bet365 joins Alberta online gaming market before July launch

bet365 has completed registration for both its online casino and sportsbook platforms ahead of Alberta’s regulated iGaming market launch on July 13, according to the Gaming Registrations list of the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC).

The operator was added to the registry this week, becoming one of 31 platforms registered ahead of Alberta’s regulated online gaming launch. Alberta is set to become the second Canadian province to introduce a privatized iGaming market after Ontario.

The company registered both its casino and sports betting products, making it the sixth operator preparing to launch multiple platforms in Alberta.

BetVictor was also added to the AGLC registrants list this week.

Additional operators are expected to complete registration in the coming weeks as companies finalize applications and licensing requirements before launch. Ontario, which introduced its regulated market in 2022, currently has 77 websites operated by 44 companies.

Grey market transition continues

bet365 has been accessible to Alberta players for years through the grey market, operating without a provincial license alongside offshore gaming sites.

The company followed a similar approach in Ontario after that province opened its regulated iGaming market. Alberta’s regulatory structure was developed using Ontario’s framework as a template.

Earlier this year, the AGLC issued warnings to grey market operators, including bet365, directing them to register under Alberta’s new framework or risk permanent exclusion from the market. By completing registration ahead of the July 13 deadline, bet365 secured its place as a confirmed day-one operator.

Under Alberta’s rules, operators unable to complete applications by July 13 may request extensions of up to three months, potentially extending the deadline to October 13, subject to AGLC approval. Operators that fail to meet both deadlines face permanent exclusion from Alberta’s online gaming market.

Six operators preparing dual-platform launches

Six operators are currently expected to launch both casino and sportsbook products in Alberta.

Cadtree Limited has registered five branded platforms, while Caesars plans to introduce Caesars Palace, Horseshoe, and Caesars Sportsbook, which includes an integrated online casino. DraftKings intends to launch both the DraftKings brand and Golden Nugget, while Bally’s is preparing BallyBet and Monopoly Casino platforms. Electraworks is also among the operators expected to launch two platforms.

Dual-platform competition is expected to increase pressure on odds quality and operator investment across the market. The Alberta market is drawing global brands capable of absorbing a 20% provincial revenue share and $200,000 in annual licensing costs. Alberta’s framework, which allows operators to retain 80% of revenue, is considered more attractive than some international regulated markets.

Ontario platform offers preview for Alberta users

The operator’s Ontario platform provides an indication of what Alberta users may see after launch.

The casino product includes more than 2,000 slot titles, live dealer games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, and jackpot offerings. Its sportsbook covers North American leagues, international soccer, and live betting markets.

Both services operate under a single account structure, allowing users to access casino and sportsbook products through a single wallet and unified loyalty system.

bet365 applies self-exclusion measures across jurisdictions. Any exclusion registered in another jurisdiction may carry over to an Alberta account automatically.

Meanwhile, Hard Rock Digital recently secured its first Canadian gaming license in Ontario, paving the way for its entry into the country’s regulated online gaming sector. The company has not confirmed plans for Alberta’s July launch. Hard Rock took more than four years to expand into Ontario.