Key Takeaways:
- Ontario’s iGaming market shows robust growth in Q2 2023
- Great Canadian Entertainment launches new online casino
- Alberta and Saskatchewan explore iGaming expansion
Ontario’s iGaming market continues to thrive, with Q2 2023 figures revealing significant growth. The province’s regulated online gambling sector generated $545 million in total gaming revenue, marking a 94% increase from the previous year. This surge in revenue underscores the growing popularity of online casinos and sports betting platforms in Canada’s most populous province.
The number of active player accounts also saw a substantial rise, reaching 1.2 million in Q2 2023, up from 492,000 in the same period last year. This increase in player engagement is a clear indicator of the market’s expanding reach and the growing acceptance of online gambling among Ontario residents.
Online casino games remain the dominant force in Ontario’s iGaming landscape, accounting for 64% of the total gaming revenue. Sports betting follows with a 30% share, while poker rounds out the top three with 6% of the revenue. These figures highlight the diverse preferences of Ontario’s online gamblers and the importance of offering a wide range of gaming options to cater to different player interests.
In a significant move for the Canadian iGaming industry, Great Canadian Entertainment has launched its online casino and sportsbook platform, Great Canadian Casino. This development marks the company’s entry into the digital gambling space, complementing its existing portfolio of land-based casinos across the country. The launch of Great Canadian Casino demonstrates the ongoing convergence of traditional and online gambling sectors, as established operators seek to capitalize on the growing demand for digital gaming experiences.
Meanwhile, other provinces are taking note of Ontario’s success and exploring their own iGaming initiatives. Alberta is currently in the process of developing its online gambling framework, with plans to introduce a regulated market in the near future. The province aims to create a safe and responsible gaming environment while generating additional revenue for public services.
Saskatchewan is also making strides in the iGaming sector, with the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) reporting strong performance from its PlayNow.com platform. Launched in November 2022, the site has already attracted over 30,000 registered players and generated $31.8 million in revenue. This success demonstrates the potential for iGaming expansion in other Canadian provinces and territories.
As the Canadian iGaming landscape continues to evolve, industry observers are closely watching the developments in Ontario and other provinces. The growth of regulated online gambling markets across the country presents both opportunities and challenges for operators, regulators, and players alike. With responsible gambling measures in place and a focus on player protection, Canada’s iGaming industry is poised for further expansion and innovation in the coming years.
