Canada
Gaming and Gambling Regulation in Canada – Outlook for 2023
Online gambling has been gaining considerable popularity in Canada in the past few years. Many factors contribute to this trend, which include technological advancements, relaxations in government regulations, and growing attraction in youngsters who are looking for new ways to make money aside from a primary and stable income.
According to reports, video games grew at a rate of around 9.51% in 2022 and touched a 2.8 billion USD figure. The industry is expected to grow to reach 3.53 billion USD in 2023. Additionally, revenue from the industry is expected to show a growth rate of 6.54% every year to touch 4.55 billion USD by 2027. These numbers clearly show the positive outlook of the gaming and gambling industry in Canada.
Gambling in Ontario, Canada
In April last year, Ontario opened a new path for gambling businesses and sportsbook managers to launch their virtual casinos. The government amended the legislation so that businesses could apply for casino licenses and begin operations. Today, this license is offered by the Liquor and Gaming Commission. It’s because of this facility that sports betting lovers are able to engage in online gambling and make money while having fun at top sports betting platforms today.
Before Ontario’s historical decision, gambling was extremely regulated and bound tightly under stringent standards in Canada. The only way for gambling companies to operate in Canada was to have their license issued in a particular province where they wanted to conduct business. This tied them to a single province and restricted their overall portfolio and profits.
Gambling in the rest of Canada
All Canadian states except for Alberta have different legislations that they follow. Only Alberta allows foreign gambling companies and third-party gambling companies to run their businesses in the state. That’s why you get to play poker, roulette, and other popular casino games on platforms such as Play Alberta.
In states other than Alberta, gambling is operational but these activities are run and managed by government agencies only. Even then, the norms and regulations are quite strict and gambling companies don’t enjoy adequate freedom in running their business operations. In fact, it was only recently when Bill C-128 was passed after which online casino and sports betting fans received the option to place single-event bets. Before this bill was passed, only parley bets were allowed on multiple events. So, even if players knew how to take their online betting to the next level, their hands were tied.
Gaming and virtual gambling growth
In the big picture, a positive trend in iGaming and gambling industry can be easily observed because of the following factors:
- Technological advancements: Mobile technology is becoming more powerful each year and mobile users are also increasing at a steady rate. Since more people play casino games and other conventional games on mobile than desktops, the iGaming and gambling industry is booming.
- Convenience: Online gambling is super convenient. You don’t have to go to a certain place or need lots of money to partake in online gambling which is why it’s convenient for everyone.
- Deals and promotions: Many online gambling platforms offer attractive bonuses and virtual money to attract players. When new players open accounts, they instantly get bonuses, free spins, and points, etc. These perks serve to boost the gaming industry overall.
2023 Outlook
The gambling and gaming outlook in Canada in 2023 can be assessed by looking at what’s happening in other countries. Even in countries where there are strict laws for gambling- such as India and the US- the governments are slowly easing up the regulations to promote online casinos and sportsbook platforms. We can see many existing online gambling platforms venturing into these markets, and new players entering the industry through these new territories.
Canada is already making it easier for online casino companies to run their business in the country and it will only promote it further in 2023. There are many reasons for it to do so. For starters, making online gambling and betting legal will curb illegal overseas gambling that only serves to hit the government’s tax collections. Additionally, it will also boost the economy as more third-party companies will start new operations in the country to generate more employment. It’s because of these reasons that experts believe the gambling revenue will increase by 30% to 40% by the end of the year.
Conclusion
Canada was once known as one of the strictest countries in gambling governance. However, this image is changing today and as the government is relaxing its regulations, more companies are setting up their businesses in the country. Hence, the general consensus today is that iGaming and gambling industry will continue to grow here in 2023 and many years to come
Canada
BetConstruct Becomes the First iGaming Company to Offer Both B2B and B2C Licenses in Canada through Affiliate Entity
BetConstruct, a global pioneer in iGaming and sports betting solutions, has announced a significant milestone in the gaming industry. Through its affiliate entity, BetConstruct has become the first iGaming company authorized to facilitate the issuance of both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) licenses. This remarkable achievement was made possible by obtaining a direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation in Canada.
The Tobique First Nation, renowned for its innovative and forward-thinking regulatory approach, has entrusted BetConstruct’s affiliate entity with the authority to oversee applications and facilitate the issuance of licenses from its jurisdiction. This partnership underscores shared values of innovation, transparency, and a commitment to responsible gaming practices.
