Ontario Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/ontario/ The Ultimate Keno Destination for Odds, Tips & Tricks Mon, 24 Jun 2024 15:10:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://i0.wp.com/kenowizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-keno-wizard-icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Ontario Archives - Keno Wizard https://kenowizard.com/tag/ontario/ 32 32 230792155 Ontario iGaming Market Generates $2 Billion, Supports 15,000 Jobs in Year 2 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/24/ontario-igaming-market-generates-2-billion-supports-15000-jobs-in-year-2/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/24/ontario-igaming-market-generates-2-billion-supports-15000-jobs-in-year-2/#respond Mon, 24 Jun 2024 15:10:34 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/06/24/ontario-igaming-market-generates-2-billion-supports-15000-jobs-in-year-2/ Ontario’s regulated iGaming market has made significant economic strides, generating more than CAD$2 billion in revenue for the provincial government since its inception two years ago. According to a recent report by Deloitte, in its second year, Ontario’s competitive iGaming market (excluding the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s iGaming offering) has sustained nearly 15,000 full-time [...]

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ONTARIO_IGAMING_MARKET_SUSTAINING_15000_JOBS_IN_SECOND_YEAR_SINCE_LAUNCHOntario’s regulated iGaming market has made significant economic strides, generating more than CAD$2 billion in revenue for the provincial government since its inception two years ago. According to a recent report by Deloitte, in its second year, Ontario’s competitive iGaming market (excluding the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s iGaming offering) has sustained nearly 15,000 full-time equivalent jobs, marking an increase of 2,800 jobs from the first year.

A Recognized Leader in iGaming

“Our made-in-Ontario iGaming sector is being recognized internationally for its success as a leader in this space,” said Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey. “Working together with our partners and industry, we will continue to drive innovation and deliver robust player protections, all while displacing the unregulated market. Our iGaming sector is not only a job creator here in Ontario but it shows the world our ongoing commitment to building a sustainable and responsible iGaming industry.”

Deloitte’s report highlights that the total government revenue generated through the iGaming market reached $1.24 billion in the second year. This revenue includes $790 million supporting provincial government revenue, $75 million bolstering municipal government revenues, and $380 million aiding federal government revenue.

“This report puts Ontario’s iGaming market government revenue contribution at over $2 billion since it launched and with job contribution up by 24% from its first year, the benefits to Ontarians are significant,” said Heidi Reinhart, chair of the iGaming Ontario board.

Economic Contributions and Growth

Ontario’s iGaming market contributed $2.7 billion to Ontario’s GDP in its second year of operation, up from $1.58 billion in the first year. For every dollar spent by iGaming operations, an estimated $1.40 of GDP was supported in the Ontario economy, an increase from $1.14 in the first year.

The iGaming market has already achieved or nearly reached many of Deloitte’s year-five projections in its second year, with government revenue at 94%, direct jobs sustained at 120%, total full-time jobs sustained at 9%, and GDP contributions at 93% of the initial expectations.

“Through the development and growth of Ontario’s regulated iGaming market, we’re helping achieve the government’s goals in terms of job creation, innovation, and development while providing a safer experience for consumers,” added Martha Otton, executive director of iGaming Ontario.

Detailed Economic Impact

The report from Deloitte indicates that Ontario’s regulated iGaming market sustained 14,935 full-time equivalent jobs in its second year, a significant increase from the previous year. The market’s contribution to the GDP amounted to $2.7 billion, with a notable portion of $1.3 billion supporting labor income. This economic activity resulted from both operational activities and capital investments by licensed iGaming operators.

The breakdown of government revenue supported by the iGaming market is substantial: $790 million in provincial government revenue, $75 million in municipal government revenue, and $380 million in federal government revenue. These revenues include various taxes such as the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), property taxes, and corporate and personal income taxes.

