Virtual Gaming, Sports Betting Surging in North America

Published: 17/06/2020

Reading Time: 3 Min

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Due to the spread of the coronavirus, governments are imposing strict lockdown rules. Governments are also forced to close many establishments, including casinos and betting houses.

The pandemic has caused many people to look for alternative platforms for them to be able to play and gamble.

It appears that people from the United States and Canada are starting to flock online casinos and bookmaking websites. Many casinos in the region are still on lockdown because of the pandemic. That is why people are taking other options for them to continue gambling.

New report suggests increase in online gambling activities

A recent report published by The Research Insights revealed that the online gambling industry has a huge potential to grow because of the pandemic. Moreover, virtual gaming and sports betting are also making huge improvements compared to their performance before the coronavirus outbreak.

Many market analysts believe that with no immediate cure for COVID-19, governments will continue to impose strict lockdown rules. These rules will force establishments to close their doors to customers. If this will continue, gamblers will also continue to look for alternative platforms for them to be able to play.

There are some places that have resume some semblance of normalcy and have permitted some establishments to open provided they follow strict social distancing rules. Some casinos have also resumed operation, albeit on a limited capacity and also with strict social distancing measures.

The view inside these casinos are quite different from before. Dealers are required to wear masks, and each table are limited to just half of its capacity. While these rules are fairly manageable, it has a completely different effect when it comes to player experience.

With just limited casino operations, some regular gamblers are opting to stay within the confines of their homes and instead play online. This is one of the many reasons why online casinos are experiencing quite a boom recently.

Will this be the end of physical casinos?

Casinos around the world have reported massive losses because of the lockdown brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. With no revenues, casinos are asking the government for some sort of financial assistance for them to be able to continue their operations.

There is certainly a lot of advantages when playing on online casinos. It is convenient, offers a variety of rewards and perks, and many online platforms have a diverse library of games. Although online platforms negate the actual physical experience of being inside a casino, some gamblers are preferring that kind of experience.

Market analysts are still study the adverse effects of the lockdown to the casino industry. It is important to point out that the current situation of the industry is unprecedented and has never been experienced before.

On one hand, industry experts are optimistic that their business should be able to rebound once the pandemic ends. They are only hoping that it will end soon before online casino and virtual gaming become the new normal. Based on current data, the industry is fast becoming digital.