Ontario’s Online Gambling Market Surges in Q1: Revenue Up 34.4% Amid Betting Boom

Ontario’s online gambling industry saw significant growth in Q1 of 2024-25, with revenue rising 34.4% year-over-year to $726 million. This increase was driven by active player accounts, which more than doubled to 1.9 million. The numbers reflect the province’s growing demand for digital betting platforms.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Ontario's online betting market reached a record $18.4 billion in total wagers for Q1. This marks a 31.4% increase from the same period last year and a 3.4% rise from Q4 of 2023-24.

Casino gaming led the market, making up 84% of all wagers and 73% of total revenue. Slots and table games remained the top choices. Sports betting, though slightly down from the last quarter, still produced $2.5 billion in wagers and $181 million in revenue, reflecting strong annual growth.

Sports Betting’s Market Position

Ontario’s sports betting market saw some shifts. A slight dip in revenue suggests that bettors may be adjusting their strategies or exploring other gaming options. Despite this, sportsbooks remain active, offering increased promotions and expanding their betting markets.

More operators are entering the market. Bally's Interactive recently launched its Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino App, adding another competitor to Ontario’s growing list of licensed betting platforms. The expansion aligns with industry trends as operators respond to rising demand.

Market Growth and Operator Strategies

Ontario’s iGaming sector now has 53 licensed operators managing 83 gaming websites. With both player activity and revenue increasing, operators are boosting marketing efforts, introducing new features, and refining user experiences to enhance engagement.

Sportsbooks and casinos are leveraging this growth by offering stronger sign-up bonuses, better odds, and exclusive betting markets. These strategies help retain users and attract new ones.

Live betting is also expanding as more bettors seek real-time wagering options. Enhanced in-play betting, faster odds updates, and AI-driven analytics are becoming industry norms.

Regulatory Adjustments and Responsible Gambling Measures

Ontario’s rapid gambling growth has led to stricter regulations. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has implemented a ban on using athletes in gambling promotions to reduce sports betting’s influence on younger audiences.

Regulators are also strengthening consumer protection measures. Operators must now provide better responsible gambling tools, deposit limits, and self-exclusion options. These efforts aim to balance market growth with ethical gambling practices.

Stakeholder Perspectives and Economic Implications

Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario, emphasized the broader economic benefits. “Ontarians who choose to gamble will find many enjoyable options in our open, regulated iGaming market. The revenue generated by Ontario’s competitive iGaming market goes directly towards provincial priorities like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”

Deloitte’s five-year forecast for Ontario’s iGaming sector may be met ahead of schedule. Tax revenues and job opportunities are expected to rise alongside market activity, further cementing iGaming’s role in Ontario’s economy.

Future Market Outlook

As Ontario’s iGaming sector matures, regulatory changes and tech advancements will shape its future. The demand for interactive and immersive betting experiences continues to rise. Operators are expected to invest in AI-driven analytics, personalized betting, and blockchain transactions.

The market’s ongoing growth suggests Ontario’s iGaming industry will expand further in 2025 and beyond. However, increased regulatory scrutiny could lead to stricter advertising rules, deposit limits, and promotional restrictions.

Key Takeaways for Bettors and Operators

• Casino gaming dominates the market, with slots and table games leading revenue generation.
• Sports betting shows yearly growth, though it dipped slightly compared to Q4.
• Ontario’s regulatory landscape is evolving, with AGCO enforcing stricter rules.
• Operators are improving user experiences, offering better promotions and live betting features.
• The iGaming sector’s economic impact is growing, with rising tax revenues and job creation.

Final Thoughts

Ontario’s Q1 results indicate another strong year for online gambling. Record player activity and revenue growth show the market’s potential. Bettors can expect more choices, better odds, and improved betting flexibility as sportsbooks compete for market share.