The History of Casinos: A Gambling Den with a Colorful Past

If an operator of an online casino or sportsbook wants to do everything legally and “by the book,” then they must get licensed. Licensing allows casinos to operate legally and under regulation from a regulatory body of the jurisdiction they are registered. While regulations place many burdens on operators, in the end, the benefits of being legal and legitimate far outweigh both the costs and the legal limitations imposed. In this comprehensive guide on online casino licenses, we will go over the whys and hows of getting licenses. And also, take a look at some of the most popular gambling license jurisdictions to help you make your decision. What Are Online Casino Licenses? Simply put, an online gambling license is a legal document conferring the right onto a company to operate a gambling business in a given territory. Just as land-based casinos must be regulated, so do their online counterparts. In order for an operator to offer games of chance, such as video slots, table games, or sports betting, legally, they must have a license that covers the territories they want to offer the games. Getting one, however, is usually no easy feat. Not only do they cost money (depending on the jurisdiction, the licensing costs may represent a significant barrier to entry into the market), but they also create an obligation for the company to follow regulations. The exact nature of the regulations depends on the given jurisdiction. Some, like Curacao, are known for being less stringent. While for instance, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission is considered especially tough. What’s important to note is that the early days of unlicensed and “wild west” online gambling are largely over. More and more countries want to bring this form of gambling into the legal mainstream and have begun to crack down on anyone who operates illegally. Therefore, those who do so are not only risking steep fines but even potential jail time. In general, the role of the licensing authority is to make sure that all gambling, including online, is above board and safe for the consumers. Those who want to open an online casino must have a license. The hard part of this decision is actually figuring out where to pursue getting a license. Many different jurisdictions offer them, and all of them have their own pros and cons. But, with this guide in hand, you will be able to figure out most of these questions and know what to expect as you set out on the journey to get your budding online iGaming empire up, and running, and, most importantly — legal. Where And Why Should Casinos Get Licensed? When considering online casino licenses (and operators definitely should), there are a lot of things to take into account. But the most important thing to remember is that players today expect an online casino to be operating under laws and regulations. Most of the sites that review casinos make a note of the jurisdiction. Players are sensitive to this info, as they do not want to deposit their money into a venue that could be deemed unsafe. And as the events in the iGaming industry in 2021 show, more and more countries are moving to regulate all forms of online gambling. This means that to be a viable option for players today, operators must be licensed. And that is just on the perception side of things. The main reason why operators pursue gambling licenses is to protect themselves from legal liabilities and to be able to operate normally as a business. That last part is extremely important. These days, players expect to be able to deposit and withdraw money using many different payment providers and to be able to take a punt on a large catalog of games. And here’s the thing. You won’t be able to offer many payment options and many games if you’re not a licensed online casino. It’s simple. Respectable companies want to work with other respectable companies. Your fly-by-night operation simply won’t attract such game providers as NetEnt or Microgaming, sorry. In order to be able to collaborate with the best providers, whether it’s in payment, games, or the casino platform itself, you will need to be licensed and operating legally. Some who do not do so run pirated software on their sites, but this opens additional legal liability as those companies can sue for copyright and intellectual rights infringement. Since we settled the question of why it’s time to address the where of it all. We will go over the different jurisdictions in-depth a bit later in this guide, but for now, let us say this choice primarily depends on where your company is based and which market you want to go after. While all jurisdictions have their own rules and requirements, there are things they have in common in broad strokes. What is called “fit and proper persons” will have to occupy ownership and senior positions, there are tests for this. The random number generators (RNGs) in the software will have to be regularly tested and validated. Some may even ask you to publish a full RTP (return to player) list for each and every game you offer. Some clientele may be barred from playing with you, and you may need to establish limits on deposits. These are just some of the requirements, and this is by no means an exhaustive list. When considering where to get licensed, it is very important to go through the full legal requirement list. Agencies exist to help companies through this process due to the volume of work involved. How Online Casinos Apply for Gaming Licenses? Each licensing authority will have its own process of application. But there are some things that they have in common and that prospective casino operators can expect as parts of the process no matter where they apply. In general, you can expect to pay various fees (one-time and/or yearly, more on those later in this guide), deal with a considerable load of paperwork, and also wait. For a couple of months at least. Common requirements include things like background checks, business plans, proof of funds, and software and compliance checks. Depending on the jurisdiction, it may be necessary to also incorporate in the jurisdiction and to house servers in the same location too. A lot of the time, the authorities also enforce standards on platform providers so it can increase the chances of a successful application to cooperate with providers who are already licensed and reputable. Speaking frankly, getting licensed is no cakewalk. There are many checks, demands, and requirements. Criminal