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Regional Gambling Markets in Canada: Top Games, Trends and Demographics

May 12, 2025

Canada’s online casino landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with the gaming preferences of players becoming increasingly tailored to their regional cultures, regulations, and technological adoption. This provincial divergence is vividly reflected in recent data that tracks the top-performing games by content share across five major Canadian markets: Québec, Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Ontario.

CasinoRank’s insights not only highlight the game types favored by players in different areas but also emphasize how regulatory policies and demographic characteristics influence gaming behavior. From high-volatility slots in Ontario to the growing popularity of live dealer games in Alberta, the landscape of online gambling in Canada is more diverse than ever.

iGaming Industry in Canada

The iGaming sector continues to experience significant momentum in 2024–2025, driven by both regulatory evolution and the rapid digitization of entertainment. Provinces like Ontario, with its fully regulated market, now host a wider array of games and providers, offering increased transparency and consumer protection. However, this diversity also means lower content shares for individual titles, with the online casino Ontario market showcasing fierce competition among providers. Alberta, in contrast, sees strong loyalty to fewer titles, indicative of a market where player habits are well-established and content consumption is more concentrated. Meanwhile, the moderate concentration in British Columbia and Nova Scotia—where top games claim 2.3% and 2.1% respectively—suggests a balanced engagement pattern. Québec’s competitive game environment reflects an exploratory mindset among players, where even top games like Sweet Bonanza barely cross the 1.0% mark. These nuances collectively paint a picture of a dynamic and fragmented industry, where real money casinos in Canada must tailor their offerings based on localized trends.

Image: CasinoRank

Player Preferences Across Canada: A Regional Overview

Canadian players are a diverse group, with preferences that vary not only by game type but also by region. Overall, players seek experiences that balance excitement, interactivity, and trusted providers. Trends show a growing appetite for both immersive live dealer games and entertainment-rich slot experiences.

In Alberta, there is a clear passion for real-time, interactive gaming. Live dealer titles, especially Evolution’s Live Poker Lobby—which holds an impressive 8.0% content share—are a major draw. Players here gravitate toward social, high-engagement formats that replicate the feel of physical casinos.

Meanwhile, in Ontario and Québec, the trend shifts toward fast-paced, visually dynamic video slots. Players in these provinces favor providers like Pragmatic Play, suggesting a desire for quick, thrilling sessions that allow for personal pacing and vibrant entertainment.

British Columbia players show a preference for more traditional gaming experiences. They lean toward trusted providers and classic games like video poker, reflecting a taste for familiar, steady gameplay.

Nova Scotia players exhibit the most diverse tastes, with a balance between live dealer games, video slots, and traditional offerings. This market’s broad engagement across game types points to an openness to new trends while valuing classic experiences.

Understanding these regional nuances is key for operators, as Canadian players prioritize both quality and variety. A localized approach, rather than a one-size-fits-all model, is essential to capture and sustain player loyalty in this dynamic market. With detailed data from iGaming Tracker, we have provided a list of the top games and trends in each Canadian region.

Québec Player Preferences & Top Games

Québec’s online casino market is characterized by fierce competition and wide game variety. Players here demonstrate an appetite for colorful, volatile slot experiences, with Pragmatic Play securing four of the top ten games. Unlike Alberta, no live dealer games appear in the province’s top rankings—suggesting that players in Québec prioritize self-contained slot sessions over real-time interaction. Titles like Gates of Olympus and 9 Masks of Fire reflect a taste for fantasy and mythological themes, while the inclusion of multiple providers underscores an openness to experimentation. Québec’s market is representative of a segment within Canadian casino games where exploration and thematic richness are more valued than familiarity or repetition.

Top Games in Québec:

Sweet Bonanza by Pragmatic Play
Gates of Olympus by Light & Wonder
100x Ra by Light & Wonder
9 Masks of Fire by Games Global
10x Fortune by Pragmatic Play

Image: CasnioRank

Alberta Player Preferences & Top Games

Alberta offers perhaps the most distinctive profile in the Canadian iGaming landscape. It is the only province where live Canadian casino games dominate, accounting for 17.3% of the content share through Evolution titles alone. This signals a market that is not only highly engaged but also seeking experiences that mimic land-based casinos. Alberta’s leading slot providers—Aristocrat and IGT—also show strong positioning, suggesting a loyal player base that values legacy names alongside innovative gameplay. With its top game capturing 8.0% of the market share, Alberta represents a highly concentrated environment, contrasting sharply with the fragmented markets of Québec or Ontario.

