Bill 48 (the iGaming Alberta Act) recently passed its third and final reading by the Government of Alberta. The passing of this bill would allow for the establishment of Alberta iGaming Corporation and sportsbook operations in the province. This means that Alberta will join the likes of Ontario to support iGaming facilities for its residents.
This development is coming at an ideal time with the rising popularity of online gambling. The convenience of playing virtually any casino game available from a mobile device has proven to be a hit with players. According to iGaming industry expert Alex Hoffmann, casinos you can use on your mobile are giving land-based establishments a run for their money.
Now, the iGaming Alberta Act is waiting for Royal Assent to be fully enacted. Experts predict that the iGaming rollout in Alberta will happen sometime in 2026, which gives both the operators, the provincial government and consumers enough time to prepare for its arrival. Once various companies begin rolling out their offerings in Alberta, they will come under the supervision of Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC).
The passing of this bill could also dissuade Alberta residents from turning to unregulated online casinos. Play Alberta, the only licensed online gambling platform in the province so far, reportedly holds about 45% of the market.
IGaming has proven to be extremely profitable within Canada, with Ontario reporting over $2 billion in revenue last year alone. This includes both online casinos and online sports betting, both of which Alberta has now legalized. If Alberta can record even a fraction of these profits, it will be in a good situation. Not only will consumers be able to access more casino games, but these companies will generate tax revenue and create jobs.
Regulating these various websites will be a major part of the eye gaming rollout in the province. Gambling restrictions around the world seem to be getting more robust and this is keeping in line with changing industry trends. iGaming platforms see a greater use of cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence and other technological innovations . This means that taxation, age verification, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism need to be taken more seriously than ever before.
Once the Royal Assent is given to Bill 48, the province of Alberta can expect an early 2026 or even a late 2025 rollout of these services.
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