Is Alberta the Next Ontario? How Alberta Online Casino Regulations Could Change Gambling in Canada

By Ijeoma Izuchukwu 

Alberta is ready to set up its Ontario-themed iGaming sector that’ll accommodate Canadian online casinos and sports betting. With Bill 16 receiving the Royal Assent, Alberta residents who couldn’t access the top minimum bet sportsbooks in Canada might be able to do so if things go according to plan.  

In Canada, the online gambling fever was relatively low. However, Ontario kick-started an iGaming revival after it launched its own legal online gambling market on the 4th of April 2022. As seen on an official iGaming Ontario report, a staggering $63 billion wagers were placed from the 1st of April 2023 to the 31st of March 2024. This timeline also witnessed a gaming revenue of $2.4 billion.  

With these astronomical figures recorded in the Ontario online wagering market, it’s no surprise that Alberta wants to join the trend and make massive amounts in wagers and revenue. This motive has led to legislation confirming Alberta’s plans to have an iGaming service similar to Ontario’s. Here’s what the Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, Dale Nally, had to say before the introduction and passing of the bill that sets the province on a path to creating its iGaming market: 

 “Alberta can be a leading hub for iGaming, with a strong emphasis on openness and a free market. We have low corporate taxes, streamlined regulations and high disposable incomes. These conditions will allow us to establish ourselves as a premier destination for the iGaming industry.” 

Below, we’ll take a look at what Bill 16 entails and what the Alberta online casino and sports betting scene will look like once it’s set into motion. Stay tuned. 

Alberta Passed New Bill Aimed at iGaming and Sports Betting

From the looks of things, there’s a legislative foundation that allows for some competition in the online casino and sports betting scene in the Western Canadian province of Alberta. It’s vital to note that before the introduction of Bill 16 (which we’ll be examining shortly) only the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis Commission (AGLC) via its unique Play Alberta website was authorized to conduct iGaming activities. 

In May, the Alberta legislature passed Bill 16, tagged the Red Tape Reduction Statuses Amendment Act. Since this legislature received the Royal Assent (the Sovereign’s approval of a bill adopted by the houses of Parliament) shortly after its passage, it has become law. Bill 16 is aimed at conducting and managing the affairs of Alberta iGaming platforms that will open their doors to players within the province.  

This caveat essentially means that Alberta will allow third-party sites that have undergone several tests and are considered legitimate to offer gaming products and services within the Western Canadian province alongside the AGLC-owned PlayAlberta online casino and sportsbook, which the commission runs in place of the government. 

The introduction of Bill 16 paves the way for Alberta to create a new online gambling route, an assignment that Premier Danielle Smith tasked Dale Nally (minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction) with last year. For context, the former called on the minister to make Alberta a hub for online gambling and sports betting. Premier Danielle had directed Nally to form partnerships with other significant stakeholders to create a strong online gaming strategy. The end goal would revolve around revenue generation and responsible betting. However, Nally asserted that while Alberta’s interest in becoming a leading iGaming hub was high, this vision would be backed by streamlined regulations and low corporate taxes. 

In a press conference held on the 8th of April, 2024, Nally confirmed that Bill 16 would shed light on his ministry’s authority to enact policies associated with the alcohol and gaming markets when it directly impacted government revenues. He also added that the government alongside the AGLC will have the legal backing to direct all iGaming activities within Alberta. 

While Bill 16 is now law, there are steps that still need to be taken. According to Nicky Gocuan, Dale Nally’s press secretary, the government will enter into a meeting with the province’s 47 First Nations, which includes the six that are casino operators to seek their insight on the iGaming project set to commence in Alberta. Here’s what he said: 

“As part of our policy development process, and our move towards a more open regulated online gaming market, Alberta’s government will continue to examine best practices from other jurisdictions, including Ontario. As always, a key priority for the province is to ensure that any expanded iGaming model in Alberta prioritizes the best interests of all Albertans.” 

From the Bill 16 framework, it’s clear that there’s a legislative desire to actualize Ontario’s iGaming market in Alberta. For context, Ontario opened its online gambling sector to third-party wagering operators in April 2022. This market is operated and managed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario (iGO). Additionally, there’s no limit to how many iGaming operators are permitted to compete within the province. As of Q1 2024, the official iGaming Ontario website stated that there were 49 operators and 72 gambling platforms available to residents within the province. 

Revenue-wise, Ontario online gambling sites generated a huge sum of $2.4 billion in revenue besides the wagering total of $63 billion, from the 1st of April 2023 to the 31st of March 2024. These figures represent a year-on-year increase of 71.4% (revenue) and 78% (bets).  

With the Ontario iGaming sector growth, it’s no surprise that Alberta wants to join the parade and enjoy similar dividends. Bill 16 comes after the province dedicated $1 million from its budget to review the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act, alongside all related regulations. As such, there’s a chance that we’ll see a distinct agency (just like iGaming Ontario) oversee online gaming-related activities within Alberta that’ll work alongside the AGLC as early as 2025. 

The managing director of Rush Street Interactive, Bruce Caughill, confirmed that Alberta is utilizing Ontario’s iGaming template during the SBC Summit North American Conference that was held in New Jersey. Here’s what he said: 

“There seems to be every indication that they’re simply going to white label the Ontario licensing regime. That’s sort of hope that you can transition right into the model if you’re already in Ontario.” 

That said, the Canadian Gaming Association President, Paul Burns, said during the Summit that Alberta has a stake in the highest per-capita gambling expenditure in Canada for years. Thus, iGaming companies looking to operate within the province and compete with the AGLC’s online casino and sportsbook offering – PlayAlberta – would need to have comprehensive offerings. Only time will tell if this line of thought becomes reality. 

What the Alberta Online Gambling Market Will Look Like

We aren’t fortune tellers to know how the online gambling market in Alberta will look like with the passing of Bill 16. As it stands, all we know is that rather than the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, & Cannabis Commission (AGLC) being the province’s sole iGaming operator via its PlayAlberta website, competition will be encouraged between the commission and other third-party platforms. Additionally, since $1 million was devoted to reviewing the AGLC Act and employing fitting strategies, there’s a chance that Alberta will have its distinct iGaming board like Ontario that’ll work alongside the AGLC itself.  

Since Bill 16 was created using the Ontario iGaming market blueprint, it’s likely that Alberta’s online gambling principles will mirror that of Ontario. If so, only casino platforms regulated and licensed by the Alberta iGaming Authority will be allowed to carry out online wagering-related activities within the province. Furthermore, these sites will be available exclusively for players within the province’s borders.  

Thus, we expect Alberta wagering destinations to ensure that players activate their GPS when signing up on their sites to prevent people outside the Western Canadian province from having illegitimate access to the platform. Online Casinos and sports betting sites that disobey this rule will face penalties, with the most severe being permanent license suspension. 

With the latest iGaming legislation in Alberta, emphasis will most likely be placed on betting and casino applications. Like in Ontario, this application would be distinct and tailored to suit the needs of Alberta iGamers. We’ve seen this play out multiple times. Some iGaming operators offer generic iOS and Android apps for other jurisdictions but have unique dedicated applications for their Ontario players.  

So, will Alberta become the second legal sports betting and casino market in Canada? Although there’s a Bill that has been passed, it’s more of a “wait and see” situation. However, if the iGaming legislation kicks off in this province, Alberta players will have a variety of third-party platforms to choose from besides PlayAlberta. Additionally, the province’s government will make huge revenues when multiple operators join its latest online gambling space. 

What Is a White Label Casino

Imagine if you could skip all the hassles of setting up an online casino and obtaining the necessary licenses. Imagine starting your own casino business under your branding but with the help of experienced professionals supporting you every step of the way. 

Well, you don’t actually have to imagine any of these things because they already exist and represent the concept of white label casino solution. In fact, many of the best online casinos have used this approach. That’s exactly what has enabled them to focus on players rather than on time-consuming administrative errands. 

With interest in white label casino products increasing, our team has taken the time to create a full guide on the topic. Stay on this page to learn what white label solutions are and how they work. Of course, we’ll also reveal the secret of what makes them so attractive to operators. 

The White Label Casino Concept

A white label casino solution represents a pre-build and ready-to-launch online casino platform. This product is always offered by a third-party company specializing in such solutions. 

Those investing in such a platform get: 

• Fully functional platform and games;
• Technical support by the third-party company;
• White label licensing through the platform provider;
• Financial infrastructure necessary for payment processing;
• Website development and even hosting;
• Customer support;
• AML, KYC, risk and fraud management;
• Real-time reporting and analytics;
• Gamification and player engagement services.

As mentioned, the product is ready to go. The client (casino operator) just needs to provide any individual requirements as well as branding directions. 

To a first-time visitor, a white label casino looks like a new and unique product. This simple solution is especially popular among new online casinos that want to join the market quickly and without investing in big teams. 

Please don’t confuse white label casinos with turnkey casino solutions. The latter is for operators who hold their own licenses but don’t want to develop a casino platform. By contrast, a white label casino product always includes platform, licensing, and payments. 

