The digital gaming industry in Canada saw significant developments throughout 2024. Here are the key highlights that shaped the landscape:

Alberta's New Gaming Framework Alberta announced plans for a competitive, regulated iGaming model similar to Ontario's. Major operators including PointsBet Canada, Betway, PENN, and NorthStar have expressed interest in entering the market, with an expected launch in mid-2025.

Ontario's Market Performance

• 50 licensed operators and 82 gaming websites
• Q2 2024-25 total wagers: $18.7 billion (31.7% year-over-year increase)
• Q2 gaming revenue: $738 million (35.4% year-over-year increase)
• Created nearly 15,000 jobs
• Generated $1.24 billion in government revenues

AGCO's New Advertising Standards The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario implemented stricter advertising rules in February, prohibiting the use of athletes in iGaming advertising. A subsequent poll showed 68% of Canadians support banning current players and celebrities from sports betting ads.

Player Participation Trends 86.4% of Ontario players now participate in regulated iGaming sites, up from 85.3% in 2023. This marks a significant shift from the pre-regulation era when 70% of online gambling occurred on unregulated sites.

Legal Victory for Ontario's Model The Ontario Superior Court dismissed the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke's challenge to the province's iGaming model, confirming its consistency with the Criminal Code and legitimizing the regulatory framework.

National Advertising Legislation Bill S-269, aimed at developing national standards for gaming advertising, awaits House of Commons approval. The bill's future remains uncertain due to legislative delays and the upcoming October 2024 national election.

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