Comparing Year 1 and Year 2 Results

The growth from Year 1 to Year 2 of Ontario’s regulated iGaming market is significant. The estimated contribution to Ontario’s GDP grew by 70%, from $1.6 billion to $2.7 billion. The contribution to labor income increased by 45%, rising from $905 million to $1.3 billion. Employment contributions saw a 24% rise, growing from 12,070 full-time equivalent jobs to 14,935. Additionally, the contribution to provincial and municipal government revenue in Ontario increased by 66%, from $525 million to $865 million.

This robust growth illustrates the dynamic impact of Ontario’s regulated iGaming market on the province’s economy. The sector not only creates jobs but also drives significant revenue for the government, supporting a variety of public services and initiatives.

Source:

ONTARIO IGAMING MARKET SUSTAINING 15,000 JOBS IN SECOND YEAR SINCE LAUNCH, gamingintelligence.com, June 20, 2024.

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Swintt Secures AGCO Approval for Ontario Market Entry https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/28/swintt-secures-agco-approval-for-ontario-market-entry/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/28/swintt-secures-agco-approval-for-ontario-market-entry/#respond Tue, 28 May 2024 11:23:01 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/28/swintt-secures-agco-approval-for-ontario-market-entry/ Swintt, the EGR award-winning software provider renowned for its classically-themed Premium releases and cutting-edge Select slots, has proudly announced its approval to operate in Ontario. This approval means Swintt’s complete portfolio of games will be accessible on AGCO-licensed platforms, bringing their innovative content to Canadian players for the very first time. Swintt’s Expansion into Regulated [...]

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Swintt, the EGR award-winning software provider renowned for its classically-themed Premium releases and cutting-edge Select slots, has proudly announced its approval to operate in Ontario. This approval means Swintt’s complete portfolio of games will be accessible on AGCO-licensed platforms, bringing their innovative content to Canadian players for the very first time.

Swintt’s Expansion into Regulated Markets

wintt-Games-Approved-for-Release-in-OntarioKicking off 2024 with ambitious plans to enter more regulated markets, Swintt’s portfolio is now certified in eleven countries, including Malta, Germany, and the Netherlands. However, this latest approval marks the company’s debut in North America, a significant milestone for the brand.

Ontarian players can now look forward to enjoying popular SwinttGames titles like the fan-favorite slot Aloha Spirit XtraLockTM, as well as exciting new games from Elysium Studios – Driven by Swintt. This collaboration, resulting from Swintt’s acquisition of Elysium Studios earlier this year, has expanded Swintt’s lineup with immersive themes and state-of-the-art slot designs.

Upcoming Releases and High Hopes

The first game in the Elysium Studios – Driven by Swintt lineup, Tipsy Charms, has already been well-received. With the Mesopotamian-themed adventure, Law of Gilgamesh, set to release on May 30th, Ontarian players have much to anticipate in the coming weeks.

As Swintt prepares for a promising second half of 2024 in Ontario, the team is enthusiastic about their first venture into the regulated Canadian market. The company is optimistic that this approval will further enhance its reputation as a leading global provider.

David Mann, Chief Executive Officer at Swintt, expressed his excitement: “Swintt is delighted to have received AGCO approval for its games in Ontario, and we’re very excited to now have the chance to take this new and dynamic market by storm. Being certified to launch in Ontario is definitely a huge step for the company that will enable us to showcase our brand to new audiences on the global stage.”

Swintt’s Journey and Vision

Established in 2019, Swintt has quickly gained a reputation for delivering localized in-house content and innovative third-party titles, currently certified for distribution in over nine major regulated markets worldwide. Swintt prides itself on offering a diverse portfolio that caters to a wide range of customers, balancing classically-themed Premium releases with modern Select slots.

In 2024, Swintt strengthened its proposition by acquiring Elysium Studios, adding a new and exclusive range of games to its expanding casino lineup. This move underscores Swintt’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the gaming industry.

