The 10 Commandments of Casino Bonuses

By Ramona Depares

The best online casinos invariably offer a host of bonuses and promotions. With so many to choose from, and so many pesky terms and conditions attached, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.

For this reason, some players shy away from seeking out new bonuses, simply because they’re worried they may bite off more than they can chew. Or that the deal that looks like it’s too good to be true, in fact, is too good to be true.

But this is not a good reason to miss out on the multitude of excellent deals offered by our top-rated online casinos. Join us as we uncover the tips and tricks to bear in mind when claiming a casino offer and which terms to watch out for so that you can enjoy a super gambling experience with your bonus money.

Commandment 1 – Read the terms and conditions of the bonus

We can’t stress this hard enough. No matter which top online casinos you’re playing at, it’s crucial to read the terms and conditions of the bonus. They’re there for a reason so that when you’re enjoying your favourite games you don’t come across any unexpected surprises.

This doesn’t mean that you need to memorize every single sentence, but it’s always good to make sure you understand the main elements of the terms. You will usually find these very clearly listed right underneath the bonus itself, or maybe as a link with the words ‘terms and conditions apply’. Make it part of your responsible gambling routine to give the terms a quick look; at Minimum Deposit Casinos we always try to simplify life for you by pointing out the important ones. We’ll go into more detail about these right below.

Commandment 2 – Check that you have the minimum deposit required

Few things are worse than having the excitement of finding some cool, new online casinos that offer a generous bonus upon sign-up – only to discover too late that you didn’t qualify for the bonus. Unless you’re lucky enough to find a no-deposit bonus, the vast majority of sign-up offers will require that you make a minimum deposit before you can claim the bonus.

The amount that you’ll need to deposit varies according to the casino. Low-rollers will find an excellent range of $1 deposit casino sites recommended here, like 7Bit and Katsubet. If you’re up to spending more, sites like Royal Vegas and Captain Spins have some excellent $5 casino bonuses, while others go up to $10 deposit casino and even more.

Whichever one you choose, you’re guaranteed a lucrative reward, as long as you make sure that you’re meeting the minimum deposit requirement.

Commandment 3- Check the duration of the bonus

Different online casinos have different expiry terms for their bonuses and there are two terms that you need to look out for here. The first is how much time you have between the time you set up your account and the time you make your first deposit. Typically, low-deposit casinos can give you anything between 24 hours to seven days to make your deposit, before the offer expires. Spin Casino, for example, gives you a generous seven days, as does Instaspin.

Once you’ve activated your bonus, you’ll also need to check out how long you have to use it. Again, timeframes vary wildly, from 24 hours up to 30 days. And if the bonus includes both a match deposit and free spins, some online casinos will have different expiry terms for each. Instaspin, for instance, gives you a full 30 days to use your bonus cash. However, each batch of free spins must be used within 24 hours.

Commandment 4 – Check out the game the bonus applies to

Neither free spins nor bonus cash can be used on whichever games you please. In the case of free spins, even the best online casinos will typically limit you to one specific slot or a small selection. Betvictor, for example, is particularly generous and will allow you to use your spins on three different slots – Big Bass Splash, Big Bass Amazon Xtreme and Rise of Giza PowerNudge, all Pragmatic Play heavyweights. Some sites like Wildz prefer to assign a pokie at their discretion, so it all depends on the luck of the draw.

As for match deposit bonuses, these can typically be used on the vast majority of slots. However, check the terms for the list of games that are not eligible. Some NetEnt titles and other progressive jackpots are usually excluded. If you attempt to use your bonus money on a game that’s not eligible you risk forfeiting your bonus, so it’s definitely not worth the risk.

Commandment 5 – Understand the wagering requirement of the bonus

Some players will tell you that this is the most important condition of all. Put simply, the wagering requirement (WR) is the number of times you’ll need to play through your bonus before you can cash out the winnings. This usually is between 30x at the most generous low-deposit casinos, but it can go up to 50x or more.

How does it work? Let’s say you deposit $10 and receive $10 in bonus cash at a WR of 30x. This means you need to wager $300 to meet playthrough and cash out. The sneaky part? Keep an eye on whether the WRs apply both to bonus money and deposit. In the above example, if the WR applies to both you’ll need to wager $600 for a playthrough, so the detail is very important.

Commandment 6 – Consider the payment and withdrawal options

So you’ve checked all those pesky terms and you’re all raring to claim your bonus at one of the best online casinos. Not so fast – banking options are not officially part of bonus T&Cs, but they’re just as important. Before committing, make sure that the site offers a deposit and withdrawal method that suits you. You will usually find a list under the Payment Options menu or in the general terms.

Look for a variety of payment options that include e-wallets, traditional banking and prepaid cards. Ideally, your chosen deposit method should also be available for withdrawal, so as to simplify the cash-out process. Finally, don’t forget to check the payment timeframes. Some methods like e-wallets can give you instant cashouts, but credit cards and bank transfers always take longer.

Commandment 7 – Check the reputation of the online casino

Before committing to new online casinos, you should make sure that this is a reputable brand that will keep your funds and your data secure. You will gain valuable information by checking the best casino reviews on Minimum Deposit Casinos, as we have a team of experts focused exclusively on testing gambling sites so as to deliver a comprehensive and honest verdict.

It’s also useful to get into the habit of checking the social media sites of online casinos, together with player forums on Reddit and the like. Finally, scroll to the bottom of the page and make sure that your chosen gambling site is licensed by a reputable regulator, such as Curacao eGaming or the Malta Gaming Authority.

Does it sound like too much work? Worry not. All the low-deposit casinos you find recommended here have already passed our strict standards as we’ve carried out extensive research into their reputation. So you can go ahead and play with full peace of mind.

Commandment 8 –Test out a demo game first

Not quite sure whether the game experience justifies the deposit? We’ve got a solution for you – test out a demo game to be able to gauge whether this is the right gambling site for you. Although you won’t be able to cash out winnings on demo games, the experience is still valuable because you get a taste of what the site can offer, and you also get some practice on the games. Pro tip: do this both on your desktop and from your mobile device, so you can get a feel for the whole experience.

Commandment 9 –Make sure you have your documents ready

The top-rated online casinos nowadays have a checklist of documents that they ask for. This isn’t because they’re snooping, but because the law requires that they carry out a Know Your Customer (KYC) process so as to eliminate the possibility of identity fraud or money laundering.

When signing up for new online casinos, you’ll need to show proof of identity, such as a passport, as well as proof of address, like a utility bill or government correspondence. For particularly large deposits or withdrawals you might also be asked for proof of earnings, to show that your income is obtained legitimately.

If you fail to verify your identity you won’t be able to cash out your winnings, so make sure you’re good and ready with documents when these are asked for.

Commandment 10 –Signing up is easy

Finally, once you’ve ticked all the above boxes, you’re ready to sign up for your chosen online casino and claim that bonus. This is the easiest part of all, as it only takes a few minutes. The best online casinos have simplified the process and made it very user-friendly so that you’ll be in the casino lobby playing your favourite real money games in no time. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Follow the link from our review and click the green ‘Join Now’ or ‘Get Bonus’ buttons.
2. Fill in the requested details, including name, surname, date of birth, address and telephone number.
3. Pick a password and store it safely.
4. Choose your preferred deposit method from the pop-up window.
5. Make sure to make a minimum deposit that qualifies you for the bonus.
6. Confirm any payment verification details requested – these will depend on the method you choose.
7. Navigate to the games section and start enjoying your bonus cash and spins.

