Lottery games captivate millions globally, promising life-changing fortunes if you just purchase a ticket. But did you know that even if you do win, you don’t receive a large chunk of the prize? In 2022, for instance, a lucky Californian nabbed the biggest lottery win ever, a $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot, but took home “only” $628 million.
Our objective here is to delve into the often-overlooked aspect of these games namely their profitability. Stay with us as we unravel the financial fabric of lotteries, a global phenomenon with far-reaching impacts.
Overview of Lottery Systems
Lotteries have a long and varied history, often intertwined with public welfare and fundraising. The history of lotteries dates back centuries, with their origins rooted in ancient times. The concept of drawing lots is mentioned in numerous historical documents, including the Bible.
However, the first recorded signs of a lottery offering tickets for sale with prizes in the form of money appeared in the Low Countries (present-day Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) in the 15th century. These public lotteries were held to raise money for town fortifications and to help the poor.
The idea quickly spread across Europe. In England, the first state lottery was held in 1569, with advertisements using the word “lottery” derived from the Dutch word “lot,” meaning fate. In the 17th and 18th centuries, lotteries were widely used in Europe and the American colonies to fund public works projects, such as roads, libraries, churches, colleges, canals, and bridges, demonstrating their early role in supporting community development and public welfare.
Revenue Stream of Lotteries
Lotteries generate substantial income primarily through ticket and scratch card sales. The pricing strategy for these tickets is key—they are affordable enough to attract a wide audience yet priced high enough to ensure profitability. Major lotteries like Powerball and Mega Millions, known for their massive jackpots, exemplify this strategy, as their lottery tickets are priced at $2. The allure of such life-changing sums drives massive ticket sales, leading to significant revenue generation.
However, the revenue is mainly dependent on the jackpot offered. Let’s take the sales number of Powerball tickets as an example. For the draw on the 11th of October 2023, the jackpot rose to an astounding $1.764 billion, and the draw sales amounted to almost $258.5 million. Somebody won the jackpot that day, and it was reset for the following draw, equalling “only” $20 million. The draw sales were much smaller in comparison (almost $30.4 million) and the sales kept dropping down in the following draws because of the smaller prize money.
Scratch cards offer a different but stable income stream. They are less about gigantic windfalls and more about instant gratification with smaller, more frequent payouts. However, the revenue is nevertheless substantial. For example, The National Lottery brought in over £2.4 billion in scratch card sales in 2020. With the addition of online scratch cards, these types of lottery games are very accessible to the public leading to large revenues from customer engagement.
Role of Taxation in Lotteries
The benefactors of large lottery revenue shares are the state and federal governments. The US lottery revenue in the past 45 years has consistently risen. For instance, the government collected $31.22 billion in 2021. This is not surprising as the US imposes high lottery taxes on winnings, including both state and federal taxes in some states.
In the United States, lottery winnings are subject to both federal and state taxes, and the rates can vary considerably based on the state where the ticket was purchased. Federally, lottery winnings are treated as income, with the top federal tax rate being 37% for winnings over a certain amount.
State taxes on lottery winnings, however, vary widely. Some states, like California and Pennsylvania, exempt lottery winnings from state income taxes, whereas others, such as New York, can impose a state tax rate of up to 8.82%. Additionally, cities and counties may levy their own taxes on lottery winnings.
For instance, New York City adds a municipal tax of up to 3.876%. This disparity in tax rates means that the net amount a jackpot winner takes home can differ substantially depending on their location. For example, a $100 million jackpot could net a winner in California significantly more than a winner in New York, purely due to the differences in state tax rates.
The Allocation of Lottery Profits
Lottery revenues are allocated in multiple ways, balancing prize distribution, operational costs, and contributions to public funds. A significant portion of the revenue is dedicated to prize money, ensuring the attractiveness of the game. Operational costs, including marketing, administration, and sales, require a revenue share, as they are vital for streamlining the whole process.
Looking at real-world examples, the UK National Lottery and EuroMillions offer insights into this allocation. A notable portion of their revenue is channeled into public funds and charities. The UK National Lottery, for instance, contributes to various public sectors, including arts, sports, heritage, and community projects, demonstrating a commitment to societal benefit. Similarly, EuroMillions supports a range of charitable causes and community initiatives across participating countries.
These practices push the ethical aspect of lottery fund distribution to the forefront. By contributing to public welfare and charities, lotteries are not just gambling platforms but also contributors to societal development. This revenue allocation model has been praised for its support of public services and scrutinized for potentially exploiting vulnerable groups. The ethical balance lies in ensuring that lotteries operate transparently and contribute significantly to the public good while promoting responsible gambling.
A Breakdown of The Biggest Lotteries in the US and UK
The lottery landscape is filled with numerous games, but a few stand out due to their immense popularity, substantial jackpots, and wide player base. The Powerball, Mega Millions, and The National Lottery of the United Kingdom are among these leading lotteries, each unique in its structure and impact. Next, we take a look at what the odds are of winning any of these lotteries, the biggest jackpots they’ve offered, and how profits are distributed.