As Swintt continues to grow and expand its market presence, the company remains dedicated to providing top-quality gaming experiences to players around the world. The future looks bright for Swintt as it embarks on this new chapter in Ontario, bringing its award-winning content to North American players for the first time.

Source:

“Swintt Games Approved for Release in Ontario”. Swintt. May 2024.

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Ontario Court Upholds Province’s Online Gaming Regulations https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/15/ontario-court-upholds-provinces-online-gaming-regulations/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/15/ontario-court-upholds-provinces-online-gaming-regulations/#respond Wed, 15 May 2024 12:59:13 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/15/ontario-court-upholds-provinces-online-gaming-regulations/ The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has rendered its judgment on the contentious issue of online gaming regulations in the province. The court dismissed an application by the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) challenging the Ontario government’s decision to permit online gaming within its borders. This ruling solidifies the legitimacy of Ontario’s iGaming Ontario (iGO) framework, [...]

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The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has rendered its judgment on the contentious issue of online gaming regulations in the province. The court dismissed an application by the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) challenging the Ontario government’s decision to permit online gaming within its borders. This ruling solidifies the legitimacy of Ontario’s iGaming Ontario (iGO) framework, marking a significant milestone in the province’s regulatory landscape.

Ontario’s Approach to Online Gaming Regulation

iGaming Ontario collaborates with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and the provincial government to oversee the online gaming industry. The framework aims to regulate the sector, safeguard consumer interests, particularly in responsible gambling practices, and diversify digital gaming options for Ontarians. Gaming operators are required to register with the AGCO and enter into operating agreements with iGO before launching their products. iGaming Ontario assumes responsibility for managing and conducting the industry within the province, as outlined by its mandate.

Legal Dispute and Court’s Decision

ontario_superior_court_affirms_legality_of_igaming_ontario_modelThe Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) has been a vocal opponent of the legislative changes, particularly C-218, which decriminalized new forms of sports gambling in Canada in June 2021. MCK argued that Ontario’s shift in gaming management infringed upon existing laws and constitutional principles. However, the Ontario Superior Court ruled that iGaming Ontario’s model aligns with the Criminal Code, affirming the legality of the province’s approach.

Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario, expressed confidence in their regulatory framework, emphasizing the court’s validation of their model. She highlighted the framework’s focus on player protection, data security, and economic contributions to Ontario.

Impact on Kahnawàke and Online Gaming Industry

For 25 years, the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke has played a pivotal role in the online gaming industry, licensing operators on behalf of the Mohawks of Kahnawake. The council raised concerns that Ontario’s regulatory changes disregard their expertise and jeopardize revenue streams vital to the Kahnawake community. Despite their assertions, the court determined that iGaming Ontario maintains significant control over operators, cementing its position as the guiding force behind the province’s online gaming landscape.

The Ontario Superior Court’s ruling marks a decisive moment in the ongoing debate over online gaming regulations. With the legality of Ontario’s framework affirmed, the province can continue to enforce its regulatory measures, ensuring a secure and responsible gaming environment for Ontarians.

Source: “Court Decision Upholds iGaming Ontario’s Model”. igamingontario.ca. May 13, 2024.

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Playtech and NorthStar Extend Investment Deal in Ontario https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/04/playtech-and-northstar-extend-investment-deal-in-ontario/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/04/playtech-and-northstar-extend-investment-deal-in-ontario/#respond Sat, 04 May 2024 15:30:12 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/05/04/playtech-and-northstar-extend-investment-deal-in-ontario/ Established iGaming industry stakeholders Playtech and the NorthStar Gaming Holdings extend the strategic partnership from June 2023 to reinforce their operations in the growing Ontario market. Their respective verticals, Playtech Software Limited and the NorthStar Ontario, will be able to exclusively focus on the operating goals set after Playtech has agreed to funnel CA$3.0m (US$2.2m) [...]

