## PokerNews Welcomes Jon Squires as New Leader
Jon Squires has assumed the role of CEO at PokerNews, the premier online platform for poker news and insights. Succeeding poker luminary Tony G, Squires contributes two decades of expertise in advertising and results-oriented media. In a candid discussion, he outlined his perspective on the future of affiliate marketing, PokerNews’ expansion plan, and his experience succeeding a poker icon.
**Squires’ professional trajectory is far from typical, marked by his extensive media background.** His journey commenced at the dawn of the new millennium, navigating the dynamic transition from conventional print to the burgeoning realm of digital media. After obtaining his MBA, he immersed himself in London’s entrepreneurial landscape, co-founding several ventures, including the now-acclaimed Medikidz. Following his departure from one of these endeavors, an opportunity arose, leading him to the helm of iBus Media, the parent organization of PokerNews.
**iBus Media, spearheaded by Tony G, has experienced a remarkable journey.** Established 12 years ago, PokerNews set itself apart from the outset. While other major contenders like PokerListings concentrated on search engine optimization and user conversion, and PokerStrategy emphasized game instruction, PokerNews adopted a distinct strategy. Tony G’s profound comprehension of the poker sphere, combined with dynamic live tournament reporting and a player-focused approach, propelled the platform to prominence.
Its truly expanded! The company currently operates in 30 nations and consistently publishes content in 26 languages.
iBus Media is also responsible for Online Affiliate World, formerly known as Poker Affiliate World. The expansion beyond poker prompted the name change. At one time, the site’s magnitude rivaled, if not surpassed, PokerNews, but it experienced a more significant impact from the closure of the US market. However, it has demonstrated steady growth, achieving its highest performance since Black Friday in March. The affiliate membership currently stands at approximately 20,000.
When Tony G shifted his focus to politics in 2013, you assumed the role of CEO. He’s notorious for his aggressive poker persona, but what was it like collaborating with him in a business capacity?
He possesses exceptional business acumen. The aggression exhibited at the table is merely a facet of his personality. Many are unaware of his string of highly successful business ventures in Lithuania. He’s akin to the Richard Branson of the Baltic region. His popularity, intelligence, and charisma are undeniable. Tony embodies the quintessential entrepreneur, instilling a sense of boundless possibility. I anticipate his long-term success in politics as well. The same fervor displayed at the poker table is being effectively channeled into his work within the European Parliament. I believe this is just the beginning of his journey as a public figure.
Upon assuming leadership, what has been your vision for PokerNews?
At the beginning of my journey, the internet poker world was flourishing. It seemed everyone prospered during this surge in poker’s popularity. However, my prior field was a constant struggle – every organization faced difficulties, requiring contact with numerous businesses just to secure a single deal. Therefore, I applied that same diligence and meticulousness to PokerNews. We began monitoring all aspects, evaluating expenses for each action, and determining how to construct a robust business framework capable of adapting to the impending shifts brought about by mobile web access and ad-blocking software. We were fortunate to undertake this back in 2013 and 2014, rather than delaying until 2016 when circumstances became significantly more challenging for many enterprises.
What potential does PokerStars’ return to the United States online poker scene hold?
Annually, it seems poker experiences a novel “game-changer,” such as mobile poker, Twitch broadcasts, the Full Tilt merger, and the reactivation of the US market. However, I am convinced the US market will be massive for Stars, potentially posing challenges for smaller entities. Conversely, it could be highly beneficial for PokerNews. Live events are our passion, and tournaments are flourishing. Concentrating on covering the North American poker circuit, or witnessing the World Poker Tour bolster its US presence with significant events, would be very advantageous for us, in my opinion. We are expanding the PokerNews Cup into the US this year and are already observing heightened confidence from our collaborators. It will be intriguing to observe the WSOP’s performance, nonetheless.
What are your thoughts on the present condition of affiliate marketing within online poker? What trajectory do you foresee for this sector’s future?
Affiliate marketing previously depended heavily on content generation. We witnessed a substantial amount of editorial personnel and fundamental technical assistance. I anticipate greater difficulty in cultivating a sustainable local player base as the market segments, with regulations and .com platforms no longer participating in shared global liquidity. Attracting new players, or even retaining existing ones, is becoming more challenging as certain brands approach saturation within their respective markets.
I think that performance marketing partners in the iGaming vertical need to enhance their adtech capabilities, and brands need to be more strategic about implementation. If they fail to do so, they’re looking at a rather grim outlook.
Your company acquired the daily fantasy sports (DFS) platform FantasyWired last year. What prompted you to enter the DFS market?
There’s certainly some overlap between fantasy sports and internet gambling. There’s always been discussion about whether poker enthusiasts would naturally transition towards DFS, but the reality is that both are skill-dependent, require probability analysis, and present the possibility for substantial returns. My staff was quite enthusiastic about it, particularly our Chief Creative Officer, Matt Parvis. It simply seemed like a logical progression.
Did the regulatory environment in the United States necessitate any adjustments to your DFS strategy?
Not really, we didn’t fully commit as we might have in different circumstances.
What’s your projection for the potential scale of DFS in Europe?
We’ve spoken with some individuals in the region, and I believe it hinges on the effectiveness of its marketing and collaborations with established sports organizations. I’m uncertain about the number of Europeans who will engage with it during their workday, however.”
Numerous fantasy sports leagues, such as the one from The Sun and various generic versions, experience a surge in registrations when the season commences. However, as frontrunners emerge, participation plummets – we’re looking at a decline of 60% to 80%. For daily fantasy sports to truly flourish, it must discover a method to capture that initial enthusiasm and sustain it.
You indicated that poker enthusiasts tend to be a more knowledgeable group. Could this make transitioning them into real money players more challenging compared to, for instance, casino patrons?
It’s accurate that casino goers, particularly online, are often more spontaneous. Poker players, conversely, exhibit fierce allegiance. Observe their reactions when their preferred poker platform modifies its fees or loyalty program – they become irate!
What are the most significant hurdles and prospects confronting iBus Media in the foreseeable future?
Our primary obstacle is ensuring we have the appropriate individuals in the appropriate positions. We currently possess an exceptional team. I’m perpetually cautious of rapid expansion because if we onboard unsuitable individuals, it can be a lengthy process to restore that positive atmosphere. However, identifying the specific skill sets we require within this sector is difficult, compelling us to search externally. We’re constantly seeking top talent, but it’s not solely about abilities, is it? They must also align with our company culture.