53% – prize pool 25% – charitable causes 12% – UK Government 4% – retailers commission 5% – operational costs
Fair Revenue Distribution is the Name of the Game in State-Run Lotteries
From the record-breaking $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot, with the winner raking in $628 million, to the steady income from scratch card sales, lotteries generate substantial revenue. However, the broader impact of these profits extends beyond mere financial figures.
Lotteries play a pivotal role in funding public welfare programs but also raise ethical questions, particularly concerning their impact on lower-income groups. While lotteries contribute to state and national economies, their overall economic impact is more nuanced, often representing a smaller fraction of total revenues and not being a definitive solution to larger economic challenges.
As we look into the future, one can’t help but wonder how technological advancements and changes in gambling laws will shape the lottery landscape. Will the ethical and economic discussions surrounding lotteries evolve with these changes? How will the balance between societal benefit and responsible gambling be maintained in an ever-evolving digital world and the popularization of online casinos? These are questions worth pondering as we consider the future of lotteries and their place in our societies.
Provably fair is the buzzword echoing through online gambling corridors. But beyond the jargon, how does it truly ensure every wager is on the level? Let's dissect the intricacies and shine a light on provable fairness, RNGs, and their role in the legitimacy game.
What Is Provably Fair Gambling?
At its core, provably fair gambling is the gold standard for fairness in the online gambling industry. But how so?
It allows players to have concrete proof that each game they play is genuinely random and hasn't been manipulated. Through the use of cryptographic algorithms, both the player and the gambling site generate random values, and their combination determines the game's outcome.
At the end of a game, players have the tools to check and verify that everything was above board. It's the ultimate comfort for online gamblers, making sure every roll, spin, or draw can be checked for true fairness.
The ABCs of Provably Fair Gambling
Provably fair gambling might sound complex, but when broken down, it's a straightforward system rooted in transparency. Let's take a step-by-step look at the mechanisms that guarantee fairness.
The Three Pillars of Fair Play
The client seed, server seed, and nonce are foundational elements that determine how outcomes are generated:
Client Seed: This is like your personal touch to the game's outcome. It's a random number generated by your device (like your computer or smartphone). Think of it as throwing your own dice in a board game.
Server Seed: Generated by the online casino's server, this seed is the casino's contribution to the game. It remains hidden (or hashed) during a game to prevent any player from predicting the outcome. Once the round ends, it's revealed for verification purposes.
Nonce: A counter that increases with each game round you play. Imagine it as a tally mark, keeping track of how many times you've played while guaranteeing each round is unique and can't be replicated.
Instruments of Integrity
Here's the tech arsenal that keeps online gambling honest and open:
Random Number Generators (RNGs): Typically employed by traditional casinos and used in popular game types like online slots and video poker. As the name suggests, these are algorithms that produce random numbers, making certain each game's outcome is unpredictable.
Seed Generators: Both the client and server seeds are produced using these generators, which further randomizes the game.
Hashes: This is a way of encrypting, or 'hiding,' the server seed during a game. Once the game ends, the original seed is disclosed, allowing players to verify it against the initial hashed (encrypted) version.
In the Spotlight: Provably Fair vs. Regular Online Casinos
Now that you have a better understanding of provably fair casinos, you are probably wondering what the difference is between these and their traditional counterparts and which option is best. Take a look at the table below for a quick comparison of provably fair and traditional online casinos in key areas:
AspectProvably Fair CasinosTraditional CasinosRandom outcomesYes, verifiable on the blockchainYes, but verification is internalTransparencyAlgorithm is openly visibleAlgorithm is proprietary & hiddenVerificationPlayers can independently verify resultsRelies on third-party auditsCurrency usedMainly cryptocurrencyFiat currency & sometimes cryptoGame qualityVaries; most games with top-notch graphicsTypically high-quality graphicsTrust mechanismSelf-auditing by playersRequires trust in casino & licensorsPopularityGrowing rapidlyAlready widely popularLicensingOften bypasses traditional licensingRequires licensing in many countries
Just because provably fair casinos allow players to verify the random outcome of games themselves, does not mean regular online casinos do not apply due diligence in their running of RNGs. All reputable online casinos are required by law to ensure fair gambling opportunities, with regular RNG audits done and often displayed as proof of the casino’s transparency and commitment to providing fair game outcomes.
Can Provably Fair Gambling Be Manipulated?
Each provably fair bet is associated with a set of encrypted values, which can be audited by the player after the game. Tampering is a herculean task due to the dual contribution of both player and casino in generating outcomes via the client and server seeds.
If any foul play were present, it would be glaringly obvious during the verification process. The blockchain's integration further strengthens this system. Outcomes aren't just saved; they're embedded into an immutable digital structure, making after-the-fact changes impossible.
However, most people still find the process of verifying bets to be a little complicated.
So, when you're taking a seat at a provably fair gambling table, you're not only playing the odds of the game but also reveling in the assurance that the outcome is untouched, genuine, and verifiable.
Should You Bet on Provably Fair Games?
You've probably heard whispers (or likely, loud endorsements) of provably fair games. Here’s a quick rundown on why they're worth your time:
Crystal Clear Transparency
Unlike traditional games where you're mostly taking the casino's word for it, provably fair games lay all their cards on the table. Every move, every outcome is open for you to verify. It's the kind of transparency that puts power back into the player's hands.