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Established iGaming industry stakeholders Playtech and the NorthStar Gaming Holdings extend the strategic partnership from June 2023 to reinforce their operations in the growing Ontario market. Their respective verticals, Playtech Software Limited and the NorthStar Ontario, will be able to exclusively focus on the operating goals set after Playtech has agreed to funnel CA$3.0m (US$2.2m) in short-term financing to NorthStar to facilitate player pool expansion in Ontario.

$4.0 Million Financing Facility

The original strategic agreement signed in June 2023 included a complete availability of Playtech Software’s services for the operator. The facility valued at $4.0 million was a key driver for NorthStar to increase its presence in the Canadian province in 2023 and grow revenues accordingly.

Six-Month Extension

The strategy seems to have proven successful as the deal is now extended. Under the extension, Playtech Software will continue with the provision of similar marketing services once again valued at $4.0 million. The renewed contract has been set for a six-month performance and will run through 31 October 2024.

Reimbursement Plan

Under the agreement, NorthStar will use the short-term financial facility to boost its marketing activities and repay the funds to Playtech Software from the income generated over the contract period. The operator will benefit from the balance between the revenue generated and the six-month financing cost, while the provider may benefit from the financing conditions.

Financing Ontarian Expansion

playtech_renews_ontario_deal_with_northstarAs for these conditions, NorthStar has already issued a $3.0m unsecured, interest-bearing promissory note to Playtech, with interest rate of 8.0% per annum, payable in arrears at maturity. According to NorthStar, the investment will help the company’s balance sheet adjustments and continued expansion in Ontario.

NorthStar chair and CEO Michael Moskowitz commented: “We are very pleased to continue to strengthen our relationship with Playtech, one of the world’s leading gambling technology companies. Their ongoing support has been instrumental in helping us to acquire new customers, provide a premium online gaming experience and fund the expansion of our brand in Ontario and across Canada.”

$12.25 Million Investment Boosts Collaboration

The extension of the 2023 strategic agreement comes after Playtech agreed to make a $12.25 million strategic investment in the NorthStar Ontario-based online casino and sports betting facility a few months earlier. In fact, the strategic partnership between the two companies dates back to December 2021. Since then, Playtech has supported NorthStar and the the existing contract for software and services has now been extended by 10 years.

Repayment Guarantee

Playtech’s investments are converted into equity and warrants related to Baden Resources Inc, a company acquired by NorthStar in March 2023.In this way, Playtech holds around 16% of shares belonging to NorthStar, as well as warrants to potentially acquire above 20% stake in this company. The transaction is additionally secured by the inclusion of Playtech’s chief financial officer Chris McGinnis in the board of directors of the subject entity.

Source: “Playtech renews Ontario deal with NorthStar and advances financing’’. iGaming Business. April 29, 2024.

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AGCO Issues Caution Amid Rising Online Casino Scams in Ontario https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/24/agco-issues-caution-amid-rising-online-casino-scams-in-ontario/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/24/agco-issues-caution-amid-rising-online-casino-scams-in-ontario/#respond Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:46:49 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/24/agco-issues-caution-amid-rising-online-casino-scams-in-ontario/ Ontario residents are being urged to exercise caution as fraudulent online casino schemes continue to proliferate. Recent reports have surfaced regarding deceptive advertisements on social media platforms, falsely linking reputable establishments like Casino Rama to unregistered online casinos. Vigilance Urged as Ontario Cracks Down on Online Casino Scams Ontario’s law enforcement agencies, including the Ontario [...]

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Ontario residents are being urged to exercise caution as fraudulent online casino schemes continue to proliferate. Recent reports have surfaced regarding deceptive advertisements on social media platforms, falsely linking reputable establishments like Casino Rama to unregistered online casinos.

Vigilance Urged as Ontario Cracks Down on Online Casino Scams

Ontario’s law enforcement agencies, including the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), have sounded the alarm after uncovering a series of scams targeting unsuspecting gamblers, reported local media CTV News Barrie. The fraudulent ads, which tout enticing gaming opportunities purportedly associated with Casino Rama, lead users to unregistered platforms such as WinSpirit Casino.