How White Label Casinos Work

To establish an online casino business, you need to build the website, make agreements with game providers, and set up payment processing. You also need a proper license based on what market or markets you want to target. 

Let’s not forget that you’ll also need a customer care team, affiliate managers, and, of course, an entire marketing team. 

A while label casino product will remove many of these segments from your plate. Please note that platform providers don’t do this important work for an affordable price just because they’re nice. In many cases, they will also get a share of your profits. Yet, reports from top-rated online casinos using such solutions show the deal is more than lucrative. 

To set up a white label casino, you need to follow these general steps: 

1. First contact and consultation. 
2. Discuss your target market and licensing. 
3. Agree on all the segments handled by your team and those handled by the white label platform provider. 
4. Provide all your requirements and customization requests. 
5. Decide if you want additional services like a loyalty program, tournaments, jackpots, etc. 
6. Give the platform provider the time necessary to set up everything. 
7. Take the reign of your newly launched and fully operational online casino! 

We already covered what the white label product supplier does. But what about you? As an operator of such a casino, you stay in charge of the following aspects: 

• Daily casino operations and management;
• Marketing, brand building, player acquisition;
• Customer support;
• Player retention strategies. 

Once again, it’s good to note that white label casino providers often have additional services that can cover some or all of these. However, it’s good to stay ahead of these vital aspects and build a strong relationship with your players without third parties in between. 

The Benefits of White Label Casinos

By the number of operators using white label casino solutions, it’s easy to conclude that the investment is worth it. Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of this service and understand it better. 

• Faster time to market – Acquiring proper licensing often takes an entire year, and developing standalone casino software isn’t any quicker either. By contrast, the average launch time for a white label casino is only four weeks.
• Lower initial investment – Developing a casino from scratch doesn’t only mean more money spent but also more time spent. You could redirect both toward player acquisition and retention instead!
• Access to established gaming software and payment systems – White label software providers have agreements with multiple game suppliers, ensuring game lobbies with thousands of games. They also partner with payment systems, so you don’t have to. For example, one of the leading suppliers of white label casinos gets you launched with 7,500 casino games!
• Ongoing technical support and updates from the provider – While your team works to attract and keep players happy, your white label casino partner bothers with the technical aspect of your operations. Not only will they provide ongoing tech support but also all necessary updates for your product.
• No hassle compliance – Since the platform provider holds the license, it’s in their interest to ensure your operations are fully compliant. That means you get a product meeting all regulatory standards right from the start and without any hassles from your side.
• Target one or more markets at once – Many white label casino providers hold multiple licenses, directly enabling you to target several markets at once. It’s your decision what country or countries you want to serve, and the company will help you do it. You can operate as an MGA and UKGC-approved brand without complex paperwork or long processing times. 

When creating our best online casino reviews, we’ve noticed that many of those leading brands are white label casino solutions. 

SOFTSWISS is perhaps the most popular company offering a ready-to-go casino platform. The brand has powered 800+ brands over the years, including Megaslot, King Billy, BitStarz, Playamo, and 7bit Casino. 

Conclusion

Overall, we can conclude that taking the white label casino route is the simplest way of starting your own online casino business. Thanks to the deep support of casino platform providers, aspiring casino operators get everything they need without wasting time on research, paperwork, and negotiations. 

iGaming is a complex industry with tons of regulations and preferences,  both of which vary by market and audience. A small issue can grow into a costly problem if you fail to optimize even the smallest aspect of your service. 

With a ready-to-launch white label casino adapted to your brand and needs, you skip directly to the finish line. Now, all the hassles are behind you. You can focus on building your business and communicating with the most important segment – your players! 

Without white label casinos, the iGaming industry wouldn’t be what it is today, that’s for sure. So, if you have the investment and the brand idea, we invite you to consider this modern and elegant solution! 

Gamlinked September 

By Thadeus Geodfrey

Welcome to the September edition of Gamlinked, your go-to source for all things gambling! We cover the latest trends, news, and insights from breaking stories to in-depth analysis, whether from top online casinos or minimum bet sportsbooks. The global gambling market is fast approaching a staggering $200 billion, and we’re here to keep you informed every step of the way.

Here’s what’s making headlines this month. Evolution is making waves with an $85 million move to acquire Galaxy Gaming. In New Zealand, a court has ordered a man to give up $600,000 he gained from illegal gambling and money laundering. Still of laws, Montenegro is proposing a 15% tax on gambling winnings as part of its new fiscal strategy. More exciting news: Play’n GO is breaking into the South African market with its Mafia Gold Slot launch. Also, new games are coming for Netbet UK, thanks to a fresh partnership with BF Games. Elsewhere, JackpotCity makes a significant move into the South African low-deposit casino market. And in sports, NFL players must now attend in-person gambling education and training sessions. Stay tuned for all the details!

Evolution moves to acquire Galaxy Gaming in $85m deal

Evolution has agreed to acquire Galaxy Gaming. The deal will cost approximately $85 million, payable in cash. This new acquisition will give Evolution Gaming the industry edge.

Galaxy Gaming develops and distributes casino table games and gaming technology. It will add Galaxy Gaming’s solutions to its already extensive portfolio, strengthening Evolution’s position in the US as it aims to be a global leader in casino games.

Evolution is a leading live casino solutions company celebrated for its professional dealers and high-quality streaming. 2010, it was the winner of the EGR Live Casino Software Supplier of the Year award.

Its game collections serve online casinos and land-based gambling venues. They include live table casino games like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat, which stream live from studios in Riga and other European cities. These games play on both PCs and handheld devices like smartphones.

Evolution holds licenses from the UK Gambling Commission and Alderney Gambling Control Commission. The game provider is undoubtedly among the top, ensuring high-quality, compliant content.

Martin Carlesund, CEO of Evolution AB, expressed excitement about the acquisition.

“We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Galaxy Gaming,” Carlesund was quoted as saying. “It is a significant milestone in our mission to provide unparalleled gaming experiences to our customers.”

He noted that Galaxy Gaming’s exceptional products and technology complement Evolution’s portfolio and strengthen its strategic position. He further confirmed that Evolution will retain Galaxy’s management and employees. The companies will not merge operations. Instead, they will continue to operate independently as separate business units.

President and CEO of Galaxy Gaming, Matt Reback, also shared his enthusiasm.

Reback said the transaction offered a chance to unite two world-class, customer-focused teams. According to his assessment, this deal benefits all stakeholders. He identified Galaxy Gaming’s successful land-based business. On Evolution Gaming, he acknowledged its global reach and online gaming leadership as key strengths.

The deal, approved by Galaxy Gaming’s Board of Directors, offers a 124% premium on Galaxy’s stock price as of July 17. Only regulatory approvals and stockholder consent remain to close the deal.

We can’t wait to see how this acquisition will transform Evolution Gaming and its future of games and services into the best online casinos.

NZ man forced to forfeit Illicit gambling wins of $600k

The court in New Zealand has ordered Thomas Mackay Taniwha, a man from Lower Hutt, to give up over $600,000. The investigators proved he earned the money through illegal gambling and money laundering activities. This decision comes after a two-year investigation, coined ‘Operation Ace’.

This operation, conducted by the New Zealand Police and the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), uncovered that Taniwha had been running high-stakes poker games in person and online. In April, the court fined him $16,500 for this offence. In addition to the fine, Justice Peter Churchman has now ordered him to surrender $619,692. New Zealand laws, under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act, allow authorities to seize profits from criminal activities.

Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley noted that a search of Taniwha’s property in February 2022 uncovered $25,700 in cash. Their investigation also revealed significant deposits in Taniwha’s bank accounts. They linked the funds to the illegal gambling operation, with Taniwha funnelling some of the money into a car dealership’s business account. They also identified a room specifically designed for hosting poker games.

Detective Sergeant Buckley emphasised that this should serve as a reminder. He added that the police will continue targeting those profiting from criminal activities, including those investigated by other enforcement agencies.

In NZ, the Gambling Act 2003 prohibits gambling and regulates only a few accepted gambling activities. Despite these efforts, illegal gambling activities are still surfacing, like Taniwha’s case. It highlights the urgent need to reconsider how the country controls gambling. Underground operations such as this flourish when there are no legal and regulated avenues but there’s persistent demand. The best route is always legalisation with stricter regulation.

Unregulated gambling often causes severe social harm, like addiction and exploitation. There is also little protection for players. But, if regulated, players access new NZ online casinos and are better protected, and the government can tax the gambling revenues to benefit the community. So, in the end, the harmful practices of underground gambling are also reduced. Stricter licensing, monitoring, and education can prevent illegal operations and promote responsible gambling.

Play n Go enters South Africa with the launch of Mafia Gold Slot

Play’n GO continues to strengthen its presence in South Africa. The latest news is that Betway announced that they will be the exclusive hosts of Play’n GO’s legendary gaming portfolio. But what does that mean?

