Popular Myths About Betting and Gambling in Canada

Sports betting and gambling have firmly established themselves as a leisure activity for many Canadians. With the legalization of online betting, the industry has been growing rapidly, attracting players of different ages and interests. Along with its rising popularity, myths have emerged: about who the typical players are, which strategies supposedly guarantee a 100% win, and more. In this article, we will debunk the most common misconceptions.

Myth 1: Canadians bet only on hockey

Hockey is indeed an important part of Canada’s betting culture. However, the data shows that Canadians place more bets on basketball and soccer. In Ontario, for instance, basketball accounts for 24–29% of wagers, while hockey makes up only about 10%. Horse racing is also popular, which is not surprising given major events such as the Queen’s Plate.

The variety of sports Canadians bet on can be explained by several factors. Interest in basketball, for example, surged after the Toronto Raptors’ victory in 2019. Online sportsbooks also offer a wide range of options including baseball, tennis, American football, and esports. Another important factor is that many tournaments take place year-round, unlike hockey which has a limited season.

Myth 2: Gambling can provide a steady income

In Canada, casinos are not viewed as a reliable source of regular earnings. According to statistics, 60% of Canadians spend money on gambling each month, with the average amount being $6.75. Only 3% of Canadians spend more than $100 monthly, showing that for most people gambling is a form of entertainment.

Moreover, the outcomes of most games are based on chance. In the long run, the advantage is always on the side of the casino, and in betting – on the side of the bookmaker. Even successful sports bettors or poker players earn inconsistently, and their winnings are often unstable. In a previous article, we discussed the main reasons people lose in betting.

Myth 3: Young people in Canada are not at risk of gambling addiction

In reality, Canadians aged 18–34 are among the groups most vulnerable to gambling-related problems. A 2023 study found that 15% of people in this age range show signs of potential gambling addiction. This is significantly higher than the 7% recorded in the general population.

Age itself is not the main cause of gambling issues. People with different personal and social risk factors are prone to addiction – for example, those experiencing stress or facing mental health challenges.

Myth 4: You can predict game or bet outcomes by spotting patterns

In most gambling activities, outcomes are random. In slots and roulette, the result is determined by a random number generator, which ensures the independence of each spin. Dishonest casinos may manipulate results – for instance, letting a beginner win a few times at first, only for them to lose once they start betting larger amounts.

In sports betting, analyzing statistics, team performance, and other factors can help players make more informed decisions. Yet randomness still plays a role – for example, when a key player suddenly falls ill before a game, leading their team to lose. That is why even expert predictions cannot guarantee a win.

Myth 5: Legal and offshore sites are the same

Licensed Canadian platforms are regulated by provincial authorities, which ensures data protection and fair play. All transactions are monitored, and the software undergoes independent testing. Offshore sites, on the other hand, are not bound by such obligations, meaning players lack legal protection and conditions may be unclear or manipulated.

Using unlicensed platforms increases the risks of financial losses and withdrawal issues. However, these risks can be avoided by choosing international bookmakers with a strong reputation.

Myth 6: Women rarely gamble

Traditionally, the industry has been associated with men, but women’s interest in gambling and betting has been steadily increasing both offline and online. Research from 2018 showed that 68.8% of men and 60.4% of women reported gambling. The gap persists across age groups – especially among those aged 45–65 (76% of men vs. 68% of women) – and is also influenced by marital status, income, and other demographic factors.

Interestingly, women are more likely than men to gamble through mobile apps – 55%. We covered women in betting in more detail in another article.

Why are myths dangerous?

Misconceptions prevent us from seeing the Canadian gambling industry objectively. In reality, things often differ from what we assume. Understanding how the industry actually works helps players make better decisions and avoid the traps of false beliefs. It is also important to remember the principles of responsible gaming: play wisely, manage your budget, and treat betting and gambling as entertainment, not a way to earn money.

Relevant news