Better Odds with Higher RTP
Provably fair games tend to offer a higher RTP—a higher RTP means you generally get more bang for your buck. Simply put, you're looking at better odds and potentially more frequent payouts.
Quality Gaming with Enticing Features
Don’t mistake transparency for dullness. These games are usually packed with top-tier graphics, compelling narratives, and special features.
Trust Redefined With Provably Fair Games
As blockchain technology continues to gain recognition, players increasingly understand the significance of engaging in such games. While some may require a bit of effort to comprehend and verify through hashes, the best online casinos maintain transparent processes. You can rely on their integrity, or opt for the convenience of provably fair casino apps.
Ultimately, provably fair games offer a remarkable benefit—fair, transparent, and open for your scrutiny. Your peace of mind is a sure bet when you play with provably fair technology.
Poker has been a male-dominated game for many years, but in recent times, women have made a significant impact and have proven that they have what it takes to compete and win. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most acclaimed female poker players and some of the key moments in their careers.
Vanessa Selbst
Vanessa Selbst is a former professional poker player from the United States and is considered one of the best female players of all time. She has won three World Series of Poker bracelets and has over $11.8 million in career earnings. She won her first bracelet in 2008 in the $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha event. She followed this up with a win in the $2,500 10-Game Six Handed event in 2012. Vanessa won her third and final bracelet in 2014 in the $25,000 Mixed-Max No-Limit Hold'em event.
Selbst was best known for her aggressive playing style and ability to read her opponents. One of her most memorable moments happened in 2014 when she was the first female to ever participate in the $100k buy-in PokerStars Caribbean Adventure Super High Roller event. And not only that. She managed to rank third in the tournament.
Annie Duke
Annie Duke is another former professional poker player from the United States. She is considered one of the pioneers of women's poker, which is how she got the nickname "The Duchess of Poker."
Now let's see what makes Annie Duke one of the most famous female poker players. Duke has won several high-stakes tournaments and has over $4 million in earnings. She's known for her strategic playing style and the ability to adapt to different situations at the table. One of her key moments happened in 2004 when she won the World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions, becoming the first woman to win the event. She won the tournament playing a $3,000 Omaha High-Low, defeating some of the best players in the world, including Phil Hellmuth.
Duke had a bright poker career until 2012 when she decided to retire and focus on other ventures.
Liv Boeree
Liv Boeree is a retired professional poker player from the United Kingdom. She won several high-stakes tournaments, has over $3.8 million in career earnings, and is considered one of the best female players of her generation. Boeree is known for her aggressive play style and ability to make bold moves at the table.
Boeree's first major tournament win happened in 2008 when she triumphed at the 2008 Ladbrokes European Ladies Championships with a $30,000 prize pot. She followed this up with an even bigger win in 2010, when she won the European Poker Tour main event in Sanremo, becoming the third woman ever to win an EPT title and taking home $1,673,433. And that's not the only title the "Iron Maiden" has. In fact, she is the only female player in history to win both an EPT event and a WSOP bracelet.
Vanessa Rousso
Vanessa Rousso is a former professional poker player from the United States who is widely regarded as one of the best female players of her generation. During her career, Rousso won several high-stakes tournaments and accumulated over $3 million in earnings.
One of her most notable achievements happened in 2009 when she had four in-the-money finishes at the World Series of Poker. This memorable moment solidified Rousso's place as one of the top women poker players in the world and continues to inspire new generations of poker players.
Jennifer Harman
Jennifer Harman is a renowned American professional poker player. She is one of the few female players to have won two World Series of Poker bracelets, a testament to her skills and success at the game. In 2000, Harman won her first WSOP bracelet at the No Limit Deuce to Seven Lowball event, where she beat some of the top professional players, including Steve Zolotow and Lyle Berman, despite having never played the game before and only receiving a five-minute tutorial session from Howard Lederer.
In 2002, Harman won her second WSOP bracelet at the $5,000 Limit Texas Hold'em event, where she faced other professional players, including Humberto Brenes, Allen Cunningham, and Mimi Tran. With this victory, she became the first woman to win two bracelets at the World Series of Poker open events.
Kathy Liebert
Kathy Liebert is a former professional poker player who began her career in Colorado as a prop player. She quickly rose to prominence in the poker world, competing in tournaments and winning the first Party Poker Million event in 2002, the first limit poker tournament with a $1 million prize pool. Liebert's strong performance on the World Poker Tour, including a third-place finish at the 2005 Borgata Poker Open, made her the WPT's highest-ranked woman until J. J. Liu's runner-up finish in 2007.
In 2004, Liebert gained a gold bracelet at the WSOP in a $1,500 limit Texas hold 'em Shootout event, becoming one of three women (Cyndy Violette and Annie Duke being the others) to win an open event that year. She also appeared in and triumphed in the series "Poker Royale: Battle of the Sexes." With several final tables of the WPT and her gold bracelet win at the WSOP, Liebert established herself as one of the top female pro poker players in the world.
Annette Obrestad
Annette Obrestad is a former professional poker player from Norway who gained international recognition for her impressive poker skills. She started playing poker at the age of 15 and quickly built her reputation with the online nickname "Annette_15." Obrestad is known for building her online bankroll through freerolls without making a deposit.
