Interview with Paul Burns on Canadian Gaming Association and Ontario's iGaming Market

Jul 14, 2024

Interview with Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association

Introduction

  • Interview by Tim Pool, editor of Gambling Insider
  • Discussion with Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association

Key Topics Discussed

Opening of Ontario's Regulated iGaming Market

  • Ontario opened its regulated iGaming market last Monday
    • 12 operators, 17 sites on day one
  • Unique as an open license model in North America
  • Operators are pleased with the market's start

Regulation Clarifications

  • iGaming in Ontario vs. single-event sports betting nationwide
    • Single-event sports betting was enabled nationwide by amending the criminal code
  • Importance of sports betting to avoid a market gap

Market Size and Speculation

  • Speculation on market size (Ontario)
    • Previously, half a billion or more GGR leaving Ontario
    • Estimates suggest $1 to $1.5 billion GGR in year one for regulated iGaming
    • Potential for higher GGR depending on market entries

Benefits of Regulation

  • Keeping tax dollars and revenue within the country
  • Importance of regulated market for a level playing field

Developments in Other Provinces

  • Other provinces watching Ontario's performance
  • Need for dialogue and consultation with industry on best practices
  • No one-size-fits-all model for all provinces
  • Importance of creating a regulatory model to handle the gray market

Personal Note

  • Return to physical events like ICE after two years
  • Importance of in-person meetings and networking

Conclusion

  • Gratitude expressed for the interview
  • Well-wishes for Ontario's and Canada's gaming future