records will be checked, as well as passports, bank references, information on target markets, and measures to prevent minors from gambling... Anti-money laundering and know-your-customer procedures are other big parts of what is asked from prospective iGaming operators. To keep track of all of this and to avoid wasting time and funds, many companies seeking online gaming licenses employ the services of legal firms and consultancies that specialize in this area of corporate law. Note also that gambling authorities do not operate in a vacuum. They are able and willing to use inquiries with other national and international regulatory bodies to fully check your probity and get the necessary info about your background and history. Therefore, it could be argued that the best way to get through the licensing process is to be as forthcoming and transparent as possible. This goes even for those who do have blemishes in their history, as the investigation will most likely uncover them. As to how to actually begin the process, applications can be made through a licensing agent or independently. Sometimes, it will even be possible to apply online. What all online casinos or sports betting sites need to know is that while most will be operating in many countries, the legislation of the country where it is registered will always take precedence over any international laws. That is yet another thing to keep in mind. A number of gambling jurisdictions exist now, and most casinos tend to choose one of the most popular ones, such as Malta, Curacao, or Gibraltar. The choice of jurisdiction is possibly the most important step in the process, as it will dictate the rest of it. How Do Online Casinos Choose an Online Gambling License? Out of so many different options, how do companies seeking to operate online iGaming sites decide where to incorporate and which license to seek? To answer this question, companies need to think about their needs and business possibilities. This is what will guide the decision. Any type of gambling will require a license, and businesses have to get one before they go live. Before they set out on the difficult and demanding trek of licensing, online casinos take into account the requirements each jurisdiction imposes, the costs associated with the fees, and the taxation policy. Many choose to speed this process up by hiring outside help, such as lawyers. Different jurisdictions also have different reputations. Some are seen as more lenient, while some are seen as very heavy on the rules and limitations. As an example, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission has recently decided they will start regulating how fast a single round in a video slot game can be. In Sweden, the regulatory body decided to ban the offering of bonuses. There are quite a lot of factors to consider when choosing a license, and it’s of the highest importance to get it right. The Overview Of The Most Popular Gambling License Jurisdictions In this section of our guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular and most commonly selected online gambling jurisdictions. Each of these has its own pros and cons, opening certain opportunities while closing some others. They also vary in requirements and the costs associated, so those looking to get their online casino up and running need to have a good hard think about what might work best for their specific needs. Malta Gambling Authority Malta has for many years been the iGaming hub of Europe. That’s for a good reason, as their license is considered very reputable and offers access to the lucrative European market. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is the body that carries out the licensing process and confers the license to an operator. They are also the ones issuing regulations and checking compliance. MGA offers four classes of licenses. The first type gives the right to organize games of chance where the result is determined by an RNG. This is the license that you want if your online casino offers video slots and table games. The other licenses offer the ability to organize games based on event outcomes (i.e., sports betting), poker, and fantasy sports. In 2018, the body streamlined some of the taxation systems, removed the need for current holders to apply for separate licenses, and waived the monthly compliance contribution for the first 12 months of the casino’s operation. Getting licensed in Malta, however, is a long process. Prospective operators go through at least five stages which include several compliance audits. It takes 3 to 4 weeks for the application to be considered, followed by a temporary license of six months. After that, based on extensive checks, a five-year license is given. The process is definitely involved: a fit and proper check, a business planning check to ensure the viability of the business plan, a financial reserves check, and a system review. But with so many licensed?online casinos and sports betting sites choosing this license, it’s clear that it is worth it. It gives access to the European market and players place a high trust in it. United Kingdom Gambling Commission Then there is the UKGC. This is the regulating body that oversees gambling in the United Kingdom and offers a host of different licenses based on what a company is doing. These include five types of remote betting ones (as an example, accepting sports betting on real events and on virtual events requires the possession of two different licenses) as well as a range of intermediately and industry licenses. This is one of the drawbacks of the United Kingdom Gambling Commission license, as operators who later want to branch out into other aspects of iGaming will need to apply for a separate license for each. In addition, the UKGC has some of the longest approval processes, which can last up to 16 weeks, and in recent years, the regulatory body has begun tightening the leash on what operators in the country are allowed to do. So, why get licensed by the UKGC at all? The UK is one of the largest contributors to the international gambling industry, generating a gross gambling yield of ￡2 billion between October 2011 and September 2012. There’s your answer. Before 2014, the UK had a more relaxed attitude to remote gambling, and operators from so-called “whitelisted territories” (such as Malta and Gibraltar) were able to both accept bets from Britons and to advertise in the country. Since 2014, changes in regulation mean that anyone wanting to access the UK market and advertise in it