New online identification law introduced in Europe

By Ramona Depares

The top online casino landscape across Europe has just taken a leap for the better, thanks to a new EU digital identity law – players are now able to enjoy a higher level of security that confirms their digital identity without a doubt when making online payments.

As of 5 March 2024, EU citizens are now able to enjoy more secure access to digital transactions across the EU thanks to the introduction of eIDAS, a new online identification framework. Under this new structure, the EU Digital Identity will be accessible to every single person and business in the EU. This will allow you to confirm your personal information and enjoy safer online services through the creation of a personal digital wallet.

While the creation of this digital wallet is not directly related to online casinos, its benefits will also be enjoyed by anyone who uses gambling sites across the EU. The process will improve substantially on security and privacy aspects of every online banking transaction carried out at online casinos that operate within EU countries.

The new system is being referred to by the acronym eIDAS, which stands for ‘electronic identification and trust service’. The umbrella term includes the new range of services that are related to verifying electronic documents and the identity of people and businesses.

The updated law was made possible thanks to the introduction of Regulation (EU) 910/2014 on electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market. eIDAS was deemed necessary because the digital identification systems that were offered by individual EU countries suffered from several important shortcomings, with only about 14% of key public service providers across all Member States allowing for cross-border authentication with an e-Identity system.

For gamblers, this means that EU members playing at the top online casinos had no way to provide their identity over the Internet via a standardized, official process.

Work on the framework started back in 2021 with a proposal that evaluated the previous framework and identified the precise gaps. Following that, an open discussion was launched across Member States so as to collect feedback from all parties involved. The discussion remained open till October 2020, when the European Commission evaluated all the feedback that had been gathered via in-depth surveys and interviews.

Now, as of March 2024, the necessary updates to EU law regarding online banking and digital identities have been carried out. This means that the law has been brought into effect, with online casinos and other digital platforms implementing the improved framework.

Benefits of the new digital wallet in the EU

If you are a resident in an EU member state, you will enjoy the perks of the eIDAS regulation and the personal digital wallet not only when playing at the best online casino sites, but pretty much across every single digital interaction that involves online banking.

To understand the implications better, it’s worth taking a look at how Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, explained the reasoning behind the introduction of the digital wallet on the official EU Website: “Every time an App or​​ website asks us to create a new digital identity or to easily log on via a big platform, we have no idea what happens to our data in reality. That is why the Commission will propose a secure European e-identity. One that we trust and that any citizen can use anywhere in Europe to do anything from paying your taxes to renting a bicycle. A technology where we can control ourselves what data is used and how.”

You can use your new personal digital wallet whenever you’re interacting online and providing your personal details for financial reasons as eIDAS provides for secure cross-border transactions. What does this mean on a practical level? Here’s a list of tangible benefits that you’ll be able to enjoy in your everyday dealings:

• You can sign anything online with an authenticated e-signature, without the need for any papers or printouts.
• You’ll have an official time stamp that authenticates digital purchases of items like concert tickets.
• You’ll be able to open a bank account in another country with the use of your national identity card.
• You’ll have access to electronic registered delivery services, ensuring that all your deliveries arrive safely to the correct destination.
• You’ll have access to a Qualified Web Authentication Certificate, which tells you that the sites you’re using are safe.

With many of us shopping online so often, possibly the biggest benefit of the new online identification law is that it offers a guarantee that our chosen site is safe – or not. All you need to do is make sure that the site has a Qualified Web Authentication Certificate as mentioned above, and this is enough assurance that the trader is legit. This is particularly valuable when clicking on links received by email as it helps avoid phishing attempts.

The initiative is also useful to businesses like online casinos as they will be able to use the e-id to verify that a newly registered player is who they say they are and that they’re old enough to gamble.

Impact on the online casino industry

The implications of the new EU digital wallet are far-reaching even within the online casino industry. In a press statement on its official website, the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) welcomed the eIDs approval, calling it “a significant milestone in the journey towards a more secure and inclusive digital environment for all citizens across the European Union”, adding that it addresses several concerns in the digital sphere.

Among the benefits quoted, the EGBA mentioned that the e-ID will allow EU players to identify and authenticate themselves without having to resort to commercial providers. The latter practice at online casinos had given cause for concern in the past, raising trust, security and privacy issues related to the sharing of consumer data with third-party platforms.

Moreover, the e-ID enhances security by offering consumers and businesses a trusted and standardized tool for online identification, minimizing the risk of identity theft and fraud and enhancing responsible gambling measures.

• Greater data protection for players
• Guaranteed privacy
• Less risk of identity theft
• Less vulnerable to online fraud

The system is expected to yield benefits even for online casinos themselves, reducing administrative and tech costs for gambling operators by offering a single verification tool to use across all EU member states, instead of having to pay high fees to use commercial databases.

“We welcome the European Parliament’s approval of a unified digital identity framework and are confident that the use of the new e-ID in our sector will lead to a more seamless and trustworthy online experience for players and help to reduce costs and administration for gambling operators. This innovative tool represents an important step towards building a more secure and user-friendly digital ecosystem, aligning with EGBA’s core objectives of promoting integrity, transparency, and a safe, consumer-centric playing environment.”

Maarten Haijer, Secretary General, EGBA, stated.

A more secure future for online casino players across the EU

While the use of the new e-ID remains entirely voluntary, players are highly encouraged to make use of it. Likewise, it is expected that the top online casinos will not take long to integrate the e-iD tool within their Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, resulting in a safer gambling environment throughout the EU.

Spring 2024’s latest and greatest Slot Games

Spring is a special time of the year that heralds new beginnings. The air is crisp and clean, flowers are everywhere, and new fun and exciting slots abound. At our Top-Rated Online Casinos, you will find a collection of new slots created with cutting-edge technology by award-winning software companies like Yggdrasil, Play’n GO, Blueprint Gaming, and Relax Gaming. The graphics are world-class, the music is toe-tapping, and the game features are exciting. Are you ready to play the Latest Slot Games this Spring?

This Spring, you can look forward to some exciting new releases

Our featured online casinos constantly release new slot machines to keep players entertained and engaged. Made possible by iGaming Software Providers, new slots use advanced Online Gaming Software to ensure an immersive gaming experience and the potential to land big wins. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never played slots before or are a seasoned slots gambler; thanks to simplicity, innovation and creativity, everyone can play new slots at our supported online casinos. If you’re itching to get started, here are the newest exciting game releases you can look forward to this Spring.

This Spring, try out the all-new Gold Fever from Yggdrasil and AceRun

A popular theme for slots lovers, the Wild West transports slots gamers to the era of cowboys, gunslingers, and gold prospectors. This Spring, try out the all-new Gold Fever from Yggdrasil and AceRun, released on 6th April 2023. Become the wealthiest punter in the saloon by spinning your way to gold and precious gems and shooting your way to a potential top win of $/€53,975. With a 96% Return to Player (RTP) Rate and a maximum multiplier of X 1,079, the wins will keep on coming. Affordable for all budgets, betting starts at $/€0.10 to $/€50. A result of the ѕuссеѕѕful раrtnеrѕhір bеtwееn award-winning software developer Yggdrasil and the nеwlу-еѕtаblіѕhеd ѕоftwаrе соmраnу, АсеRun, Gold Fever offers the thrill of the chase for gold, with exciting bonus features, and the potential for big payouts.