A spokesperson from the OPP cautioned that while the allure of online gaming may be tempting, it was imperative for individuals to remain vigilant. They emphasized that those fraudulent advertisements posed a significant risk, potentially compromising users’ personal information and financial security.

Authorities emphasized the importance of using regulated gaming sites that adhere to stringent standards of game integrity, data security, and player protection measures. 

In Ontario, licensed gambling establishments are subject to rigorous oversight by the AGCO, ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment for all participants.

At the same time, AGCO and iGaming Ontario recently released an IPSOS study indicating that 86.4% of Ontarian players utilized regulated sites for online gaming in the past three months, showing an increase from the previous year. 

Despite this, over 13% of Ontarians still use unregulated sites, prompting concerns about the risks involved, as highlighted by AGCO’s CEO Dr. Karin Schnarr

AGCO Urges Caution in Online Gambling with Tips to Avoid Fraudulent Schemes

A representative from AGCO emphasized the significance of exercising due diligence when participating in online gambling activities. They highlighted the importance of verifying the registration status of gaming sites and using common sense when encountering online advertisements, suggesting that residents could reduce the risk of being ensnared by fraudulent schemes.

This cautionary advisory comes in the wake of similar warnings issued across Canada in response to a nationwide surge in online casino scams. In January, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries (MBLL) warned Manitobans about fraudulent social media posts promoting an online gaming app for Club Regent Casino, urging caution and reporting the ads to Meta. 

While PlayNow.com was highlighted as the province’s sole legal online gaming site, the MBLL emphasized that neither Club Regent Casino nor McPhillips Station Casino offer mobile apps or online gaming options, advising against engaging with fake ads to protect personal information. 

As the prevalence of online gaming continues to rise, authorities remain steadfast in their efforts to combat fraudulent activity and safeguard the interests of consumers. 

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Ontario Blocks Betting on World Boxing Association Matches https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/23/ontario-blocks-betting-on-world-boxing-association-matches/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/23/ontario-blocks-betting-on-world-boxing-association-matches/#respond Tue, 23 Apr 2024 06:07:35 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/04/23/ontario-blocks-betting-on-world-boxing-association-matches/ The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, the government body in charge of regulating sports betting and gambling in Canada’s most populous province, has ordered all licensed operators in the region to stop offering bets on events organized by the World Boxing Association (WBA). The measure was due to concerns over the integrity of those [...]

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ontario_halts_world_boxing_association_betting_over_integrity_concernsThe Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, the government body in charge of regulating sports betting and gambling in Canada’s most populous province, has ordered all licensed operators in the region to stop offering bets on events organized by the World Boxing Association (WBA).

The measure was due to concerns over the integrity of those events after the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario ruled that boxing matches organized by the WBA do not have adequate safeguards in place when it comes to preventing match fixing and insider betting. This all started after the regulator conducted a thorough review of the wagering activity of a title fight organized by the World Boxing Association.

The respective bout was the one between Yoenis Tellez and Livan Navarro, when the Ontario regulator observed suspicious betting patterns in live bets being placed over five and a half rounds during the match. The bout was observed by two registered independent monitors while the betting activity took place at a registered iGaming operator in the Canadian province.

There were also reports in the media claiming that the manager of Yoenis Tellez placed bets worth 110,000 dollars at a casino in Florida on the match going on for over five and a half rounds. The bet was a winning one as the match went on until the tenth round, when Tellez managed to knock out Navarro.

All Eyes on Insider Betting

The match took place in December 2023 in Florida and that is also when the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario started its review of the matter. One of the conclusions of the respective review was that bets related to boxing matches organized by the WBA don’t meet the current version of the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming. This led to the indefinite suspension of betting on WBA events in Ontario.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario also underlined that its licensed operators were asked to demonstrate that the WBA prohibits betting from insiders and the respective operators were unable to do that. This means that coaches, managers, handlers or medical staff involved with one of the fighters could place bets on the respective matches while having the benefit of knowing non-public information. Moreover, the review found no proof that the World Boxing Association took any action to investigate past allegations of match fixing and insider wagering.

