Recap of Online Gambling in Canada – 2024
The online gambling landscape in Canada had an eventful year in 2024, driven by major regulatory changes, impressive market growth, and technological advancements. Ontario maintained its position as a leader in regulated online gambling, inspiring other provinces to monitor and potentially follow its success. At CasinoFinder, we’ve gathered the most notable developments that shaped the industry this year.
Regulatory Developments
Ontario solidified its position as a leader in regulated online gambling in 2024. In the second quarter of the 2024-25 fiscal year, gamblers in Ontario wagered approximately $18.7 billion, resulting in $738 million in total gaming revenue across iCasino, online sports betting, and online poker. This marked a 31.7% increase in gaming revenue compared to the previous quarter, highlighting the sustained growth of the province’s iGaming market.
On the federal level, amendments to the Criminal Code were introduced, providing clearer guidelines for online gambling activities and enhancing player protection measures. These changes underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a safer and more transparent gambling environment.
Market Growth and Revenue
Canada’s online gambling market reached a major milestone in 2024, generating $2.4 billion in revenue. By the end of the year, overall revenue was projected to climb to $4.19 billion, reflecting the industry’s continued expansion. User engagement also surged, with online gambling participation expected to grow from 35.6% in 2024 to 38.7% by 2029.
Mobile gaming remained a key driver of growth, as the convenience of playing on smartphones and tablets attracted a broader audience. Additionally, the steady introduction of regulated platforms and new operators contributed to the market’s upward trajectory.
Technological Advancements
2024 was a year of innovation for Canada’s online gambling industry. Virtual reality (VR) technology began making its mark, offering players immersive casino experiences where they could interact with games and other players in a virtual environment. While still in its early stages, VR integration signaled a promising future for online gambling.
Cryptocurrencies also gained momentum as a preferred payment method among players. Canadian online casinos increasingly adopted digital currencies, providing faster transactions and enhanced privacy. These advancements reflected the industry’s willingness to embrace emerging technologies to enhance player experiences.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
Responsible gambling remained a priority in 2024, with operators implementing new tools to protect players. Advanced monitoring systems were introduced to track player behavior in real-time and issue personalized alerts to prevent problem gambling. These measures were complemented by collaborations with mental health organizations, ensuring better support and resources for those affected by gambling-related issues.
Competitive Landscape
The Canadian market welcomed several new online casinos in 2024, including MapleWins Casino and TrueNorth Bets, each striving to stand out with innovative features, diverse game selections, and attractive bonuses. Established operators also upped their game, expanding offerings and enhancing user interfaces to retain player interest.
Significant mergers and acquisitions reshaped the competitive landscape, as larger companies acquired smaller operators to consolidate their market presence. While this led to improved services and offerings, it also raised questions about market monopolization and its potential impact on player choice.
Future Outlook
As 2025 approaches, the Canadian online gambling industry is poised for continued growth. Revenue is expected to climb steadily, with projections indicating a market value of $3.49 billion by 2029. Provinces beyond Ontario are considering adopting regulated frameworks, inspired by Ontario’s success in generating substantial revenue and providing a safe gambling environment.
Technological advancements will remain a key driver in the online gambling industry. Innovations in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and VR are expected to enhance the gaming experience significantly. A bull market for cryptocurrency is also anticipated in 2025. This is likely to increase the popularity of blockchain casinos. Players will be drawn to these platforms for their faster, more secure, and decentralized gaming options.
However, challenges such as regulatory complexities and cybersecurity concerns will require ongoing attention to sustain player trust and industry integrity.
Conclusion
The year 2024 was transformative for online gambling in Canada, defined by regulatory progress, record-breaking revenue, and cutting-edge technology. With Ontario leading the charge and other provinces exploring new opportunities, the industry’s future looks bright. As player engagement continues to rise and innovation shapes the market, Canada’s online gambling landscape is set to thrive in the years to come.