However, it was her performance at the 2007 inaugural World Series of Poker Europe Main Event in London that solidified her place as a poker sensation. With a buy-in of £10,000, the WSOPE Main Event attracted 362 participants, and Obrestad managed to outlast all of them, becoming the youngest player to ever win a WSOP bracelet at the age of 18.
She played the final hand of the tournament one day before her 19th birthday, and her victory made headlines all over the world, attracting attention from both the poker media and mainstream media.
Victoria Coren Mitchell
Victoria Coren Mitchell is another prominent figure among the women in poker, known for her achievements both as a player and a presenter. She set a record by becoming the first player to win both a televised professional tournament (EPT London 2006) and a celebrity tournament broadcast on television in 2005 (Celebrity Poker Club 2005).
Coren Mitchell continued to make her mark in the industry, becoming the first player to win two European Poker Tour Main Events (EPT London 2006 and EPT Sanremo 2014). As a regular player at the Victoria Casino in London's Edgware Road, Coren Mitchell has built a reputation as a skilled Texas hold'em player.
Maria Ho
Maria Ho is a professional poker player who started playing the game in college and was immediately drawn in due to the game's psychological elements. She quickly progressed from playing games for fun to playing high-stakes cash games at various Indian casinos.
Ho has had several successful appearances at the World Series of Poker, including ranking 38th in 2007 and 77th in 2014, earning her the title of Last Woman Standing four times over at both the WSOP and WSOPE Main Events. She was also the Most-Cashing Female at the 2012 and 2014 WSOP series. In March 2019, she made it to the final table at the LA Poker Classic $25,000 High Roller tournament and won first place, reaching her second-highest live tournament score of $276,690. The following month, Ho made the six-handed TV final table of the WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Main Event, placing third for $344,960.
Xuan Liu
Xuan Liu is a professional poker player with over $2 million in career winnings, putting her on the list of the top 20 female professional poker players. She is also the only woman to reach the final table at the PCA Main Event. Liu started focusing on live tournaments in early 2011 and had a successful year, including a third-place finish at the European Poker Tournament San Remo, which resulted in a win of over half a million dollars and her first cash main event with the EPT.
Between 2011 and 2018, Liu had over $100,000 in winnings in four different years and played in over 40 cash games, winning four titles. She was sponsored by 888poker until 2015, after which she started to make fewer appearances. Despite this, Liu's impressive winnings and successful performance at major tournaments solidify her position as one of the top female poker players in the world.
Fun Facts
You probably know Jennifer Tilly as an American-Canadian actress, but many people don't know that she is also known as a professional poker player. Tilly won a World Series of Poker bracelet in 2005, beating 600 other players in the Ladies' No-Limit Texas hold'em event.
In addition to being on the list of the best female poker players in the world, Vanessa Rousso is also a renowned attorney and has used her legal background to advocate for various social and political causes.
Victoria Coren Mitchell is a professional poker player but also a writer and TV presenter. She hosted the BBC television quiz show Only Connect and writes weekly columns for The Daily Telegraph.
FAQ
What percentage of poker pros are women?
According to recent estimates, women in poker make up less than 5% of the professional poker player population. However, this percentage is slowly increasing as more and more women are getting interested in the game.
How many women have won the World Series of Poker Main Event?
No woman has won the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, which is the most prestigious poker tournament in the world. The closest a woman has come to winning the Main Event was in 1995 when Barbara Enright became the first woman to reach the final table, finishing in fifth place.
Who is the best female poker player in the world?
It's difficult to say who the best female poker player in the world is. However, some of the most successful and well-known female poker players include Vanessa Selbst, Kathy Liebert, Annette Obrestad, Vanessa Rousso, and Liv Boeree, among others.
Has a woman ever won the World Series of Poker?
Yes, a woman has won the World Series of Poker (WSOP). Barbara Enright became the first woman to make the WSOP Main Event final table in 1995, and she went on to be inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2007. Since then, several other women have made it to the Main Event, including Vanessa Selbst, who won her first WSOP bracelet in 2008 and two more in 2012 and 2014.
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Christmas is the time when everyone gets into the holiday spirit. It's also the perfect time for Christmas casino promotions. Online casinos take this opportunity every year to create special bonuses designed to entice you to play during the holiday season.
These bonuses come in the form of a match bonus, cashback, Christmas no deposit casino bonuses or free spins, and even a combination of these types.
In this article, you'll learn what Christmas promos consist of, different types of Xmas bonuses and promotions, and how to choose and claim top Christmas online casino promos.
[sigma-top-casinos-new term_id = '50585' christmas="yes"]
What Are Christmas Casino Promotions?
Online casinos offer innovative and enticing bonuses that new or regular players can use during Christmas. You can use some of the Xmas bonuses on slot games, sports, or special games.
Comparing Christmas casino bonuses to regular bonuses and promotions, Xmas casino offers are a bit different:
During Christmas, online casinos and sportsbooks offer more generous bonuses for their visitors.
These Xmas promotions have lower wagering requirements.
The promotional period is shorter, only during the Christmas season.
Christmas promos can only be used in Christmas-oriented casino games.
What Types of Christmas Promotions Are There?
No matter if you’re new to the casino world, an experienced poker player, or a slots fan, you'll certainly want to use some of the Christmas promotions.
