Entain & RGC team-up to inform regulatory approach in Canada

Canadian

Global gambling group Entain has announced that its non-profit Foundation will fund research into consumer practices, preferences and behaviours in Ontario.

This will be conducted by the Responsible Gambling Council, a Toronto based non-profit organisation, and comes as regulators in the country prepare to legalise gaming and sports betting.

The research project aims to draw on consumer insights in Canada, as well as experiences across other international jurisdictions, to help regulators to make evidence-based recommendations that balance the mandates of online operators with the identifying behaviours and risk factors for consumers.

Martin Lycka, senior vice president for American regulatory affairs and responsible gambling at Entain, said: “We know from similar research in many markets in which we operate, including the United States, that regulators value research which supports an evidence-based approach to decision-making and effective regulation from a wide range of other international jurisdictions.  

“Entain, which operates across five continents and over 20 countries, has unparalleled experience with different regulatory approaches taken around the world in the past 15 years. “

The research will focus on a sample of approximately 4,000 adult bettors and gamers over 18 years of age, and aims to provide the most comprehensive and up to date evidence into responsible online sports betting and gaming needs and interests. 

The work will also review other key international jurisdictions to assess regulatory approaches, using informant interviews to identify effective responsible betting and gaming practices.

Shelley White, CEO of RGC, added: “As a global leader in responsible gambling, RGC is committed to working with regulators, operators and the public to establish the development and implementation of a robust responsible gambling culture. RGC’s work with Entain will contribute to vital advancements in consumer safeguards.”   

Work is expected to begin shortly with the full report due later in the year. Assuming the regulatory process continues, Ontario is expected to become the first Canadian province to introduce online gambling, with initial licences expected to be granted in 2022.