South African customers can now enjoy some of the best casino games available, all in a secure and responsible environment. Exclusively through Betway, they can enjoy the top game in the ‘Book of’ series, Book of Dead by Play n Go. Other exciting titles include Legacy of Dead, Fire Joker, Reactoonz, Gemix, and Moon Princess. In addition, there are Rise of Olympus, Viking Runecraft, Wild Falls, Agent Destiny, and more.

One of the latest additions to Play’n GO’s catalogue is the Mafia Gold slot game, which immerses you in the world of crime. Rival gangs fight for control over a city’s riches. It follows the path of other popular Play’n GO titles like Mission Cash and Cash Vandal. Mafia Gold offers an engaging narrative and exciting gameplay. It includes the Feature Reel, where you can score multipliers by landing the High-Paying Mafia Boss symbol. There’s also the Drive-By Feature, which adds an unpredictable twist to the gameplay. You also get up to 20 Free Spins if you trigger them and battle rival mafia members to unlock the Cash Hit Feature, where the ultimate prize awaits.

Mafia Gold offers six reels, four rows, and 30 paylines, with high volatility and a maximum win potential of 6,000x. Its RTP configurations range from 84.2% to 96.2%, allowing for tailored gaming experiences.

What do you think of this partnership? At Gamlinked, we can’t wait to play this Mafia Gold and explore its new features.

Montenegro proposes 15% tax on gambling earnings in new fiscal strategy

Montenegro’s government is moving toward monetising its gambling industry. The plan is in the adopted Fiscal Strategy for 2024-2027. This paper focused on ensuring macroeconomic stability and responsible governance. It introduces substantial reforms to the country’s gambling framework, which will overhaul the current concession system. These reforms have led to the upcoming Law on Gambling, which introduces newer standards for operators.

The new law mandates greater oversight of the Gambling Administration and Inspection Department. It aims to reduce grey area operations, emphasizing safer gambling practices. It also outlines new rules on advertising and protecting minors. It mainly addresses distancing gambling establishments from schools. Additionally, it allocates part of the gambling revenue to addressing social impacts.

The Fiscal Strategy also proposes amendments to the Law on Personal Income Tax. It outlines that operators must withhold and promptly remit a 15% tax on gambling profits. In essence, it excludes players’ initial investment.

The proposed plan seeks to generate an additional €5 million by levying taxes on gambling winnings, to earmark the funds for various initiatives aimed at addressing and preventing issues related to gambling addiction.

The country expects these reforms to be in place by the end of the year. They are part of Montenegro’s broader efforts to enhance sector integrity and increase public revenues. As noted by Karanović & Partners, operators and investors should stay alert to these changes and aptly adapt.

New games coming to Netbet UK with BF Games partnership

NetBet Casino UK has expanded its game offerings by collaborating with BF Games. It allows UK players to access BF Games’ entire portfolio, including popular titles such as Raiders of the North, Stunning Crown, and Book of Gods.

This partnership is strategically symbiotic. NetBet.co.uk’s extensive online gaming platform will benefit from BF Games’ cutting-edge slot content. The online casino will offer access to various quality games, including innovative and engaging slot games, which will likely attract and keep more players.

On its part, BF Games gains access to NetBet.co.uk’s large and diverse player base. With a significant platform for its game content, it gets exposure and increased visibility. Player engagement for its games could also shoot up, especially for its slots. The partnership has effectively expanded its reach in the competitive online gaming market.

Claudia Georgevici, PR Manager at NetBet, expressed her excitement.

“BF Games are a fantastic provider and we’re delighted to offer their incredible games to all our loyal customers.”

This partnership supports NetBet’s commitment to delivering a top-rated UK online casino experience.

Rok Hribar, Commercial Director at BF Games, echoed the enthusiasm.

“Partnering with NetBet is a great opportunity for us to grow in the UK market.”

The NetBet-BF Games deal follows an earlier partnership with former English Premier League star Ray Parlour. The Arsenal legend became the company’s brand ambassador for the 2024 season.

The partnership strengthens both companies’ positions in the online gaming industry. By combining NetBet.co.uk’s broad market presence with BF Games’ creative game development expertise, they form a formidable alliance. This new move further enhances NetBet’s visibility in the UK.

JackpotCity expands into many countries around the world

JackpotCity Casino has significantly expanded its global footprint. with the most recent one being in South Africa. The move is part of its global expansion, offering exciting opportunities for new players.

This allows this low-deposit casino to reach a broader audience and cater to a growing international player base. Some of the newest countries where JackpotCity has launched include India and Brazil. It has also gained traction in several European markets, such as Finland and Ireland.

This best online casino offers a variety of gaming experiences, from online slot collections and table games to live dealer games.

A key aspect of JackpotCity’s expansion is its focus on providing a safe, secure, and user-friendly platform. It believes such an environment guarantees players access to top-tier gaming content. With multilingual support and acceptance of various currencies, JackpotCity positions itself as a platform offering a tailored experience for players worldwide.

JackpotCity Casino began operations in 1998 and has since become a household name in the industry. The casino offers deposit limits and self-exclusion options to ensure players have control.

NFL players obligated to attend in-person gambling education and training

The NFL has ramped up its commitment to responsible gambling. It’s now mandatory for players to participate in gambling education and training, which has enhanced gambling policy education and integrity monitoring efforts.

As of August 2024, the NFL has not suspended a single player for gambling violations in over 13 months. The policy change, which made in-person gambling education mandatory for all players, could already yield results.

Like many sports, the NFL prohibits players from participating in NFL games. But it has taken a step further, and no player can participate in any form of gambling while at team facilities or on road trips. To enforce this, it has procured the services of retired FBI and law enforcement officers to keep a hawk-eye on game days for any suspicious activity. It not only protects the league’s integrity but also ensures the wellness of athletes. After all, the NFL is doing this in collaboration with the NFL Players Association.

It’s not just the rule. The NFL has also extended its efforts to partner with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). It recently renewed a three-year partnership, giving the charity a $6.4 million grant.

Anna Isaacson, NFL Senior VP of Social Responsibility, emphasized the league’s history of supporting societal issues and its commitment to responsible gambling.

Executive Director of NCPG, Keith Whyte, said the NFL’s funding had been critical. Such funds allow the charity to enhance its resources to combat gambling addiction, including the national helpline and educational initiatives.

Indeed, the NFL is making strides in fostering a responsible gambling environment. Are these efforts enough to combat problem gambling?

Closing Remark

This edition has seen partnerships, game releases, and progressive policies across the industry. As we head into the final quarter of 2024, we look forward to more exciting developments and innovations. We hope these changes, innovations, and developments will continue improving the gaming experience. Stay at Gamlinked always for more updates and insights. It’s a wrap-up from us. But before we go, let’s know what you are most excited about from the above developments.

Gambling lessons: Why trusted casinos are key, Ontario learners get death threats for unlicensed casino debt

By Ramona Depares 

New day, new reason why players should only use trusted Canadian online casino sites. High school students in Ontario recently received a very nasty surprise when some students received death threats over unpaid gambling debts at an unlicensed online casino. 

Several Canadian media houses, including Global News and CTV News, reported how the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) launched a full-scale investigation after the major crimes unit received information about a gambling operation that was targeting students at Orillia High schools. Under-aged teens were lured to sign up for an illegal gambling website via a campaign; those who registered and failed to pay up any gambling debts became the victims of coordinated intimidation that included death threats.  

According to police, the site in question is unregistered, and exactly how bets and payments were placed remains unclear. What is clear is that there were at least two death threats reported and that the issue may be more widespread than what has initially been discovered. 

Members of the public have been asked to approach the OPP if they are aware of any related information. Meanwhile, the case is turning out to be a very keen example as to why players should always check any sites they choose carefully, and why using trusted online casinos in Canada is key to player safety. 

Teen arrested in the case

Replying to questions from the press, Sergeant Matt Stoner from the Orillia community mobilization unit stated that they believe that the issue is localized, but may involve students in more than one school in Orillia.  

CTV News has already reported the arrest of one underage student who is being charged with uttering threats to cause death. The young person is reportedly a student at Patrick Fogerty Catholic High, and in fact, parents of students attending the school received a letter from Principal Jenny Leduc confirming this. The school is also encouraging parents to have conversations with their children about the matter, in an effort to uncover whether more students were targeted. Support services are being provided to those who have been affected by the illegal gambling operation.  

Gambling lessons to be learnt

The case that’s currently unfolding in Orillia only serves to underscore the importance of using registered and trusted online casinos in Canada. Some players may think that just because they’re of age and adult enough to weigh the pros and cons of any gambling site, they have the green light to play at unregistered casinos without incurring any risks. This couldn’t be further than the truth – when you’re making a casino deposit at an unlicensed site, you are literally placing your hard-earned cash at risk. 