The following bonuses and promotions you can expect at online casinos during Christmas.
Christmas sign-up (welcome) bonus offers
To all new players, online casinos give welcome bonuses when upon first deposit, so you can explore their games, find the one you like and spin the reels until you get lucky. What’s different during Christmas? Well, online casinos lower the rollover requirements and increase the number of spins or bonus money to spice up your experience.
Xmas free spins
Online casinos regularly offer free spins for games in their offer, but for the Christmas period, they usually add an additional number of spins. For example, for slot games where you can get at least 20-30 extra free spins, sometimes that number can go way up.
Christmas calendar
Besides bonuses and promotions during Xmas, some casino sites have a Christmas calendar where each day, their users can expect something new, which adds an extra layer of excitement during winter holidays.
Christmas slot tournaments
As you might have noticed, there are many Christmas-themed slots, and during Christmas, these slots can have bigger cash prizes. There are even slot tournaments for specific slot games, and in this post, I’ll suggest some tournaments in which you can participate.
No-deposit casino Christmas bonus
At the time of Christmas, online casinos offer no deposit bonuses to new players after registration, after which you’ll have additional free money to use on slots. The bonus cash from this promotion usually is added automatically to your casino account.
Christmas no deposit bonus codes
This type of code you can find on the casino site of your choosing, but we recommended a few in this article that you can use during the Xmas time. Once you enter the code, the free money or free spins will be added to your account.
Xmas Giveaways
When the Christmas period is nearby, online casinos sometimes can offer electronic devices or even a car as prizes in their tournaments.
How to Choose a Christmas Promotion at Online Casinos?
If you plan on playing slot games or participating in Christmas events, you should know how to choose Christmas perks:
Check where each bonus can be used
Check the terms and conditions of each bonus or promotion.
You can see in what games you can use certain bonus
What are the wagering requirements
What is the validity period
Other conditions
How to Claim the Christmas Online Casino Bonus
If you’re new to the world of online casinos and want to take advantage of the Christmas casino promotions, on this page, you’ll see some great promos you can use during the winter holidays. As a new gambler who wants to use Xmas bonus, you need to claim the bonus at the online casino:
1. Register at the online casino of your choosing
Find the casino with games you wish to play and features you want to see at casino sites. When you choose the one, go to its registration page, provide your personal details, and follow instructions in order to do everything properly. Don’t forget to check its terms and conditions page for more details about games, bonuses, deposits, and withdrawals.
2. Verify your account and deposit the money
Upon completing your account registration, you must confirm your identity. Once you’re finished with all procedures, you can enter the potential code, and the bonus money will instantly be transferred to your account. In order to withdraw the money, you must complete the requirements, which vary from casino to casino.
3. Log in, use the bonus amounts and start placing bets.
In case you already have an account at the casinos we pointed out, you need to log in and start playing your favorite games. Once you complete all conditions, you’ll be able to withdraw the bonus and the potential winnings you got using the promo.
Best Christmas Casino Promotions for 2022
In the sections below, you'll read about different promotions at online casinos.
RAPID CASINO
Christmas promotions at Rapid Casino run from the first day of December until Christmas. A daily offer will be shown between 00:01 and 23:59 CET. Players who haven't deposited in the last 30 days aren't eligible for the free spin.
The 500 Xmas free spins will be credited to the player with the highest single spin multiplier win from the Free Spin offer. The spins will be credited on the following day by 17:00 CET. All free spin winnings have a wagering requirement of 50x within 24 hours.
For Christmas Tournaments, the minimum bet is $1. Tournament winnings have a 5x wagering requirement. You can expect them to be deposited on Mondays at 17:00 CET and be accessible for a full week.
Prize Drops also require a $1 minimum wager. Any qualifying spin randomly triggers a prize during the promotion. One player can trigger more than one prize. They are all paid right after you trigger them.
AXE CASINO
To get Axe Casino Christmas deposit bonuses, you have to make a $10 minimum deposit.
The 3rd Christmas free spins are given in Road 2 Riches
The 4th Christmas free spins are handed out in Lady Wolf Moon
The 6th Christmas free spins are granted in Wild Cash
The 7th Christmas free spins are added in Bonanza Billion
The 10th Christmas free spins are awarded in Christmas Big Bass Bonanza or Elvis Frog Trueways, depending on the location
The 14th Christmas free spins are given in Fruit Million
The 17th Christmas free spins are handed out in Gates of Olympus or Aloha King Elvis, depending on the location
The 21st Christmas free spins are granted in Brave Viking
The 23rd Christmas free spins are added in Eagle's Gold
The 25th Christmas free spins are given in Candy Monsta
The slots are provided mostly by the BGaming studio, other than Eagle's Gold, made by Zillion, and Christmas Big Bass Bonanza and Gates of Olympus, provided by Pragmatic Play.
The maximum bonus amounts at Axe Casino are arranged like this:
The maximum 25th Christmas bonus amount is $250.
The maximum 13th Christmas bonus amount is $130.
The maximum 11th Christmas bonus amount is $111.
The 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 19th, 21st Christmas bonus amount is $100.
The 5th, 12th, 20th, 22nd, and 24th Christmas bonus amount is $50.