must be licensed by the UKGC. So, despite UK regulations being onerous with a trend of increasing regulatory pressure, online casinos still get licensed here due to the lucrativeness of the UK iGaming market. Cura?ao Cura?ao is a small island in the Caribbean with a large presence in the online iGaming industry. This is in large part due to the ease and low costs of gaining a license. How it works is that there are master licenses and sub-licenses. New operators apply for a sub-license at one of the four master license holders (they have been fixed since 1996). Master licenses are renewed every five years, and sublicenses are valid for as long as the master licenses are. The main advantage of this system is that online casinos need only one license for the entire iGaming vertical. This is in contrast to jurisdictions like the UK, where separate licenses need to be obtained to offer different kinds of gambling. Where the Cura?ao license really shines is in how cheap it is. While each of the four master license holders has its own rules and fees, it is in the neighborhood of $5,000 annually. There is a one-time application fee (around $2,000) and a couple of other smaller ones. In addition, Curacao has a 0% corporate income tax and a 2% net gains tax. Getting a Cura?ao license is fast and takes as little as six weeks. There are a couple of significant drawbacks, however. Casinos licensed in Curacao cannot accept players from the USA, France, the Netherlands, and Curacao itself. Overall, however, due to its simplicity and quickness, Curacao is an excellent choice for many first-time operators. Of course, such operators can always choose to be licensed somewhere else later. Gibraltar Gibraltar is another of those jurisdictions that is very attractive due to low taxes — just 1% of revenue and capped at ￡425,000. Quite possibly, Gibraltar is the most exclusive jurisdiction there is. Online casino owners need to prove financial solvency, provide a business plan and be ready to perform all transactions solely through banks based in Gibraltar. This jurisdiction also has some of the most stringent regulations and is the golden standard of trustworthiness and reliability. The license fee is paid in one lump sum of ￡100,000. But that’s far from the only thing you’d need to pony up to get a license here. Gibraltar is selective, preferring to give licenses only to already established operators that already hold reliable licenses. As it states on the regulator’s website, the authority only considers “blue chip companies with a proven track record in gambling.” And perhaps the most important thing written on that same website — “Licenses are generally difficult to obtain.” So, there you go. This is an option for established operators who want to pay fewer taxes. If you’re someone looking to get started, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Sweden’s Spelinspektionen For a long time, gambling in the country was a state monopoly. But recent changes have seen the market open up. Spelinspektionen is the regulatory body that decides who gets a license and who does not. Sweden, being a new market, is also quite stringent. The focus of the Swedish regulators is player protection and the reduction of gambling addiction. It is also a very reactive body. In 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, Sweden took temporary responsible gambling measures such as a SEK 5,000 limit on deposits (around 488 ) and a bonus limit of SEK 100 (less than 10). Spelinspektionen may be seen as a very restrictive jurisdiction, but it also represents an opportunity for iGaming companies as the market gets liberalized. How Much Do Online Casino Licenses Cost? This is a tricky question as different jurisdictions charge differently for applications and may have other additional fees. Another important thing to consider is the tax rate. Prices can be quite cheap, such as in the case of Curacao. Or alternatively, expensive, such as in Gibraltar. Of course, Gibraltar offsets this high upfront license cost with a very favorable corporate gains tax rate. In Malta, which remains the most popular way to get into the European iGaming market, the application fee is €5,000, and the annual license fee is fixed at €25,000. New tax rules since 2018 will see online casinos with the B2C Type 1 license (that’s the one that lets you offer video slots) pay annual taxes on a progressive scale: of 1.25% if the profits do not exceed €3 million and 1% for profits up to €4.5 million and so on. If a casino makes up to €10 million, it will only pay 0.55% in taxes. So for those companies that are very successful, Malta is clearly an excellent choice. In general, depending on the jurisdiction, the fees will be different. So anyone looking to get one of these licenses will have to weigh the costs. In Sweden, for instance, casinos can expect to end up with licensing costs of between €229,950 and €257,450 based on the number of founders (this total includes things such as local servers and management fees). FAQ on Online Casino Licenses What is an Offshore Casino License? An offshore gaming license simply means that the provider works remotely from their home country, but their operation takes place without locally imposed restrictions. A very large number of online casinos today have these types of gaming licenses that enable them to work from one country while serving gamblers in many different territories where their license is accepted. Why Should I Get a Gambling License For My Casino? As online iGaming has become more and more widespread, governments have started regulating it. At the same time, players want to play at casinos that are fair and legitimate. Therefore, getting a license is essential to being able to be a proper player in the iGaming market. Not to mention that payment processors, banks, and software suppliers will only work with regulated casinos. This essentially means that operating properly as an online iGaming venue is not possible without a license from a competent gaming authority. How Do I Obtain a Gambling License? The first step in obtaining an online casino license is figuring out which markets your casino wants to serve. After that, you will look into what jurisdictions can give you a license that will enable you to do business. There will probably be more than one, so things like license fees, tax rates, and more will factor into your decision. Given the complexity of this task, many prospective casino owners seek out help from legal firms to complete this process.

