BetMGM Canada Fined $110,000 for Offering Cash Incentives to Open Accounts
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has fined BetMGM Canada $110,000 for breaching provincial igaming regulations in two separate incidents this year. The violations stemmed from third-party marketing activities that offered financial incentives for creating new accounts, a practice strictly prohibited under Ontario’s gaming laws.
Cash Incentives Offered at Public Events
According to AGCO, BetMGM Canada engaged marketing firms that directly offered members of the public cash rewards for signing up to the operator’s platform. These offers were made in open forums, including a prominent national trade conference, drawing the attention of regulators.
Ontario’s igaming standards explicitly ban the use of inducements, bonuses, or credits to encourage gambling, regardless of whether these offers are made directly by the operator or via a third party. The rules also hold operators accountable for the actions of their affiliates and marketing partners.
“Responsible gambling safeguards and the protection of Ontarians on registered gaming sites are among our key priorities. The AGCO monitors the activities of all registered operators and their third-party suppliers to ensure they are meeting our high standards and we continue to take strong action to ensure they operate within the public interest”, said Karin Schnarr, CEO and registrar of AGCO.
Right to Appeal Remains Open
BetMGM Canada retains the right to appeal the ruling through Ontario’s Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT). The operator has not yet issued a public response to the penalty.
This is not the first time AGCO has taken enforcement action against an operator for regulatory breaches. In 2023, NorthStar Gaming received a $30,000 fine for failing to restrict access to its platform, NorthStarBets.ca, to Ontario-based users.