This particular situation is focused on advertising and inducements; unfortunately, it did not take long for these sanctions in the province...

More specifically, BetMGM Canada has been served Notice of Monetary Penalties totalling $48,000 for its alleged failure to comply with Standards 2.04 and 2.05. And PointsBet Canada has been served Notice of Monetary Penalties totalling $30,000 for its alleged failure to comply with Standard 2.05.

The standards are outlined as a protection for Ontarians. They include clear restrictions on advertising of inducements, bonuses or credits; the exception being when they are on an operator’s site or through direct advertising or marketing after receiving active player consent. 

The standards also state that all operator marketing, advertising and promotions must be truthful, not misleading or misrepresentative. This includes materials not being allowed to imply that your chance of winning will increase with the more you spend. 

Tom Mungham, AGCO CEO and Registrar, said: “The AGCO holds all registered operators to high standards of responsible gambling, player protection and game integrity, and monitors their activities to ensure they are meeting their obligations under Ontario’s Gaming Control Act and the Standards.”

It was only on 4 April of this year that Ontario gained a regulated online gambling market. Companies such as Relax Gaming were quick to achieve licensed status via the Alcohol and Gambling Commission of Ontario (ACGO).