A Year of Big Changes: Canadian iGaming’s Key Developments in 2024

The Canadian gaming industry saw a year of transformative developments in 2024, with Alberta advancing toward a regulated iGaming market, Ontario reinforcing its legal framework, and national debates over gaming advertising taking center stage. These events set a dynamic foundation for 2025.

Alberta took significant steps toward launching a regulated commercial iGaming market. March’s fiscal budget initiated a review of the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, and in May, the Alberta legislature passed Bill 16. This legislation established the province’s authority to conduct and manage gaming independently of the AGLC. The milestone legally cleared the path for private operators to coexist with the government-run Play Alberta platform.

At the Canadian Gaming Summit in June, Minister Dale Nally confirmed plans for an open iGaming market. Initially projected for a 2024 launch, discussions with stakeholders delayed implementation to mid-2025. Companies like PointsBet Canada and Betway have expressed interest in joining this new market.

Ontario’s open iGaming market, the first of its kind in Canada, overcame a significant legal challenge in 2024. In May, the Ontario Superior Court upheld the legality of iGaming Ontario’s (iGO) model under the Criminal Code, dismissing claims by the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) that the model was unconstitutional. This decision provided a strong legal precedent for Ontario’s market and affirmed its compliance with national laws.

Further changes are set for 2025 as iGO transitions into an independent, board-governed agency. This move addresses concerns of a conflict of interest raised by the Auditor General, ensuring greater operational autonomy and transparency.

Ontario’s market continued to grow, with Q2 reports showing $18.7 billion in wagers, a 35.4% year-over-year revenue increase.

Advertising in the gaming sector was a contentious issue throughout 2024. Bill S-269, which aims to regulate sports betting advertisements, progressed through the Senate and awaits discussion in the House of Commons. The proposed legislation seeks to limit the timing, content, and frequency of ads.

Public sentiment strongly favors stricter controls, with 68% of Canadians supporting a ban on using athletes and celebrities in ads, according to a February poll. However, delays in the House of Commons, coupled with a potential federal election, could complicate the bill’s progress.

Beyond Alberta and Ontario, 2024 witnessed several notable developments:

• Leadership Changes: iGO’s inaugural Executive Director Martha Otton announced her retirement, extending her term to March 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.
• Saskatchewan’s Success: The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) reported record-breaking revenue of $346.6 million for the fiscal year.
• New Advertising Standards: Ontario banned athletes and celebrities likely to appeal to minors from being featured in gaming ads as of February 28, reinforcing its commitment to responsible advertising practices.
• Global Partnerships: Quebec expanded its gaming landscape through deals with Aristocrat and IGT, while the World Series of Poker held its first Canadian event in Toronto.

Canada’s gaming industry is poised for further transformation in 2025. Alberta’s market launch and Ontario’s continued evolution will shape the future, while national advertising debates and advancements in gaming technology signal a dynamic year ahead.

Sources:

Year-End 2024: Canada iGaming Report, cdcgaming.com, January 2, 2024.