Blackjack tournaments offer a unique and exciting way to enjoy this classic casino game. But before you dive in, it's essential to understand how these matches work and what strategies can help you succeed. This article will cover the blackjack tournament strategy to become a true winner. How to Play Blackjack Tournaments? For Blackjack tournaments, players pay an entry fee to participate and aim to collect the most chips within a set amount of time or to outlast all opponents via a series of knockouts. They have become increasingly popular in both land-based and online casinos. Although blackjack matches are ultra-competitive, they offer minimal risk because the player only risks losing the entry fee. Some contests may submit a free entry, but larger prize pools come from paying the entry fee. During the round, players compete against each other rather than the casino. All participants start with the same amount of chips and play the same number of hands, with the player who has the most chips at the end of the round advancing to play against other table winners. To succeed in a tournament, having more chips than the opponents at the end of each round is crucial. This requires not only knowing how to play blackjack but also how much to bet and how to react to opponents' chip counts. Progressing in a match with relatively few chips is possible if they are more than the opponents'. Therefore, participants must watch opponents' bankrolls to know if they are ahead or behind in the chip count as the round progresses. Tournament Blackjack VS. Casino Blackjack One significant difference between a contest and regular online blackjack is the amount of money at risk. Depending on their luck and strategy, a player can lose considerable money in a single night in traditional blackjack. On the other hand, in competitive blackjack, players only risk their entry fee and play with chips. Other significant differences that contrast the tournament & casino blackjack are: In a blackjack match, players compete against each other, and in a regular game, they compete against the dealer. In the contests, participants aim to collect more chips, but players tend to earn money in standard blackjack. Participants in contests can earn up to a six-figure prize. On the other hand, regular players can rarely win that enormous amount of money. Players should know how to outplay opponents, while in the regular game, it's essential to have specific techniques, such as shuffle tracking and card counting. The player's losses are limited to the competition entry fee in competition. However, You can always buy more chips if you lose your entire bankroll in standard blackjack. Types of Blackjack Tournaments There are different types of blackjack games, but there are also other types of contests. Each competition format has its regulations and objectives. Therefore, players must study the specific blackjack tournament rules before entering a game. Understanding the differences in formats can help players choose which games to join. We'll go through each type and explain how it works. Traditional Elimination Tournaments are the most popular format, where players compete only against those at their table. The table winners advance to the next round, and the others are eliminated. Players can pay a re-buy fee in most elimination matches and play again if eliminated. Tournaments with Elimination format was made famous by the televised Ultimate Blackjack Tournaments. After a certain number of hands, the player with the lowest chip count is eliminated. Non-Elimination or Accumulation Tournaments allow players to compete against each other to win the most chips after several rounds in this format. The leaders are often posted on a leaderboard, so players know how much they need to win to overtake the leaders. Mini-Tournaments have a low entry fee and take less than a day to complete, with a prize pool of $2,000 or less. They are usually held weekly in land-based casinos and often daily in online casinos. Major Tournaments have higher entry fees, take more than one day to complete, and have a sizable prize pool, often six figures. Casinos that offer major contests usually hold them over a weekend, offer the contestants free or discounted rooms, and typically include a banquet and gift. Live-Money Tournaments require players to purchase the chips, which can be exchanged for cash at the end of the tournament. So in live-money tournaments, players risk their own money. Sit 'N' Go Tournaments are continuously running matches that begin once six players have been assembled. In addition, sit 'n' Go contests have become popular on internet sites that offer blackjack contests. Required Skills for Blackjack Tournaments Players must possess skills beyond basic knowledge to succeed in a match. Developing a solid set of skills takes practice and dedication. However, the primary set of skills to be a victorious opponent in the competition include: Deep understanding of the game's regulations, cards, and odds associated with different hands. Strong observation skills to keep track of the opponent's chip counts and make betting decisions based on the insight. Quick thinking is crucial during the gameplay, as you must calculate the potential outcomes of your opponents' bets. Know when to bet high/low, when to correlate or increase bets, and how to lock out opponents. Calculate a player's game balance depending on their bet's outcome and determine their possible outcomes. Knowing the basic blackjack strategy and when and how to deviate from it is also essential. Blackjack Tournament Strategy Implementing the right strategy for the blackjack tournament is critical to becoming a successful player. In competition, you must consider many factors when betting and deciding whether and when to double down, hit, stand, or split. So, we'll go through the necessary steps to implement a winning blackjack strategy. How to Win Blackjack Tournament To win a blackjack match, it is crucial to have a good strategy in place. At the end of the tournament, placing a large wager, often recommended as half of your chip stack can give you an advantage. If you receive a pair, you can split it, and if you have