Canada
Amazing Trends that are Set to Transform the Gambling and Casino Industry in 2021
The year 2020 has made it to the history books when the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the entire world into a recession. It hit many industries that even some of the well-established businesses have to shut down. However, it is not the case for the gambling and casino industry.
The gambling and casino industry grows as an increasing number of online casinos, and gambling sites appear on the market. These sites are generating high revenues despite the world’s current situation.
More people turn to their hand-held devices for entertainment, such as gambling and betting. Top it up with huge technological upgrades and user experience. Below are the trends transforming the gambling and casino industry in 2021.
Mobile technology
Gaming on mobile devices has brought casino games and other gambling sites closer to players than ever. In developed countries where virtually everyone owns a mobile device, gambling is at their fingertips. With blazing WiFi speeds of 4G and soon 5G with unlimited data packages, free online casino apps are being downloaded to virtually all smartphones and other devices.
Most players prefer playing on their mobile devices as it allows them to play anytime and anywhere. They don’t have to spend on expensive computers or wait for the boot up before they can start playing. Moreover, they can play quick games with their mobile devices while watching tv, sitting on the bus, or at the park while watching their kids playing around.
More than 50% of all gambling is done on mobile devices, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if mobile gambling becomes more common shortly.
Artificial intelligence
AI or artificial intelligence has been solving many problems and saving humans from tons of working hours in the casino and gambling industry. The AI is being used in:
Chatbots: Customers don’t have to wait in line for customer support to answer their queries. AI chatbots can solve any complicated issues.
Anti-scammers: Sadly, many players are still trying to abuse the online casinos and other players by using different apps or bots to gain unfair advantages. AI can find these individuals and kick them out of the site.
Customer behavior analysis: AI can analyze the players’ preferences to offer them the best solutions and options on a personalized approach. AI can determine the types of promotions it can offer to each player, making their user experience less frustrating and more interesting.
Enhances game processes: AI can detect any problem within the game and inform the developer.
VR and AR changes the user experience
Virtual reality and augmented reality have created a lot of impact on the industry of gaming. Online casinos use technologies to offer their players “complete immersion” within the game, taking their user experience to a higher level.
Through VR and AR, gamers can visit a casino, play games like slot machines, and interact with other players in real-time without going out of their homes.
The blockchain technology
Transactions made using cryptocurrency are currently the fastest and the safest mode of payment. Players don’t have to use their bank, credit/debit card account information if they pay via blockchain.
Moreover, blockchain utilizes non-editable and timestamped record blocks that a group of computers manage, making it impossible to hack. It also provides transaction transparency with high limits and less transaction costs.
Gambling legislation
The past years have seen many changes in gambling legislation. Many countries have become open to gambling operations that offer them a good amount of tax income from their revenues. Moreover, its legalization allows it to become safer and more regulated.
Since the emergence of gambling sites and online casinos, the popularity of the gambling industry keeps on rising every year. Moreover, the pandemic had pushed the technological improvements further and made many changes in the legislation.
While the year 2021 is still struggling for many industries, the gambling and casino industry remains unaffected. Instead, it keeps on prospering despite all the challenges that the world is currently facing.
Ben Clemes
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

High Roller Technologies, operator of the premium online casino brands High Roller and Fruta, announced the submission of its Internet Gaming Operator license application in Ontario, Canada, targeting the launch of its flagship brand HighRoller.com in the second half of 2025.
“The submission of our licensing application to access Ontario’s regulated online gambling market is an important milestone in our Company’s journey. Once our application is approved, we anticipate that we will have the opportunity to launch our online casino product into the market later this year,” said Ben Clemes, Chief Executive Officer at High Roller.
Ontario is one of the largest regulated online gambling markets in the world as measured by gross gaming revenue. In 2024, regulated online gambling operators within the province generated approximately $2.3B in gross gaming revenue, and growth continues to be recorded in the first half of 2025. Recently, the province of Alberta passed enabling legislation to establish a regulatory framework for online gambling. Once available, the Company also intends to pursue licensure in Alberta to expand its regulated market footprint in Canada.
“Ontario is missing an elegant brand like High Roller. We’re excited to roll out the red carpet for our new customers, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our tremendous product,” said Clemes.
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Canada
IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has released the program for its upcoming annual conference, to be held in Toronto from 20-23 October.
With the theme ‘Resilient regulation: Exploring what works, why and what’s next’, the event brings together global regulators and thought leaders to examine how regulatory frameworks can evolve to meet today’s challenges.
The four-day program explores timely issues, including the rise of AI and behavioural analytics, the impact of converging technologies, cross-border collaboration and the continued push to strengthen responsible gambling policies.
IAGR President Ben Haden said the program offers a strong preview of the content and conversations delegates can expect in Toronto.
‘This year’s program showcases the breadth and complexity of the challenges facing gambling regulators worldwide, from protecting player wellbeing to tackling illegal markets and understanding new technologies,’ Haden said.
‘I encourage regulators, researchers and policy professionals from around the world to join us in Toronto. The conference is a space to learn, share experience, challenge assumptions and shape the future of effective, collaborative regulation.’
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
- Andrew Rhodes, CEO, Gambling Commission, Great Britain
- Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
- Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, Canada
- Mark Vander Linden, Director of Research and Responsible Gaming and Carrie Torrisi, Chief of Sports Wagering Division, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, United States
- Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Nigeria
- Teo Chun Ching, Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority, Singapore
- Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder, GamblePause Initiative Africa, Nigeria
- Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI, Denmark
- Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gambling Council, Canada
- Pedro Romero, Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, BetBlocker, Gibraltar
- Sonia Wasowska, Head of Supervision, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, United Arab Emirates
- Steven Blackburn, Partner, Ashurst Risk Advisory, Australia
The event will be held at The Westin Harbour Castle on Toronto’s waterfront.
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Alberta Gaming
Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

Home field advantage has a new name, as the Edmonton Elks announced that Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is now the home of the Elks.
The field naming rights are part of a broader multi-year agreement between Play Alberta and the EE, making Play Alberta the official sports betting partner of the Club.
“We couldn’t be more excited to expand our partnership with Play Alberta. This partnership is about more than just putting a name on the field – it’s about building something meaningful for our fans and our community. Play Alberta is an Alberta-based organization that shares our values and our commitment to giving back. Together, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with our team and experience the game day atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Elks President and CEO Chris Morris.
The expanded relationship between the Elks and Play Alberta will allow the game day experience to continue to grow. Fans can look forward to unique activations and promotions around the stadium, including the chance to win game tickets and memorabilia.
“Since Play Alberta’s launch five years ago, our team has made it a priority to connect with the communities where our players live and work. We are very excited to join the Edmonton Elks on the field on game days during upcoming CFL seasons. Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium allows us to partner with the Elks and showcase two brands built for Albertans in a historic Edmonton location,” said Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Chief Executive Officer Kandice Machado.
The Elks open their 76th season on Saturday, June 7 in Vancouver when they take on the B.C. Lions. Edmonton’s home opener at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is slated for Thursday, June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.
The post Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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