliability. Payhound works closely with clients to help them navigate the changing crypto landscape, especially with new regulations like MiCA. Some key ways we build trust include:
- Regulatory compliance: Payhound has been regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority since 2021 under the Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Act , and is in the final stages of obtaining the MiCA license. This demonstrates our commitment to operating within a regulated framework while already adhering to existing local licensing requirements.
- Clear communication: We keep clients informed about industry changes, such as upcoming regulatory shifts that may impact stablecoins, ensuring they are always prepared.
- Customised solutions: Every operator is different, and we tailor our approach to fit their needs.
- Reliable payments & fast settlements: Smooth, secure transactions without delays build long-term confidence.
- Industry engagement: Being part of key industry discussions, such as the iGaming Daily podcast, reinforces our position as a trusted leader in crypto payments.
PE: What are the best ways payment providers can build trust, and what has worked best for Payhound?
ED: Trust isn’t built overnight—it comes from proving reliability over time. For payment providers, this means:
- Regulatory approval: Being licensed shows commitment to compliance and financial security.
- Operational stability: Ensuring fast, smooth transactions reassures clients, even during market volatility.
- Security & AML compliance: Protecting merchants from fraud and financial crime is a major trust factor.
- Direct client support: Quick, knowledgeable assistance makes a huge difference.
For Payhound, compliance has been a game-changer. Our proactive approach to MiCA compliance has set us apart from unregulated providers who may struggle as the rules tighten.
PE: What licenses and certification does Payhound have, and why is it important to be certified?
ED: Payhound is a Maltese VFA-licensed company and in the final stages of securing the MiCA license, a major milestone for crypto businesses in the EU. Additionally, we obtain the ISO 27001 certification, a globally recognised standard for information security management systems.
- Regulation isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a strategic move that: Strengthens partnerships with gaming operators who need compliant payment providers.
- Future-proofs the business, ensuring we stay ahead of regulatory shifts.
- Opens doors to larger clients and financial institutions, who prefer working with regulated firms.
- Provides stability, helping Payhound navigate market volatility with confidence.
Regulation is an investment in long-term growth. While some crypto companies avoid it, Payhound sees it as an opportunity to build a trusted, sustainable business.
PE: Where else will Payhound be regulated this year, and are you adopting the new EU MiCA framework?
ED: Yes, Payhound is fully adopting MiCA, ensuring full compliance in the EU. Beyond that, we’re looking at:
- The UAE & Gulf region: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are becoming crypto hubs, and we see real opportunities there for different markets.
- The US market: With crypto payments gaining traction in the US, we’re keeping an eye on regulatory developments.
Our focus is on markets that support responsible, well-regulated crypto payments.
PE: How does being regulated impact Payhound’s position in the gaming space?
ED: Regulation gives us a huge commercial advantage. Gaming operators are already heavily regulated, so they need payment providers that meet the same standards. Being MiCA-compliant makes it easier for us to:
- Win partnerships with top-tier gaming operators who need licensed payment providers.
- Work with institutional clients that require strict regulatory adherence.
- Maintain strong banking relationships, which many crypto businesses struggle with.
- Operate with long-term stability, rather than being at risk of regulatory crackdowns.
For gaming operators, working with a regulated payment provider like Payhound removes a huge layer of risk. It’s not just about ticking compliance boxes—it’s about building a business that lasts.