enough chips left, you can double down on a two-card total that justifies it. When you reach the final table, your first rule should be not to bust out early. Instead, you should wait and see how other players bet before making big wagers. In the final hand, most of your opponents will go all-in, so you should do the same but keep one chip to advance in case the dealer wins. If you’re wondering ‘’How to win blackjack tournaments’’, the understanding of final hands will help you: You should start making larger bets at Hand 10 point in the tournament, but not too much, as you don't want to risk losing your chip lead. Keep your chances close to what your competitors are making, but be prepared to raise them slightly if necessary. Hands 17-18 are critical hands in the final table, as they can make or break your chances of winning. If you are leading, keep the pressure on with the same bets you have been making. If you are close to the pack, bet up to one-third of your stack. If you need to catch up, bet half your stack. Hand 19 is a significant hand, as it can be the difference between winning or losing the tournament. If you lead by more than a maximum wager, bet enough to get two stakes ahead plus $5. If you show by a small amount, watch the other bets closely and try to get ahead by a maximum wager plus $5. If you are not leading, try to bet up to half your stack. The higher payoff for first justifies busting out here and taking a lower profit. Hand 20 is the tournament's final hand, and you want to be the chip leader after this. Set your bet accordingly. That should be considered if most participants are close, and you can guarantee a second-place finish with a sure bet. Otherwise, bet the maximum. You should also consider that all players may lose the last hand while playing. If this happens, will you have enough chips to take first? When six or seven participants are still competing for first or second, and each is making the maximum wager, you may have a better chance of making a little bet, keeping more in reserve, and hoping the dealer has a killer hand. Do this if there is no way for you to get first, second, or third unless the dealer beats everyone. Betting Strategy for Blackjack Tournament One of the critical things to keep in mind is to avoid betting more than your bankroll. While it may be tempting to bet big to increase your bankroll quickly, it is a risky strategy that can result in losing everything in your first hand. Instead, bet conservatively and adjust your bets accordingly as the progresses. When you are not leading, it is advisable to bet slightly less than the chip leader. This will allow you to stay in the game without risking too much of your bankroll. If you are leading, however, you should consider betting slightly more to maintain your lead and stay ahead of the competition. It is essential to pay attention to the other players' betting patterns and adjust your bets accordingly. For example, if most players are betting aggressively, it may be wise to bet conservatively to avoid losing your chips. Similarly, if most participants are betting conservatively, you should take a more aggressive approach and bet more to gain an advantage. When in doubt, saving one chip and waiting for the next hand is always a good idea. This will allow you to stay in the game and open your options. Knowing when to split while playing blackjack is essential. Splitting pairs and doubling down is also crucial in matches. Generally, you should split pairs when you have a couple of eights or aces and double down when you have 11. However, you should also consider the other players' cards and adjust your strategy accordingly. By following these tips and knowing when to split pairs and double down, you can increase your chances of winning the match. Blackjack Tournament Tips Participating in a blackjack contest can be an exciting experience. Here are some tips to improve your chances of success: Read and understand the regulations, including the number of rounds and hands per round, updates on the leaderboard, and gameplay practices such as betting limits and surrender options. Pay attention to your opponent's cards, actions, and the leaderboard while playing, and adjust your betting and decision-making accordingly. Consider your position in the betting rotation and adjust your blackjack tournament betting strategy. Be aware of the time and chip count, and adjust your bets. If you're lucky to be near the top of the leaderboard, manage risk to maintain your lead, and don't be reckless. Most importantly, have fun. Remember, the game's goal is to be entertained; if you don't win, there is always another chance. Conclusion Participating in a tournament requires a different strategy than regular online blackjack. Participants must understand the game's rules and odds and develop observation and quick-thinking skills to succeed. Implementing the right betting strategy and knowing when to split pairs and double down is also crucial in increasing the chances of winning the game. Remember, while the goal is to win, the main objective is to have fun and enjoy the thrilling experience of a blackjack tournament. FAQ What is the 212 strategy in blackjack? The 212 strategy in blackjack is a betting strategy where a player starts with a base bet, then doubles the bet for the second hand, returns to the base bet for the third hand, and then doubles the bet again for the fourth hand. How does a blackjack tournament work? A casino blackjack tournament typically works by participants paying an entry fee to participate and competing against each other to win the most chips within a set time or by outlasting all opponents via a series of knockouts. Do you hit on 15 or 16? Whether to hit on 15 or 16 in blackjack depends on the dealer's upcard. However, as part of the blackjack tournament strategy, the players are generally advised to hit on 15 or 16 against a dealer's seven or higher and to stand against a dealer's 2 through 6. How long does a Blackjack tournament last? The length of a blackjack tournament can vary depending on the format and directions of the tournament. Some contests may last a few hours, while others may span several days or weeks.

