Growth is inevitable
Canada's online gambling scene is on the brink of notable expansion. However, federal and provincial bodies are poised to regulate this growth to ensure it remains balanced. Here's the freshest insight into what's happening in Canada's igaming space.
Stricter Responsible Gambling Policies and Restrained Advertising
As digital betting is set to rise across the nation, measures to fortify responsible gambling guidelines are being laid. These include curbs on gambling advertisements.
Currently, Bill S-269 A national sports betting ad framework is being evaluated federally, with a Bill awaiting initial discussion in the House of Commons after passing the Senate stage.
The Bill is expected to harmonize with Ontario's recent revisions to their...Internet Gaming Standards set by the Registrar (RSIG) ...from last February, which disallows using sports figures and celebrities in online gambling ads. Such restrictions are becoming more common as Canada's market slowly transitions to tighter regulation.
Follow Ontario’s model
Gambling rules aim to safeguard Canadians, especially those most prone to gambling issues. With the sector's rapid growth, the market could perilously cater to younger audiences or endorse irresponsible betting unless checked.
With Ontario establishing itself as the first fully-regulated casino environment in Canada, the province has taken steps to protect its people from the influence of advertising, creating a model that other regions may soon adopt. This focus on public safety is one reason why Bill S-269 might echo Ontario's RSIG changes nationwide.
Real reasons for the follow
Many regions are likely emulating Ontario because of the undeniable profit margins.
Over the past year, according to iGaming Ontario Betting activities and earnings have surged annually by 31.7% and 35.4%, respectively. The latest quarter reports $738 million in total revenue.
Even provinces with much less population than Ontario can see substantial tax benefits from a regulated market like Ontario's. Hence, they are gearing up for a quick entry into the digital gambling arena.
This is the year Alberta regulates
Alberta recently passed the Amendment Act to Trim Legal Hurdles. Just recently, Alberta passed the aforementioned act, simplifying the procedure for revising gambling statutes in the region.regulate an online gambling market This legal change could expedite the setup of Alberta's digital betting market, potentially seeing operation commence this year. We're quite certain of this prediction.
Let's move forward: Expect others to mirror this trend soon
Alberta could be the next to echo Ontario's approach, yet we expect it won't stand alone. Multiple regions are aligning to introduce regulations akin to Ontario's, driven by the same motivations: safeguarding at-risk gamblers, combating financial fraud, and tapping into Canada's rich igaming possibilities.
With Ontario erasing obstacles and demonstrating the market's strength, 2025 appears to be the year for Alberta and peers to firm up their own regulated gambling landscapes, or at least make significant strides towards it.
The earlier they cement their stance in this growing field, the more advantageous it will be.
Nick, a Canadian copywriter, delves into the casino domain with over five years of experience. Focused on the Canadian and Ontario markets, where he resides, Nick provides unique insights. During downtime, he enjoys local craft beers, hockey games, and music.
