Ontario’s iGaming sector achieved a new milestone in September with a staggering CA$8.55 billion (US$6.11 billion) in total wagers, marking the second consecutive month of record-breaking figures. This notable performance showed a 5% increase over the CA$8.14 billion recorded in August, according to recent data from iGaming Ontario, and was a significant 30.7% uptick from September 2024.
The casino vertical remained the dominant force in the market, attracting CA$7.34 billion in bets. Sports betting accounted for CA$1.06 billion, while peer-to-peer poker generated CA$144 million in wagers. These figures underscore a robust interest in casino gaming, which comprises the bulk of the iGaming activity in the province.
Despite the surge in wagering, non-adjusted gross revenue for September reached CA$329 million, a modest decline of 1.8% from August. However, this figure was still 18.8% higher than the same period last year and marked the sixth consecutive month that revenue in Ontario surpassed CA$300 million. The casino sector was the primary contributor to this revenue, bringing in CA$277.8 million, or 84.4% of the total. Sports betting followed with CA$46.5 million, while poker added CA$5.1 million to the mix.
Complementing the record wagering was an unprecedented high in active player accounts. In September, approximately 1.2 million accounts were active, more than in any previous month since the market’s inception. This surge in engagement highlights the growing attraction of iGaming offerings in Ontario.
However, there is a growing concern as the average revenue per active account fell to CA$282, down from CA$330 in August and CA$320 in September 2024. This represents the lowest monthly figure since February of the current year. Industry observers suggest that while participation is rising, players might be spreading their spending more thinly across different platforms or games, which could explain the reduced per-account revenue.
Several major iGaming brands, including FanDuel, BetMGM, Bet365, and BetRivers, have established themselves in the Ontario market, contributing to this competitive landscape. These brands continue to attract a diverse audience, with each offering unique promotions and experiences designed to retain and expand their customer bases.
A market analyst noted that the growth in wagering and active accounts is a positive indicator of the market’s maturity. However, the decrease in average revenue per player may prompt operators to reassess strategies to enhance player value and retention. “The challenge lies in converting increased participation into sustained revenue growth,” they suggested, emphasizing the importance of innovation in product offerings and customer engagement.
On the other hand, some experts argue that the decline in average revenue per account could be a sign of healthier consumer behavior. With more players participating but spending less per account, it indicates a broader reach and potentially more responsible gaming habits. From this perspective, the market could be seen as expanding inclusively, fostering a sustainable model for future growth.
As Ontario’s iGaming market continues to evolve, its performance remains a focal point for stakeholders in the gambling industry, both in Canada and internationally. The robust figures from September reflect not only the market’s current strength but also its potential to adapt and thrive amid changing consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes. With ongoing advancements in technology and gaming options, the province’s iGaming sector is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory while navigating the complexities of a dynamic digital environment.
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