10Hot Hotfire is a must try this Spring

Launching online on 11th May 2023, 10Hot Hotfire is a must-try this Spring! Finding a classic fruit slot machine at an online casino is easy, but a new classic slot game with fair returns and lower volatility is hard to come by. Designed for Yggdrasil by AceRun, 10Hot Hotfire is a straightforward fruit game video slot with juicy and hot symbols that burn ten times higher. Symbols from winning lines burn at the end of every spin, delivering wins of 6440 times your bet. Bets start at $/€0.20, up to a maximum of $/€150, and as a mobile-first provider, Yggdrasil made 10Hot Hotfire compatible with modern smartphones and tablets on Android or iOS devices. With an above-average frequency rate of 29.06% and an RTP of 96.1%, this Ancient Egypt-themed slot game offers classy graphics and fiery wins.

Devour the Weak is another new slot launching this April

Devour the Weak is another new slot by Yggdrasil that will go live at our featured online casinos on 27th April 2023. Visit the underground, where various dangerous beasts reside and spin your way through a lava-filled inferno. With gigantic multipliers that can reach 666X and hex symbols that devour low-paying symbols and turn them into wilds, take home top wins in Devour the Weak. This game offers a RTP of 96% and maximum wins of a massive $/€1 Million. Its hit frequency is 25.03% and offers a maximum multiplier of x 10,000. Devour the Weak can be played from $/€0.10 to a maximum of $/€100. Within this lava-filled slot gaming adventure, you have a few festive features to help you in your quest for bigger wins, including wilds, hexed symbols, free spins, and multipliers.

Check out the all-new Gods of Giza from Pragmatic Play

Check out the all-new Gods of Giza from Pragmatic Play and enjoy imaginative gameplay as you explore the land of pharaohs. Hidden among the pyramids, the treasure has been waiting for lucky players to stake their claim for thousands of years. Launched on the 6th of April 2023, Gods of Giza offers exciting gameplay and high-quality graphics and will appeal to those that love classic gameplay, with wilds, scatters, a tumbler reel, and as many as 120 free spins. The Gods of Giza slot game follows Pragmatic Play’s blockbusters like The Red Queen and Big Bass Hold & Spinner and delivers wins of up to 5000 times your bet. The RTP is 96.01% and can be played from $/€0.20 to $/€100.

Blueprint Gaming’s new slot Crabbin’ for Cash Extra Big catch

Go fishing with Blueprint Gaming’s new slot game Crabbin’ for Cash Extra Big catch and catch big wins. The ocean is calling, which is irresistible, so prepare your fishing rods and nets and start the adventure with bets from $/€0.25 to $/€25.00. A sharp and fresh slot game that inhales new breath to the popular Blueprint portfolio, this new game has been available online since 10th April 2023. With a 96.00% RTP, packed with modifiers in the base game, a free spins round, and re-spins, try your luck spinning the reels and win prizes of up to 1,000x per symbol. Crabbin’ for Cash Extra Big Catch’s win potential is boosted even further with a progressive jackpot prize, making it a title fit for all players.

Slashimi from Play‘n GO is another must-try this Spring

Sink your teeth into this tasty new slot game and cook up a storm with master Chef Jiro Miike as he takes you on a flavour-filled online gaming experience in Slashimi. With a sushi/Japanese eatery theme

Slashimi plays out in a hibachi restaurant while players watch the chef slice, dice, and serve the food. The background is semi-interactive; if you click on the fish and tentacle, it will wriggle and try and escape. Slashimi’s hypnotic underwater effects will get you in the mood, and the maximum potential wins of 5000 times your bet make for the perfect snack. Slashimi’s RTP is 96.2% and can be played with bets from $/€0.10 to $/€100 per spin. Slashimi from Play‘n GO is another must-try this Spring, so check out our casinos at Minimum Deposit Casinos and get your portion of this sushi slot game.

Ever wanted to be a Monkey mobster? Try out the new Relax Gaming slot Banana Town Dream Drop

One of the most popular software developers is Relax Gaming, and in their newest release, out since the 6th April 2023, Banana Town Dream Drop offers monkeys and mafia and amazing game mechanics. Banana Town Dream Drop features the famous Dream Drop Jackpot and bonuses to help you win amazing prizes throughout the game. With many fantastic opportunities to take home real cash, have fun with cascading wins, multiplier upgrades, free spins, and the Dream Drop Bonus. The maximum win is 10,000 times your bet, but if you’re aiming for bigger wins, land 15 banana crates appear, and if you pick the right crate, you can win a progressive Jackpot prize that can reach $/€1 Million. With a 94% RTP, play Banana Town Dream Drop from $/€0.20 to $/€100, and have fun with its thrilling engine, fantastic artwork and payouts that will make you go bananas.

Best Betting Features of Sportingbet that You Didn’t Know About

By Ginevra Alessandrello

Having been founded in 1997, Sportingbet Casino has come a long way and is an established name in the gambling industry as a top online casino and sportsbook. It is owned by GVC Holdings, which owns other established brands like Ladbrokes, Coral, and Party Poker. Located on the Isle of Man, GVC Holdings was founded in 2004 and is licensed by the Government of Gibraltar – license numbers 050 and 051. Since it entered the online gaming world, Sportingbet has become a distinguished name in terms of the best-rated casino games and Online Betting Features – and are renowned as The Cashout Kings!

With its Build a Bet feature, players can combine all their bets for the exact match in one single bet. The Auto Cash Out feature will also enable players to set their optimum Cash Out value when placing a wager. However, Sportingbet offers much more than just sports. As an internet-based casino platform, you can play top slots and classic table games on Random Number Generated (RNG) machines or at the Live Dealer Casino including poker, blackjack, and roulette. Crash gambling games are also available at Sportingbet as well as online sports. NetEnt and Microgaming are some of the leading software providers on this site’s list of game suppliers, so expect some of the best casino games globally.

Build a Bet – How to Tailor Your Betting Experience

With Build a Bet, punters can add a new way to customize their bets at Sportingbet. They can select multiple smaller bets and combine them into one big bet with great odds to match. Players can make up to 12 selections from various markets to create their unique bet. Here’s how to Build a Bet works:

• Online bettors at Sportingbet start by choosing the sports events they want to bet on
• They then select specific outcomes, such as the final score in a football match.

Bettors can combine multiple outcomes from different events into a single custom bet, which lets them create unique betting combinations – the more unlikely the combination, the higher the potential payout. Besides the apparent benefit of personalized betting strategies, Build a Bet is tailored to your experience, enhances user engagement, and offers the potential for higher returns. Custom bets often have higher odds than average bets, resulting in higher returns if the bet is successful.

How to Build a Bet with Sportingbet

Building a bet at Sportingbet Casino is simple and can be mastered in a few steps:

1. Log into your Sportingbet account and head to the Build a Bet Feature.
2. Choose the match or games across various sports you want to include in your custom bet.
3. Bettors then choose from various betting options, such as a final score in a soccer match.
4. Once you’ve chosen your market, add specific selections for each market, such as a final score.
5. Once you’ve chosen your events, they can be combined in a single bet.

Before making your bet, pay special attention to the associated odds and the potential payout. After confirming your selection, Sportingbet will calculate the potential payout based on the odds of your selection. Your winnings will be credited to your account if your bet is successful.

Build a Bet Terms and Conditions

Auto Cash Out – Time-Saving Betting Feature

Sportingbet has become famous for its Auto Cash Out feature, which allows more control over bets and automatically cashes out a bet under the right conditions. Here’s how Auto Cash Out works:

• Place your bets and then enable the Auto Cash Out feature for that specific wager
• Players then choose their cashout value based on potential wins or desired profit margins.
• Sportingbet then monitors the status of your bet in real-time
• Your bet is automatically cashed out when it reaches the pre-set threshold set by the players
• Once Auto Cash Out happens, the winnings are credited to the user’s account.