Top Games in Alberta:

Live Poker Lobby by Evolution
Desert Fantasy by Aristocrat Interactive
Game Show Lobby by Evolution
7s Wild by IGT
Crash Eruption by IGT

Image: CasinoRank

British Columbia Player Preferences & Top Games

British Columbia’s market is distinct in its preference for classic titles and video poker, predominantly from IGT and Light & Wonder. Players in this province appear to value gameplay mechanics rooted in familiarity, with no titles from newer, more flashy developers cracking the top ten. This may reflect a demographic skewed slightly older, or simply a cultural preference for games with a more strategic edge. The top three video poker titles alone contribute 4.1% of the content share, showcasing BC as a haven for players who favor calculated decision-making over luck-based volatility. For those seeking the best online casinos in Canada, BC offers a look into regions where traditional gaming still commands significant influence.

Top Games in British Columbia:

Thundering Blaze by Light & Wonder
Power Hits PowerBucks by IGT
Thundering Horseman by Light & Wonder
100x Ra by Light & Wonder
7s Wild by IGT

Image: CasinoRank

Nova Scotia Player Preferences & Top Games

Nova Scotia showcases a richly diverse gaming portfolio, featuring titles from five different providers. This region appears to be a blend of traditional values and modern curiosity. While Light & Wonder dominates with five games in the top ten, there is also meaningful presence from RealPlay and Everi—suggesting players are receptive to innovation and variety. The relatively even spread of content shares, from 1.3% to 2.1%, indicates a healthy balance in engagement across the top offerings. Nova Scotia’s landscape exemplifies the kind of inclusivity and experimentation that appeals to players exploring new online casinos in Canada.

Top Games in Nova Scotia:

100,000 Pyramid by IGT
12 Super Hot Diamonds by Aristocrat Interactive
10000 Wonders 10K Ways by RealPlay
Black Diamond by Everi
100x Ra by Light & Wonder

Image: CasinoRank

Ontario Player Preferences & Top Games

Ontario stands at the heart of Canada’s regulated iGaming market and is home to one of the most diverse player bases in the country. The province’s embrace of modern mechanics and engaging visuals is evident in the dominance of Pragmatic Play, whose games occupy half of the top ten spots. While no game exceeds 1.6% in content share, this fragmentation signals an intensely competitive market rich with choice. Notably, Evolution titles Starburst and Divine Fortune Megaways make strong appearances, alongside Book of Dead from Play’n GO, showcasing a mix of global favorites. As the leading market for ontario casino online platforms, the province represents a dynamic intersection of regulation, innovation, and urban demand.

Top 5 Games in Ontario:

Big Bass Bonanza by Pragmatic Play
Gates of Olympus by Pragmatic Play
Sweet Bonanza by Pragmatic Play
Starburst by Evolution
Divine Fortune Megaways by Evolution

Player Demographics: Who is Playing?

When looking at participation rates across age groups, approximately 35% of online gamblers in Canada are between the ages of 18–34, reflecting the strong youth-driven growth. Those aged 35–54 account for around 40% of the player base, showing steady engagement across middle-aged adults. Older players aged 55 and above represent roughly 25%, maintaining a significant footprint largely centered on traditional gaming styles. These figures highlight the necessity for platforms to tailor experiences by age group and province to capture the full potential of Canada’s diverse online gambling market.

Canadian iGaming Industry: Trends & Data

Market Concentration vs. Diversity: Alberta’s top three games capture a dominant 21.6% content share, reflecting strong player loyalty. In contrast, Québec’s top three games only account for 2.3%, highlighting a preference for broad variety. Ontario also shows high demand for diverse, experimental gaming content.
Universal Game Appeal: Titles like 100x Ra and Sweet Bonanza are consistently popular across multiple provinces, suggesting that while regional tastes vary, certain high-energy games have wide national appeal.
Regional Provider Preferences: Alberta players favor immersive live dealer experiences from providers like Evolution, while Ontario’s players seek innovation and gamification. British Columbia leans toward traditional formats like classic slots and poker.
Strategic Focus for Operators: Success in the Canadian market depends less on offering the most games and more on aligning specific content to provincial preferences through localization, not volume.

Conclusion: Which Region is Leading?

Ontario’s iGaming market shows a clear lead in Canada’s gambling industry, boasting $82.7 billion in total wagers and $3.2 billion in gross gaming revenue for 2024–25. With 49 operators and 84 active gaming sites, Ontario’s strong regulation, innovation, and game variety set it apart.

Alberta shows promising growth with $5.3 billion in wagers but remains a developing market as it moves toward opening to private operators. Québec, while maintaining a steady presence through Loto-Québec, faces challenges from unregulated competition.

