Fewer Canadians Are Gambling Than 20 Years Ago, Even as Online Betting Grows
Fewer Canadians Are Gambling Than 20 Years Ago, Even as Online Betting Grows
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fewer Canadians are gambling today than they were two decades ago, even though the country’s online betting market is expanding rapidly.
Fewer Canadians are gambling today than they were two decades ago, even though the country’s online betting market is expanding rapidly.
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New analysis from CasinoCanada.com reveals a shift in how Canadians engage with gambling. While participation has declined overall, the growth of regulated online platforms means more money is being wagered digitally.
Statistics Canada data shows that 76 percent of Canadians aged 15 and over reported gambling in the previous year in 2002. By 2018, that figure had fallen to 64.5 percent, indicating that fewer people are gambling overall.
At the same time, Canada’s regulated online gambling market, particularly in Ontario, has grown quickly since launching in 2022.
According to iGaming Ontario, the market generated around CAD 1.3 billion in gaming revenue in its first full fiscal year. That increased to CAD 2.2 billion in 2023–24 and reached CAD 2.9 billion in 2024–25.
The amount of money wagered online has also surged, rising from CAD 63.2 billion in 2023–24 to CAD 82.7 billion in 2024–25.
CasinoCanada.com says the figures suggest that while fewer Canadians are gambling overall, those who do gamble are spending more time on online platforms.
Eugene Ravdin, Head of PR for CasinoCanada.com, said:
“What we’re seeing in Canada is a clear contrast. Overall participation in gambling has declined over the past twenty years, yet the market itself is growing rapidly.
“That suggests the growth is being driven by existing players becoming more active online, rather than a wave of new gamblers entering the market.”
The full analysis also explores how online platforms, sports sponsorships, and digital advertising have made gambling more visible in everyday life.
Read the full article:
Editor's Notes
About CasinoCanada.com
CasinoCanada.com is a leading online resource for casino players in Canada, providing trusted information, news, and reviews on the latest casino games, bonuses, and promotions. With a reader-focused approach, CasinoCanada.com ensures that its content is informative and reliable, catering to players of all levels.
Contacts
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Sarah Mortimer
GameOn
Sarah.mortimer@gameon.im
