Canada

The states with the best support for problem gambling have been revealed

Published

4 years ago

April 28, 2022

GamingAmericas.com

Nevada, the best state for gambling in America, takes first place as the state with the best help for gambling addictions
Oregon comes in second place, with the second-highest spending on problem gambling treatment per capita
Louisiana, one of the most well-known gambling states, comes in seventh place

Nevada has the best support for problem gambling in America, new research has revealed.

Online gambling experts, CasinoGrounds, investigated which states have the best support for problem gambling and gambling addiction in America. States received a score out of 10 for factors based the popularity of gambling and presence of problem gambling in the state, the number of treatment facilities, and the amount of funding each state has towards supporting gambling addictions.

Nevada, the top gambling state in America, has also been revealed to be the best state for supporting problem gambling. Thanks to Las Vegas, the state is infamous for its gambling opportunities, but the data shows that it has the best support for those suffering from gambling addiction. The state has the country’s fifth-highest percentage of people suffering with a gambling problem, at 2.7%, but also provides the most treatment facilities of any state. With 123 gamblers’ anonymous meetings available throughout the state per week and state affiliate associations to the NCPG and state-specific agencies, Nevada has the best support for problem gambling.

The second best state for supporting gambling addiction is Oregon. Another popular state for gambling due to the wide variety of legal games available, Oregon comes in sixth place for the presence of problem gambling – of the total adult population, 2.6% are believed to suffer from a gambling addiction. The state has the second-highest spending on treating problem gambling, at $1.41 per capita. The state also has both state affiliations to the NCPG and state-specific agencies, providing the widest variety of support to Oregon residents.

Coming in third place is Connecticut. The state has one of the lowest percentages of problem gambling in America, at 1.1% of the adult population, coming second to Michigan. Once again, the state has both state affiliations and specific agencies providing support. Connecticut ranks fourth on access to gambling addiction treatment facilities, with 64 locations throughout the state. When it comes to spending on problem gambling, Connecticut comes sixth, at $0.90 per capita.

In fourth place is Michigan, boasting the lowest incidence of problem gambling in America at 0.5%. This could be the reason why the state ranks low on facilities and spending on treatment of gambling addiction, ranking 21st on facilities, and spending only $0.23 per capita.

Closing out the top five is Massachusetts, where 1.7% of the adult population reportedly suffer with a gambling addiction, with the state spending a total of $6.8 million on support and treatment, equating to $0.98 per capita. Massachusetts comes in fifth place for treatment facilities, with 41 weekly Gambling Anonymous meetings throughout the state and 107 facilities for treatment.

At the other end of the scale, the states that provide the least support for problem gambling include Hawaii, Utah, and Alaska, all of which have a legal ban on gambling, explaining why there is little support in the state. However, Idaho and Arkansas, coming 48th and 49th respectively, both rank poorly due to the lack of spending on treatment for problem gambling and the lack of facilities available.

The states providing the best support for problem gambling:

State	Best support for problem gambling	% of population suffering with problem gambling	Spending on problem gambling treatment per capita ($)	Problem gambling treatment facilities ranking
Nevada	1	2.7%	0.56	1
Oregon	2	2.6%	1.41	6
Connecticut	3	1.1%	0.90	4
Michigan	4	0.5%	0.23	21
Massachusetts	5	1.7%	0.98	5
Delaware	6	1.4%	1.44	34
Louisiana	7	1.3%	0.61	10
Nebraska	8	2.2%	0.88	22
Ohio	9	1.4%	0.55	16
Maryland	10	1.9%	0.62	12
Missouri	11	2.2%	0.04	39
North Dakota	12	1.5%	1.05	35
New York	13	1.2%	0.15	9
Iowa	14	1.2%	0.99	36
Arizona	15	1.6%	0.28	7
Pennsylvania	16	2.2%	0.51	17
New Jersey	17	2.8%	0.30	3
Rhode Island	18	2.2%	0.14	2
Indiana	19	1.2%	0.16	20
Florida	20	1.1%	0.12	24
Wisconsin	21	1.3%	0.08	11
South Dakota	22	1.4%	0.20	19
Washington	23	2.1%	0.21	8
Minnesota	24	3.6%	0.40	13
Oklahoma	25	2.2%	0.28	14
California	26	1.9%	0.22	18
Kentucky	27	1.1%	0.02	27
Kansas	28	2.8%	0.31	25
Illinois	29	2.2%	0.09	15
Georgia	30	1.4%	0.04	29
West Virginia	31	2.2%	0.83	38
North Carolina	32	2.2%	0.10	30
Colorado	33	2.4%	0.04	23
New Mexico	34	1.2%	0.41	37
Mississippi	35	3.9%	0.09	26
Virginia	36	2.2%	0.00	31
Texas	37	2.2%	0.00	32
Montana	38	2.5%	0.04	33
Washington	39	0.0%	0.00	28
Vermont	40	2.2%	0.32	42
Alabama	41	2.2%	0.01	44
Maine	42	2.2%	0.07	40
New Hampshire	43	2.2%	0.02	41
Tennessee	44	2.2%	0.03	45
South Carolina	45	2.2%	0.01	43
Wyoming	46	2.2%	0.05	46
Hawaii	47	2.2%	0.00	47
Idaho	48	2.2%	0.00	48
Arkansas	49	2.2%	0.00	49
Utah	50	2.2%	0.00	50
Alaska	51	2.2%	0.00	51