This is not the first time the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario takes such a measure. In December 2022 the regulator ordered licensed operators to stop offering bets on UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) matches following similar concerns over insider betting. That ban lasted just for a few weeks because the UFC then implemented new protocols to prevent insider betting.

Source: “Ontario halts World Boxing Association betting over integrity concerns“. iGaming Business. April 19, 2024.

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Ontario Authorities Arrest Four Players and a Dealer for Cheating https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/28/ontario-authorities-arrest-four-players-and-a-dealer-for-cheating/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/28/ontario-authorities-arrest-four-players-and-a-dealer-for-cheating/#respond Thu, 28 Mar 2024 20:22:32 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/28/ontario-authorities-arrest-four-players-and-a-dealer-for-cheating/ Five people have been arrested for an alleged attempt to defraud a Canadian casino. According to Ontarian authorities, the people in question were playing a table game at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto. While officials did not release details about the cheating attempt, they explained that one of the arrestees was a casino dealer who [...]

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Five people have been arrested for an alleged attempt to defraud a Canadian casino. According to Ontarian authorities, the people in question were playing a table game at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto.

While officials did not release details about the cheating attempt, they explained that one of the arrestees was a casino dealer who was in cahoots with the players. However, an anonymous person discovered the scheme and contacted the Ontario Provincial Police Investigation and Enforcement Bureau (IEB).

The IEB, which is attached to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) was called to investigate the matter on March 18. The investigation eventually led to the arrests of the five people in question. The arrestees included Anagha Varghese, 21, Himanshu Tanwar, 25, Parkh Raheja, 25, Tajveer Kour, 21 and Yakshu Nehra, 23.

The five people were charged with multiple charges, including counts of cheat at play, breach of trust, fraud and theft. They were later released from custody and their cases were handed to prosecutors at the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto.

Other Recent Cheating Attempts

Unfortunately, this is not the only time employees and patrons have tried to cheat casino properties. In a recent case in the United States, two employees of Rivers Casino were arrested for alleged participation in a complex cheating conspiracy at a Roulette table.

According to authorities, these included Robin Schnepp, a dealer at the casino, and supervisor Anthony Laush. The two men, according to officials, have aided players win on multiple occasions, resulting in significant winnings.

The cheating occurred with Interblock Roulette where the dealer manually spins the ball in the opposite direction of the wheel. When this manual spinning occurs, the sensors allegedly fail to detect the spinning, allowing players to continue placing bets even after the ball has already landed on a number.

Surveillance footage showed Schnepp spin the ball incorrectly multiple times, after which players would increase their bets after the ball had landed.

Last year, a Brazilian poker professional tried to cheat but was caught and suspended. The issue is that the player was dealt an extra stack of chips at the beginning of the LAPT Mystery KO tournament but did not notify an official, preferring to take advantage of the mistake.

However, another poker player saw him taking out extra chips from his bag and reported the matter, resulting in a suspension.

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Ontario Rolls Ban on Celebrity Imagery Use in Gambling Ads https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/01/ontario-rolls-ban-on-celebrity-imagery-use-in-gambling-ads/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/01/ontario-rolls-ban-on-celebrity-imagery-use-in-gambling-ads/#respond Fri, 01 Mar 2024 16:42:02 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/03/01/ontario-rolls-ban-on-celebrity-imagery-use-in-gambling-ads/ On Wednesday, February 28, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) rolled out the measure which is designed to safeguard against the proliferation of gambling harm and problem gambling in the jurisdiction. Firm Bulwark Against Gambling Harm The decision follows a public consultation on the matter, and it aligns with a higher ambition to [...]