Still not convinced? Fair enough – if it’s evidence in black and white you’re after, we have it here for you. Our team of Minimum Deposit Casinos Canada experts are veterans who have been playing and testing such sites for years. But you don’t get to the diamonds without having to wade through some thrash, right? Our job is literally to test all the dodgy, shady sites so that you don’t have to and we are happy to report back on our findings so that you don’t need to touch anything but the best online casinos Canada. 

When going through the testing process, we compiled a list of reasons why it’s so important to steer clear of unregulated casinos. Below we will explain exactly why we always recommend licensed casinos that operate to the standards expected by a global gambling regulator. 

1. You enjoy very high standards of data protection – all gambling licenses require highly secure platforms where you can share your personal data with peace of mind. In fact, you’ll see that the best online casinos in Canada have high-level encryption, usually denoted by the SSL lock. Licensed sites are happy to share this information with you, so you will find all relevant details on the page dealing with safety and security or in the FAQs. 

2. Your money is guaranteed safe – Trusted casinos use banking methods that are equally trustworthy, whether it’s credit card brands like VISA or MasterCard or e-wallets like Interac, you are protected by the banking provider itself. Such payment options also use a very high level of security, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) so you never worry that you’re sharing your financial information with unscrupulous people or that your data is being intercepted. 

3.  You benefit from a solid responsible gambling program – the idea behind online gambling is that it should be fun. If it starts affecting your mental health or taking over your life and finances, then it’s no longer fun and it becomes an issue. Gambling regulators like Curaçao or the Malta Gambling Authority are aware of this and they fully prioritize the interests of the players, not of the casino. This is why sites that have a gambling license have a positive approach to player safety. All licensed casinos offer a safe gambling program that informs players about the signs of addiction, with some even providing online quizzes so you can gauge whether you have a healthy approach to wagering. Moreover, you will also find support tools to help you if you’re struggling – these include bet, loss and time limits and even self-exclusion options. There may also be links to support organizations like BeGambleAware provided. Unregistered sites, on the other hand, are under no obligation to protect their players or to promote responsible gambling, so anyone who is struggling is unlikely to find any support. 

4.  All casino games are probably fair – when you’re wagering on a casino game you’re essentially trusting the site to keep things fair. This means that the house edge or RTP percentage is described accurately and that results are truly random and not rigged in favourite of the site. If you’re playing at a regulated casino you don’t need to worry about this, for several reasons. One of the conditions imposed by all Gambling licenses is regular and independent game auditing to ensure that all RNG games are fair. You will often see the logos of companies like iTechLabs and eCOGRA when you scroll down to the very bottom of a casino landing page. These are essentially independent auditors who periodically check the site’s games and issue fairness certificates. The presence of their logo is a sure indication that you don’t need to worry about game fairness. 

5. You will find top games from leading software providers – similarly to the above, a licensed casino is in a position to host games by globally renowned names like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Evolution, Pish Gaming and more. Such big brands have a reputation and a license to protect, and thus will only offer their games to legal casino sites. Unlicensed sites, on the other hand, are more likely to be limited to in-house titles that are not necessarily audited, so you don’t know if you’re being taken for a ride. Cut a long story short, you may soon that wheel as much as you like but if the game isn’t authenticated there’s a good chance that you’re never going to see any winnings. If you want to be able to play tried-and-tested fan favorites you need to place your money at a licensed site. Also, consider that reputable software providers are also licensed by gambling regulators, so their games have also gone through a separate process of auditing. 

6. You gain access to efficient customer support – all licensed casinos are required to offer channels of customer support that are reasonably efficient. Canadian online casinos in fact have 24/7 live chat options that will see any question answered in minutes, if not seconds. This doesn’t necessarily hold true at unregulated sites, which are under no obligation to provide such features. This means that if you encounter an issue or a glitch – and let’s face it, these things can happen because life is not perfect – you won’t always find the help you need. 

7. You’re protected by law – let’s say you encounter a serious issue and you feel that you have a right to compensation. Good luck finding legal help if you’ve been playing at an illegal casino! Such sites operate outside the scope of the law so you’re not going to find any protection there. Licensed casinos, on the other hand, operate within a very strict legal infrastructure. They are under an obligation to deal with players’ complaints within a certain time limit. If they fail to do so, you have every right to alert the gambling regulator that issued the license to prosecute the complaint on your behalf. You yourself won’t need to do anything, as the regulator will carry out its own investigation. If the casino is found to be at fault, it will be subject to a massive fine and could also face license suspension or withdrawal. 

When playing at trusted Canadian online casino sites you do not need to worry about any of the above issues. You may be wondering how you can tell whether the site you’ve picked is legal or not. To start off with, all the sites recommended at Minimum Deposit Casinos Canada operate to a very high degree of trust.  

We only recommend licensed sites that operate with one of the top licenses. These are the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the Curacao eGaming, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, among others. 

If you would like a way to check for yourself, it’s very easy. Simply scroll to the very bottom of an online casino page and if it’s licensed you will find the details in the footer, together with the logo. 

Bonuses You Can Get When You Pay with PayPal

By Daniela Rose

Bonuses are an essential element when playing at top-rated online casinos. They allow you to instantly increase your bankroll and win large sums of money with little initial financial costs. And, when you deposit using a specific payment method, such as PayPal, you can frequently claim exclusive promotions and use your bonus funds. These can be used to test out popular games without risking your own cash.

PayPal is frequently recommended as a payment option at Irish online casinos due to its immense popularity and in-depth security. Players appreciate its ease of use, and with only a few taps, you can securely deposit or withdraw cash and have complete control over how much you spend. We highly recommend PayPal casinos for their fast processing, low transaction fees, and high levels of security.

Here are some of the best PayPal casino bonuses we’ve come across.

Jonny Jackpot Has a Great €10 PayPal Deposit

Since its launch in 2018, Jonny Jackpot Casino has quickly become an iconic name among the best online casinos. The company is run by White Hat Gaming Limited, which is trusted by millions of players and was formed to provide an unrivalled, exciting online casino experience.

When new Irish players deposit with PayPal at Jonny Jackpot, they can receive up to €1,000 as well as 100 free spins on Play’n GO’s famous Legacy of Dead slot. This package is intended to elevate the casino experience and increase the winning chances by providing a head start on gaming sessions.

Jonny Jackpot’s PayPal bonus can be claimed as follows:

• 1st Deposit – A 100% match up to €400 and 50 free spins
• 2nd Deposit – A 125% match up to €200 and 20 free spins
• 3rd Deposit – A 200% match up to €400 and 30 free spins

Welcome Bonus

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To be eligible for each of these offers, a minimum deposit of €10 is required. Here are some other important terms to keep in mind:

• Exclusive to new players from Ireland aged 18 and older.
• You cannot use Skrill or Neteller for deposits.
• A value of €0.10 is attached to each spin.
• Any winnings accumulated have a 35x wagering requirement.
• Free spins can be played on Play’n GO’s Legacy of Dead.
• The maximum bet when using the Welcome Bonus is €5
• You have a month to use your bonus money.
• You have ten days to use your free spins.

The anticipation and exhilaration at Jonny Jackpot Casino extends beyond the welcome bonus, with plenty of daily promotions to keep players interested and amused throughout the week. Every day, there’s a new bonus offer, making the experience really rewarding. For a full rundown on what to expect when registering at this excellent platform, check out our Jonny Jackpot Casino Review.

Make a €10 deposit with PayPal at Novibet Casino

Novibet, which launched in 2010, is a modern platform that features a broad selection of games, promotions, and incentives – all in an elegant, chic environment. Novibet has become one of the most reputable names in the online gambling industry, having partnered with Irish champion jockey Brian Hughes. It has been nominated for eight EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards.

Novibet Casino welcomes new Irish players with a 100% matched bonus of up to €150 and 120 free spins on two trendy slots – Rainbow Cash Pots by Inspired Gaming and Starburst by NetEnt. Let’s look into the most important terms and conditions:

• Newly registered players must be 18 years or older.
• You must make a deposit of at least €10.
• KYC verification is required for Irish players to opt in.
• 50 free spins on Rainbow Cash Pots and 50 free spins on Starburst.
• The deposit and bonus should be wagered at least 3 times.
• You can’t use Skrill or Neteller when making deposits.
• Once activated, Free Spins are playable for 72 hours.
• You must activate the bonus within 30 days of account creation.

Welcome Bonus

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Another strong pro for Novibet Casino is its continual promotions calendar. The aim of rewarding registered players remains consistent, even if bonus options change from time to time. Read our Novibet Casino Review to learn more about the extra bonuses offered at this top-rated online casino.

Get 100 Free Spins at Playzee with Your €20 Deposit

Launched in 2018 and owned by White Hat Gaming, Playzee Casino boasts an impressive selection of bonuses. Sister sites such as 21 Privé and Casimba contribute to its stellar reputation, offering top-notch online casino games from leading global developers.