Let’s look at a soccer match for example. Imagine you’re betting on Team A to win and decide to set the Auto Cash Out value at 80% of your potential winnings. If Team A takes an early lead and your potential winnings reach 80%, the bet will automatically cash out so that you can secure a good portion of the winnings, regardless of the match’s outcome.

Sportingbet vs Other Bookmakers: Auto Cash Out Kings

Sportingbet’s Auto Cash Out is so effective that it’s become one of the reasons people join this popular online casino sportsbook. This may be why this casino considers itself the Cash Out King! While most online sportsbooks have cash-out features, Sportingbet has gone over and beyond.

Compared to other sportsbooks, this Auto Cash Out feature sets a specific value at which bets are automatically cashed out, offering a high customization level. Other bookmakers also offer Auto Cash Out features, but not all of them have the option to set automatic cash-out values. But besides this, players can set their thresholds to lessen potential losses.

Combining Build a Bet with Auto Cash Out

By combining multiple selections in Build a Bet, bettors can spread their risk across different markets. Unfortunately, the Build a Bet feature is not available to be used at the same time as the Auto Cash Out option.

To create a custom bet, you can use the Build a Bet feature. This approach diversifies your wager and spreads risk, though it’s independent of Auto Cash Out functionalities. When engaging in Build a Bet, consider the dynamics of the event and strategize accordingly. For instance, in a tennis tournament, a Build a Bet might include selections like match winners, total games played, or the score.

While setting automatic cash-out values is not an option with Build a Bet, bettors can still strategically plan their bets for potential positive outcomes or to mitigate risks in case of unexpected results. This independent approach to Build a Bet requires careful monitoring and decision-making based on the event’s progress. Through this method, bettors can still enjoy a level of control and customization over their wagers, even though they must manually manage their bets without the Auto Cash Out feature.

Place your Bets with Build a Bet and Auto Cash Out Now

Sportingbet Casino offers many advantages, including Build a Bet and Auto Cash Out. This sets them apart from other top rated online casinos and sportsbooks. Consider what Sportingbet offers for more control, convenience, and customization. For an elevated betting experience and many exciting ways to optimize your strategies and increase your winnings, visit Sportingbet and explore the Build a Bet and Auto Cash Out features. With a friendly use interface, customizable wagers, and automatic cash-out options, take advantage of the chance to enhance your sports betting journey.

Players who enjoy online slots and table games can collect a welcome bonus package to add extra funds to their accounts. Sportingbet features many popular titles including Rise of Olympus, Fat Stacks Millionaire Cash, Crabbin For Cash Extra Big Splash, and Spaceman Crash gambling game. Start your adventure with a welcome bonus and Free Spins to add more playing money to your account. The offers at Sportingbet are regularly updated, so feel free to look at the company’s offers on their Promotions page.

Sweden will introduce stricter gambling measures in April 2024

By Shadrack Kairu

Stricter gambling regulations are coming to Sweden effective April 1, 2024, in a move that is seen as crucial to enhance consumer protections and fight gambling-related crime. The Swedish government (Regeringen) harmonized a series of gambling amendments into a single bill, which was later approved by the Riksdag, the country’s parliament.

Under the newly confirmed amendments, the government seeks to impose higher fees on gambling operators that violate the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AML). Additionally, it aims to provide legal online gambling companies with the right to access personal data relating to finance and health that players themselves have provided, with a view to combating gambling-related harm. The new regulatory framework means that tougher requirements are in the pipeline for online casinos regarding consumer protection and responsible gambling.

The Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen, has welcomed these new government proposals saying it’s a step in the right direction.

Spelinspektionen Director General Camilla Rosenberg expressed satisfaction with the proposals, noting “We welcome the proposals in the referral that enable further measures to strengthen the regulation of the gaming market. “

“It is also gratifying that the government has now heeded the Gambling Authority’s proposal to raise the sanction ceiling for violations of the Money Laundering Act,” she added.

Consumer safety and new standards for Sweden’s gambling industry

A notable provision under the new revisions to the Swedish Gambling Act of 2018 includes the requirement for telemarketing sales of gambling services to be presented in writing to consumers. This means that gambling companies will now be required to obtain written approval from players before engaging in telephone sales of games. Any agreements not made in writing will be deemed invalid. The aim of this is to promote responsible gambling and ultimately protect consumers from excessive betting.

In addition, the proposed bill requires that providers of legal online casinos be granted the right to access personal financial and health data that the players themselves have provided. This will enable them to monitor and analyze players’ financial and health status in an effort to counteract excessive gambling. This is also intended to protect players from crimes associated with online gambling.

The new Swedish gambling law slated to take effect on 1 April 2024 also seeks to impose higher fines on gambling companies that breach the country’s Money Laundering Act. As it stands, the penalty fee for betting companies that contravene the Money Laundering Act is lower than for those that violate the Gambling Act.

Under the new law, the government plans to increase fines for AML violations to the same level as those for violating the Gambling Act. This, the government believes, is crucial for combating criminal activities that stem from gambling.

The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling, Branschföreningen för Onlinespel (BOS), welcomed the government proposals which would see higher penalties imposed on companies for money laundering violations. Responding to the proposal – which was first introduced by the Ministry of Finance, Finansdepartementet, in June – BOS said it approved the proposal because of the seriousness of the AML violation risk. The trade body, however, expressed its reservations about other proposals in the new law.

Increased tax on gambling winnings also on the cards

Meanwhile, Sweden’s parliament, the Riksdag, is in discussions about increasing the personal income tax on gambling winnings from 18% to 22%. If the parliament approves it, the amendments are poised to take effect starting July 1, 2024, and will see the government raise an additional SEK 540m (£39.4m) in gambling tax per year.

Sweden’s legal gambling landscape has evolved relatively steadily in the past few years. Unlike some jurisdictions that opt for swift and comprehensive reforms, potentially leading to increased illegal gambling activities, the Swedish government has embraced an evolutionary approach.

First, it established the Swedish Gambling Act on January 1, 2019, setting the rules of the game for gambling operators. Then in 2023, it implemented a raft of measures aimed at combating illegal operations, strengthening consumer protections, and improving customer care duties for online betting licensees.

More notably, on July 1, 2023, supplier licenses were enforced while new enforcement powers were handed to Spelinspektionen. And now, the government is eyeing increasing the gambling tax rate starting in July 2024.

But these amendments are coming at a time when the growth of Sweden’s regulated gambling market seems to have taken a slump, according to the latest financial report released by Spelinspektionen.

In Q2 of 2023, for example, licensed gambling operators generated a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of SEK 6.7bn (€562.8 million). This GCR was down over 1% compared to the SEK 6.77bn (€568.7 million) reported in Q2 2022. Furthermore, in Q3 2023, GGR decreased 0.6% year-over-year and plateaued versus the third quarter of 2022.

The report further reveals that by the end of Q3 of 2023, roughly 99,000 people had registered for the voluntary self-exclusion scheme through Spelinspektionen’s self-exclusion program Spelpaus.se. This marks a 4% increase compared to the previous quarter of the year.

How Swedish gambling operators are preparing for these changes

The newly proposed gambling measures have however been met with some backlash from the Swedish gambling operators, with Sweden’s Branschföreningen för Onlinespel (BOS) labelling the tax changes a “Christmas Gift” for offshore online casinos.

BOS, a prominent critic of the government’s management of the gambling sector, expressed serious concerns over the government’s decision to raise gambling taxes, deeming its timing particularly hostile for the regulated market. The association argued that raising gambling taxes will only drive players to turn to illicit operators in the black market.

