OLG Chief Gaming Officer Highlights Growth of Private Operator iGaming Market

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OLG Releases Fiscal 2025-28 Business Plan

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has unveiled its Fiscal 2025-28 business plan, projecting sustained revenue growth in both land-based and online gaming through 2028. The report provides compelling evidence that a regulated iGaming market with private sector operators is proving beneficial to crown corporations operating digital casino and sports betting platforms.

Revenue Growth Across Sectors

OLG forecasts land-based gambling revenue will grow by 7% to a projected CAD $4.65 billion in FY 2024-25. Further increases are expected, with revenue reaching CAD $5.01 billion in FY 2025-26, CAD $5.26 billion in FY 2026-27, and CAD $5.45 billion in FY 2027-28.

Meanwhile, online gaming revenue is experiencing even stronger growth. After generating CAD $745 million in FY 2023-24, the division is expected to reach CAD $819 million in FY 2024-25, with further increases to CAD $895 million (FY 2025-26), CAD $971 million (FY 2026-27), and surpassing CAD $1.049 billion by FY 2027-28.

Impact of Regulatory Oversight & Market Evolution

Since Ontario launched its regulated iGaming market in April 2022, a significant number of grey market operators have exited. The deadline for licensing applications was October 31, 2022, forcing unregistered platforms to either comply or cease operations.

According to Troy Ross, President of TRM Public Affairs, regulatory oversight has channeled approximately 90% of iGaming activity into licensed operators, debunking concerns over market cannibalization and demonstrating that the model is working effectively.

Currently, OLG captures 20-22% of Ontario’s market share, aligning with other Canadian lotteries. There are now 49 licensed operators servicing Ontario players.

Innovation and Player Protection in iGaming

OLG’s digital gaming platform OLG.ca has thrived in a competitive landscape, prompting new innovations and product expansions. One notable milestone is the introduction of Red Panda Tails of Wealth, the first digital slot game designed with built-in accessible features for players with disabilities.

Further enhancements to responsible gaming are underway, including a centralized self-exclusion program for all licensed digital operators, offering additional player protection by supporting those who choose to take a break from gambling.

Net Profit & Community Benefits

All OLG net profits are returned to the province, directly benefiting municipalities, charities, and First Nations communities. The FY 2024-25 net profit is expected to surpass CAD $2.6 billion, with continued growth projected to reach CAD $3.2 billion by FY 2027-28.

OLG Chief Gaming Officer Dave Pridmore emphasized that the private operator model has challenged OLG to push boundaries and continue enhancing customer-centric innovation.

“With a competitive landscape, we constantly refine our operations to improve player experience,” Pridmore noted.

Ontario’s regulated iGaming market continues to evolve, setting a precedent for successful integration of public and private sector gaming operators.

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