Overall, Ontario’s comprehensive approach to regulation and player engagement firmly places it at the forefront of Canada’s rapidly evolving iGaming landscape.

OLG re-signs Caesars as Windsor casino operator for another 20 years

May 10, 2025

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has selected Caesars to remain as the operator of the Windsor casino for the next 20 years.

Caesars Entertainment Windsor Ltd. has operated the border destination for 17 years. The provincial government announced on Friday that the company has been selected to remain in that role following a competitive procurement process led by OLG which began in 2023.

Industry sources suggested last year that Bally’s Corporation and Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment had submitted bids to rival Caesars. Mohegan operates two casinos in Niagara Falls, Ont.

The new agreement between OLG and Caesars is expected to take effect early next year. While Caesars will be responsible for the day-to-day gaming operations, OLG will continue to conduct and manage gaming at the site.

The Windsor casino was Ontario’s first commercial casino when it opened in 1994. It currently boasts more than 100,000 square feet of gaming space with more than 2,200 slot machines, 80-plus table games and a physical Caesars Sportsbook, as well as a resort with 750 hotel rooms, numerous restaurants and bars and the 5,000-seat Colosseum theater.

“We’re excited to continue to work with Caesars Entertainment Windsor Ltd., an iconic global brand in gaming entertainment, to build on the success of the Windsor casino and help ensure the long-term competitiveness of the Windsor gaming market,” said OLG CEO Duncan Hannay.

“We are thrilled to be selected as the service provider for the Windsor Casino by the OLG,” said Caesars CEO Tom Reeg. “Caesars has a long history of managing Windsor and looks forward to continuing to deliver exceptional guest service and experiences at the property.”

The OLG says it has contributed more than $53 million to the local community since 2018 through OLG’s Municipality Contribution Agreement.

Caesars Windsor a big tourist pull from US

Caesars Windsor President Kevin Laforet told local media that the renewed agreement is the casino’s “best bet to remain successful and be sustainable in this very, very competitive market.”

That was echoed by the OLG’s Chief Gaming Officer David Pridmore, who added that the extended relationship will help OLG “maintain our competitiveness in this very competitive gaming market.”

Caesars employs approximately 1,800 people in relation to the casino’s operations, making it one of the largest employers in the Windsor-Essex region. Nearly 1,500 of those employees are unionized members through Unifor Local 444. Last month, unionized workers at Caesars Windsor ratified a three-year collective agreement that includes a $4 raise over three years, improvements to benefits and among more.

“We are the No. 1 tourism driver in the region, 70,000 visitors each week, many coming from the U.S., coming from outside the community,” added Laforet. “We’ve always been amongst the largest employers in the area, one of the biggest purchases of local goods and services from local suppliers.”

“At a time when geopolitical tensions are threatening to disrupt our economy, this new agreement between OLG and Caesars brings stability and peace of mind for thousands of local workers in Windsor,” said Ontario Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Stan Cho. “Given its strong track record, intimate knowledge of the sector, and long-standing work in the community, our government is confident that Caesars will continue to serve Windsor and the surrounding area well for many years to come.”

Cross-Canada growth lifts multi-brand Super Group to record quarter

May 9, 2025

Multi-brand operator Super Group posted record quarterly revenue in Q1 2025, driven in no small part by strong performance in Canada.

Super Group operates Betway sportsbook and online casinos such as Spin and Jackpot City in a variety of markets. In Ontario, it has licenses for those three brands, with Betway offering both sports betting and casino, plus the Ruby Fortune and Royal Vegas casinos. The company also serves Canadian customers in other provinces in the unregulated market.

Overall, Canadian revenues grew 13% last quarter year-over-year. The majority of that growth came outside Ontario. The company’s revenue in that regulated commercial market grew 2%, it rose 16% in unregulated provinces over the same period.

CEO Neal Menashe said that performance “highlights the continued strength of our brands across Canada, where profitability remains very good.”

In the U.S., Super Group shut down its Betway sports betting operations last year but operates Spin and Jackpot City in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Menashe said the company will continue to evaluate both brands before deciding whether to launch more skins in the U.S.

Super Group knows ‘exactly what we need to do’ in Alberta

Super Group is reputedly the commercial market leader outside of Ontario, per H2 Gambling Capital data shown to Canadian Gaming Business. It has significant visibility in other provinces and ads for the brand’s site betway.net have been displayed frequently on rinkside boards at stadiums like Alberta’s Rogers Place during Edmonton Oilers games, including during last year’s Stanley Cup Final.