In a press release, Gustaf Hoffstedt, BOS Secretary General, emphasized the impact this could have on the country’s regulated gambling market, stressing its ill timing. Voicing BOS’s rejection of the proposal, Gustaf Hoffstedt said:

“The government can hardly time its proposal to raise the gambling tax to a worse time. We are in a situation where fewer and fewer players choose to play on the safe licensed market, and more and more on the unregulated, unlicensed gambling market”.

Hoffstedt also concluded his remarks by asserting that the government’s proposed tax hike on gambling was a “Christmas gift” for the unregulated, unlicensed gambling market:

“That the government proposes to raise the tax for licensed gambling is the best Christmas present you can think of – to the unregulated and unlicensed gambling market’, he concluded (SBC News).

Meanwhile, Spelinspektionen, the country’s gambling authority, has neither approved nor opposed the proposed tax rise, noting that it has “no substantive views” on the matter. However, the authority promised to “carefully follow developments” to see what “consequences the proposed tax hikes may actually have on the Swedish regulated gambling sector.”

The gambling market in Sweden has undergone significant changes during the five years since the Swedish Gambling Act came into force on January 1, 2019. This seems to continue in 2024, as the government looks to strengthen online gambling safety while also clamping down on illegal gambling in the country.

For now, this bill underscores consumer safety, introduces tougher fines for money laundering offences, and sets new standards for gambling-related telephone sales in the Swedish gambling industry.

How mobile devices are dominating the online gaming world

By Shadrack Kairu

The use of mobile devices has taken over our lives in a massive way. Just look at the numbers; according to GSMA in “The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2023” report, approximately 4.6 billion people are using mobile internet for just about everything you can imagine. From shopping to paying bills, from learning new things to catching up on the latest news, from chatting with friends on social media to playing exciting games at top online casinos – our mobile devices have become indispensable companions in our daily lives.

Let’s take a step back and think about how different things were in the 80s and 90s. Back then, we were basically chained to our desktop computers or landline phones. But now? We’ve got the entire internet conveniently tucked away in our pockets. This has opened up a whole new world of possibilities that our parents and grandparents could’ve never dreamed of.

With our mobile devices, we can effortlessly communicate and interact with people from every corner of the globe. Geographical boundaries just don’t apply anymore. Whether it’s cheering on your friend during an online poker tournament in Vegas or joining an intense battle royale game with players from Tokyo and Moscow, your mobile device allows you to connect and have shared experiences like never before.

Speaking of shared experiences, let’s talk about how mobile devices have completely changed the game (pun intended) for online casinos. Imagine being able to access all your favourite casino games wherever you are – while travelling for work, waiting for your food at a restaurant, or even during that dull conference call. Your mobile is your own personal casino that you can carry in your pocket, and the best part is that you can play smartly at a $1 deposit casino, without spending too much.

Entertainment and communication are the most popular on mobile devices

According to the GSMA report, a whopping 86% of mobile internet users regularly use their devices for communication services like instant messaging, video calls, and voice calls online. It’s no surprise really – our mobiles have become modern-day walkie-talkies, keeping us effortlessly connected with friends, family, and colleagues no matter where we are in the world.

But of course, communication is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how we use our mobile devices. Entertainment is a huge draw too. The report found that across the countries surveyed, the vast majority of mobile internet users regularly watch free online videos, listen to music, read the news, and play games on their phones.

Speaking of gaming, did you know approximately half of the online gaming revenue generated today is attributed to mobile games? According to Statista, mobile games generated $91.8B in 2022 in the US alone, which accounted for 50% of the global market for the year. This proves that millions upon millions of people around the globe are using their smartphones and tablets to play games at top online casinos.

But mobile devices aren’t just for fun and games – they’ve also become incredibly useful tools for handling all sorts of day-to-day tasks and accessing important services. The GSMA report found that a notable percentage of mobile internet users rely on their devices for activities like:

• Accessing health services – (between 30-35% across countries surveyed)
• Accessing government services (20-25%)
• Looking or applying for jobs (20-25%)

It’s also worth noting that mobile devices are increasingly being used for mobile payments and online banking. While the report doesn’t provide specific numbers, we all know how convenient it is to pay by phone for goods and services using mobile wallets, apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay, or mobile banking apps from our financial institutions.

And the best part? We’re just scratching the surface of what these powerful little devices are capable of. As technology continues to evolve, our mobile companions will undoubtedly continue to reshape how we live, work, and play in ways we can’t even imagine yet. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the mobile revolution.

Why casino entertainment is beneficial to mobile players

Mobile devices have revolutionized how we access and experience entertainment, including online casino gaming. Playing casino games on a smartphone or tablet offers several distinct advantages including the below:

Convenience

One of the key benefits of mobile casino gaming is the unparalleled level of convenience it provides. You can access your favourite casino games and platforms from virtually anywhere, at any time, as long as they have a stable internet connection. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for players with busy schedules or those who travel frequently.

Enhanced privacy

Mobile devices offer a degree of privacy and discretion that can be challenging to achieve in traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. You can indulge in your gaming activities without feeling self-conscious or being subjected to the scrutiny of others. This privacy can be especially appealing if you prefer to keep your casino entertainment separate from your professional or personal life.

Bigger game selection

Top-rated online casinos often boast an extensive selection of games, ranging from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to the latest video slots and speciality offerings. This variety ensures you can always find something new and exciting to explore. Additionally, the ability to switch between games effortlessly on a mobile device further enhances the overall gaming experience.

Safety and Security

The best online casinos prioritize the safety and security of their players by implementing robust encryption technologies and stringent security measures. These safeguards help protect personal and financial information from potential threats, ensuring a safe and secure gaming environment.

Bonuses and promotions

Many new online casinos offer enticing bonuses and promotions to attract and retain players. These can include welcome bonuses, free spins, reload bonuses, and loyalty programs. Such incentives not only enhance the overall value proposition but also contribute to a more rewarding and engaging gaming experience for mobile casino enthusiasts.

The future of online casinos is via mobile devices

The online casino industry is quickly embracing the future of mobile technology. As more players demand convenience and flexibility, operators and software developers are prioritizing mobile compatibility and dedicated apps to meet this demand.

Leading the charge are online casinos optimizing their websites for seamless play across smartphones and tablets. Using responsive web design, their sites automatically adapt the layout, navigation, and gameplay for optimal viewing and functionality on small touchscreens. Players simply visit the mobile-friendly casino through their device’s web browser.

However, many top online casinos are taking mobile integration even further by developing dedicated casino apps. These native apps are custom-built for specific operating systems like iOS or Android to provide the smoothest, most intuitive mobile experience possible.

A prime example is Lucky Nugget Casino, an established brand powered majorly by the renowned Microgaming and Evolution Gaming platforms. This operator offers a superb mobile app for both iOS and Android devices. The app showcases a sleek interface and snappy performance while housing the full suite of games, banking options, and customer support found on the desktop site.

Another stellar option is Jackpot City Casino, also powered by Microgaming software. Beyond its mobile-optimized website, this casino provides iOS and Android apps with full functionality. Players can register new accounts, make deposits, claim bonuses, and dive into hundreds of high-quality mobile casino games. The apps are continually updated with the latest content.

Captain Spins, a newer online casino brand, has also launched dedicated mobile apps to augment its site. Partnering with top-tier providers like NetEnt, Yggdrasil, and Big Time Gaming ensures their apps are loaded with innovative mobile slot experiences.

So, what are the key benefits of these dedicated mobile casino apps? First and foremost is the enhanced user experience tailored specifically for mobile devices and mobile gamers. Apps can leverage the full capabilities of smartphones and tablets, with customized controls, gesture operations, and notifications. This helps to ensure gameplay is buttery-smooth without compromising graphic fidelity.