A spokesperson for CasinoGrounds commented on the findings:

“Gambling addiction is a very serious and often dangerous issue that can affect millions of individuals. It is interesting to see how much support is available across the United States to support those suffering and help people on the road to recovery. Nevada is one of the most well-known states for gambling, so it is promising to see the state coming out on top providing the most support to residents. Gambling addiction is a very serious problem everyone should seek the support they need to avoid taking gambling beyond a healthy level.”

The research was carried out by CasinoGrounds.com, the leading online gambling community, which promotes safe and responsible practice and discussions around gambling.

Canada

Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack

Published

2 weeks ago

November 12, 2025

GamingAmericas.com

group-from-ts’elxweyeqw-tribe-and-great-canadian-entertainment-announce-agreement-for-the-acquisition-of-elements-casino-chilliwack

Great Canadian Entertainment and a consortium group of certain communities from the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe, through an entity affiliated with Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd. (the “Ts’elxwéyeqw Group”), announced that on November 7th, 2025, they entered into a definitive agreement for the purchase by the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group from Great Canadian Entertainment of Elements Casino Chilliwack, one of the premier gaming and entertainment destinations in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia.

The Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe constitute seven First Nation communities and are the First People of the Chilliwack River watershed. The transaction represents a transformational milestone for the communities within the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group.

Elements Casino Chilliwack serves guests across the Fraser Valley and is Chilliwack’s top destination for gaming and entertainment, featuring over 300 slots, live and electronic table games, bingo, dining, live entertainment and more.

The closing of the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and the receipt of regulatory and other approvals. Under the terms of the definitive agreement, Great Canadian Entertainment will continue to provide transitional services and support to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group for a period following closing.

“This purchase marks an exciting milestone for our Nations and for the entire territory. By coming together in partnership, we are not only investing in a strong business opportunity, but also in the future of our people. The revenues generated through this acquisition will help strengthen our communities, create new opportunities, and ensure our Nations continue to play a leading role in the local economy. Additionally, we believe that local community-based ownership of Elements Casino Chilliwack will further strengthen the broader Fraser Valley community and economy. It’s a proud moment that reflects how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone,” said Chief David Jimmie, Chief of Squiala First Nation and President of Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd.

“We are very excited to have entered into this agreement with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. We have had the privilege of being part of the Chilliwack community since we opened Elements Casino Chilliwack in 2012, and we believe that under the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group’s stewardship, the business will begin an exciting new chapter. For the team members and guests of Elements Casino Chilliwack, and the local community, we can think of no better owner for the business. We look forward to the closing and then working with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group team during the transition period,” said Matt Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment.

McCarthy Tétrault LLP is acting as legal advisor and KPMG Corporate Finance Inc. is acting as financial advisor to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. McMillan LLP is acting as legal advisor to Great Canadian Entertainment.

The post Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

BetVictor

Canadian iGaming Growth Trends 2025: Data, Strategy, and the Brands Defining the Market

Published

2 months ago

October 9, 2025

Zoltan Tundik

canadian-igaming-growth-trends-2025:-data,-strategy,-and-the-brands-defining-the-market

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The Canadian iGaming market has evolved from an emerging opportunity into one of the most competitive and innovative digital gaming arenas worldwide. Ontario’s regulated framework has paved the way for rapid expansion, attracting established international operators alongside ambitious newcomers that are carving out share through brand differentiation and data-driven acquisition.

Methodology: How Growth Was Measured

To understand which casino brands are gaining momentum and why, the award-winning Mr. Gamble Casino Trends Meter—a proprietary performance index powered by Semrush, Ahrefs, in-house click tracking, market benchmarks, and predictive analytics—analyzed year-over-year (YoY) performance from January–June 2024 versus January–June 2025. The results point to a vibrant, fiercely competitive landscape where execution, trust, and experience are the real drivers of sustained growth.

Brands Showing Standout Growth in 2025

Strong outperformance highlights different paths to scale

Wild Tokyo posted an extraordinary +134% YoY, showing how bold branding, a distinctive identity, and targeted acquisition can resonate with players seeking unique experiences. Clean yet edgy design, paired with robust SEO execution and engagement programs, helped the brand cut through a crowded market.

LuckyDays delivered +110% YoY by striking a balance between simplicity and substance. A minimalistic UX, a vast game library, and strong affiliate relationships have positioned it as a trusted destination for Canadian players.

