In April 2022, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) helped spearhead a regulated iGaming market for the province. In just two years, it seems as though the goal of creating a safe space for Ontario bettors has been achieved.
According to a recent report from the AGCO, 86.4% of Ontarians who reported online gambling chose to do so at regulated sites. That is great for both Ontarians and online casino and sportsbook operators alike.
The Numbers
A study conducted in February 2024 revealed that 86.4% of Ontarians who have gambled online over the last three months had done so on regulated sites. The same study conducted in 2023 showed that 85.3% had previously played at regulated sites.
Though the numbers are definitely positive, they aren’t perfect. For instance, the study also revealed that 20.1% of online gamblers did so at both regulated and unregulated sites. Moreover, 13.6% did the entirety of their wagering at unregulated sites.
There were also more than 350 different unregulated sites referenced, which just goes to show the kind of access that is still available. The AGCO and the province as a whole will continue to shift players toward the Ontario market, offering not only legal but safer gaming options.
Ontario currently offers 77 regulated sites from 47 different registered operators within the province. The numbers have leveled from the first year of operation but have remained steady throughout 2023 and early 2024.
Important Quotes
Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario, had this to say: “Since its launch in April 2022, Ontario’s iGaming model has been recognized internationally for championing work to displace the unregulated online gaming market. This made-in-Ontario, regulated market will continue to inspire global innovation, while ensuring a safer landscape for players and businesses alike.”
“In Ontario, regulated sites are held to high standards of gaming integrity, data security and player protections, including having significant responsible gaming safeguards,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar for AGCO. “While it’s encouraging to see most participants are choosing regulated gaming options, those who are not are unfortunately risking far more than their wagers.”
Conclusion
Though there is still growth to be achieved, AGCO has to be happy with the recent report. Online casino games and sports betting are being offered through safe platforms and players are moving that way in droves. Though there will always be a niche of unregulated players, this has to be positive news for AGCO.