Another advantage is that apps are always just a quick tap away without needing to launch a browser or look up URLs. They live on your mobile device just like any other installed app, providing instant access to real money casino entertainment whenever the impulse strikes.

Apps are also continuously updated to implement new features, fix bugs, and ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and hardware. Regular updates deploy in the background without players needing to take additional action.

Looking ahead, the future of online casinos is destined to become even more mobile-centric. With capabilities like virtual reality, augmented reality, and haptic technology on the horizon – casino gaming on smartphones and tablets will become increasingly immersive, social, and realistic. We predict a world where players will be transported into dazzling 3D casino environments shared with fellow players worldwide – all from their mobile devices.

Casino games themselves will continue evolving with stunning graphics, innovative bonus rounds, animations, and special effects optimized for mobile. That future is rapidly approaching, and the online casino industry is gradually but steadily ushering it in.

MDC’s Exclusive New 50 Free Spins Bonus at 21 Casino

By Shadrack Kairu

The hardworking team at MDC has secured yet another awesome bonus deal just for our readers with 21 Casino, one of the best online casinos around. This hot online casino lets you enjoy Narcos, one of the most exciting slot games today, for free and maybe win big money, all without even depositing your own cash. Interested? Keep reading to learn more.

Get 50 Free Spins Without Even Making a Deposit at 21 Casino

Here are all the details about this exclusive no-deposit bonus. When you create a new account at 21 Casino right now, you automatically get 50 free spins added, without needing to deposit anything. Yes, you heard that right; you can start spinning your favourite game right away without risking any of your own money.

So, what are the requirements? It’s pretty simple. As long as you are over 18 years old, live outside of Great Britain (plus a few more countries that we’ll outline shortly), and complete the necessary account verification (including providing extra documents if asked), you qualify. Just opt-in for this promotion and the 50 free spins are yours, for absolutely free!

One important note: If you currently have any other active bonuses in your 21 Casino account, the casino will not let you claim this offer to avoid conflicts. As such, it’s best to get this exclusive bonus with a fresh new account.

What makes claiming this bonus a no-brainer? First, it’s completely free – no deposit is required. This lets you test out 21 Casino risk-free. Besides, those generous 50 free spins give you lots of chances to potentially win big right from the start.

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Get 121% Match Bonus When You Make a Deposit at 21 Casino

If you thought the 50 free spins were all 21 Casino had in store for you, then think again. This popular platform offers you another amazing offer for when you do decide to deposit cash. When you fund your account for the first time, you’ll get a whopping 121% match bonus up to $300.

Here’s how it works: Let’s say you deposit $100 into your new 21 Casino account. With the 121% match, you’ll get an extra $21 in bonus funds on top. That’s a total of $121 to play with.

To get this match bonus, just go to your new 21 Casino account and deposit at least $10. But heads up – deposits made through Skrill or Neteller don’t qualify for the welcome bonus, so use a different casino payment methods.

As soon as your deposit is processed, the 121% match bonus amount will automatically be added to your bonus balance. With all that extra cash, you’ll have way more to spend exploring 21 Casino’s huge game library and potentially winning even more.

Claiming Your 50 Free Spins at 21 Casino

Now that you know all the juicy details of the bonuses available at 21 Casino, let’s go through the exact steps to claim the free spins:

• Step 1: Visit 21Casino.com and click on “Sign Up”
• Step 2: Fill out the registration form with your personal information. Make sure it’s all accurate
• Step 3: Once your account is created, go to the “Promotions” section
• Step 4: Find the “50 Free Spins” no-deposit welcome offer and opt-in to claim it
• Step 5: The 50 free spins will instantly get credited to your account, ready to use.

It’s that easy. In just minutes, you’ll be spinning the reels on the Narcos slot game for free.

The Game for 21 Casino’s 50 Free Spins Bonus

As we just mentioned, the 50 Free Spins bonus at 21 Casino is only for the Narcos slot game. This popular title made by NetEnt, takes you into the dangerous world of Pablo Escobar’s drug empire in Colombia in the 1970s.

Narcos has 243 ways to win and medium volatility. It also has an impressive 96.23% average return to player (RTP) rate, meaning you can win often. You will love its other exciting features like Walking Wilds that move across the reels, a Drive-By feature adding random wilds, and the Locked-Up bonus round where you can win instant coin prizes and multipliers.

The Narcos slot looks just like the popular Netflix show, with realistic character images and changing backgrounds during bonus rounds. This makes you feel like you’re really part of the intense action.

Bonus Terms & Conditions at 21 Casino

Like any bonus offer, there are some important terms and conditions to be aware of before claiming the welcome bonus available at 21 Casino. Let’s explore the key ones below:

• If you live in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, India, or Peru, you cannot get the 50 free spins and no-deposit bonus part of this bonus.
• Any free spins not used within 10 days of being credited will expire and be removed from your account, so use them quickly.
• Any winnings from the free spins will be credited as bonus funds that have a wagering requirement before you can withdraw them as cash.
• To convert bonus funds to real withdrawable cash, you must wager the total bonus amount 35 times. This means you’ll need to place bets totalling 35x the bonus value before it becomes withdrawable.
• Different games contribute different amounts towards meeting the wagering requirements. Check 21 Casino’s website for the full list.
• Bonus funds not used (i.e., wagered per the terms) within 30 days of being credited will expire and be removed.
• While the welcome bonus is active, the maximum bet allowed is $5 or the currency equivalent. Betting over this may cause you to forfeit your remaining bonus balance.

Be sure to read through and understand these terms and conditions for a smooth experience at 21 Casino.

Withdrawal Methods at 21 Casino

Once you’ve built up some winnings at 21 Casino, the next step is withdrawing your cash. Luckily, the casino offers various convenient options:

• E-wallets like Skrill, Neteller, EcoPayz
• Bank Wire Transfer
• Visa/Mastercard
• PayPal
• Paysafecard
• Interac
• MuchBetter

The minimum withdrawal amount is $10, so even smaller wins can easily be cashed out. It’s worth noting that while you can withdraw deposits anytime, 21 Casino reserves the right to review and potentially hold back any withdrawals if they suspect bonus abuse or irregular play patterns. This helps maintain a fair environment for all.

To request a withdrawal, simply log into your account, go to the cashier page, and follow the steps to choose your preferred payout method. 21 Casino prides itself on processing withdrawals promptly so you can access your winnings quickly.

Pierre Cadena Named Interim CEO of Catena Media

By Daniela Rose         

Catena Media CEO Michael Daly has resigned and VP of Corporate Strategy Pierre Cadena will serve as interim CEO. The announcement follows developments and restructuring at the company, including an expansion into Vermont’s online sports betting market.

Chairman of the Board of Directors Göran Blomberg confirmed that Catena Media has become active in providing top online casinos in North America under Michael Daly’s leadership. The initiatives performed during the strategic review have greatly decreased the company’s debt and streamlined it.

Daly was made CEO of Catena Media in March 2021 and has been with the company since 2018. His resignation coincides with Catena’s efforts to improve its market position and address operational challenges at new online casinos, including its expansion into Vermont’s minimum bet sportsbook market.

Daly’s resignation comes amid heightened investor scrutiny of Catena Media, especially after the company reported a significant decline in revenue during Q4 2023, dropping by 41% to $14.5 million. Additionally, the company’s strategic review in 2023 led to the divestment of key assets, such as the $45 million sale of its flagship brand AskGamblers to affiliate rival GiG and a renewed emphasis on top-rated online casinos in North America.