New players can enjoy a welcome bonus offering a 100% first deposit bonus of up to €300, along with 100 free spins for Starburst when making an initial deposit with PayPal. A minimum deposit of €20 is required to trigger this bonus. Here are key bonus terms to keep in mind:

• Bonus funds must be wagered 35 times for withdrawal eligibility.
• Table games do not count towards meeting the wagering requirement.
• The maximum bet allowed is €5.
• Free spins are credited in daily batches of 10.
• You’ll have 24 hours to claim the free spins.
• You’ll have 30 days to fulfil any wagering requirement.
• Free spin winnings must be wagered at least 35 times.

Playzee Casino consistently offers exciting promotions for existing players with daily specials throughout the week. Enjoy perks like double loyalty points on select games every Buzee Monday and up to €50 in free spin casino bonuses on Zee Club Day every Sunday. Explore more in our Playzee Casino Review to discover the fantastic rewards awaiting you on this exceptional platform.

Why PayPal Is One of the Best Ways to Deposit at an Online Casino

With just under 200 million clients worldwide, PayPal is one of the most admired and favoured payment services when it comes to online casinos. All PayPal casino sites provide secure and efficient transactions, and deposits are always safe as this payment method has its own KYC process.

When using PayPal, a player’s bank account and credit card information is never shared with the casino. Also, when using this payment method to deposit funds, the transactions are instant. No processing time is required, so players can start playing games immediately.

Not to mention that claiming a bonus with PayPal is extremely straightforward. Once you’ve signed up at your preferred casino that accepts PayPal, simply log in to your account. Thereafter, specify the amount you wish to cash in and confirm your deposit. That’s it, you are now all set up to claim the welcome bonus.

Every PayPal Casino we recommend meets our rigorous standards. Our experts use a comprehensive approach when assessing casinos to guarantee that the operator runs as intended. Along with the broad overview, we examine the casino’s actual functionality by manually testing multiple aspects.

We also check to see if the bonus is worthwhile by looking at fair terms and good value for money so that you can cash out more of what you win. So get ready for a very rewarding playtime and grab one of our featured bonuses. But most importantly, have fun and remember to play responsibly.

Celebrity Gambler: Dan Bilzerian playboy king of poker and online casinos

Celebrities, when all publicity is good publicity! The life of a celebrity is hard to explain, there seem to be no boundaries for them, and money is never an obstacle towards their greatest desires. Trying to associate a celebrity with one word is difficult and, realistically, never does them justice. When it comes to celebrities in the betting industry, one of the leading lights is the Playboy king, Dan Bilzerian.

Bilzerian is many things; he is an innovator, self-proclaimed Playboy, social media influencer, actor, businessman and entrepreneur, poker player, sports betting enthusiast, and also very controversial. Like many celebrities today, Bilzerian has generated a lot of good and bad publicity. However, one thing that Bilzerian successfully does is create buzz around his name. Whether you love or loathe him, Dan Bilzerian is always a hot topic of discussion regarding his lifestyle, but also one of his favourite activities, gambling.

Bilzerian is synonymous when discussing online casinos and sports betting. Like many bettors, he has won many bets but also has lost quite a few. However, he is not a plain Jane type of player; he is the ultimate definition of a VIP high-roller. The Playboy king of poker, as he dubbed himself, has wagered hundreds of millions on the poker table and millions on sports bets at online sportsbooks on major sports events such as Boxing and MMA.

Dan Bilzerian Statistics

As we have mentioned, Bilzerian loves online casinos, poker and sports betting. Read some of his best quotes relating to these activities below:

‘’Never understood how people could watch sports without betting on it.’’ – Dan Bilzerian posted a tweet that many sports bettors can relate to.

‘’I think it was like $12.8 million, but it was over a period of three games.’’ – Dan Bilzerian’s response to a question from Graham Bensinger on the In Depth TV show.

Did Dan Bilzerian get rich from poker?

The beauty of the internet is that there are millions of theories on various topics, and one topic that has a lot of theories, the majority of which are unsubstantiated, is the history of Dan Bilzerian’s obscene wealth. To identify the net worth of Dan Bilzerian, we need to go back in time, to the 1980s, to be exact.

Born in 1980, Dan Bilzerian was born with a golden spoon; even before he could take his first steps or speak his first words, the only thing certain in his life was that he was financially secure. His father was a raider on Wall Street and earned an impressive salary that allowed him to take care of his family. Dan and his brother Adam were set up with trust funds to provide financial security for the rest of their lives. The trust fund is one theory of how Bilzerian managed to get rich.

Another theory is through the successful entrepreneurship opportunities he achieved as a businessman. Bilzerian owns Ignite International Brands Limited. The business is successful, but during the pandemic, excessive losses occurred, which put a dent in the net worth of Bilzerian. However, post-pandemic has seen Ignite regain some of these losses and continues to survive in the industry.

The final theory of Bilzerian’s wealth origin is the poker table and sports betting. Bilzerian is a fanatic poker lover who has played numerous high-stakes games. In 2009, he participated in the World Series of Poker Main Event, where he placed 180th and won $36,626. The poker bug continued after that event, and his forte is high-stake poker games, where he has won millions against other players. Besides poker, Bilzerian has placed countless sports bets with high wagers, sometimes totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Dan Bilzerian and GGPoker

GGPoker is one of the fastest-growing poker sites globally and has become a force in the industry with its collaborations with several poker stars and, lately, social media influencers. In 2020, GGPoker announced the signing of Dan Bilzerian as an ambassador. The deal would see both parties benefit, as with being a social media influencer and a poker celebrity, Bilzerian could bring in new players to the site, which would boost GGPoker profits. Bilzerian was compensated with affiliate fees and other perks from GGPoker. Besides bringing in new players, Bilzerian starred in many promotions run by GGPoker.

The response to the collaboration resulted in widespread negativity, especially from some GGPoker ambassadors, and some even broke their agreement with the company. Through all the negative publicity and for the next two years, both parties seemed to be in limbo. In March 2022, GGPoker tried to withdraw from its association with Bilzerian but later released a statement to announce that the collaboration would continue. However, in June 2022, Bilzerian spoke up and announced that he was no longer an ambassador for GGPoker. To date, not much else is known about what happened between both parties, which led to the downfall of the association they had.

Dan Bilzerian social media

As a social media influencer, Bilzerian has a strong social presence on social media sites like Twitter and Instagram. He has millions of followers on each site, and below, we document some of the insights available on each of his social media accounts. However, as a precaution, we advise that anyone under 18 should not access his social media accounts, as there are plenty of posts showcasing his Playboy lifestyle.

Dan Bilzerian Instagram

Dan Bilzerian Instagram account has 33.2 million followers. He is a social media influencer and posts various content on his account. As an Instagram king, his account is filled with posts of various women, luxury cars, private jets, five-star accommodations, fitness routines and other content showcasing his wealth. Bilzerian used to post many casino and poker pictures on his account, especially during 2016 and prior. However, all his latest posts through the subsequent years have focused only on his Playboy lifestyle.

Dan Bilzerian Twitter

Having joined Twitter in 2010, Dan Bilzerian currently has 1.5 million followers. Unlike his Instagram account, he does not tweet often, but numerous posts cover his Playboy lifestyle and some general thoughts from the man himself. There are a lot of historical tweets on his account, where he has posted tweets about his casino and poker winnings and some of his most considerable losses on the table. He has also mentioned some of his sports wagers throughout the years.

What’s next for Dan Bilzerian?

Dan Bilzerian is a controversial figure, but he has stayed relevant like most celebrities. Believe it or not, despite all the controversies that come with being Dan Bilzerian, he has also done a lot of good in this world and has helped many people in financial difficulties. He started ‘The Robin Hood Project’ where he gives people in need $10000 to help them. In 2015, he hosted a poker event to raise awareness around brain research and raised over $100000 for charity.

After his criticized role with GGPoker, there may be a limited number of available campaigns he can get on board with online casinos. However, he still has a massive reach, and there should be some online casinos willing to work with him on promotional activities like bringing in new players or even some meet and greets, provided he tries to clean up his image a little. After all, it is only fair to meet a party halfway.

Unlock Premium Benefits for Only $5 at Galactic Wins Canada

By Raymond Lewarne 

Canucks listen up – we got a sweet deal for you that will only cost you pocket change!  

In the gambling industry, there’s a sweet deal sweeping across Canada. Have you heard about the 5$ casino bonus deal at Galactic Wins Casino? If you haven’t, you are sorely missing out. Get on board this online casino Canada real money spaceship now! 

Among all the superb and affordable Canadian online casinos, one platform stands out as the crème de la crème – Galactic Wins. And hold on tight because their Exclusive offer is about to take your gaming experience to celestial heights. 

Sign up at Galactic Wins in Canada and get an exclusive offer of 100% up to $500 when making a $5 minimum deposit. And the best part is that you can even grab an extra 50 Free Spins – what a deal! Just so we keep you in the loop, this casino does not charge for cashing out and will deliver your withdrawals in up to three days as long as you complete the 30x wagering requirement. 