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On Wednesday, February 28, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) rolled out the measure which is designed to safeguard against the proliferation of gambling harm and problem gambling in the jurisdiction.

Firm Bulwark Against Gambling Harm

The decision follows a public consultation on the matter, and it aligns with a higher ambition to ensure that consumers are steered clear of harmful practices. Moving forward, no active or retired athletes may appear on advertising or promotional materials for internet gambling in the province.

The only case where this is allowed is as part of responsible gambling practices and campaigns, with influencers, celebrities, and otherwise well-known entertainers and people of prominence coming under the same restriction.

Yet the onus is on licensed companies in the province to ensure that no transgressions occur and that the new rules are observed to the letter of the law. Operators would have to meticulously study the personalities they want to work with to launch campaigns that are aimed at advertising and boosting awareness for their brands.

The AGCO similarly expects companies to ensure that their advertisement does not appear to minors or individuals under the legal gambling age. The rules further ensure that the industry is advertising more responsibly and ethically, including a prohibition that now bans ads to appear near schools, among a select list of venues.

The ban has been welcomed by the Canadian Mental Health Association which congratulated the regulator on the swift execution of its plans, journeying from public consultation to consideration, to implementation. A spokesperson for the association, Camille Quenneville, called the new rules “a critical step” designed to safeguard consumers.

Beware of the Pitfalls

Yet, Quenneville used the opportunity to also speak about “alarming trends” in online gambling, and especially among young people who are the most at risk of falling victim to harmful gambling practices. Jurisdictions such as the Netherlands still discover that a quarter of individuals under the age of 24 are moderate-to-risk gamblers, which is a serious enough concern to merit further addressing.

“We encourage a public health approach to regulating iGaming. This includes implementing further restrictions on advertising and marketing until all advertising for iGaming is completely prohibited,” Quenneville said, urging the industry to lead by example and protect consumers.

The provincial market has been looking to strengthen the safeguards available to players, including the rollout of a request for proposals for a self-exclusion system.

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888’s Control Centre Safer Gambling Tool Launches in Ontario  https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/22/888s-control-centre-safer-gambling-tool-launches-in-ontario/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/22/888s-control-centre-safer-gambling-tool-launches-in-ontario/#respond Thu, 22 Feb 2024 02:43:00 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/02/22/888s-control-centre-safer-gambling-tool-launches-in-ontario/ Leading online betting and gaming company 888 has announced the rollout of its safe gambling initiative, the Control Centre, in Ontario. This initiative aims to assist players in gaining a better understanding of their gambling behavior while promoting responsible gaming practices. The product has a proven track record, and its launch should bolster 888’s brand [...]

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Leading online betting and gaming company 888 has announced the rollout of its safe gambling initiative, the Control Centre, in Ontario. This initiative aims to assist players in gaining a better understanding of their gambling behavior while promoting responsible gaming practices. The product has a proven track record, and its launch should bolster 888’s brand recognition in the region.

The Control Centre Brings Substantial Player Benefits

888 first introduced the Control Centre to its customers in the United Kingdom. Ever since its launch in 2020, the solution has been gaining popularity. Subsequent rollouts in countries like Italy proved the product’s broad applicability, regardless of cultural differences. Players who use the Control Centre tend to be much more responsible and moderate, utilizing deposit limits and temporary self-exclusion.

The customer interface of the Control Centre is integrated into 888’s home pages, offering players access to intuitively presented playing statistics, responsible gambling tools, and educational information. Speaking for CDC Gaming Reports, head of Canada at 888 Roi Nadler emphasized the simplicity, speed, and intuitiveness of the Control Centre, describing it as a one-stop shop for safer gaming.

We are committed to preventing gambling-related harm and are confident that our Control Centre offers customers new levels of transparency that will help them stay informed and in control.