Nevertheless, despite these strategic manoeuvres, Catena Media has faced challenges in maintaining a notable presence in the US iGaming market. Revenue in North America dropped by 43% to $12.3 million in Q4 2023. Despite Daly’s optimistic tone during the company’s February earnings call, suggesting a possible turnaround for Catena Media, investor dissatisfaction continued to escalate.

Pierre Cadena joined the group on 1 November 2023 and is based in the US. Pierre has a more than 20-year track record of driving growth for consumer technology and media companies. He joins Catena Media from Fox Entertainment, where he has served as Senior Vice President for the news and entertainment brand TMZ.

Background on Michael Daly

Catena hired Daly to run its new North American media branch in 2018, where he oversaw the firm’s M&A expansion in establishing its portfolio of online casinos Legal Sports Report, The Lines, Lineups, Gaming Today, Play NY, and NYSportsDay.

Catena thereafter promoted Daly to CEO in 2021, succeeding Per Hellberg, in order to increase the company’s North American expansion in the face of stalled performance from its European media portfolio. During Daly’s tenure, Catena would double down on its North American focus, adopting an overhaul plan to divest all non-core media assets to raise funding for US expansion goals.

Göran Blomberg, Chairman of the Board of Directors, highlighted Michael Daly’s leadership at Catena Media, emphasizing the company’s increased activity in North America. Blomberg also noted that through strategic actions taken during a review, they’ve significantly reduced debt and streamlined operations.

In the fiscal year 2023, Catena experienced corporate losses of $28 million. These losses were primarily due to recording impairment charges totalling $98 million, mainly from selling off European media assets and reducing corporate staff.

Catena plans to prioritize internal investments in its technology platform and AI capabilities to strengthen its presence in the US media market. Blomberg stated that recognizing lower growth, the company has begun implementing many growth initiatives.

As they reach this key period, they are looking for fresh leadership to spearhead these efforts and steer Catena Media into the next stage of development. Catena has been under strategic review since January 2023, with the board hiring investment bank Carnegie to evaluate all options, including a sale of the company.

History of Catena Media

Catena Media started in 2008 when two childhood friends, Emil Thidell and Erik Bergman, opened a web consulting agency. Operating from Thidell’s parents’ basement for the first two years, in October 2010, they moved to Malta in October 2012 and established Catena Media. The company’s focus was on the lead generation for online gambling operators.

A year after moving to Malta in 2013, Catena Media grew rapidly and soon entered the Norwegian, Finnish, and Swedish markets. By October 2014, Catena Media purchased Finix Invest, and a year later, in 2015, it bought eight more companies in Belgium, the UK, and the Netherlands. By the end of 2105, Catena Media had employed 50 people, and by the first quarter of 2017, its revenues totalled $15.23 million.

By 2016, Catena acquired two UK websites for $13 million, SBAT.com, a sports statistics and betting tips website, and CasinoUK.com for $13.38 million. Catena relaunched casino comparison site JohnSlots.com in April 2017, and six months later, in December, it was revealed that Catena Media had paid $1.3 million for Squawka, a football news website that had been struggling financially.

In that same month, Catena Media acquired Baybets Ltd. Additionally, in March 2018, Catena Media acquired Bonus Seeker, a US-based operator. By July 2018, Catena Media had finalized its acquisition of Leap Rate, a website specializing in foreign exchange market news.

Catena Media deliver high-quality leads through their global network of content-rich websites. Additionally, they provide partners with advanced marketing tools and services like email promotions, social media advertisements, and content development.

Catena Media is also a top source of high-quality leads for online casino and sports betting platforms in North America and other specific regions. Their growth story is poised to unfold further as they expand more broadly across these regions and deepen their penetration of national and regional markets in the fast-moving online sports betting and casino gaming market.

Their primary markets are the US and Canada, where they hold a significant share and maintain a substantial presence in Japan and Europe. Additionally, they are well-prepared for potential opportunities in Latin America.

According to industry data from Eilers & Krejcik, the US online sports betting and casino sector was projected to generate $14.9 billion in gross revenue in 2023, with expected growth to $27.1 billion by 2027.

Pierre Cadena: A Strategic Leader for Catena Media’s Future

The appointment of Pierre Cadena as interim CEO marks a significant transition for Catena Media amidst a restructuring and strategic review period. Under the leadership of Daly, the company made strides in its North American expansion. However, challenges in the US iGaming market persisted, as evidenced by disappointing financial results.

Cadena has a lot of knowledge in this field. He was head of marketing and business growth at Caesars Interactive from 2011 to 2016. Before that, Cadena worked at IGT for almost two and a half years as the strategy and corporate growth director. He also has experience with sports betting and affiliation as a non-executive board of Raketech.

With Catena Media’s extensive experience in driving growth for consumer technology and media companies, particularly in the best online casinos sector, there is optimism for the future as it crosses this critical juncture. Catena Media is ready to continue growing and take advantage of new possibilities in the fast-paced iGambling industry, as it has a strong presence in key markets and a focus on innovation.

This is why 1 billion people use Mastercard around the world

By Ramona Depares   

When you consider that there are almost 1.544 billion Mastercard debit cards in circulation worldwide, it’s hardly any wonder that this is one of the most popular payment methods at top online casinos.

And it’s even more impressive when we consider that, out of Mastercard’s 2021 total revenue of $18.88 billion, around $6.59 billion originated from North America, making this payment method extremely sought after among Americans who enjoy spending time on gambling sites.

According to a report issued by Market Splash, Mastercard occupies the second place on the list of most popular credit cards in the payments industry. This isn’t just for the US, but globally, which is why many new online casinos make it a point to include this option in their banking methods. Just to give you an idea, in 2020 Mastercard handled roughly 3585 transactions every second – that’s an incredibly large amount, which just points to the fact that customers nowadays expect Mastercard to be on the list of available payments no matter where they are.

According to the report, Mastercard processed the value of $2.054 trillion during 2021, and the company plays a primary role in facilitating online casino payments. Mastercard in fact prides itself on providing tailor-made solutions for the gaming industry, working hand in hand with the best online casinos to ensure seamless payments, easier cashouts in their own chosen currency and even rewards and discounts for picking Mastercard at their favorite gambling sites.

If you’re trying to decide whether this is the casino payment option for you, let’s take a look at all the features that make the brand the first choice for so many players, before showing you exactly how to start funding your Mastercard casino account.

Why Mastercard is trusted around the world

When choosing the best online casino payment method the one priority that emerges above all else is safety and security. One compelling reason why Mastercard is trusted by players around the world is that it excels in this respect. You know you can use the card with 100% confidence whichever site you’re on because there are several layers of protection to ensure that you don’t fall victim to theft or fraud.

Mastercard achieves this in several ways. If you lose your card or spot unauthorized charges on your statement, the Zero Liability fraud protection measure kicks in. Moreover, the ID Theft Protection system does exactly what it says, so that you’re protected from criminals and fraudsters thanks to a top-notch cyber security solution.

And should you happen to lose your card, don’t panic that it’ll be taken advantage of by whoever finds it. No one’s going to be taking it for a joyride at their favourite online casino. All you need to do is report it via the global emergency service for lost or stolen cards. Mastercard provides 24/7 global assistance for emergency card blocking and a fast replacement so that you’re not stuck with no funds.

