How to explain the rapid growth of iGaming in Canada
In the world of iGaming, Canada has emerged as a key player
OVER THE LAST handful of years, iGaming platforms like online casinos and online sportsbooks have exploded in popularity throughout Canada. Such platforms have been around for decades, rising to prominence in places like the U.K. – and to a lesser extent the U.S. But things have picked up quickly in Canada with the iGaming industry doing billions of dollars worth of business every year.
The sheer volume of online casinos in Canada and the options available to those who want to enjoy casino games or bet on sports is a testament to how quickly the industry has grown in Canada. Without a deep history of betting activities, it’s been even more surprising to see iGaming take off in Canada. Perhaps the operative question is why Canadians have gravitated toward online casinos and sports betting platforms so quickly and in such huge numbers. Let’s look at some factors that have driven the rapid iGaming growth in Canada.
Regulation Has Changed
Virtually none of the success of iGaming in Canada would be possible without favorable regulatory changes. In the U.S., changes to make online betting possible started in 2018 with Canada soon following the example set by its southern neighbor. Regulatory changes gave online casinos the option of launching in Canada. It also allowed companies to invest in the iGaming industry, even if many of those investments are coming from outside the country. The bottom line is that the regulatory environment for iGaming has become a friendly one, opening the door for online casinos and sportsbooks in Canada.
Changes in Attitude and Culture
Along with regulatory changes, Canada has also seen a change in attitude and culture, contributing to the growth of iGaming. Gambling is no longer thought of as an activity that’s done during lavish, escapist vacations to Las Vegas. It has become a socially acceptable form of fun and entertainment. Someone doesn’t have to be serious about gambling or trying to turn a profit from casino games to play them. Most of those who play games or bet on sports on online platforms are casual users who don’t take it too seriously but who have contributed greatly to the growth of iGaming.
Promotions and Marketing
A lot of the credit for the growth of iGaming in Canada belongs to the marketing departments of some of the top companies in this space. Casino marketing has mastered the art of creating demand and desire among consumers. Keep in mind that casinos were working at this long before friendly regulation kicked in, so they were prepared to take their message to the masses. Online casinos often offer free spins, free bets, or deposit matches, among other promotions, to entice new customers to join. Online sportsbooks have equally friendly promotions that give new users a significant pool of bonus bets as soon as they sign up. As a result, they’ve been able to attract a lot of people with a casual or passing interest in iGaming platforms and used effective marketing to get those people to try out these platforms, most of whom keep coming back, resulting in rapid and sustained growth.
Convenience of Mobile Devices
Playing casino games or placing sports bets on a computer is one thing, but now that iGaming platforms are available on virtually every mobile device, the convenience factor has helped the industry explode in popularity. The ability to access these platforms is literally in a person’s pocket at all times. Not surprisingly, this accessibility has driven substantial growth. It’s a form of fun and entertainment that’s available at all times, making it easy for both casual and serious players to log into iGaming sites at any time. This is perhaps the best explanation for why iGaming hasn’t faded in popularity after an initial boost and why this growing industry isn’t going away any time soon.