Online-casinos.com analysis highlights Alberta, Brazil and Finland as key iGaming markets to watch
Online-casinos.com has released new industry analysis identifying the regulated markets expected to drive the next phase of global iGaming growth, with expert insights from Roy Brindley highlighting key jurisdictions to watch.
As governments around the world continue to seek new sources of tax revenue while improving player protection, several emerging regulated markets are attracting significant attention from operators, affiliates and investors.
According to the analysis, Alberta, Brazil, and Finland are among the most closely watched jurisdictions as the global iGaming industry enters its next growth phase.
Roy Brindley, gambling expert at Online-casinos.com, believes the expansion of regulated online gambling markets will create substantial opportunities for both operators and players over the coming years.
“We’re seeing governments increasingly recognise that regulated gambling markets can deliver stronger player protections while also generating significant tax revenues,” said Brindley. “The markets opening over the next few years have the potential to reshape parts of the global iGaming landscape.”
Alberta poised for major market launch
Among the most anticipated developments is Alberta’s upcoming regulated online gambling market.
The province is expected to launch its commercial framework after years of preparation, following a model similar to Ontario’s successful regulated approach. Industry observers estimate that hundreds of millions of dollars currently flow through unregulated operators, creating a significant opportunity for both tax collection and consumer protection.
Brindley notes that Alberta’s demographics and gambling participation rates make it one of the most attractive emerging markets in North America.
“There is already strong demand from players, and operators are preparing to compete aggressively for market share once the market opens,” he said.
Brazil offers long-term growth potential
Brazil continues to attract international attention following the launch of its regulated online gambling framework.
The country’s large population and growing digital economy make it one of the most significant opportunities in global iGaming. However, strict licensing requirements and substantial entry costs mean the market is likely to be dominated by well-capitalised operators.
Despite these barriers, analysts expect Brazil to become one of the world’s largest regulated gambling markets over the coming years.
“Brazil is a huge opportunity, but it’s also one of the most demanding regulated environments we’ve seen,” Brindley explained. “Operators need to be prepared for significant compliance obligations.”
Finland’s regulatory transition drawing industry interest
Finland is also generating considerable interest following plans to move away from its state-controlled gambling monopoly and introduce a licensing framework for private operators.
While the market is not expected to fully open until 2027, many industry stakeholders are already monitoring developments closely.
The country has one of Europe’s highest rates of gambling participation, and regulators hope a competitive licensed market will help channel players away from offshore operators.
US expansion remains a key industry story
Beyond Canada and Europe, attention remains focused on the United States, where online casino legislation continues to be debated on a state-by-state basis.
Several states, including New York, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, are currently considering proposals that could expand access to regulated online casino gaming.
While progress has been slower than many operators hoped, industry experts believe further state-level regulation remains inevitable.
Markets to Watch
According to Online-casinos.com, the key regulated markets attracting industry attention include:
● Alberta
● Brazil
● Finland
● New York
● Illinois
● Maine
● Massachusetts
● New Hampshire