The above are all excellent reasons why Mastercard is trusted around the world. But apart from safety considerations, the payment provider also makes life incredibly easy for players to use the card by offering on-point customer service, multiple currencies and a simple registration process. Here’s why so many people trust Mastercard with their online payment needs:

• Mastercard is a globally recognized brand, providing you with a reliable payment method regardless of where you are and which currency you use.
• Mastercard is very easy to use for any transaction as you only need the card number, expiration date, and CVV.
• Mastercard makes it easy to track your spending and manage your bankroll effectively, as transactions are recorded in their banking statements, enabling easy review and budgeting.
• Some Mastercard issuers offer rewards programs, giving players additional value for their spending.
• Online casinos often allow for higher deposit and withdrawal limits for Mastercard transactions compared to other payment methods, appealing to high rollers.
• The extensive network of banks and financial institutions issuing Mastercards makes it an accessible option for players worldwide, ensuring that it’s easy to find a card that suits your needs.
• Mastercard users benefit from excellent, 24/7 customer support offering assistance on just about any question you may have.

How to fund a Mastercard Casino Account

Ready to join the thousands of satisfied players who choose to play at casinos that accept Mastercard? Time to take the plunge and fund your Mastercard casino account by making a first deposit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing that in the easiest and fastest way possible.

• Step 1: Follow our link to your chosen casino: At Minimum Deposit Casinos our experts have curated a list of the best Mastercard casino sites, after careful testing.
• Step 2: Register by creating an account: You’ll need to fill in some personal information like your name, address, date of birth and e-mail address, but this will only take around two minutes.
• Step 3: Verify your information and provide proof of identity: this step is needed so as to be able to cash out your winnings without any hassle.
• Step 4: Navigate to the cashier or deposit section: most sites will prompt you themselves.
• Step 5: Select Mastercard as your deposit method: This is usually done via a drop-down menu of banking options.
• Step 6: Key in your deposit amount: Make sure it meets the minimum requirements to make you eligible for the bonus.
• Step 7: Provide Your Mastercard details: The information you need to key in includes the 16-digit card number, expiration date, and CVV code (the 3-digit security code on the back of your card).
• Step 8: Confirm the transaction: If it’s the first time using the card on the site, some casinos might require this additional security step, like a one-time password sent to your phone or email.
• Step 9: Pick up your bonus: You’re done and it’s time to start enjoying your rewards and playing your favourite games!

How the Columbian Market compares to other Latam Markets

Colombia is among the strongest economies in the LATAM region with one of the highest gross domestic product (GDPs) in the region. It is also home to one of the largest populations in Latin America, behind Brazil and Mexico. Due to their significant size and economically empowered population, they are an interesting nation to focus on when we look at gambling habits in the region.

Online casinos are played in the region, and Colombia is no exception. While there are a population of high rollers, there is also a big market for low-deposit casinos and the average bet size tends to be smaller than in other countries. Players are driven to take advantage of promotions and online casinos with the best offers to make the most out of their deposits.

What games are of interest to Colombian Players

Sophisticated data collection now allows us to see a variety of useful statistics across the board to give us a better understanding of playing behaviours and preferences. An article written by IGB has highlighted that Colombian players enjoy a mix of physical and online casinos, but as time goes on we are seeing an uptake in online gaming. These gamblers tend to diversify between slots and table games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.

Slot games are fairly common and themes that are inspired by nature appear to be among the most popular in the region, which is interesting considering the significant presence of conservation within the nation. Another recent study by IGM show us that amongst the top-ranking game themes in Colombia are Fruits and Animals, both sitting at least 15% of the most played in the country. These are closely followed by Classic games and then Fantasy games, with Adventure games sitting in 5th place so far this year.

A closer look at this data reveals some of the most popular slot games so far this year, and while fruits and animals certainly are the most popular, this is not directly reflected in the top choices. Top games include Aviator, Book of Souls II: El Dorado and Wild Gold, while top content providers include EFT, SlotMatrix RGS and Spribe.

What features do they prefer in their game choices

Let’s look more closely at the features which stand out most in games. So far this year, players at online casinos in Colombia seem to prefer games with Wild features. This is notable in the IGB study showing that a whopping 91% of games being played include a wild feature, 60% of popular games have a multiplier, and 52% include a scatter feature.

Bonuses play an important part in the online gambling scene and it is of significant interest to online casinos in terms of attracting the right audience. Colombia is no different, and players are certainly attracted to specific types of bonuses. The recent data highted by IGB, shows a huge interest in players claiming free spins so far in 2024, with 70% of the top 10 games offering free spins as their main bonus. Free spins are without a doubt the most sought-after bonus, and this is common for many countries worldwide. In Colombia, they surpass other bonuses in popularity by 50% with the next most popular bonus option sitting around 20% in the most claimed bonuses in the country.

Compared with another big player of online casino games in the LATAM region, Brazil shows quite a lower interest in the game features, playing 22% and, 26% multipliers. This could be due to more of a sports betting culture in Brazil, although both countries religiously follow football. It is possible that fans in Brazil bet more online, whereas in Colombia a more cash-based, brick-and-mortar approach is common. Another speculation is the simple one, that players have different interests in slots and features. When it comes to bonuses, however, we see how the two countries draw similarities, with more than 70% of the most popular slot games in Brazil offering free spins as their main bonus.

Columbian gamblers wagering behaviour

Players’ wagering behaviour in Colombia, despite having a growing demand for online casinos, is lower than others in the region. Even with the popularity growing in online betting, the average bet amount is quite low for a country in the LATAM market with a strong economy.

For this reason, we can assume that low-deposit casinos are most likely to do well in Colombia. With an average bet of .34 EUR and only about 5% of the top 20 games having an average bet size of over 1 EUR.

This is interesting when compared across the region, and to look at Colombia’s neighbour Brazil, as a country in the LATAM market with a close GDP and population, Brazil is rather different with this metric. The betting amount in Brazil is about 30% higher on its most popular games and the average bet size on average is over €1 across all games, in comparison to Colombia’s .34 EUR this is a stark difference.

Colombian players prefer to play games with medium volatility, whereas Brazil tends to go for higher-volatility games in general. Colombian players also tend to spend less time on average on games, based on a study looking at the top 20 games in each country so far this year. However, both countries play between 3-6 hours of these top games on average, which is more common for the LATAM region, and significantly lower than some countries in Eastern Europe for example.

What insights can be gained from Columbian players’s behaviour across other regions

Based on this data we get a decent insight into the way that people play at online casinos in Colombia. They tend to prefer low-deposit casinos, placing smaller wagers, with less time spent on games on average. The average betting amount is generally quite low, and players prefer a medium volatility slot game. The most popular theme of games played is often to do with nature, with fruits and animals being the most played. Their most significant bonus is the free spins bonus.

The best country in the LATAM region to compare them to here is Brazil, as we have been showing in examples. Brazil, on the other hand, tends to play at a variety of casino types, with a higher average time spent on casino games, although the difference is slight when compared to other regions based on some countries in Europe. The average bet size in Brazil is significantly larger, and the volatility of slot games is much higher. The most popular slot games in Brazil are Animals and Fantasy, although there is more of a range of games played in Brazil also. Free spins are the most popular bonus in both countries.

We can see that Brazil on average tends to be more interested in online gambling and playing a wider variety of slot games, with higher deposits and spending more time on these games. Sports betting is very popular in both countries, but there is more of a market for online sports betting in Brazil, which might be attracting players to spend time on other slot games also. One online analysis also puts this down to Colombia having a less mature online gambling market than Brazil. Not only restricted to sports betting, but gambling, in general, is still quite commonly played on machines in shops or bars and in a classic brick-and-mortar casino-style table game betting style. This is not uncommon for the LATAM region where cash is prevalent amongst punters, playing on physical slot machines in local stores.