Canadian igaming storylines to watch out for in 2025

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With 2024 in the books, an active year on the Canadian igaming front, to say the least, what’s in store for 2025?

COMPLETE iGAMING reached out to several industry folks for their feedback.

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According to Phill Gray, the former Head of Trading Operations at Sports Interaction for more than 20 years, and an industry consultant, the push by the Alberta government towards the implementation of an Ontario-style igaming model is the big story to watch for in Canada.

“There’s been a decided lack of disclosure from them on when exactly this is going to happen,” Gray said. “Spring 2025 had been rumored, but I’m hearing from a few sources, 2025 may not happen at all. Although it’s smaller in population, the NGR per client in Alberta is higher than Ontario – higher disposable income less taxes. The major sites not operating there now (DraftKings, FanDuel) looking at this closely, as currently they are in the compliance process.”

Gray also pointed to the expected decision soon in the Ontario Court of Appeal regarding daily fantasy sports and online poker legality (competing with players from outside province). That could be a very large revenue boon for sites given the massive popularity of daily fantasy sports (in particular) if the panel rules in Ontario’s favor that it is not in contravention of criminal code and Ontario’s current gaming enterprise.

The Ontario market currently has 50 operators and 83 gaming websites, according to iGaming Ontario.

“I would think gaming sites are happy as well with the current state of federal politics and what will be a lack of any further attempted interference (for now) from that level regarding advertising, and models for limiting clients/VIP accounts, as we’ve seen similar motions put forth in the U.S. by the federal legislature,” he said.

Amanda Brewer, an igaming consultant, and a former Canada Country Manager for Kindred, said with Parliament likely falling this Spring in a non-confidence vote, a Senate-sponsored bill to set new national advertising standards will likely fail.

“Alberta isn’t moving fast, and as for Ontario, some operators will leave, and some will come in, so I don’t see the overall number changing too drastically,” she said. “If anything, this could be the year of ‘status quo’”.

Mark Harper, Head of Emerging Markets at BVGroup, said he has his eye on the continued trend of customer interest in Canada towards casino-based games, and away from sports betting.

“Strategies will continue to focus on a safer gambling message and positioning BV as an operator that places the customers interests first and foremost,” he said. “[As well as] preparation for new markets and license applications for those provinces that are about to legislate.”

Scott Vanderwel, PointsBet Canada Chief Executive Officer, also points west to Alberta, adding he expects the market to go live there in 2025. PointsBet Canada is one of the igaming operators expected to be first in line to jump in once that happens.

“This move is expected to create a more robust regulatory environment across Canada, offering consumers in Alberta a wider, safer selection of online gaming options,” he said.

“This development will not only expand consumer choice but also bring significant economic benefits through job creation and increased tax revenues for the province. The groundwork laid by Ontario’s successful model could serve as a blueprint for Alberta, ensuring a smooth transition to a regulated market.”

Vanderwel said he also expects a stronger industry-wide focus on responsible gaming and anti-money laundering measures with the igaming sector, including the introduction of more centralized player protection systems, which will include enhanced tools for self-exclusion, spending limits, mandatory age verification, and recognized best practices across responsible gaming.

“Additionally, there will likely be a clearer separation between iGaming Ontario and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, aiming to streamline regulatory oversight,” he said. “This will not only protect players but also ensure the integrity and transparency of the gaming operations, fostering a safer gambling environment.”

Like Brewer, Vanderwel also expects a consolidation trend in Ontario leading to a more mature market. “Such movements are natural in burgeoning markets like Ontario’s, where the initial rush of entry has given way to a phase of strategic alliances and market stabilization,” he said. “This will not only affect the competitive landscape but also the quality and diversity of gaming products offered to consumers.”