Like it did in Ontario, it sounds like the company intends to seek a license and step into Alberta’s regulated market when that province opens its doors. The provincial legislature passed enabling legislation this week, with a 2026 launch on the cards.

“We learned how we migrate our customers’ databases from Ontario and we’ve learned what maybe we didn’t do correctly,” Menashe told investors and analysts on an earnings call on Friday. “We will never make the same mistake twice, and that’s how we’ve always been.

“So, we wait for it. The product’s being built ready, we wait for all the regs [regulations] and we know exactly what we need to do there.”

North America no longer Super Group’s biggest market

In Q1, total North America revenue climbed 18.3% to $181 million, with Canadian revenue accounting for the bulk, but the continent’s share of group revenue dipped to 35%.

Overall, the company’s global revenue hit a record of $517 million in Q1 2025, 25% higher than Q1 last year. Bottom-line net profit reached $76 million, more than double last year. Adjusted EBITDA was $111.1 million, also more than double last year, while total monthly active customers across all brands increased 14% year-over-year to 5.3 million.

Across all global markets, sports betting and Betway are the primary revenue drivers, although Super Group’s online casino operations are growing at a faster rate. Africa has now supplanted North America as the market that makes up the biggest share of the company’s total revenue.

“We started 2025 on a high note,” Menashe said in the results report. “We delivered a strong Q1 with impressive revenue growth, a surge in customer acquisition, and effective retention strategies. Our combined revenue reached a record for a first quarter, fuelled by outstanding sports betting margins and consistent casino margins, as well as our ongoing efforts to optimise return on investment across all markets.”

Super Group open to acquisitions

Menashe added on the call that Super Group is continually looking at M&A opportunities and is in a position to strike if and when it sees an opportunity that is a good fit.

“We have the cash flow, we can buy anyone we want,” Menashe said. “But it’s got to the the right fit and make sense for the business.”

Great Canadian Entertainment faces another AGCO fine

May 8, 2025

Casino operator Great Canadian Entertainment has received another fine from Ontario’s gaming regulator.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) fined Great Canadian Entertainment $151,000 for allowing minors to access multiple Toronto-area casinos.

The AGCO levied its penalty after Great Canadian self-reported the violations, which included allowing minors to access casino floors and participate in “gambling activities.”

“We hold ourselves to the highest standards of security and integrity across our 23 operations nationwide,” Great Canadian Executive Vice President of External Relations and Business Development Chuck Keeling told Canadian Gaming Business. “These incidents were self-reported, and we accept the AGCO’s determination. We’ve taken corrective action and remain fully committed to meeting all regulatory requirements going forward.”

The AGCO penalized Great Canadian as its standards require online and retail operators to ensure they are allowing eligible players to gamble. The regulator’s eligibility standards include prohibiting access to anyone under 19 years of age to wager with casino operators.

Great Canadian’s self-reporting led to an investigation by the AGCO, which reviewed two violations that took place at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto. The two violations incurred a $51,000 penalty. The AGCO’s probe also reviewed two separate violations at Casino Ajax and Pickering Casino Resort. Each case resulted in a $50,000 fine.

Great Canadian has the right to appeal the monetary penalty with the AGCO Registrar.

Great Canadian ordered to pay another hefty fine

Last month, the entertainment and hospitality giant was issued a monetary penalty of $120,000 over violations related to Ontario Gaming GTA Limited Partnership—a joint venture with Brookfield Business Partners. Great Canadian was fined following a compliance review that determined the company failed to detect cheating and collusion.

The review determined that several casino dealers engaged in a cheating scheme with the same group of players resulting in nearly $20,000 in illicit winnings being paid out. Great Canadian was fined due to a failure to detect the scheme. The company also violated AGCO standards by allowing casino staff to not follow table game audit procedures.

Great Canadian was fined $80,000 in 2023 for failing to detect a similar scheme.

Alberta passes iGaming Alberta Act to legalize commercial online gambling

May 8, 2025

Alberta is just a formality away from legalizing commercial online casino and sports betting.

Minister Dale Nally’s Bill 48 was passed by the provincial legislature’s Committee of the Whole and subsequently by the full Assembly at third reading on Wednesday evening. The United Conservative Party’s enabling legislation, titled the iGaming Alberta Act, now just needs Royal Assent to be enacted.

The bill, which was passed on Wednesday without any amendments, will establish Canada’s second open, commercial, regulated online gambling market after Ontario opened its doors three years ago.

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) will be the market regulator while still operating Play Alberta, currently the only regulated online gambling platform in the province. A new government agency, the Alberta iGaming Corporation, will conduct and manage the market and contract commercial online sportsbooks and online casinos.

