Discussing Gambling: Ixia Venture Capital Fund and Studio Affair
Chat with Mona Motwani, Founder & CEO of Ixia Capital, to uncover the vision behind their game-changing venture
1. The birth of Ixia Capital
Mona Motwani, the brainchild behind Ixia Capital, shares her inspiration for launching this unique venture capital fund and studio. She was captivated by the transformative power of gaming and digital assets in emerging markets like Africa, the Middle East, and India. Realizing the need for a specialized investment vehicle that combines expert knowledge with a hands-on studio approach, Ixia Capital was born.
2. The 'VC Studio' concept
Unlike traditional VC funds, Ixia's 'VC Studio' approach allows for greater control over development and direction from inception. This innovative model was inspired by the potential for growth in markets like Africa (with 185 million active gamers and a gaming market size of $6.2 billion) and India (568 million gamers).
The approach is data-driven and methodical, focusing on creating projects tailored to address specific market gaps while leveraging an extensive network and gaming/digital asset expertise. Ixia Capital is particularly enthused about opportunities in game development, esports platforms, tech startups, and more across the target regions.
3. Exciting investments and trends
Ixia Capital's investment strategies center on mobile gaming, esports, and blockchain technology in emerging markets. They find cloud gaming technology particularly relevant as it can democratize high-quality gaming experiences. The rise of esports post-COVID (20% increase in hourly traction) and designated events like the Dubai Esports and Games Festival attracting over 34,000 attendees indicate the sector's potential in the Middle East.
Blockchain Gaming & Digital Assets present opportunities beyond play-to-earn models, with potential for sustainable economic systems and verifiable, instant payouts. They're also looking into game development studios that cater to local market nuances and the increasing demand for culturally relevant content.
One intriguing trend is the convergence of gaming with other digital entertainment forms. Gen Z users, spending an average of 12 hours per week on virtual worlds, offer opportunities for innovation in social gaming experiences and content creation tools.
4. India: A shining beacon for iGaming
Over 590 million gamers place India second in the world's mobile gaming market, with 66% residing in non-metro areas. India's massive potential for growth is accompanied by infrastructure development, regulatory evolution, and a cultural preference for casual and hyper-casual games. Ixia Capital's studio model is designed to create projects tailored to India's unique needs and preferences while maintaining global standards.
5. Successfully tapping into India
Ixia Capital plans to tap into India's burgeoning market by employing a strategic and methodical approach. The studio model allows for the creation of locally relevant games, while the focus remains on mobile-first gaming solutions, games incorporating Indian cultural elements, and platforms designed to run efficiently with varying internet connectivity.
Building relationships with regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance from inception, participating in industry discussions, and leveraging experience in government relations are key aspects of their approach. The aim is to implement an adaptive market entry strategy that addresses high digital penetration areas initially, then gradually expanding into tier 2 and 3 cities using localized approaches specific to each region within India.
- Mona Motwani, the Founder & CEO of Ixia Capital, revealed that their venture capital fund and studio was conceived with a focus on investing in businesses that leverage technology, particularly in the realm of finance and investing.
- Ixia Capital's innovative 'VC Studio' model combines expert knowledge with hands-on development, targeting opportunities in game development, esports platforms, tech startups, and more, while especially considering markets with significant potential like Africa and India.
