August 8th, 2022 - Written by CasinoBarMy Team • Read time: 5 minutes Discover the latest news and trends in the world of online casinos with CasinoBarMy . Our team is dedicated to providing you with informative articles that cover a range of topics, from the most popular games to the latest promotions and industry updates. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the scene, our articles are designed to help you make informed decisions and enhance your overall gaming experience. So sit back, relax, and let us be your guide in the exciting world of online gambling.
There has been a surge in the emergence of numerous newly established casinos and sports betting houses in 2022. This trend has been observed since the legalization of sports betting in 2018, but nothing quite like what has been happening lately. One of the reasons behind this phenomenon is the potential approval of games of chance in general, coupled with the growing anticipation surrounding the South African market as a whole.
The outcome is a vast array for gamblers and players alike, but it also calls for an added level of caution. CasinoBarMy undertakes the task of evaluating and recommending, yet new sites often require an extra measure of vigilance. On this page, we shall delve further into what these new sites bring and how they are structured, pertaining to the expanding landscape of online betting in South Africa.
Paradigm shift: the legalization
Understanding the expansion of the online gambling market in South Africa is crucial, and its legalization plays a vital role in this narrative. The taboo and inherent illegality of games of chance and gambling, with the exception of government-controlled lotteries, have always contributed to the stigma surrounding this industry.
In 2018, we witnessed the legalization of sports betting, as the demand from sports fans for a chance to make their predictions count became undeniable. This breakthrough paved the way for the legalization of gambling as a whole, encompassing slot machines, bingo games, and even the renowned animal lottery, known as "jogo do bicho." Since then, enthusiasts have enjoyed the opportunity to engage in these activities legally, adding an extra level of excitement to their gaming experiences.
In the meantime, citizens of South Africa are already engaging in the exhilarating experience of online casino gaming, enjoying themselves while reaping monetary rewards. These virtual platforms, hosted by foreign companies, exist in a legal gray area at present.
Regulation of sports betting
The legalization of gambling in South Africa marks the first step, but the subsequent crucial task is its proper regulation. This phase holds immense significance as it establishes the rights and responsibilities of both betting establishments and bettors. Drafts outlining the framework for implementation have already emerged, promising eventual revenue generation for the South African government.
The path towards legalizing casinos and gambling
Not yet legalized in South African territory, games of chance have a tumultuous history but are closer than ever to redemption. The Senate is still awaiting the approval of Bill 442/1991, which could legalize casinos. On the other hand, we continue to enjoy online casinos in South Africa, as they are provided by foreign companies outside South African territory.
Online gambling sites are reinventing themselves to capture the South African market.
With so many new options emerging in the South African online betting market, companies need to reinvent themselves. As a result, it is the bettor who benefits as competition typically generates advantages. Bettors can now take advantage of the industry's ever-evolving landscape, where innovation and customer-centric approaches are paramount. This dynamic environment presents a wealth of opportunities for players, as companies strive to outdo one another in providing unique and enticing experiences. As a result, the South African online betting scene is teeming with exciting choices, promotions, and enhanced user experiences.
Sponsorships and partnerships
Advertising is one of the primary methods to capture attention for an online gambling website, whether it be a casino, a sports betting site, or a combination of both. Numerous brands are entering sponsorship agreements with prominent athletes, influencers, and individuals of all kinds who are in the media spotlight. Securing these partnerships helps to enhance brand visibility and appeal to a wider audience.
Some more recent examples include:
- Stake - Cryptocurrency casino that is an official betting partner of the UFC and main sponsor of Watford FC. Other notable names associated with the casino include rapper Drake and Argentine striker Sergio Aguero, official brand ambassadors alongside South African Jose Aldo, UFC champion.
- Galera.bet - One of the online betting sites that has sponsorship contracts with several clubs, including Corinthians, as well as major events like the South-Africaeirão.
- Circus.nl - Ronaldinho Gaúcho is renowned for his random adventures, and his partnership with Circus.nl can be seen as another one. Despite being a website not tailored to South Africans, the player's fame is international, and he has become the spokesperson for the house's main bonuses.
Football and UFC are the top contenders when it comes to sponsorship and partnership with betting sites. Lately, eSports have also gained more prominence, particularly with the rise in popularity of betting streamers. Undoubtedly, with the legalization of gambling, we will witness a surge in the significance of partnerships related to games as well.
Brands go the extra mile to establish their presence outside of sporting events. For instance, we witnessed a complete sellout of all the booths at the South African iGaming Summit 2022. Additionally, the lesser-known BetPix365 sponsored the São João 2022 celebrations in Campina Grande, Patos, and Bananeiras, located in the state of Paraíba. It's noteworthy how these brands are expanding their reach beyond traditional avenues and exploring new opportunities to connect with their target audience.