Canadian Gaming Association President and CEO Paul Burns called the passage “a great milestone in the process.”

“The Canadian Gaming Association and its members extend their congratulations to Minister Dale Nally and the Government of Alberta for reaching this significant milestone and advancing towards the provision of regulated iGaming and enhanced consumer protections for its citizens,” added the CGA in a LinkedIn post.

Regulations will paint the picture

While legalization is clearly a vital step, there is a long way to go. Key details, including how many operators will be allowed in and what the tax rate and licensing fees will be, still need to be hashed out and an entire framework of regulations needs to be constructed.

“More details on key regulations and policies related to revenue, consumer protection and specific social responsibility policies will be shared later this year, following further engagement,” said Nally at third reading.

The bill has not faced much strong opposition in Alberta’s Assembly, but key concerns were repeatedly raised by the New Democratic Party (NDP) about the lack of specifics around responsible gambling and player protection in the bill text. A package of NDP amendments was voted down by the committee last week, and similar concerns were voiced at both committee stage and third reading on Wednesday before the bill was passed.

Nally has been unequivocal that responsible gambling should be a regulatory issue, not something written into the legislation. That way, he argued, changes can be made “on a dime” as required by the market rather than needing to go through a legislative process to come into force, offering more efficiency and flexibility.

One thing the bill does include is a centralized self-exclusion platform for gamblers across all commercial regulated sites, the type of which Ontario still does not have in place but is working to construct.

Online gambling is already happening

As was the case in Ontario before that province opened its market, advocates for Bill 48 pointed to the fact that a great deal of online gambling is already being done in Alberta, just without the revenue and player protection benefits of regulatory oversight.

AGLC said last year that it estimates that Play Alberta holds around 45% of the province’s online gambling market by revenue. Data provided to Canadian Gaming Business by H2 Gambling Capital put the share of online sports betting and online casino activity much lower, closer to 25%.

Legalizing and regulating online gambling is touted as an effective way to not only make online gambling safer for players and taxable for the government, but also to bolster consumer choice, drive innovation and create a greater economic benefit for the province via avenues such as direct and indirect job creation. In Ontario, the consensus is that those goals have largely been met.

When can business start?

As for when Alberta might be ready to open its doors, although Nally voiced optimism last fall that the market may be up and running in time fo the next NFL season this coming fall, the consensus today seems to be the first quarter of 2026.

Chief executives of numerous Ontario-licensed operators, including FanDuel, BetMGM, theScore Bet owner PENN Entertainment, BetRivers parent Rush Street Interactive and multi-brand operator Super Group have said this year that they are planning for Q1 2026 market entry.

SBC Summit Americas takes over Fort Lauderdale next week

May 8, 2025

SBC Summit Americas is gearing up to host 10,000 industry professionals from across the Americas and beyond, offering a deep dive into the opportunities and challenges shaping the North American and Latin American gaming markets.

As SBC’s premier Pan-American event, the summit will serve as a central hub for strategic alignment, knowledge sharing and cross-regional collaboration aimed at driving progress across the Americas. It will bring together influential voices from global and regional operators, affiliates, suppliers, regulators, tribal nations, media organizations as well as national sports teams and leagues.

Taking place at the Broward County Convention Centre May 13-15, the event will offer three action-packed days of unmatched networking, an industry-spanning educational program, and a vibrant exhibition floor.

This year’s edition will also see the addition of two industry-focused side summits, the Affiliate Leaders Summit and the Payment Expert Summit. Each will feature a dedicated show floor and tailored conference track providing a vital platform for delegates to engage with the region’s leading affiliate and payment professionals.

“Our previous America-focused events—SBC Summit North America and SBC Summit Latinoamérica—really helped us understand the market’s unique dynamics and the issues that matter most to delegates, laying a strong foundation for what’s ahead,” said SBC CEO and Founder Rasmus Sojmark. “With the addition of dedicated Affiliate and Payment Summits, a larger show floor, and an expanded conference agenda, there’s truly something for everyone, whatever your focus.”

Across the two core event days, delegates will have the chance to gain crucial insights and strategic guidance from 250 industry experts across a dynamic five-stage conference program. Covering the full breadth of the Americas’ gaming landscape, the agenda includes dedicated tracks on leadership, payments, and affiliation, alongside two regionally focused stages covering the latest developments in North America and Latin America. Additionally, attendees can attend a specialized Player Protection Symposium.

