This slide deck summarizes research on channelization rates of online gambling in Canadian provinces. Channelization refers to the extent to which people use legal, regulated gambling options instead of illegal or unregulated sites. The summary provides an analysis of the regulation, growth, and market share (channelization) of online gambling across Canadian provinces as of 2025. The study critiques previous high estimates of out-of-province gambling, arguing they are based on flawed methodologies. Instead more robust data sources are used to assess person and revenue channelization.
A key finding is the impact of Ontario's open-market model, which increased channelization and gross gambling revenue, but reduced the government's revenue share and raised concerns about increased advertising and problem gambling. Overall, the research indicates that channelization is complex, varies by jurisdiction and gambling type, and is influenced by factors such as market maturity, regulatory models, and language. It highlights important economic and social trade-offs for policy makers to consider.
