In recent years, the world of online gambling has seen significant growth and evolution. One major factor contributing to this growth is the rise of regulated iGaming sites. These are online gambling platforms that are licensed and regulated by government bodies, ensuring fairness and safety for players.

According to a recent study, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of players from Ontario, Canada participating in regulated iGaming sites. This trend is significant, as it reflects the shift towards a more regulated and responsible gambling industry. In this article, we will delve into the details of this study and explore the reasons behind the increasing popularity of regulated iGaming sites in Ontario.

Understanding the Study: More Ontario Players Participating on Regulated iGaming Sites

The study was conducted by Gambling.com, one of the leading sources for online gambling news and information. Their research revealed that players from Ontario are increasingly turning towards regulated iGaming sites for their online gambling needs. In fact, it was found that 54% of all online gambling traffic from Ontario was directed towards these regulated sites.

The study also looked at the revenue generated by these regulated sites and found that it had increased by 105% in just one year. This is a significant change and indicates a growing trust among players towards regulated iGaming sites. It also highlights the potential for growth within the regulated online gambling market in Canada.

So, what exactly is causing this shift towards regulated iGaming sites in Ontario? Let us take a closer look.

The Advantages of Regulated iGaming Sites

Safety and Security Measures

One of the main reasons why players are choosing regulated iGaming sites is the increased safety and security measures in place. These sites are licensed and regulated by government bodies, meaning they must adhere to strict regulations and guidelines.

For instance, regulated sites must comply with anti-money laundering laws, have secure payment options, and implement responsible gambling measures. This gives players peace of mind knowing that their personal and financial information is protected and that the games they play are fair.

Responsible Gambling Practices

As mentioned earlier, regulated iGaming sites are required to have responsible gambling practices in place. This includes providing resources for players to manage their gambling habits and setting limits on deposit amounts and time spent playing. These measures help promote responsible gambling and prevent addictive behaviors.

Additionally, these sites often partner with organizations such as GambleAware and GamCare to provide support for those who may be struggling with gambling addiction. This shows a commitment towards creating a safe and responsible gambling environment for all players.

Variety of Games and Bonuses

Regulated iGaming sites also offer a wide variety of games and bonuses to attract and retain players. These sites often feature popular casino games such as slots, blackjack, and roulette, as well as sports betting options. They also offer lucrative bonuses and promotions, which can include welcome bonuses, free spins, and cashback offers.

Moreover, regulated sites are constantly evolving and updating their game selection, ensuring that players always have something new and exciting to try out. This variety and constant innovation make regulated iGaming sites more appealing to players.

The Role of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG)

The OLG is a crown corporation that manages all forms of gambling in Ontario, including lotteries, casinos, and online gaming. In 2015, the OLG launched their own online gambling platform, PlayOLG.ca, making it the first government-operated online gambling site in Canada.

However, the OLG faced criticism for poor user experience and limited game selection on their platform. This, coupled with the rise of unregulated offshore sites, led to low player participation and revenue. In response, the OLG started to shift their focus towards regulating third-party iGaming sites and allowing them to operate in Ontario.

This change in approach has proven to be successful, as seen by the significant increase in players and revenue on regulated iGaming sites. The OLG has also introduced a new online gambling platform, called PlayOLG Casino, which features games from reputable and licensed third-party providers.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Online Gambling in Ontario

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly affected the gambling industry worldwide. With the closure of land-based casinos and sports betting events, many players have turned to online gambling as a form of entertainment and potential income source.

In Ontario, the provincial government declared a state of emergency in March 2020, leading to the temporary closure of all non-essential businesses, including casinos. This resulted in a surge in online gambling activity, with regulated sites seeing a 45% increase in player traffic during this period.

While the pandemic has had a negative impact on many industries, it has inadvertently benefited the online gambling market in Ontario. As more players turn to regulated iGaming sites, it is likely that they will continue to do so even after the pandemic ends.

Responsible Gambling: A Priority for Regulated iGaming Sites

Despite the increasing popularity of regulated iGaming sites, it is essential to note that responsible gambling remains a top priority for these platforms. As mentioned earlier, they are required to have measures in place to promote responsible gambling and prevent addiction.

Additionally, regulated sites also offer self-exclusion options for players who want to take a break from gambling. They also have tools such as reality checks and time limits to help players manage their time and spending on the site. These measures show a commitment towards creating a safe and responsible gambling environment for players.

The Future of Regulated iGaming in Ontario

Based on the findings of this study, it is evident that regulated iGaming is the way forward for the online gambling industry in Ontario. With the support of the OLG and the increasing trust among players, these sites are set to continue their growth trajectory.

Moreover, the legalization of single-event sports betting in Canada has the potential to further boost the regulated iGaming market in Ontario. If this bill is passed, it could mean more opportunities for online sports betting and increased revenue for regulated iGaming sites.

Conclusion

The rise of regulated iGaming sites in Ontario is a positive sign for both players and the gambling industry as a whole. It reflects a shift towards a more responsible and regulated online gambling market, where the safety and well-being of players are prioritized.

As we have seen, there are many reasons why players are choosing regulated iGaming sites, including safety and security measures, responsible gambling practices, and a variety of games and bonuses. With the support of government bodies like the OLG, it is likely that this trend will continue, making regulated iGaming the future of online gambling in Ontario.