The conference will host key industry figures such as Julie Brown (Vice Chair, Florida Gaming Control Commission), Lori Kalani (Chief Responsible Gaming Officer, DraftKings), Casey Hurbis (Chief Marketing Officer, BetMGM) and Ari Borod (Chief Business Officer, Fanatics Betting & Gaming), who will appear across keynote addresses and fireside chats tackling the industry’s most urgent topics.

In addition, the programme will also include appearances from notable leaders including Julio César Tamayo Betancur (President, Wplay), Stuart Simms (Group CEO, FairPlay Sports Media), Lee Terfloth (Chief Interactive Officer, Gaming, Delaware North), Manuel Stan (CEO, Catena Media), Kresimir Spajic (CEO & Chair, Betfred US), Gonzalo Pérez (CEO, Apuesta Total) and Katie Lever (Chief Legal Officer, Great Canadian Entertainment).

On the exhibition floor, delegates will have the chance to engage with hundreds of leading regional and global brands from across the industry, offering delegates the opportunity to discover the latest technological innovations, exciting new game releases, and industry-advancing products and services. Notable exhibitors include BetConstruct, BetMGM, Caesars Entertainment, Digitain, Flashscore, Optimove, Pay4Fun, Pragmatic Play and Trustly.

Networking will be at the heart of the SBC Summit Americas experience, with a range of tailored industry meet-ups taking place directly on the show floor. Highlights include the Global Gaming Women Breakfast Meetup and the African Americans in Gaming Meetup. Additionally, delegates can enjoy a scenic Water Taxi Happy Hour, running across both core event days.

Beyond the exhibition floor, Full Event Pass holders can attend a series of evening networking events. The event kicks off on Tuesday, May 13, with the opening party at The Wharf, followed by the SBC Americas Awards (separate ticket required) on Wednesday, honoring the region’s top brands and leaders. The summit wraps up on Thursday, May 15, with the INFINITY Florida at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, a high-energy closing party headlined by EDM star Steve Aoki. Get your SBC Summit Americas tickets — group discounts are available.

Player Protection Symposium will be part of SBC Summit Americas core agenda

May 7, 2025

SBC Summit Americas is reinforcing its commitment to promoting safer gambling by integrating the previously standalone Player Protection Symposium into the event’s core conference agenda. This strategic move ensures that all registered delegates will have access to discussions, insights, and best practices around player protection, cementing the topic as a central pillar of the 2025 summit. The Player Protection Symposium will be held on May 14 in the Palm Room (Level 2) at the Broward County Convention Centre. Featuring a focused conference agenda and networking opportunities, the symposium will offer a dedicated space for operators, regulators, compliance experts and technology providers to share strategies for player protection. “I think it’s clear to everyone that player safety is no longer a side conversation. It should be a central focus for every company operating in our industry,” said SBC CEO and Founder Rasmus Sojmark. “That’s why we’ve integrated the Player Protection Symposium into the main SBC Summit Americas agenda, ensuring it is front and center and fully accessible to all attendees without the need for a separate ticket or early arrival. By embedding it into the core program, we’re opening up these crucial discussions to a much wider audience, creating greater opportunities for learning, collaboration, and progress.” With SBC Summit Americas now bringing together North America and Latin America, the new dedicated track offers Latin American stakeholders a unique opportunity to access deeper conversations around player protection. Although SBC Summit Latinoamérica touched on the topic through individual panels, it never hosted a full track on the subject. This new format also paves the way for greater knowledge sharing between the two regions. The Player Protection Symposium will feature seven panels in total, tackling a wide range of issues related to player safety. Sessions will cover topics such as analyzing affordability and risk checks, the role of technology in early harm detection, how operators can work with regulators and the overall development of safer gambling tools and strategies. The symposium will open with a look at the North American market and the effect of financial risk checks on player behaviors. Financial Risk Checks: An Essential Tool for Player Safety or the Black Market’s New Best Friend? will feature Craig Cornforth (Senior Business Development Director, EPIC Global Solutions), Rebekah Jackson (Director of Gaming, GBG), Martin Lycka (SVP for American Regulatory Affairs and Responsible Gambling, Entain) and Declan Raines (Senior Director – US Gaming, TransUnion) exploring how affordability checks shape player behavior and how the industry can meet compliance demands while reducing the risk of driving players toward unregulated markets. The panel titled From Obligation to Opportunity: Driving Success Through Responsible Gambling will focus on both the LatAm and North American markets, discussing how proactive responsible gambling strategies can drive long-term commercial success across both regions. Featuring player protection experts Sarah Brennan (Senior Director, Compliance, BetMGM), Paul Buck (CEO, EPIC Global Solutions), Dr. Mary Donohue (CEO & Founder, The Digital Wellness Center), Charmaine Hogan (Head of Regulatory Affairs, Playtech), Martin Lycka (Regulation & Responsible Gambling Expert) and Dr. Jennifer Shatley (Executive Director, Responsible Online Gaming Association. Safeguarding the Next Generation: Addressing Underage Gambling Risks will examine the need for companies to prevent underage gambling across Latin America. The panel features Samer Atassi (VP of Latin America, Jumio), Ezequiel Dominguez (Director de Loterias, Loteria de Buenos Aires (LOTBA), Dr. Agustin Li Gambi (Director General, IJAN), Ida Lopez (President, ALEA), Iliana Pineda (Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Wplay), and Tatiana Vazquez (Socia – Directora, V&I Consultores Legales) as they explore technology-focused solutions to protect vulnerable youth and ensure responsible gaming practice across the region. Away from the Player Protection Symposium, attendees will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of both the LATAM and North American markets through tracks such as the Payment Expert Summit, Leaders, Affiliates and Masterclasses on new and upcoming regulations.