Sports betting odds are influenced by various factors, both general and specific to different sports. Recent performance, win-loss records, past matchups, and statistics are crucial in determining odds. The absence of key players due to injuries or suspensions can significantly shift the odds. Teams often perform better at home due to familiar conditions and support from local fans. Heavy rain, for instance, might impact a football game's score. Past encounters between teams or players can influence odds, especially if there's a consistent pattern of wins or losses. When you look at the odds on betting sites, you have to consider many factors. We cut through those aspects to help you secure the best odds, choose the appropriate market, and determine the optimal timing for your betting picks. 1. Know your sport inside out By deeply understanding the sport, bettors can better interpret statistics and trends that can influence games and use them to predict outcomes more accurately. Regularly following a sport provides deeper insights into player form, injuries, and potential line-up changes.  In addition to tactics, team dynamics, playing styles, and historical performances against certain opponents, bettors often consider players' personal problems, such as disagreements with their coaches. These details will help you make smarter decisions and find valuable bets at top betting sites. 2. Don't just stick to one bookmaker  Bettors can limit themselves if they stick to a single bookmaker. For example, various bookmakers give different odds on the same events. By shopping around, bettors can be certain they are receiving the most value for their bets. Even little variations in odds might lead to considerable increases in possible winnings over time. This approach, known as odds shopping, is critical for anyone serious about profiting from sports betting. Furthermore, several bookmakers provide a range of incentives, promotions, and special deals that might be helpful to bettors. These may include welcome bonuses, free bets, improved odds, and cashback offers, all of which can provide value above and beyond the odds. Certain bookies may specialize in specific sports or events or provide greater market depth. By sticking to a single bookmaker, a punter may miss out on the extensive coverage of favorite sports or events. Finally, the betting experience can differ dramatically among bookies regarding user interface, customer service, and the availability of extra services, such as live streaming, in-play betting, and cash-out choices. 3. Don't bet only on the favorites Favorites typically have lower odds because they are more likely to win, meaning the potential returns on a bet are down compared to betting on an underdog. Also, sports are inherently unpredictable, and upsets are more common than one might think. By betting only on favorites, bettors ignore the potential value that can be found in underdog victories. Sometimes, favorites are overvalued based on reputation rather than current form or specific matchup conditions. Ultimately, odds are influenced by public perception and betting patterns. The fact is that favorites often attract attention and money, which might lead to shorter odds and less value for the bettor. 4. The fewer selections, the better Keeping your bets simple or placing single bets might be a more successful strategy than accumulating picks. The fundamental reason for preferring fewer selections is the increased probability of winning—each additional selection in a bet multiplies the risk since every selection must be correct. By betting on fewer selections, you reduce the impact of variance. With fewer bets, the outcome is more likely to reflect your skill and knowledge rather than random chance. Also, focusing on fewer selections allows for more thorough research of each choice. When betting on a single game or event, you can analyze relevant situational factors and concentrate on identifying value in the betting markets. This detailed analysis is more likely to lead to rational betting decisions than spreading your focus across many games or events. 5. Avoid the temptation of odds-on prices Be mindful of the false sense of security that odds-on prices can create. Upsets are common in sports, and even the most favored can lose, leading to significant losses, especially if a bettor has staked a large amount due to a low return. Effective bankroll management is crucial in sports betting. Punters risk more money than they stand to win, which means that even a few losses can be challenging to recover from. One of the critical aspects of successful betting is finding value. Odds-on bets often offer little to no value as bookmakers adjust the prices to reflect the high probability of the outcome. So, the risk-to-reward ratio in odds-on betting is skewed. 6. Consider the less obvious markets Mainstream betting markets, like match winners or total points, are heavily analyzed and bet on. Bookmakers price these markets rather accurately. Less obvious markets might receive a different level of attention, leading to more favorable odds or mispriced lines that savvy bettors can exploit. If you have specialized knowledge of a particular aspect of a sport, less obvious markets allow you to leverage this expertise. For example, if you thoroughly understand individual player performances in basketball, you might find great value in player-prop NBA betting. 7. Make sure you understand the market Understanding betting markets is the foundation for making informed and strategic decisions. Different markets offer different types of bets, each with its own rules and strategies. Each market requires a unique approach to research, risk assessment, and understanding of the sport. Prop bets, for example, require specific and detailed knowledge of players and teams.  A common mistake bettors make is not fully understanding the distinctions between these different markets. Failing to grasp how a point spread works can lead to misinterpreting what constitutes a winning bet. 8. Don't bet with your heart Letting personal biases dictate betting decisions is a common pitfall in sports betting. This approach can significantly impair judgment and lead to decisions that aren't backed by sound reasoning or statistical evidence. Emotional betting ignores important aspects that influence the outcome and includes making bets based on love for the team or player rather than on an objective analysis. In NFL betting, a fan of a particular football team might consistently bet on their team to win despite player injuries or a poor run of form. While loyalty is admirable, it misses critical factors that should improve decision-making. 