You have to claim all Christmas cashback bonuses through Live Chat. Bonus validity is seven days. You can activate free spins within three days. Free spins duration and free spins result duration are seven days.
oshi CASINO
Just like Axe Casino, Oshi is also a part of the Dama N.V. group, so it has a nearly identical Christmas program. Every bonus at Oshi Casino is valid for seven days. You have to claim all Christmas cashback bonuses through Live Chat. You can activate free spins within three days. The duration of the spins and the winnings is seven days.
The 2nd Christmas free spins are added in Fruit Million.
The 5th Christmas free spins are added in Candy Monsta or Eagle's Gold (Zillion), depending on the location.
The 8th Christmas free spins are added in Elvis Frog Trueways.
The 11th Christmas free spins are added in Road 2 Riches.
The 14th Christmas free spins are added in Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic) or Aloha King Elvis, depending on the location.
The 16th Christmas free spins are added in Candy Monsta or Gift Rush.
The 17th Christmas free spins are added in Wolf Gold (Pragmatic) or Elvis Frog in Vegas.
The 20th Christmas free spins are added in Bonanza Billion.
The 24th Christmas free spins are added in Lady Wolf Moon.
Maximum winning for no deposit Christmas free spins is $50. Additionally, individual online casino Christmas bonuses carry these max caps:
The 18th Christmas bonus amount is $1000
The 4th Christmas bonus amount is $500
The 1st, 6th, 9th, 13th, 14th, and 22nd Christmas bonuses amount is $200
The 2nd, 12th, and 25th Christmas bonuses amount is $150
The 19th Christmas casino bonus amount is $100
CASHALOT CASINO
During the Holiday Frenzy promotion at Cashalot Casino, you can claim one of four exciting Christmas casino bonuses every day. After making the first deposit of the day, you're eligible for one of the bonuses. You can claim only one bonus per day. The options are:
Video slots bonus of 75% up to $150
Table games bonus of 50% up to $100
Live casino and TV games bonus of 50% up to $100
Virtual sports daily cashback of 25% up to $50
KING BILLY CASINO
King Billy's Christmas campaign stretches between December 13 and January 15. It includes four missions with very special Lootbox Prizes, six Christmas online casino promos, and a total of 768 free spins and $465.
The minimum qualifying deposit is $60, and the wagering requirement for prizes is 30x. You can get two bonuses during the promotion. If Endorphina's Book of Santa is unavailable, free spins will be given on BGaming's Book of King Billy. Make sure you insert the Xmas free spins.
LEON CASINO
The Christmas offer from Leon Casino could be the most impressive in the industry. Besides Yggdrasil's Ygg-mas Tree and Gamomat's 31 Days of Spinsmas, Leon provides three additional online casino Christmas promotions in cooperation with gaming studios.
The PG Soft promotion with a $5,000 prize pool is available only for Leon Casino players. Start spinning any PG Soft slot machine from December 4 until the end of 2022 for a chance to win weekly prizes ranging from $40 to $1,800. Gain one point for every $1.5 you bet. Your odds of finishing in the top 20 of each tournament increase in proportion to the number of points you earn.
In an effort to amaze its Live Casino customers, Evolution Gaming organized two separate prize draw campaigns, each worth $50,000. One ticket will be awarded for every $25 wagered. The drawing dates for 612 prizes are set for December 20 and January 5. Any given ticket can reward you with $50 or $5,000. Play MONOPOLY Big Baller, XXXtreme Lightning Roulette, Crazy Time, and other provider-selected games between December 1 and December 31.
From December 11 to December 18, Betsoft has a special offer for Leon Casino players a tournament with 10 cash prizes worth $3,000. Spin any of the provider's slots, get to the top of the leaderboard and win your early Christmas gift. Earn one point for every $1.5 you bet. A total of $1,400 will be awarded to the winner, with $750 and $325 going to runners-up and third-place finishers, respectively.
Xmas Calendar Bonuses
Stake Casino announces 25 Days of Christmas every day at 1 AM GMT on its Telegram account. Stake grants various prizes, so you can receive:
Monthly Bonus
Stream
Twitter giveaways
Bonus drops
Bet and share a $100,000 prize pool
ShadowBit is another Dama N.V. casino. However, it opted for a different type of Christmas promotion. The ShadowBit daily bonuses and promotions are available from December 1 until December 25. Every day you will see a new bonus offer in the Casino Christmas Bonus Calendar. It can be a cashback, match bonus, free spins or a combination of the bunch.
LuckyElektra Casino Christmas promotions are similar to ShadowBit, with a different prize waiting to be claimed every day until Christmas.
Platin Casino has a Christmas countdown this year, from December 1 through Christmas Eve. Platincasino rolls out proven promotions, such as deposit bonuses, free spin Christmas casino offers, and gifts, with an occasional surprise.
Slot Providers That Offer Christmas Promotions
Several gaming studios also see the Christmas holidays as an opportunity to appeal to slot players and become their go-to slot provider.
Wazdan Xmas Cash Drop
Wazdan iGaming solutions provider created a $100,000 Christmas prize pool. Join the promo by playing any game. Bet real money on Wazdan slot machines during the promotional period for a shot at landing a cash prize. Prizes don't carry any wagering requirement, and there is no required minimum bet. All bets qualify for participation.