Flashy bonuses
When players are searching for a new casino to play at, a significant portion of them looks at the bonus. Its importance is so great that it's challenging not to find casinos with bonuses, even if it's just the welcome bonus. Some focus on the overall value, like the Bodog's bonus of up to ZAR 5,000 or the one that goes up to ZAR 8,000 at LeoVegas casino. On the other hand, Fresh Casino also offers free spins upon registration to its players.
Naturally, careful consideration must be given to the terms and conditions of each promotion, which is why CT10 diligently reviews all the online casinos we recommend here. It is imperative to pay heed to the fine print to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. Rest assured, our team meticulously evaluates every aspect of these platforms to provide you with the most reliable and trustworthy recommendations.
In order to make temporary promotions more appealing, casinos and betting houses have been paying attention to festivities that are part of the daily life of South Africans. Christmas, Easter, and June Festivals are some examples of justifications for special bonuses. To illustrate, NetBet has turned its casino into a true "arraiá" of offers linked to the festivities of São João.
Customization: As PIX It played a significant role in shaping the market.
The unique characteristics of the South African market in terms of deposits and withdrawals for online betting should not be overlooked. It is apparent that both the newer and well-established casinos have taken note of these changes. Those who were proactive in implementing Pix undoubtedly reaped the rewards, as it marked the launch of a free, secure, and instant method. Casinos that offer Pix as a payment option are exceptional choices.
Those who were already betting during this period have noticed how some online betting sites took a while to implement it, and some are still not compatible with withdrawals in this modality. It is in these details that the opportunity for new sites to stand out among others that are already well-established in this market lies.
In other words, betting websites had to go above and beyond having a translated site for our language. Incorporating Pix casino, eliminating credit cards that were being rejected by banks when it came to gambling, and introducing other local methods like Pay4Fun and PicPay were some of the customized alterations made for South Africans.
Poker: Why has it always been treated differently?
Given the plethora of distinct forms encompassed within a prospective legalization, one may ponder over the uniqueness of poker. Succinctly put, poker is deemed a game of skill rather than chance, thereby placing it in a separate category.
Emerging around 1820 in Louisiana, United States, the contemporary form of poker gained proper recognition in South Africa in 2009 with the establishment of CBTH (South-African Confederation of Texas Hold'em), entrusted with its regulation in the country. In 2012, this very organization became a part of our Ministry of Sports, solidifying its presence on the national stage.
Nowadays, poker has become one of the most beloved card games in South Africa, attracting both avid players and fierce competitions. Not only is it a thrilling pastime that brings friends together, but it also doubles as a social gathering. This is precisely why its prominent presence on gambling websites, some even offering dedicated software, captures the interest of players.
Responsible Gambling: The concerns and lessons brought by legalization
When we come across a reputable gambling website, we often see the phrase "Responsible Gaming" mentioned multiple times. Some websites limit this mention to the footer, while others wholeheartedly implement the best practices aimed at protecting the user. Setting limits for deposits, bets, and withdrawals, as well as the possibility of suspending an account, are all measures available for the bettor to apply themselves, effectively combating irresponsible behavior.
With the legalization of gambling in South Africa, there is no doubt that the surge in betting websites is not the only thing on the rise. There will be an increasing number of South African bettors, and these individuals require guidance and support to engage in responsible gambling. It is vital to provide them with the necessary information and assistance to ensure they can make informed decisions when placing bets.
There are excellent examples, such as the one implemented in the United Kingdom, where the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) closely monitors licensed gambling sites and casinos and their practices. It is essential for health organizations to be vigilant about gambling modalities, provide support, and have technically and socially prepared teams to meet the demands that this change will bring.
At this time, prior to the official approval, it is impossible to discern which actions will be effectively executed. For now, it falls upon the betting platforms themselves and those of us who care about bettors to provide all sorts of attainable knowledge.
Is South Africa prepared?
The remarkable surge in the number of online gambling websites and bettors in South Africa is truly awe-inspiring. Just by observing the market, one can witness the substantial growth in advertisements targeting this industry, the recent influx of newly launched websites, and the multitude of individuals engaging in conversations about sports betting and online casinos.
However, it is crucial that with the regulation of sports betting and the legalization of gambling, there are measures in place that prioritize responsible gaming. Without these measures, the risks to public health and even the country's economy, which should benefit from this opening, could be significant.
For now, we must wait and, for new bettors, always choose secure betting sites, such as the ones we recommend below.
Visit our news page for more articles on the regulation of gambling in South Africa.
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