9. Pick your moment The ideal timing for placing bets and live bets varies depending on the nature of the sport, the type of bet, and the specific circumstances surrounding the event. Here's a breakdown of ideal time frames for both pre-game and live betting: Pre-game betting Early betting: Placing bets as soon as the lines are released can be advantageous, especially for seasoned bettors with a good sense of value. Early lines may not fully reflect recent developments or public betting trends, which creates betting opportunities. In NFL football betting, early lines can provide value before the market adjusts. Closer to the event: Waiting until the event starts has its benefits as well, allowing bettors to consider last-minute changes, such as injuries, weather conditions, or roster changes. In baseball betting, where starting pitchers are crucial, betting closer to game time can be wise. Market movements: Observing how the lines move and comparing odds in the days leading up to the event can provide insights into where smart money is going. For those less confident in their initial analysis, following these movements can aid in making wiser decisions. Live betting Early game observations: The beginning of the game is a critical time for live sports betting. Watching the first few minutes can give insights into the strategies teams employ, any unforeseen factors like weather impacts, or the game's general flow. Reacting to game dynamics: A key player getting injured, a significant change in momentum after a few big plays, or a team displaying unexpected form can be good moments to consider live betting. Halftime/breaks in play: Halftimes or breaks in play, like the end of a set in tennis, are strategic times for live sports betting. They provide a moment to assess the game without the pressure of ongoing play and can be ideal for placing bets based on first-half performances or expected adjustments. Avoiding late-game betting: While tempting, betting late in the game can be risky unless you have a clear read. Those live odds are usually less favorable, and the potential for unexpected changes diminishes. 10. It pays to follow less popular sports Major sports like football, basketball, and horse racing attract much attention from bettors and bookmakers. The odds in these sports are usually sharp, as bookmakers invest significant resources in setting accurate lines. Less popular sports, however, can maintain less efficient markets.  Concentrating on a niche sport allows you to develop expertise that gives you an edge over bookmakers. With less information available publicly, your in-depth knowledge, combined with odds comparison, can be a significant advantage. You can understand nuances and details often overlooked by others, giving you a better chance to spot mispriced odds or valuable betting opportunities. What Affects Sports Betting Odds? There can be several ways where the odds on sports betting futures can change before a season begins. For example, in the last few days and weeks leading up to games, events such as trades or free agent signings can transform the underdog into one of the favorites or create an even bigger divide between the two squads. Player injuries or absences due to suspensions or personal reasons and the location of the game can affect the odds. Teams generally perform better at home, which can lead to shorter odds. In MLB betting or other outdoor sports like college football, weather conditions can impact gameplay and thus affect the odds. Past matchups between the teams or players can influence odds, especially if one team or player dominates the other consistently. The specific strategies or styles of play can influence how a team stacks up against another, affecting the odds. For example, the over/under margin on two high-scoring NBA teams will significantly increase compared to the league average. Lastly, the dynamics of the betting market can also influence odds. Bookmakers adjust odds based on where the larger portion of the money is going. If many bets are placed on one team, the odds may be adjusted to balance the action.

Roulette is considered to be one of the most popular casino games. But what is the origin of roulette, who developed it, and how did it become the game we know today? First, let’s take a look at the history of roulette and how it has evolved. The Roulette Origin In the following sections, I'll discuss Roulette history in China, Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, France, and America. China Many believe roulette is based on an old Chinese board game where 37 animal miniatures were arranged on a magic square with 666 numbers. Eventually, the game was brought to Europe, with minor changes, by Dominican monks who were heavily involved in Chinese society. It’s not known how exactly the original Chinese game was played. However, by turning the square into a circle, the monks created a space specifically for the number zero. French roulette has always had a zero and a double zero, so implying that the ancient Chinese game is still in use is most likely false. However, in spite of this, the numbers on a contemporary roulette wheel add up to 666, which is an enigmatic number. Ancient Rome Soldiering in ancient Rome was not an enjoyable or interesting profession. Soldiers had to deal with injuries and the loss of their comrades in battles. In addition to lowering the soldiers’ morale, this had an adverse effect on their fighting abilities. Soldiers played various gambling games, and one of the games was fairly similar to modern-day roulette. Shields had symbols written on the inside and were set face down on the ground with an arrow next to them. Soldiers would spin the shield and bet on the symbol that would eventually stop in front of the arrow. Although this game has a connection to roulette, there isn’t enough evidence to prove that roulette's history started in Rome. Ancient Greece Greek soldiers also enjoyed playing games. Just like Roman soldiers, they played a similar game, but there isn’t enough evidence to prove that roulette originated in Greece or Rome. France Roulette’s origin is unmistakably French, hence its name. However, its design and gameplay are influenced by two similar games popular in 17th-century Europe. Roly Poly and Even-Odd both involved spinning a wheel and wagering on the outcome. The wheel was designed by Blaise Pascal, who was a well-known gambler. Due to the prohibition of gambling in many European nations during that time, it wasn’t very popular. To solve some of his financial problems, Prince Charles of Monaco came up with the bright idea of utilizing the growing popularity of