Casino Dominance Fuels Revenue Surge
Ontario’s iGaming market shattered records in May, pulling in CA$338 million in gross gaming revenue—its highest monthly total to date. The figure narrowly edged past the previous peak of CA$328.5 million set in January and marked an 8% jump from April. Year-on-year, revenue climbed 40%.
Online casino led the charge with CA$259.8 million in revenue, claiming 77% of the market. Sports betting followed with CA$71.8 million (21%), while online poker chipped in CA$6.3 million (2%).
Wagering Crosses CA$8 Billion Mark
Total player spending hit an all-time high of CA$8.07 billion in May, up 3.5% from April and nearly 29% above May 2024. This milestone marks the first time monthly wagering has exceeded the CA$8 billion threshold.
Casino games accounted for the lion’s share, pulling CA$6.96 billion in bets—a 6% rise from April and a 31% leap year-on-year. Sports betting saw CA$972 million in wagers (down 9% month-over-month), and poker hit CA$129 million.
Fewer Players, Higher Spending
Despite the record numbers, active player accounts dropped 2% year-on-year to 1.07 million. But those who played, spent more. Average revenue per user rose 10% to CA$316.
Ontario Pushes for Industry Growth
Speaking at the Canadian Gaming Summit, AGCO Chair Dave Forestell said the province’s original goal to be a global leader in gaming was ambitious but achievable. “You have to always stay at it,” he noted, crediting strong regulation and market momentum.
Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho unveiled plans for a sweeping review of Ontario’s gambling sector. His aim: streamline regulation, strengthen industry ties, and improve player protection. Cho gave Ontario’s current gambling performance a “B+” and set sights on bringing it to an “A.”
Cho also stressed the need for better integration between online and land-based casinos, highlighting that Ontario’s self-exclusion system will soon operate across both.
Next Steps for iGaming Ontario
Earlier this year, iGaming Ontario became an independent agency, separating from the AGCO to allow faster adaptation. A new CEO will soon be named following the retirement of founding head Martha Otton.
Cho made it clear that Ontario’s regulatory path would be steered by industry input, warning that too much red tape could hinder growth. The province continues to work closely with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation to maintain a balanced and competitive gambling landscape.
