Global sports betting and gaming group Entain has partnered with the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) to fund research into consumer practices, preferences, and behaviours in Ontario. RGC is a Toronto-based non-profit and globally recognized leader in responsible gambling.
The move comes as Canadian regulators prepare to legalize single-event sports betting federally. Bill C-218 passed its third reading in April and is now with the Senate. If the bill becomes law, it opens the door for provinces to expand offerings beyond the parlay betting currently allowed.
Entain has expressed interest in becoming licensed in Ontario if, or when, laws allow. Assuming the regulatory process progresses, its expected Ontario will become the first province to expand its online sports betting market. That would happen likely by early 2022.
Regulators Value Research For Gambling Regulation
Led by RG Plus – RGC’s global research and strategic consultancy arm, the study will draw on insights from Canadian consumers and international jurisdictions.
Its aim? To help regulators to make evidence-based recommendations balancing the mandates of online operators with risk factors for consumers.
Studies show the majority of people who enjoy sports betting do so without issue. However, regulation helps protect those who may be at risk.
“We know from similar research in many markets in which we operate, including the United States, that regulators value research which supports an evidence-based approach to decision-making and effective regulation from a wide range of other international jurisdictions,” says Martin Lycka, Entain’s Senior Vice President for American Regulatory Affairs & Responsible Gambling.
The research will survey a sample of nearly 4,000 adult bettors and gamers (18+). Results will offer comprehensive, up-to-date evidence into responsible online betting and gaming. The study will also examine regulatory approaches in other key international jurisdictions to identify effective, responsible gaming practices.
“As a global leader in responsible gambling, RGC is committed to working with regulators, operators, and the public to establish the development and implementation of a robust responsible gambling culture,” said Shelley White, CEO of RGC. “RGC’s work with Entain will contribute to vital advancements in consumer safeguards.”
Research is now underway, and the full report due late this year.
More About Entain
Entain, one of the world’s biggest sports betting and gaming groups, operates online and retail offerings. Its comprehensive portfolio of brands includes bet.pt, Coral, Crystalbet, Eurobet, Ladbrokes, CasinoClub, Foxy Bingo, Gala, PartyPoker, and more. Additionally, the company owns proprietary technology across all core verticals and, in addition to its B2C operations, services several third-party B2B customers.
Entain’s technology platform also powers BetMGM, a joint venture with MGM Resorts to capitalize on the rapidly expanding US sports betting market. Based in the United Kingdom, the company has licenses in more than 20 countries across five continents. Entain is also a member of the FTSE4Good and DJSI ESG indices, identifying companies meeting globally recognized corporate responsibility standards.