gambling. In those casinos, roulette was nearly identical to the one we play today. Even the betting options were virtually identical. Numbers ranged from 1 to 36, with one zero and one double zero pocket and red and black colors. America In the 19th century, roulette started flourishing in America, and New Orleans quickly became the gambling center. There were only 28 numbers in the earliest forms of the game, along with a zero, double zero, and an eagle symbol. The eagle, the American symbol of liberty, increased a casino’s house edge. However, the eagle was soon eliminated and replaced by a regular numbered slot. This version of the game gave way to the European version with numbers 1–36. Additionally, the American style of play was different from the European style. The game evolved in Monte Carlo casinos, offering a sophisticated and leisurely experience. In American territories, however, the game was played in gambling dens. The wheel was placed on the table to prevent both players and operators from cheating. That way, it wasn’t possible to hide any devices under the table or wheel. The layout of American roulette was also simplified, allowing the game to be played more quickly. In Europe, the roulette wheel included just a single zero, while in the US, the double zero roulette, with its higher house edge, remained dominant. Modern European and American roulette differ primarily in this regard. Canada, the Caribbean, and South America also play the American version of the game. Other parts of the world, however, prefer the single zero version. Evolution of the Roulette’s Zeros It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that the zero appeared on the roulette wheel. For centuries, Pascal’s roulette wheel remained the same. Finally, a single zero was added to the roulette wheel in 1842, designed by Francois and Louis Blanc for Charles III, Prince of Monaco. Due to the fact that adding a zero increased the house advantage, this was a big deal. Since the kingdom faced financial difficulties, Charles built a casino and brought roulette to the masses. As a result, Monaco generated substantial income from the wheel, quickly becoming a symbol of upscale gambling. Moreover, the single zero roulette wheel was released just as France outlawed gambling, making Monte Carlo even more desirable. Online Roulette Online casinos have allowed anyone to play their favorite games from home in recent years. New casino platforms are being introduced every month, and roulette fans are spoilt for choice. Regardless of location, you can now play European, American, and all other types of roulette online. Furthermore, playing the game online has a number of advantages over playing it at a brick-and-mortar casino. First of all, you aren’t distracted by all the noises at a real casino, meaning you can concentrate better on your strategy. Also, online games are fully automated, so you don’t have to pay attention to the dealer and chip sweeping constantly. That is unless you’re playing live dealer roulette online. Special institutions ensure that the games you play aren’t rigged in any way as far as the odds and general fairness of the game are concerned. For example, licensed and certified casinos are safe to play at. Also, you get useful information about roulette probability, payouts, and other important topics. Live Dealer Roulette Games Although online casinos have numerous benefits, one element is missing—the atmosphere of a real casino. Although playing at an online casino is convenient, it can be less exciting than playing in a brick-and-mortar casino. Since the new millennium, some online casinos have offered live streaming to address this issue. VueTec was among the first companies to offer real games to online casinos. First, a webcam was used to stream games from a land-based casino. Then, rather than using an electronic random number generator to determine the winning number, online casinos allowed players to bet on the games. However, there were significant weaknesses to this first attempt to provide live games to online casinos. To avoid disturbing the players, casino operators mounted cameras high above the table, or on the ceiling, above the table. The distance between the camera and the table made it difficult for online players to see the table clearly. It was also impossible for online players to interact with the dealer. In terms of video streaming quality, there was a lot of room for improvement. Due to slow internet connections at the time, high-quality streaming wasn’t possible, affecting the overall experience. A dedicated live casino studio wasn’t introduced until 2006, however. Casino games with real dealers were first introduced to online casinos by Evolution Gaming, the current market leader. Streaming live games from a dedicated studio had significant advantages. Better placement of cameras allowed online players to view the game more clearly. Additionally, multiple cameras were used to show the table from different angles. This approach prevented other players from blocking the view, making the game and the croupier visible. In addition, it was possible to interact with the dealer for the first time. Undoubtedly, those improvements brought the real casino experience closer to players. Conclusion In the 21st century, roulette is one of the most popular casino games, so much so that it has become a hallmark of the traditional casino over the years. Generally, the American-style double zero wheels are used primarily in the US, Canada, South America, and the Caribbean. In contrast, the single zero European-style wheels are used in the rest of the world. It’s still quite common for updates and new versions of roulette rules to be released. In 2016, for example, the Venetian Las Vegas casino introduced the first-ever roulette wheel featuring 39 numbers, including a triple zero (000), which has since been adopted by many other casinos. If you want to learn how to play this game, check the article about different types and strategies for Roulette. FAQ What was roulette originally called? Roulette is most likely of French origin, hence its name. In spite of this, the game is influenced by two very similar games that were very popular in Europe during the 17th century. These games were called Roly Poly and Even-Odd, and both involved spinning the wheel and betting on the outcome. When was roulette invented? The history of roulette goes back to 18th-century France. It’s believed that Blaise Pascal’s search for a perpetual motion machine in the 17th century led to the introduction of roulette. In 1720, a gaming wheel and the Italian game Biribi were combined to create the roulette mechanism.