This historic development places BetConstruct at the forefront of the Canadian iGaming market, redefining the opportunities available to gaming operators. By leveraging its affiliate entity’s licensing capabilities, BetConstruct empowers businesses to navigate a streamlined and transparent regulatory environment, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.
“At BetConstruct, we’ve always strived to push the boundaries of what’s possible in iGaming. This landmark achievement with the Tobique First Nation reflects our unwavering dedication to creating opportunities for our partners while upholding the highest standards of responsibility and integrity in gaming,” said Vigen Badalyan, Co-Founder of BetConstruct.
The issuance of dual licenses under the watchful eye of BetConstruct’s affiliate not only highlights BetConstruct’s commitment to supporting its partners but also reinforces the company’s role as a trusted leader in the global iGaming landscape.
This milestone signals a new era for regulated iGaming, as BetConstruct takes bold steps to establish a robust ecosystem for operators and consumers alike. With its direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation, BetConstruct is setting a new standard for innovation, consumer protection, and sustainable growth in Canada and beyond.
Canada
Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Announce Closing of the Acquisition of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria
Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. announced that PDG has closed the previously announced acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria from Great Canadian, in historic transactions for both parties. PDG is a wholly owned corporation of Snuneymuxw First Nation (the “Nation”) and is dedicated to realizing the economic potential of the Nation.
The transactions, originally announced on June 24, 2024, for Casino Nanaimo and September 10, 2024, for Elements Casino Victoria, have received all required approvals from the regulatory authorities.
“We are thrilled to have completed these transactions. An incredible amount of work has been undertaken by our corporate team, our on-site teams at both properties, and PDG to achieve this successful closing. I am grateful for their efforts, as well as everyone at the B.C. Lottery Corporation and the Gaming Policy Enforcement Branch, who were thoughtful, diligent, and thorough in facilitating these closings,” said Matt Anfinson, Chief Executive Officer of Great Canadian.
“We look forward to working closely with PDG during the transition period to support the continued successful operation of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria,” Anfinson added.
“We celebrate the closing of our two casino acquisitions and our continued progress toward building a strong Snuneymuxw economy. For decades, Snuneymuxw leadership has worked tirelessly toward this moment, recognizing the connection between a strong economy, self-determination, and the foundation of nationhood. Today, we honour the achievements of those who came before us by securing businesses that will strengthen our Nation for generations to come. Thank you to the PDG and Great Canadian teams for your exceptional work. We look forward to a rewarding partnership with the B.C. Lottery Corporation, driving economic growth for the Nation and Province,” said Chief Mike Wyse.
Erralyn Joseph, President of PDG, said: “This measured acquisition marks an important milestone for PDG as we continue growing a corporate enterprise that reinvests directly into the prosperity of our Nation. With a strong operating plan focused on risk mitigation and yielding sizable returns, PDG continues to generate sustainable wealth for Snuneymuxw. With every step we are realizing our socio-economic potential and influence at a local, national, and global level. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are pleased to share this news and remain committed to advancing economic growth in support of all residents connected to Snuneymuxw territory.”
“Acquiring these assets marks a pivotal shift for Snuneymuxw and Vancouver Island. This transition will fuel the Island’s economy, strengthening the Snuneymuxw Nation and ensuring the benefits stay local,” said Ian Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of PDG.
Canada
Ottawa Black Bears Announce Partnership Deal with PowerPlay
The Ottawa Black Bears announced an extensive partnership agreement with PowerPlay Online Sportsbook and Casino that will see the company’s logo featured on the club’s home and away jerseys.
In addition to the jersey partnership, PowerPlay will also have branding elements inside the goal crease, behind the bench, on the LED display ring, and along the rinkboards for Black Bears home games at Canadian Tire Centre. As part of the deal, PowerPlay also becomes the exclusive sportsbook and online casino partner for the Ottawa Black Bears.
“We are thrilled to have PowerPlay on board for our inaugural season with such a comprehensive partnership agreement. Their investment with the Black Bears represents a foundational agreement for our lacrosse club. And we’re proud to wear their logo alongside ours as we launch our franchise,” said Chelsea McDermott, Vice President of Business Operations for the Ottawa Black Bears.
“We are excited to bring PowerPlay’s bold, community-driven spirit to Ottawa-Gatineau, partnering with the Black Bears as they establish themselves as a force in lacrosse. This partnership celebrates a sport deeply tied to Canada’s heritage and competitive energy. Together, we’ll ignite passion, energize fans, and deliver excitement all season long,” said Thomas Vermeulen, Marketing Director for PowerPlay.
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