Established in 2021 by Green Feather Online Limited, a company under the laws of Malta. It is licensed to provide gaming services under License No. MGA/B2C/445/2017, issued on 16 January 2019, by the Malta Gaming Authority. 

Galactic Wins provides players with thousands of casino games powered by elite developers such as Betsoft, Hacksaw Gaming, and Triple Edge Studios. This Malta-licensed platform is a magnificently created casino that flaunts a cosmos-themed design, creating a world of its own – this intergalactic online gaming hub will transport you to another dimension. 

Read on to find out how you can take advantage of this offer and what galaxy of benefits await you when signing up for this top-rated $5 Deposit Canadian Casino. 

Premium Benefit 1 – Exclusive 100% up to $500 and 50 Free Spins for $5

It is always wise to do some research before you leap into today’s ultra-competitive online casino landscape. Before you make your initial deposit, you should familiarize yourself with the casino’s offerings. So when making an informed decision, high on your list of priorities should be checking out the available bonus offers. 

Galactic Wins Casino provides newcomers with a variety of intriguing bonuses and promotions. Sadly, the $5 minimum deposit Casino Canada deal is only for new players.  So, if you are a newcomer, you can take advantage of an exclusive welcome package that offers a 100% bonus of up to $500 and 50 Free Spins on Fruit Zen on your first deposit, as well as further incentives on your second and third deposits, as follows: 

• 1st Deposit – Redeem a 100% bonus up to $500 and 50 Free Spins 
• 2nd Deposit – Redeem a 50% bonus up to $500 and 60 Free Spins  
• 3rd Deposit – Redeem a 50% bonus up to $500 and 70 Free Spins 

The bonus will be added to your account as “virtual funds”. The maximum cash-out for this bonus is $5000. Players will have 7 days after it is awarded to use it.  

To be eligible for this Welcome Bonus, you will need to be over 18 years old. You will not be able to make your deposit for this bonus on Skrill, Neteller or ecoPayz. If you did not enter a promotion code or did not receive your bonus or additional spins, please contact customer support before playing with your deposit. 

You will not be able to claim this bonus if you have a pending withdrawal, or if you are claiming another bonus on your deposit.  This welcome bonus is only once per person, per household.  

So to recap, here is a summary of the details; 

• $5 Minimum Deposit Required
• Players are required to play through the bonus funds 30 times
• Extra spins must be wagered 25 times
• The bonus expires 7 days after being awarded
• The Free Spins are available on Fruit Zen Pokie
• Deposits made with Skrill, Neteller and ecoPayz are not eligible

Please remember that the Galactic Wins promotional section contains various bonus offers. To find out more, be sure to keep on reading as we unpack the other incentives below.

Welcome Bonus

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Premium Benefit 2 – Other promotions

Galactic Wins provides Canucks – both new and existing – with a variety of enticing bonuses and promotions regularly. The following is a list of some of the ongoing promotional deals that are currently available at this Canadian online casino: 

• Assassin Moon Superspins – For each deposit of $1, players can get 10 superspins each. This offer ends on 31 August 2024, and wagering is 25x.
• Aztec Magic Deluxe – For $10, you can get 40 Free Spins. This has a wagering of 25x.
• Exclusive Weekly Tournament – There is $1500 up for grabs every week in the Triple Chili Tournament. Triple Chili is a brand-new game you won’t find anywhere else.
• Tuesday Supernova – On Tuesdays, Galactic Wins offers a 70% incentive on deposits of at least $20, up to a maximum of $70.
• Light Year Wednesdays – Deposit $10 and play with $17 plus 7 bonus spins, which can be claimed a maximum of seven times every Wednesday.
• Thursday Special – Rocket your way to up to a 50% bonus and 50 Free Spins with no wagering requirements as many times as you want.
• Clash of the Zero-Wager Spins – Choose which game to play and receive up to 125 wager-free Spins for every deposit.
• Weekly High Roller Bonus – When you turn into one of the casino’s most valuable users, you will receive an incredible bonus of up to $1,000 and be elevated to the status of a high roller.
• 12% Instant Cash – Boost your natural balance by 12% with extra Cash added to each deposit. 

In addition to the various promotional offers available at Galactic Wins, the platform also features an exclusive VIP Club, and when joining you can get exclusive incentives. However, you can only participate in this program if the casino invites you, and only the most dedicated and active users are selected as VIPs.  

Players can also apply to join this program by contacting the customer support team. The VIP department will then assess your request and notify you if you are chosen. The VIP members will receive monthly cashback, birthday surprises, weekly free plays, a dedicated account manager, faster withdrawals, welcome goodies, cash spins, unique promotions, and more. 

Premium Benefit 3 – There are leading payment methods to choose from

Canucks value the ability to make deposits quickly, effortlessly, and safely at a top Canadian online casino. And this is where Galactic Wins comes into action – the platform accepts a wide variety of deposit options including: 

• VISA 

VISA is the most often used payment option in the world of online casinos. Everyone is aware of it, and most people hold VISA cards. To play real money games at Galactic Wins, you must first fund your account with a deposit, and VISA is one of the most straightforward and accessible solutions. 

• MasterCard 

As the main direct alternative to VISA, this bank card is also incredibly convenient as most people have a MasterCard in their wallets. When using your MasterCard to fund your Galactic Wins account, you will be guaranteed superior security in place when playing your favourite games. 

• InstaDebit 

Canada is the original home of the bank-to-bank payment system known as InstaDebit, which is widely recognized in online casinos around the world, including Galactic Wins. When using this payment method to top up your account with $5, you can benefit from excellent security, meagre transfer costs, and instant deposits. Also, InstaDebit enables players to easily track their deposits and withdrawals while disclosing little to no personal information during transactions. 

• Neteller 

Neteller is a top banking service for everyone who enjoys playing online, and signing up for an account takes less than a minute. Once complete, you can then use your new eWallet to deposit and withdraw money from Galactic Wins in a flash. And the best part is that making Neteller deposits or withdrawals is free of charge. 

• Skrill 

This popular eWallet is an excellent choice to use at a top online casino in CA as it offers security, quick transactions, and semi-anonymous payments. Also, this global platform is secure since you are not required to link directly to your bank account. Skrill is available at Galactic Wins and is one of the fastest withdrawal options. When you use Skrill, you can typically receive your winning within hours.  

• ecoPayz 

EcoPayz, formerly known as Eco Card, has been on the market since the early 2000s and is one of the world’s oldest vouchers. Regarding how ecoPayz works, Kiwis can use their bank account to top up their Eco Account. Money can then be deposited into Galactic Wins directly through ecoPayz as an eWallet or through their prepaid Eco Cards powered by MasterCard. 

Celebrity Gambler: Complexity Gaming Bridging Esports and Casinos

Complexity Gaming is an eSports group that Jason Lake started in 1998. Although Jason started this eSports group in 1998, it only became professional in 2003 when two more members joined. Complexity Gaming is one of the earliest eSports groups in North America and has grown over the years to employ many gamers.

eSports gaming groups, like all sports enterprises, are sponsored by a number of organisations and individuals. However, Complexity Gaming made history on November 13, 2018, as the first United States eSports group to be sponsored by a casino.

WinStar World Casino and Resort entered into a partnership with Complexity Gaming to become their exclusive casino sponsor. As one of the biggest online casinos in the world, WinStar World Casino and Resort hopes to make competitive gaming more mainstream.

Complexity Gaming Statistics

Why Complexity Is Such a Big Deal

Complexity is not just a prominent eSports gaming organisation; much of its popularity comes from the fact that it’s one of the oldest. This eSports organisation entered the professional gaming scene in 2003 with just three members. At that time, Jason Lake was still the owner of the group, and he worked as a real estate lawyer in Georgia.

During this period, he was the one exclusively sponsoring the team, and he allegedly paid up to $400,000 in expenses. However, this team saw good success and quickly won the DirecTV Championship Gaming Invitational and Intel Summer Championships in 2006. It was after this win that Jason Lake sold the budding group to DirecTV for $100,000.

After this handover, Complexity Gaming was briefly rebranded as Los Angeles Complexity and started making waves in the gaming industry. They played over 30 games and have won more than 130 championship tournaments.

The success of this team can be seen in the amount of money that they’ve accrued from their championships. Counter-Strike: GO is their strongest game, and for its championships, Complexity Gaming has won up to $1,479,630. They also won up to $904,666 in Dota 2 and $766,075 in the Call of Duty console version.

Some of Complexity Gaming’s biggest gaming teams include Evil Geniuses, TSM, and Team Liquid. With all this success, Complexity Gaming has been able to secure partnerships and sponsorships with many organisations. They partnered with H4X and WinStar World Resort and Casino in 2018, and HyperX and MSI in 2019.

This gaming organisation also entered a partnership with the streaming platform Twitch in 2020. Their original agreement made Twitch their exclusive streaming platform, but this was altered a bit in 2022. In 2022, Complexity Gaming made Twitch their official sponsorship sales partner.

