Canada’s Expanding Online Casino Gambling Industry
With the temporary closure of land casinos across Canada and social distancing still in effect since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the growth of online casino gambling is good news.
The economic benefits for each province expand every year.
Total Annual Gambling Revenue in Canada
The total annual revenue from online casino gambling in Canada is around $31 billion. Regulation is controlled at the provincial government level, with Saskatchewan as the sole abstention. Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) became the country’s newest licensed, regulated provincial player. Last year, the Alberta government received $1.4 billion from gambling. Another $330 million was given to 11,000 Alberta charities, while $378 million was spent at online casino websites hosted outside of Canada. BetNero is an example of a licensed online casino, hosted outside of Canada.
Economic Benefits of Gambling – Revenue by Province
(Source: Canadian Gaming Association)
Atlantic Provinces: $1.1 billion
Alberta: $2.7 billion
British Columbia: $2.7 billion
Manitoba: $814 million
Ontario: $6.3 billion
Quebec: $2.7 billion
Saskatchewan: $773 million
Why Players Prefer Regulated vs. Unregulated Online Casinos
Given the increased awareness surrounding the collection and protection of sensitive data, comprehensive privacy details and air-tight security protocols, players know what they want (and don’t want) from an online casino:
- Reputation. A well-established, licensed site will always put player safety, security and privacy as their top priority.
- Efficient, accessible customer service. It helps to have a phone number listed and a human being with which to communicate (via online chat or phone, 24/7 and 365 days/year).
- Rewards, bonuses and promotions. Players want value. New players are particularly attracted to generous welcome bonuses, free plays and free games, free contests and prizes.
- Improved experience. Gaming design and technology has improved significantly over the years, positively impacting the global appeal of smartphones and mobile gambling apps.