Introduction to Ontario’s Betting Market

In April, Ontario celebrated its third anniversary of establishing an open, multi-licence betting market. This market is not only one of the most valuable in North America but is also acclaimed as one of the best-regulated globally. European heritage firms, including TonyBet, bet365, LeoVegas, and BetVictor, have expanded into Ontario, Canada’s largest province, seeing vast opportunities.

Insights from Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association

SBC News spoke with Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA), about the market’s evolution and its appeal to European firms.

#### European Experience in Ontario’s Market

1. Canadians have enjoyed unrestricted online gaming access for over two decades, familiarizing themselves with major European brands.
2. Ontario’s regulated market offers a balance of fair revenue sharing and robust consumer protection, attracting companies seeking expansion beyond Europe.
3. As North America’s only open license model, Ontario presents a unique opportunity.

#### Ontario’s Market Value

1. Ontario has surpassed several US states in market value, attributed to its established unregulated online gaming market and the fifth-largest jurisdiction in North America.
2. The province offers a comprehensive range of products, including sports betting, casino games, and live dealer options, providing vast consumer choice.

#### Regulatory Blueprint Success

1. Ontario’s open licence market with fair license fees and a revenue share model has led to a 32% growth from year two to year three, attracting over 50 companies.
2. The model is seen as an ideal regulatory blueprint for other jurisdictions.

#### Advertising and Marketing Restrictions

1. Recent minor changes were mainly directed at restricting athletes in advertising.
2. Despite strict rules from the start, including prohibitions on mass market advertising of bonuses and incentives, the market continues to grow, showing these rules haven’t deterred operators.

#### Areas for Improvement

1. Ontario needs to focus on implementing technology for comprehensive regulatory reporting, minimizing bureaucratic obstacles, and maintaining a balance between revenue distribution and efficient regulation.

Canadian Gaming Summit: A Networking Hub

The Canadian Gaming Summit offers networking opportunities with professionals in Canada’s $22bn gaming market, covering land-based casinos, charitable gaming, lottery, and online gaming. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the Canadian gaming industry.

Ticket Information for the Canadian Gaming Summit

1. Get Your Tickets: Special rates are available for group bookings, offering significant savings.
2. Expo Plus Pass: For $195, this pass provides access to all conference tracks, sessions, and the show floor, excluding networking events.
3. Free Passes for Operators and Affiliates: Eligible parties can apply for free Full Event Passes through the provided links.

FAQ Section

Q: What makes Ontario’s betting market unique in North America?

A: Ontario’s open license model, offering a fair balance of revenue sharing and consumer protection, sets it apart.

Q: Have the new advertising restrictions affected market entry for new firms?

A: The restrictions, mainly targeting the use of athletes in advertising, haven’t significantly impacted new entrants, indicating a robust and adaptable market.

Q: What improvements could further benefit Ontario’s betting market?

A: Enhancing technology for regulatory reporting, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and ensuring a balanced regulatory and revenue-sharing model are key areas for improvement.

Key Takeaway: Ontario’s betting market, with its open license model and strategic balance of regulation and opportunities, presents a lucrative and attractive landscape for both established and new gaming companies.