Get Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas

Group Pass 3+ (Full Event Pass): Available for groups of three or more, this pass grants full access to conference sessions, the expo floor, networking events, and evening parties—all for a discounted rate of $500 USD per person. (does not include access to SBC Awards Americas) Expo+ Pass: Includes access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (does not include access to evening networking events). Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes: Operators and affiliates can apply for free passes, subject to approval. Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass

Ex-RGC CEO Shelley White among 2025 Sports Betting Hall of Fame Inductees

May 6, 2025

SBC is proud to unveil the four industry icons whose lasting legacy and transformative impact on the industry have earned them a spot in the Sports Betting Hall of Fame class of 2025.

Taking place as part of the SBC Summit Americas, the ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. ET, as part of the North America conference track in Conference Room Two.

Established in 2016, the Sports Betting Hall of Fame has become a staple of SBC events, serving as a platform to recognize the industry’s outstanding individuals and their invaluable contributions. This year’s induction will unite industry professionals from across the Americas and beyond to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable industry pioneers.

Inductees into the class of 2025 include:

Chad Millman (Co-Founder, The Action Network)
Shelley White (Former CEO, Responsible Gambling Council)
Scotty Schelttler (Former Director, Race & Sports, Stardust)
Esmeralda Britton (President, Junta de Protección Social in Costa Rica)

Securing a spot in the Sports Betting Hall of Fame requires an impressive portfolio of qualifications and achievements. This includes extensive experience within the industry and a proven track record of driving progress through innovative products and forward-thinking strategies.

Candidates are also evaluated on their proactive contributions towards raising awareness around sports betting, whether through educational programs, awareness campaigns, and responsible betting practices, encouraging ethical behavior and strengthening community engagement.

“The Sports Betting Hall of Fame was created nearly a decade ago, during a time of rapid evolution in the industry. Since then, we’ve witnessed incredible growth, faced common challenges, and welcomed a wave of new markets. However, something that has always remained the same is the abundance of talent and influential leadership that continues to drive the industry forward,” said SBC Advisor and Sports Betting Hall of Famer Sue Schneider.

“Beyond celebrating the remarkable achievements of this year’s inductees, the ceremony is also a moment for the industry to come together, reflect on our shared journey, and set the tone for even greater success in the years ahead.”

This year’s inductees will join an esteemed roster of industry leaders including 2024 honorees Staci Alonso (former Commissioner and EVP|CMO, Nevada State Athletic Commission), Richie Baccellieri (Race and Sports Industry Expert), Christian Genetski (President, FanDuel), Jay Kornegay (Vice President Race & Sports Operations, Westgate Las Vegas) and Mike Tobin (Founder and CEO, Continent8 Technologies), alongside Barry Gibson (former Chair of Entain Group) who was inducted in a surprise ceremony at last year’s SBC Summit.

Previous Sports Betting Hall of Fame inductees also include the likes of Denise Coates (Founder & CEO, Bet365), Victor Chandler (Founder, BetVictor), Fred Done (Founder, Betfred), Chris Christie (former Governor, New Jersey), Pontus Lindwall (CEO & Founder, Betsson AB), Norbert Teufelberger (Co-Founder, Bwin), John Anderson (former CEO, 888 Holdings PLC) and Ralph Topping (former Chairman, Superbet).

Get Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas

Group Pass (3+, Full Event Pass): For groups of three or more, you can gain access to all conference sessions, the expo floor, networking events, and evening parties for just $500 per person. Get your Group Pass here

Expo+ Pass: Includes access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (does not include access to evening networking events). Get Your Expo+ Pass at $95

Operator & Affiliate Passes: Operators and affiliates can apply for free passes, subject to approval.

Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass
Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass

Soft2Bet’s ToonieBet launches sportsbook app

May 6, 2025

Soft2Bet’s Ontario operator ToonieBet has launched its sportsbook app in the province’s regulated market.

The ToonieBet brand is Soft2Bet’s Canadian-focused online casino and sportsbook. Now available via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, it is tailored for Ontario players in its range of betting markets, and also features personalized promotions and loyalty rewards designed to match the preferences of Ontario’s diverse betting community.

The sportsbook uses official data feeds and offers live broadcasting with real-time match analytics and is integrated with advanced player account management features.

As part of the launch, the ToonieBet platform has also introduced a sportsbook section on its official website, with access to over 85,000 live events each month and more than 70,000 pre-match events across a wide range of sports.

“As Soft2Bet continues our rapid growth, we are excited to provide Ontario players with access to ToonieBet’s sportsbook, which is now available on the Apple App and Google Play Store, offering seamless access to a customised experience tailored for the province’s passionate gaming community,” said Soft2Bet Chief Product Officer Yoel Zuckerberg.

ToonieBet gets headline Ottawa Senators partnership

Soft2Bet obtained an operator’s licence from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in March 2024. The ToonieBet brand, whose licence is registered under Canadix Limited, debuted in the province in late 2024, offering what it describes as a fully localized online casino and sportsbook experience.

Just last month, it unveiled a splashy new partnership with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, who made ToonieBet their official online casino partner.

The operator will have what the Sens called “a strong presence” via in-arena experiences at Canadian Tire Centre such as digital dashboards, in-rink board signage and exclusive contests and premium giveaways for fans and gamblers, including the chance to win exclusive Sens merchandise and tickets.

ToonieBet branding will also be included on regional broadcasts with digitally enhanced dashboards and across the Senators’ social and digital platforms as well as NHL.com.

Although that partnership is officially under the banner of online casino, Soft2Bet said the launch of the sportsbook app “complements” the Sens deal.

Soft2Bet has a portfolio of 19 global licences. The Malta-based company intends to launch online gaming in New Jersey’s online casino market in the near future.

BetMGM introduces Octoplay’s Jackpot Blitz to Ontario

May 6, 2025

BetMGM has launched Octoplay’s Jackpot Blitz in Ontario, continuing the supplier’s expansion in North America.

Octoplay was founded in October 2022 and develops online casino games and delivers them via its proprietary RGS platform. It has been licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to supply to the province’s authorized online casinos since late 2023.

Jackpot Blitz, its bespoke opt-in jackpot solution, was built in collaboration with BetMGM and follows the launch of a similar offering, Jackpot Hunt, in the United Kingdom with William Hill. Jackpot Blitz is now available to BetMGM’s operators’ players across the province.

The supplier first partnered with BetMGM in the UK through an integration with MGM Resorts-owned LeoVegas in March 2024. Octoplay said in a release that the expansion of its partnership with the major operator demonstrates the strong relationship between the companies and sets a strong foundation for Octoplay’s continued growth across the continent.

Jackpot Blitz has achieved an 88% player opt-in rate since launch, said Octoplay. The company is confident that success, when combined with BetMGM’s extensive player base, gives it a strong foundation for further North American growth.

Oliver Bartlett, VP of gaming product and content at BetMGM, added that the partnership with Octoplay is part of the company’s strategy to collaborate with “top-tier partners” to bring the best content to players.

Octoplay looking to extend tentacles into US

Octoplay is currently preparing to launch its content in the U.S. for the first time in Michigan, having secured a provisional licence last fall to supply games in the state.

The company, which provides a range of online slot games for operators, has a large European footprint in countries such as the UK, Italy, Malta and Sweden. It extends to begin supplying in more U.S. states this year.

“While we’ve seen great success in European markets recently, our entry into the U.S. represents a new chapter for Octoplay,” said Chairman Gavin Hamilton at the time of the Michigan licensure. “We’re committed to establishing a strong presence in the American iGaming landscape, leveraging our experience in regulated markets to deliver exceptional gaming experiences to U.S. players and operators.”

“The launch of Jackpot Blitz with BetMGM in Ontario accelerates our North American expansion plans,” said CEO Carl Ejlertsson in Tuesday’s release. “Our strong partnership with BetMGM has enabled us to bring this innovative product to their Ontario players. With our proven track record of collaboration with top-tier gaming operators like BetMGM, we’re ideally positioned to drive significant growth together in regulated markets across North America.”