Roi Nadler, 888 head of Canada

888 reiterated its commitment to ensuring players have a safe, fair, and entertaining experience. According to Nadler, responsible gaming provides a palpable competitive advantage and sets the foundation for building long-lasting relationships with players who trust 888 as their entertainment destination. This approach bolsters customer retention and encourages a sustainable business model.

Player Protection Remains a Core Objective for 888

The Control Centre’s Ontario launch marks some much-needed good news for the operator. January saw the company lay off dozens of its Israel employees amidst its global restructuring efforts. 888 is implementing an ambitious cost-saving program, strengthening its core intelligent automation and artificial intelligence capabilities. Fortunately, these cuts should not affect the operator’s customer protection initiatives.

While 888 recorded an 8% annual revenue decrease in FY23, the company’s management retains a positive outlook for the coming year. Safer gaming practices should lead to improved average revenue per user, while strategic investments can deliver sustainable long-term profits. Shrewd management will be instrumental in fulfilling these objectives in the face of industry-wide regulatory and compliance headwinds.

With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, 888 continues to prioritize responsible gaming practices, contributing to a safer and more secure online gambling environment. The Control Centre’s Ontario launch marks a significant milestone in the operator’s revised strategy and should substantially bolster its position in this highly competitive market.

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Two Toronto Residents Charged in Ontario iGaming Fraud Probe https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/29/two-toronto-residents-charged-in-ontario-igaming-fraud-probe/ https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/29/two-toronto-residents-charged-in-ontario-igaming-fraud-probe/#respond Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:16:24 +0000 https://kenowizard.com/2024/01/29/two-toronto-residents-charged-in-ontario-igaming-fraud-probe/ Police in Ontario have charged two individuals from Toronto in connection with fraudulent activities related to online iGaming sites regulated by the province. The arrests come after an extensive investigation into allegations of identity theft and fraud on the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) iGaming platform. Ontario Police Collaboration Uncovers Online Gaming Fraud Ring [...]

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Police in Ontario have charged two individuals from Toronto in connection with fraudulent activities related to online iGaming sites regulated by the province. The arrests come after an extensive investigation into allegations of identity theft and fraud on the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) iGaming platform.

Ontario Police Collaboration Uncovers Online Gaming Fraud Ring

The investigation, led by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in collaboration with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), began in July 2022 when reports of identity theft surfaced regarding the OLG’s online gaming site, olg.ca. 

Subsequent allegations of fraudulent activity on the platform’s sports betting section were reported to AGCO in August of the same year.

Following months of investigation, on July 13, 2023, law enforcement executed a warranted search at a residence in North York. The operation resulted in the seizure of multiple electronic devices and fraudulent documents linked to non-gaming criminal activities, according to an OPP release.

On December 21, 2023, the police formally charged two individuals in connection with the case. Ernesto Rasing, aged 38 and a resident of Toronto, faces a slew of charges including fraud, identity theft, and possession of forged documents. 

Similarly, Elaiza Mae Paculanan, aged 20 and also from North York, has been charged with various offenses related to fraud and identity theft, along with an additional charge for violating probation.

Both accused individuals were subsequently released from custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto to answer the charges.

Ontario Authorities Encourage Reporting of Cybercrime Amid iGaming Fraud Crackdown

Ontario authorities urge anyone who suspects they may have fallen victim to cybercrime or fraud to report it promptly to their local police department. Additionally, individuals can utilize the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system.

The arrests underscore the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat fraudulent activities within the online gaming sector. As the popularity of online gaming continues to rise, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure the integrity and security of these platforms.

At the same time, Ontario’s iGaming market has seen a resurgence, with significant increases in metrics reported in the third quarter of the 2023-24 fiscal year. This includes a notable rise in total wagers, reaching $17.2 million, and total gaming revenue of $658 million, indicating a 22% increase over the previous quarter. 

These figures account for the operations of 49 legal operators and 72 gaming websites in the province, with approximately 1.2 million active player accounts recorded during this period.

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