This tournament is open to all video slot games by Wazdan. The campaign runs from December 1 until 23:59 on December 26.
One bet only qualifies for one prize, but multiple bets can bring you more than one prize. You must opt-in to be eligible. Only verified casino players qualify to win the cash rewards:
Five $1,000 prizes
Ten $750 prizes
Fifteen $500 prizes
One hundred $200 prizes
Two hundred $100 prizes
Five hundred $50 prizes
1,500 $10 prizes
Upon receiving a notification, your account will be credited immediately with the full amount of your winnings. If you use bonus money to play games, the prizes will also be awarded in bonus money.
Under the Ygg-mas Tree
From December 16 and January 9, Ygg-mass tree promotion will reward players from a $250,000 real money prize pool. It's the biggest Yggdrasil network campaign to date. The promotion will run in phases:
Tangled in Tinsel
Fairy Light Prize Fight
Bauble Bombardment
2022 Unwrapped
The first phase is running between December 16 and December 22. The Christmas Missions carry $70,000 in rewards. Complete them in the following games: Vikings Go Berzerk, Golden Fish Tank, Raptor Doublemax, Multifly!, and Gator Gold Gigablox Deluxe.
From December 23 to December 29, a Fairy Light Prize Fight Prize Drop is taking center stage with another $70,000 prize pool. Holmes and the Stolen Stones, Jackpot Raiders, Valley of the Gods 2, Valley of the Gods, Vikings Go Berzerk Reloaded, 90K Yeti Gigablox and Monster Blox Gigablox are the games that qualify.
The third stage will run from December 30 to January 5 with another $70,000 waiting in Raptor Doublemax, Valley of the Gods, Hades Gigablox, Golden Fish Tank 2, and CherryPop video slots.
Lastly, from January 6 to January 9, Prize Drop Double Chance prize pool worth $40,000 is available in Yggdrasil's most popular 2021 titles—Atlantean Gigarise, Easter Island 2, Frost Queen Jackpots, Gator Gold Gigablox, Gator Gold Gigablox Deluxe, Golden Fish Tank 2, Golden Gorgon, Raptor Doublemax, Reel Desire, Suncatcher Gigablox, and Vikings Go Berzerk Reloaded.
Under the YGG-mas Tree promotion doesn't have a required minimum bet for any of its phases, but only real money bets are eligible for the campaign. Players must confirm their participation in the campaign at any stage in the confirmation window. Participation is completely free.
Gamomat's 31 Days of Spinsmas
Themed December tournament from Gamomat has a $10,000 prize pool. Spin the reels of participating slots from the provider between November 30 and December 31 for a shot at winning anything from $20 to $4,000. You can earn 70 free spins by completing the weekly quests and 100 spins in the main, 10-day New Year's countdown quest.
Bet at least $0.20 and get points for each win. The greater your point total, the better your odds of breaking into the top 100 scorers. Play Gamomat's Wild Rubies Christmas Edition slot on the 25th at 7 PM UTC for a chance to be one of the first 100 players to receive an extra ten free spins.
The selected Gamomat games are: Down the Chimney, Egyptian Magic, Expanding Fireworks, Fruit Lines Winter, Golden Treasures, Maaax Diamonds Christmas Edition, Ramses Book Christmas Edition, Take 5 Christmas Edition, Wild Rubies Christmas Edition, Win Blaster Christmas Edition and A Winter's Tale.
Tips for the Christmas Online Casino Promotions
Consider the following information if you want to participate in Christmas promos.
Read the fine print to make sure that you can complete all requirements.
Devise a strategy of how you’ll use a certain bonus. For example, mark the calendar, so you know on which days you have to involve more in spinning the reels.
The period during which you can use these Xmas bonuses is limited.
Subscribe to a newsletter to be informed on your favorite casino’s promotions, so you can get the message as soon as the promotion starts.
At the end of November/December, check the promo page of your favorite online casino to check its Christmas casino promotions.
On Christmas day, log in to your chosen online casino and claim the final offer in the Christmas calendar. It’s usually the most valuable.
Don’t forget to gamble responsibly.
Online gambling legislation varies globally, reflecting diverse cultural views and government policies. Some countries embrace it as a legitimate industry, heavily regulating and taxing it, while others impose strict prohibitions. This variation highlights the significance of understanding regional legal frameworks, which influence the accessibility and legality of online gambling. The effectiveness of these laws is critical, as they aim to balance economic benefits with ethical considerations and protect vulnerable individuals from gambling-associated harms.
The Role of Gambling Legislation in Protecting Players & Operators
Regulatory bodies mandate RNG algorithms to guarantee game fairness, require operators to segregate player funds for security and implement anti-money laundering protocols. They control whether online casinos and sports betting sites adhere to the stipulations of their license.
Regulation has extreme effects on market safety and business operations. Regulated markets offer a safer, more transparent, and sustainable environment for all stakeholders in the online gambling ecosystem, whereas unregulated markets pose significant risks and uncertainties:
Regulated Online Gambling MarketsUnregulated Online Gambling MarketsEnforce rules that safeguard players from unfair practices by implementing responsible gambling features, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion.Fail to provide responsible gambling tools, putting players at higher risk of addiction and financial losses.Provide robust security and AML measures involving rigorous identity checks and financial tracking.Can engage in fraudulent practices, money laundering, or other criminal activities.Legalized online gambling generates significant tax revenue, which governments can reinvest in social and community projects.Exposes businesses to instability, as these markets are susceptible to sudden crackdowns and legal changes.
