iGaming Ontario seeks partner for central self-exclusion system
The RFP seeks a solution allowing players to self-exclude from all Ontario-regulated igaming operators in a single registration process. iGaming Ontario, which regulates online gambling in the province, plans to launch the RGP in early 2024.
The winning bid will be expected to develop and implement a system that integrates with all operator systems. This should also support players’ self-exclusion registration, renewal and reinstatement.
Calls for simple and transparent system
Key features of the system should include a player-focused solution that is easy for players to use and self-exclude. iGaming Ontario also said that the system should be delivered and executed in a non-stigmatised, non-judgmental manner and support users.
The regulator also called for the solution to be transparent for players and operators, as well as secure for all users. In addition, it should be viable for licensees to implement alongside their own offerings.
“We are seeking interest from responsive and nimble companies that are able to build modern, innovative, secure, cloud-based SaaS solutions that are high-profile, public-facing and critically important to building and maintaining the trust and confidence of a wide range of stakeholders,” iGaming Ontario said.
“The successful bidder will partner with us on a multi-year programme to develop best-in-class experiences by leveraging modern, innovative technology.”
Ontario igaming revenue more than doubles in Q2
Plan for the RFP come after figures last month showed online gambling revenue in Ontario more than doubled year-on-year in Q2 to CA$540m (£315m/€363m/US$397m).
Some $407m came from online casino, $118m sports betting and $16m poker. Revenue covers all cash wagers, rake fees, tournament fees and other fees, minus player winnings.
As for player spending, total igaming wagers in Q2 rocketed 132% to $14.20bn. Consumers bet $11.90bn on internet casino games, $1.90bn sports betting and $397m online poker. This does not include promotional wagers such as bonuses and free bets.
PointsBet Canada fined for responsible gambling failures
Earlier this month, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) fined PointsBet Canada CA$150,000 for breaching responsible gambling rules.
Violations included failing to assist a customer potentially experiencing gambling harm. The player in question lost over $500,000 in under three months.
The user was flagged as potentially high-risk by PointsBet Canada’s systems on multiple occasions. This included when incurring significant losses and making repeated withdrawal cancellations. However, AGCO says no interventions were provided during that period.
PointsBet Canada was also rapped for failing to enforce a 24-hour cooling-off period when players cancelled their per-day deposit limit. This is required under Ontario licences
In September, iGB took a closer look at the Ontario market and its development during year one of regulation. Only Ontario has a regulated igaming market, which went live in April 2022.
Online gaming is prohibited in other Canadian provinces outside of the provincial lottery corporations, which have a de facto monopoly. NorthStar’s new dotcom venture is not regulated by Canadian authorities outside of Ontario.