BetVictor, a legacy operator with deep roots, recorded +107% YoY. Its evolution from traditional bookmaker to diversified iGaming powerhouse underscores how credibility and adaptability can translate into modern growth.

Agile mid-tier brands are also accelerating: SlotsMagic at +94% and Betibet at +88% demonstrate how focused SEO, analytics-led decision making, and smart promotional strategy can punch above weight.

Crypto-forward momentum and broader market depth

The joint rise of BetFury and SmokAce—both at +74%—signals growing acceptance of crypto and blockchain-based gaming among Canadian users, driven by transparency, fast payments, and a tech-forward ethos.

Meanwhile, Paripesa, Mond, and ComeOn maintained robust double-digit YoY growth, underscoring the market’s depth and diversity beyond a handful of headline names.

Market Maturity: Compliance, Trust, and UX Win

As more provinces explore regulated frameworks modeled on Ontario, competition is intensifying. The brands pulling ahead are those investing in compliance, transparency, and player satisfaction—prioritizing product quality and retention over short-term promotions.

“Players are becoming more selective, more informed, and more focused on trust,” says Paul Puolakka, CMO at Mr. Gamble. “We’re seeing a clear shift toward quality brands that prioritize experience, safety, and innovation—the ones achieving real, sustained growth.”

Puolakka adds: “Data doesn’t just tell us who’s growing—it shows us why. The operators succeeding in Canada are those that deeply understand their audience, use insights effectively, and build long-term value instead of chasing short-term hype.”

Trends Shaping the Next Phase of iGaming in Canada

Branding + data-led acquisition let emerging brands challenge incumbents more effectively than ever.
Crypto-friendly casinos are moving from niche to mainstream consideration for Canadian users.
SEO, content strategy, and affiliate partnerships remain reliable, capital-efficient growth levers.
Compliance, transparency, and UX are central to sustainable market share gains.

Looking Ahead

The fastest-growing casino brands capture more than impressive statistics—they reflect a market in transformation. With Wild Tokyo setting creative benchmarks and veterans like BetVictor and ComeOn proving that brand equity still matters, Canada’s iGaming sector is entering a phase defined by intelligent growth, regulatory maturity, and player empowerment.

As the industry continues to evolve, the Mr. Gamble Casino Trends Meter remains a useful compass for players, affiliates, and operators navigating this fast-changing landscape.

The post Canadian iGaming Growth Trends 2025: Data, Strategy, and the Brands Defining the Market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Canada

Ezugi partners with PokerStars to further extend live casino game choice for players

Published

2 months ago

September 29, 2025

George Miller

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Reading Time: 2 minutes

Ezugi, an innovative live dealer casino supplier known for pushing the boundaries of live gaming, retention, and distribution solutions, is proud to announce a new partnership with PokerStars, the world’s largest online poker site.

Through this partnership, PokerStars’ players in the UK and Ontario will gain access to Ezugi’s standout portfolio, including Revolution Roulette, Ultimate Roulette, Unlimited Blackjack and Lucky 7 online casino games.

PokerStars, launched in 2001, is one of the world’s leading online poker and casino brands and operates as part of Flutter Entertainment. It has grown to become the largest poker site globally, offering the widest selection of online games and hosting prestigious live tournaments.

Formed in 2012, Ezugi is a global live casino provider with a focus on meeting operator and player needs with best-of-breed localised content. The Ezugi games portfolio includes a wide range of live dealer games, many of which are unique. Ezugi became part of Evolution in 2018 and continues to build on its reputation for providing unique and innovative games and solutions for online casino and retail betting shop operators.

Gilad Ben-Ami, Chief Executive Officer at Ezugi, said: “PokerStars’ players already enjoy a wide range of live casino and online slot games from Evolution brands such as Evolution, NetEnt, Red Tiger and Big Time Gaming. Now Ezugi is delighted and honoured to add even more choice for PokerStars’ players with our own innovative games.”

Ben-Ami continued: “The release of Ezugi games to PokerStars clearly demonstrates the rich variety and innovative features of the Ezugi games portfolio. Ultimate Roulette is a unique multiplier Roulette that blends circus-themed fun and TV game show excitement; Revolution Roulette puts a unique spin on classic Roulette by adding special multiplier pockets to the wheel; Unlimited Blackjack allows an unlimited number of players to play at the table, while also featuring Auto-Split functionality and a choice of four side bets – Perfect Pairs, 21+3, Perfect 11 and Ten20; and Lucky 7 is a very popular game with its origins in the Indian subcontinent – a fast-paced, simple and exciting Hi-Lo card game.”

Ben-Ami concluded: “We are confident that PokerStars’ players will love playing these games and we look forward to adding more Ezugi titles for them in the future.”

The post Ezugi partners with PokerStars to further extend live casino game choice for players appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.