Key Oversight Bodies in the Gambling Industry
Regulatory bodies are instrumental in shaping the online gambling industry. They enforce legal compliance and promote ethical practices, player safety, and fair gaming, thus significantly influencing industry standards and consumer trust:
UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) sets stringent standards for player protection, fairness, and anti-money laundering. It's influential in establishing online gambling regulations globally due to its comprehensive approach to licensing and regulation.
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is recognized for its robust regulatory framework and serves as a licensing body for many European online gambling companies. The MGA plays a central role in setting international regulatory standards, particularly in the EU.
Nevada Gaming Control Board is a regulator in one of the world's most renowned gambling hubs. It sets crucial precedents regarding regulation and enforcement practices, influencing standards in the US and beyond.
Gibraltar Regulatory Authority is known for its stringent licensing process and oversight of online gambling operators, influencing the industry's approach to fair gaming and corporate responsibility.
eCOGRA is an international testing agency that certifies online gaming software and systems. Its certification is highly regarded and sought after in the industry.
Comparative Overview of Online Gambling Regulation
Online gambling legislation varies dramatically around the world, with different regions adopting diverse approaches to regulation, enforcement, and legalization.
North America
In the US, the legal status of online gambling is complex. The initial ambiguity persisted until the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 made it illegal for financial institutions to process transactions between US residents and gambling sites. Recently, states have begun legalizing and issuing licenses for online gambling and sports betting, though the federal landscape remains fragmented and evolving.
Canada presents a mixed picture. It's illegal for companies to offer gambling services to Canadians without a government license. Provinces regulate gambling in their jurisdictions. However, there's no law against Canadians using overseas gambling sites.
Europe
In the EU, online gambling is regulated under the Gambling Act of 2014, with individual countries having autonomy over their specific laws. The EU laws intersect with member states' regulations in data protection, anti-money laundering, and consumer protection.
The United Kingdom
The UK has a well-regulated online gambling industry. The Gambling Act of 2014 requires all gambling sites to obtain a license from the UK Gambling Commission. This regulation secures fair play, consumer protection, and a level playing field for all operators.
Asia
Asian countries generally have stricter laws against online gambling. On the Chinese mainland, all forms of gambling are illegal, with strict controls even in the gambling-friendly region of Macau. Japan has only recently begun to legalize casino-integrated resorts, but with numerous restrictions and slow implementation.
Emerging Markets
In the following regions, the gambling industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by changing regulations, technological advancements, and increased consumer interest. These markets offer new opportunities for operators and investors:
Africa: various forms of gambling are legal, with South Africa leading the way in legalized online gambling.
South America: Some of the bigger countries have taken a mixed approach, with some legalizing specific types of gambling. Recent trends in nations such as Colombia and Argentina indicate a shift toward regulation and licensing.
Oceania: The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 in Australia generally allows sports betting and lottery games while restricting most other kinds of internet gambling. The Gambling Act of 2003 in New Zealand forbids most online gambling, but only for organizations domiciled in the region; it is lawful for New Zealanders to utilize sites abroad.
The Backlash from Rigorous Gambling Rules in the European Market
Gambling in the EU has undergone significant changes since the 2005 Gambling Act. Advertising has dramatically evolved and become increasingly prominent in sports broadcasts and social media, becoming a critical area of concern. The visibility of gambling ads poses a risk to vulnerable groups, especially children and young people. For example:
Italy enacted a near-total ban on gambling advertising in 2019.
Belgium initially restricted gambling adverts around children's programming and eventually moved towards an almost complete ban.
The Netherlands has focused on limiting mass marketing.
Germany's June 2021 State Treaty on Gambling introduced a watershed approach that limits gambling adverts for certain online services during specific hours.
In January 2023, Germany's federal gambling regulator, the Joint Gambling Authority (GGL), took over a market heavily influenced by illegal operators. The 2021 Treaty initiated a comprehensive online betting and gaming market. Still, its limitations make the legal market less attractive compared to the black market, which accounts for a significant share of the online gambling market. Despite Germany's large economy and potential in the gambling sector, the current regulations, including a restrictive licensing scheme and a heavy tax burden, hinder market growth.
The German Sports Betting Association (DSWV), the UK's Betting and Gaming Council, and other industry stakeholders argue that such measures drive gamblers toward the black market. As governments seek to balance public health with industry interests, the recent experiences provide valuable insights into the challenges of effective gambling regulation in the digital age.
Efficient Gambling Regulations Are Adaptable
Global legislation authorities are crucial for navigating the complexities of the online gambling industry. Regulatory bodies play a pivotal role in shaping these laws, ensuring fairness, protecting players, and preventing criminal activities. The dynamic nature of online gambling necessitates ongoing adjustments to keep pace with technological breakthroughs and shifting market trends. This continuous evolution is vital to maintaining a safe, ethical, and sustainable gambling ecosystem.