Key Moments:
- Hard Rock Bet has entered Ontario, marking its first expansion outside the United States
- Ontario operators generated more than $4 billion in revenue in 2025, a 34 per cent increase year-on-year
- Alberta’s gambling market recorded $1.28 billion in consumer spending in the 12 months ending June 2026
Hard Rock Bet Begins Operations in Canada
Hard Rock Bet has officially launched in Ontario, establishing itself as a new participant in the province’s regulated gambling landscape. This move represents the brand’s inaugural venture outside the United States and intensifies competition in Canada’s rapidly expanding iGaming sector. Ontario now hosts more than 80 licensed gambling platforms.
The Ottawa rollout expands Hard Rock Bet’s portfolio, offering both a sportsbook and casino experience to Ontario players. The platform delivers a range of options, including over 3,000 online slots, table games, and live dealer offerings. Technology from Playtech is integrated into the service, leveraging Hard Rock Digital’s minority stake in the provider.
As stated by Marlon Goldstein, CEO of Hard Rock Bet, “We’re excited to introduce Ontario players to a premium entertainment experience that reflects the energy and service synonymous with the Hard Rock brand. By investing in local talent, partnerships, and customer support, we’re creating an experience designed specifically for Ontario players.”
Ontario’s iGaming Market Profile
Ontario’s online gaming market features a large, digitally engaged audience, with approximately 1.27 million active players – nearly 10 per cent of the province’s adult population. Casino gaming remains the top choice, particularly among younger users, according to various media sources.
Recent financial figures underscore Ontario’s prominence, as iGaming operators produced more than $4 billion in revenue in 2025, marking a 34 per cent year-on-year increase. Total wagers climbed to $98.3 billion, up 26 per cent from 2024. Since April 2022, cumulative wagers in Ontario have totaled $10.2 billion, based on reports from iGaming Republic.
Ontario’s stringent regulatory framework is managed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) for compliance and licensing, alongside iGaming Ontario (iGO) which handles commercial agreements. Together, these agencies have established a model regulatory environment, and Ontario now accounts for a 20 per cent share of operator gross gaming revenue in North America.
| Metric | Value | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $4 billion | 2025 |
| Year-on-year Revenue Growth | 34 per cent | 2025 vs. 2024 |
| Total Wagers | $98.3 billion | 2025 |
| Cumulative Wagers Since Launch | $10.2 billion | April 2022 – 2025 |
| Operator GGR Share | 20 per cent | Current |
| Active Players | 1.27 million | Current |
Despite the attractive figures, Ontario’s market is highly competitive, with 48 operators and 82 active gambling sites. Challenges such as compliance expenses and sustainability concerns—particularly for brands focusing on casino products—have led to the exit of names like Coolbet, Unibet, Fitzdares, and Rivalry.
Alberta’s Growing Gambling Sector
While Ontario continues to lead Canada’s iGaming evolution, Alberta is emerging as a significant new market. Operators like Entain have enhanced their presence by launching BetMGM, Sports Interaction, and Party Casino in the province.
In the words of an Entain spokesperson: “Ontario demonstrated the benefits of a well‑regulated, competitive market, and Alberta has the foundations to build on that success. With Sports Interaction, BetMGM and Party Casino, we are bringing a compelling, responsible and high‑quality offering to players.”
Alberta currently features 25 gambling sites, including the provincial Play Alberta platform operated by Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC). From consumer spending, the region has recorded $1.28 billion on betting in the 12 months ending June 2026. Local brands like Betty and River Cree iGaming continue to carve out specialized niches alongside global companies.
Ontario and Alberta: Key Numbers
| Region | Active Gambling Sites | Consumer Betting Spend | Measurement Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 82 | $98.3 billion (wagers) | 2025 |
| Alberta | 25 | $1.28 billion | 12 months ending June 2026 |
- Author
Daniel Williams