Complexity Gaming Became The First Esports Team to Partner with a Casino

The 2018 partnership was between one of the oldest eSports organisations and one of the biggest online casinos in the US. This partnership made WinsStar the exclusive casino partner for Complexity.

The odds are not only in the favour of Complexity Gaming, however, as eSports is a budding arm of professional gaming. Originally, this arm of sports only appealed to individuals from the ages of 18 to 34. Now, however, you’ll find people between the ages of 35 and 54 among the demographic.

Apart from this, streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch attract a bigger gaming audience than mainstream movie channels like HBO. WinStar World Casino and Resort wishes to reach this demographic, and Complexity Gaming is providing them with an opportunity to do so.

So, WinStar will grant the Complexity Gaming team members access to their hotels, golf courses, and other amenities. The casino resort will also provide an avenue for the gaming organisation to host its concerts.

Complexity Gaming, on the other hand, will host meet-and-greets and biannual boot camps at WinStar Resorts. The high viewership numbers that the eSports organisation commands will also allow WinStar to gain new players for their casinos. So, in this way, both parties benefit from each other.

Complexity Gamings Social Presence

Apart from its gaming prowess, Complexity Gaming is also a social organisation that is connected to its fans in many ways. These social channels are discussed below.

Complexity Gamings Twitch

Complexity Gaming commands its biggest followership from the streaming activities of its gamers. Their Twitch page has the likes of aa9skillz, repullze, diazbiffle, thiefs, luckychamu, and wagamamatv streaming on the platform. The biggest viewerships on their Twitch platform come from aa9skillz with 740K followers and diazbiffle with 582K followers.

On their Twitch handle, Complexity Gaming shares videos from Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Rocket League, and Apex Legends.

Complexity Gamings Instagram

The Complexity Gaming Instagram page has 95K followers, with uploads from members of the team. Their Instagram handle sees regular uploads from TimTheTatman, Cloakzy, and TatmanTailgate.

You’ll also get the chance to watch clips of some of the team’s playthroughs here. However, their Instagram handle offers more than that.

It offers you a chance to meet the team members and follow them in their day-to-day lives. It allows viewers to get an idea of what life is like in the shoes of a Complexity Gaming gamer.

Complexity Gaming also promotes its partner, WinStar World Casino and Resort, on its Instagram page. They’ve posted about the gaming plazas viewers will find at the WinStar resort and their numerous online casino game offers.

Complexity Gamings YouTube

YouTube provides another chance to watch live streams of the Complexity Gaming team. Here, you get to watch some of your favourite streamers battle it out on their console or computer. If there’s a new member of the team, you also get to meet them here.

The Complexity Gaming YouTube handle also forms another advertising channel for the partnership with their exclusive online casino. It was also through this channel that they share the press conferences between WinStar and the gaming organisation. Viewers also get the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers.

The Future of eSports and Gambling

eSports was once a niche sporting activity, but now it’s gaining widespread appeal among youths and adults. The presence of streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube has spread the appeal of eSports all over the world. eSports were officially added to the Olympic Games in 2023, supporting their worldwide acceptance.

Online gambling is a welcome innovation to traditional gambling that is slowly finding acceptance among the public. With this move from WinStar World Casino and Resorts, the line between eSports and online casinos is getting blurred.

This would open up the online betting landscape to the many fans that populate the eSports arena. It would help make the online betting space be seen in a better light than before.

Competition is heating up in the South African Casino market with Betway

Over the past few years, the gambling industry has seen unprecedented growth across the southern tip of Africa. Many new players were drawn by the excitement and energy of its ever-more competitive entertainment arena, suddenly they could enjoy easy access to a generation of noticeably improved new South African online casinos. This new growth spurt is mainly attributable to the inventiveness of online casino operators discovering new ways to comply with the country’s outdated gambling regulations in combination with a changing, more gambling-friendly political atmosphere.

Betway South Africa already established itself at the forefront of the group in the race to be counted as the best South African online casino. Internationally, Betway has become one of the most widely known and recognized brands and with its entry into the South African market, once again it applied its proven recipe for success namely high-quality service, and a wide varied selection of top-tier entertainment, backed by fair policies. As one of the current crop of newly reviewed casino venues, we already regard Betway as the best online casino South Africa could possibly wish for.

Most importantly, they made access exceedingly easy and convenient by offering a simple, fast signup process and numerous popularly trusted banking methods. Compared to the great number of new casinos that recently entered the SA market, the brand’s experience at delivering instant, hassle-free access to superlative levels of service and a wide range of entertainment is clearly evident, which makes it easy to see why Betway Casino South Africa has captured the attention of local players. Naturally, a range of generous, flexible bonuses also plays a large part in their success. Join us and read our Betway Casino review wherein we assess their products and services and highlight the most pertinent aspects that matter most to players.

Get a great bonus when you sign up at Betway today

Nothing establishes a good relationship with new members as quickly as a generous welcome bonus and the same can be said for maintaining current player relationships – a facet that Betway naturally also takes care of quite nicely. Betway extends a warm welcome to new players, all first deposits of R5 and more qualify for a 100% match bonus worth up to R2000. To qualify, first deposits of R5 or more must be made within 30 days of registration.

Welcome Bonus

Betway South Africa

Deposit R5 Get 100% match bonus worth up to R2000

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Take note, any withdrawal request involving bonus money or its derived winnings will instantly void the offer and participants must meet a 30X wagering requirement before bonus winnings qualify for withdrawal. Also, contribution percentages differ between games ie, slots contribute 100% while roulette wagers only deliver 2% etc. So, before claiming the bonus please make sure you familiarise yourself thoroughly with the full T&Cs.

It is worth mentioning that once you’ve fully enjoyed the all the benefits of your welcome bonus, you still have multiple opportunities to claim your share of Betway’s R50 million Scratch Promo prize pool. To participate, click on the “Claim Now” button visible on any of the website’s promo banners and wager 10 times on any of the casino games. Irrespective whether your bets win or lose, you’ll unlock a scratch card! Each time you’re feeling lucky, simply have another go at scratching that lucky itch by placing more bets. Take note, the required number of bets to unlock the next scratch card works on a sliding scale, so make sure you read the full T&Cs before you start scratching.

Betway Casino has all the best slot games

Betway Casino features a wide range of entertainment and games for SA players to enjoy. Whether you are looking for classic slots, video slots, progressive slots, or themed slots, you will find something to suit your preferences and budget at Betway Casino SA. Below are some of the exciting games available in their gaming lobby.

Their full gaming spectrum ranges from the relaxing simplicity of three-reeled, single payline classic slots to complex modern video slots featuring five reels with multiple paylines where play is made even more awesome by their stunningly immersive graphics, animations, and sound effects. As if that’s not enough, a huge and varying bunch of highly exciting bonus features work endlessly to further enhance gameplay in addition to increasing your chances of winning. Your options include ever-popular titles like Starburst XXXtreme, Gonzo’s Quest Megaways, Jumanji, Dead or Alive, and many others.

Lastly at the top of the all-out adrenaline junky’s list are those awe-inspiring Progressive slots – a ton of them come with massive crowd-funded jackpots. Due to their extreme popularity many of these jackpots grow quickly to regularly deliver vast life-changing wins that create numerous new multi-millionaires each year. Progressives offer each player the opportunity to win life-changing amounts of money in a single spin.

In Sept 2018, the Guiness World Record holding progressive slot Microgaming’s Mega Moolah paid out in excess of $20 million (approx. R360 million) to one very lucky UK player after he wagered just $6.80 and won. At the time of writing Mega Moolah’s major progressive was triggered five times this year alone, in total the game paid out over $36 million in winnings. Since its last win, this beast of a jackpot has once again already grown to over $6 million!

At Betway casino you can find several of the mightiest progressive slots including Microgaming’s famed Mega Moolah, followed in a close second by NetEnt’s Mega Fortune, as well as Major Millions, Treasure Nile, and numerous others.

If slots are not your speed, or its one of those days you need a break from these spinning wonders, Betway offers a huge variety of top-tier table games. Similarly, if you prefer socializing with dealers and other like-minded players at your table then Betway’s excellent range of live dealer games can keep you busy for years. Your options include popular variants of roulette, blackjack, poker, monopoly, game shows, baccarat, sicbo, craps & dice, Dragon Tiger, War of Bets, Fan Tan, Mega Ball, Andar Bahar, and more.

Betway Casino is one of our top-reviewed casinos in ZA

Since its founding in 2007, the Betway brand distinguished itself internationally as one of the world’s top online casinos and the company continued its success story in South Africa. Despite only opening its virtual doors to SA residents in 2017, it is already recognised as one of the biggest and best in the country.

Its experience shows in the high standards of service and wide array of features that are attractive to players. However, we all want and look for a safe environment that we can trust to treat us fairly, not only that but also a casino where we can enjoy a massive variety of top-tier entertainment, and Betway offers all the above in spades!

We’ve experienced and reviewed many online casinos across the globe and continually assess more for the SA market, we may find others, but none can boast to be better or offer significantly more than Betway South Africa!

Get more low minimum deposit bonuses in ZA

South African Casino bonuses are promotions offered by online casinos to attract new players or reward existing ones for very low risk. They allow you to play for a small amount of money, usually between R1 and R10, and still qualify for extra benefits like free spins, cashback, or match bonuses. They are ideal for trying out different games, test a casino’s features, or simply for playing on a limited budget.

Minimum deposit casino bonuses offer you a great way to enjoy online gambling without risking too much of your own money. They help you explore different games, boost your bankroll, and have fun. However, you also need to do some careful research and compare the best ones before claiming anything. And that’s where we at Minimum Deposit Casinos come in, with our casino reviews we try to make your life easier by providing you with accurate assessments and key information about important criteria that would require many hours of research and many deliver inaccurate, or no results. Our casino, bonus, and games reviews allow you make better informed decisions in much less time when it comes to choosing the most reputable online casinos that are best suited to your wants and needs.

How to Choose Between a UK No Deposit Bonus and a £10 Casino Offer

By Shadrack Kairu

Online casinos actively use bonuses to get more players to sign up and spend on games. However, not all bonus types truly offer value worth chasing for the everyday UK gambler. This guide focuses on two of the most popular ones – UK no deposit bonus and £10 casino offers.

For smart players, knowing the real differences between these bonus types is key to picking offers that provide actual value worth chasing. In this guide, we closely compare UK no-deposit casino bonus deals and offers available at top £10 deposit casinos.

Our goal is to help you better understand the intricacies, pros, cons, and best use cases for each bonus format to align with your gaming preferences and budgets. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Casino Bonuses: A Primer

Before reviewing bonus varieties in detail, let’s first cover the basics of why UK online casino sites provide these offers at all. Put simply, casino bonuses are the extra rewards players receive over and above regular gameplay payouts. Common types of bonuses available today are:

Extra cash credit

Some UK online casinos provide a small amount of extra cash (usually £5 to £50) for players to use on certain games. This allows you to test games risk-free before depositing your own money. However, strict wagering requirements usually apply before you can withdraw any bonus cash winnings.

Extra spins

This is another popular bonus format that offers you free rounds on selected slot or casino games. Typical offers range from 10 to 200 extra spins. Again, winnings are withdrawable subject to the attached playthrough conditions.

Matched deposits

After making a real money deposit, some UK online casinos will add an extra percentage on top. For example, a 100% match on a £50 deposit gives another £50 in bonus credit. This effectively doubles playing balances upon funding your account. However, higher matched percentages usually come with tougher withdrawal conditions.

Cashback offers

For this bonus type, you get a portion of losses back in cash over a fixed period. The refund percentage can range from 10% to 20% paid either daily, weekly or monthly.

Loyalty points swaps

Earn loyalty points on wagers that can be exchanged for bonus cash, extra spins or other redeemable rewards. These are popular in ongoing loyalty programs at casinos to incentivize players to stay around longer.

The Allure of No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit deals are some of the highest sought-after bonuses among UK players, especially newcomers hesitant to bet straightaway before assessing casino quality.

As the name implies, these bonuses hand players extra cash or spins simply for signing up – no real money funding is required. This allows you to try the platform risk-free before committing your own deposits.

Typical no-deposit rewards range from £5 to £50 bonus credit or 10 to 200 extra spins per eligible game. With the possibility to withdraw tangible winnings also after meeting terms, no deposit deals understandably seem extremely attractive on the surface.

Let’s see why they hook players instantly:

• £0 personal payment is needed to play real money games. This removes financial barriers to entry for new players.
• Test casinos thoroughly without risk before depositing your own cash. This way, you can safely assess game variety, payouts, and functionality before spending money.
• Possibility to withdraw actual cash winnings albeit under strict limits. The fact that you can win anything, even if small, matters more psychologically for first-timers.

But why do these bonuses sound too good to be true? Well upon closer examination, you will notice that heavy restrictions apply before you can withdraw any winnings from no deposit bonus funds. For example:

• You must gamble bonuses extensively from 30x to 99x times before cashing out wins. This means depositing own money anyway later to playthrough these bulky turnover requirements.
• There are maximum withdrawal caps typically between £50 to £200 on wins, even after meeting wagering demands.
• Most of these bonus offers come with short validity durations ranging from hours to a few days. This pressures urgent activation and playthrough amid tight deadlines once bonuses are credited after signup.

So, while no deposit bonuses let UK punters safely preview games without spending initially, rarely will you ever win big rewards given the stringent conditions attached to them. For casinos also, limiting payouts from non-funded players makes practical business sense.

The £10 Minimum Deposit Bonus Explained

Now let’s shift our focus to the hugely popular £10 minimum deposit bonuses. Most players find these ideal and non-intimidating starting points to win casino bonuses without taking any major risks.

Let’s examine why £10 deposit deals are so popular, especially among first-time or recreational players:

• Generous 100% to 500% deposit matches that can radically boost your playing budget
• 20-100+ extra spins bundled as part of the bonus package
• Achievable 25x to 40x wagering requirements on winnings
• You can withdraw substantially higher amounts in actual winnings after meeting set conditions

Cumulatively, £10 casino bonuses offer more practical value compared to no deposit bonuses. This is backed by fairer playthrough terms, more relaxed cash-out limits and bigger wins.

Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider

So how can you determine which bonus offer provides the best overall fit and value for your specific gambling needs? When deciding between no deposit and £10 casino bonuses, there are some key factors you must evaluate closely, including the following:

Game Variety

Carefully assess the specific titles and casino game types supported for no deposit cash or spins versus £10 deposit matches depending on your playing priorities. For instance, if your focus is table games, a no-deposit bonus restricting use to just slots would make little sense even if the headline credit amount seems high.

Wagering requirements

No deposit and minimum deposit bonuses carry vastly different turnover rates before you can cash out winnings. Analyse the attached playthrough requirements cautiously factoring your ability to meet demands before opting for either bonus class.

For example, casual players would likely find £10 deposit bonuses easier to playthrough with their lower 25x to 40x demands versus steeper no-deposit rollovers that reach 60x or higher.

Bonus expiry

As we mentioned, short 24–72-hour validity windows on some no-deposit deals will require you to activate and play through your bonus almost immediately bonuses are credited to your account. Compare this against longer 7-day or month-long expiry durations on £10 deposit bonuses which makes them better suited for most players who split play across weekends or weeks when managing life priorities.

Read key terms and conditions

As with most free things in life, the devil lies in details when it comes to casino bonuses. As such, be sure to read the attached terms thoroughly irrespective of the offer appeal. This will help you avoid rude surprises and disappointments down the road.

Real-Life Scenarios: Applying Your Knowledge

Now let’s apply what we’ve learned to some real-world scenarios where players decide between no deposit and £10 minimum deposit bonuses:

Scenario 1

James has a packed weekend coming up and won’t get much time to play at his favourite online casino. He comes across a hot no-deposit bonus offer awarding 50 bonus spins on the Book of Dead slot valid for just 48 hours. Given his tight schedule, Mark realizes the short validity makes this time-sensitive no-deposit bonus ideal to try his luck quickly without spending his own money.

Scenario 2

Amy recently started playing online slots but is sceptical about funding her casino account without testing their games first. She then spots a new UK casino offering £5 free to play without deposit needed, albeit with hefty wagering demands. Amy grabs this opportunity for risk-free playtime. Though unlikely to withdraw any winnings given high rollover, testing games is the priority here as it will shape her future deposit decisions.

Scenario 3

Craig loves playing the occasional online slot but avoids no-deposit bonus gimmicks with unrealistic terms. He instead prefers depositing small deposits of around £10-20 to get fair bonuses. This leads Craig to find a solid 150% match + 30 extra spins offer after depositing just £10 at a new UK casino. The playthrough requirement is 30x bonus – a bit steep but still achievable, so he happily signs up.

In each case, the player weighed their gameplay needs and priorities appropriately before deciding between available bonus opportunities. This demonstrates why understanding the pros and cons of no deposit and minimum deposit bonuses is so valuable.

Conclusion

As we wrap up, remember there are no outright “best” or “worst” bonus formats when playing at top UK online casinos. Both no-deposit and minimum-deposit offers can prove useful when aligned to your individual gameplay needs and financial means.

While no-deposit deals let you preview games risk-free, their utility is limited by stringent cash-out rules. Conversely, small deposit bonuses come with more relaxed limits, and bigger win potential and thus offer better overall value for most.

When deciding, analyze your personal priorities first. If trying new slots for free before spending money is important to you, no deposit bonuses get you playing instantly albeit with tough withdrawal limits later. But if you don’t mind to risk small deposits to unlock fairer bonus terms, £10 minimum deposit deals present a balanced path to withdrawable wins.

As always, be sure to read the fine print and gamble responsibly for the most enjoyable experiences overall. We wish you the best of luck!