BetMGM has been fined CA$110,000 by the gambling regulator in Ontario for offering cash inducements to players.
The penalty from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) relates to three separate incidents in 2024 when BetMGM offered players cash inducements to open new accounts, in breach of the province’s gambling regulations.
According to AGCO, BetMGM offered the inducements to players in public venues, including a major national trade conference.
“Responsible gambling safeguards and the protection of Ontarians on registered gaming sites is among our key priorities,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, chief executive and registrar at AGCO.
“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.”
BetMGM is accused of failing to comply with the registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming, breaching sections 1.19 and 2.05, after representatives of BetMGM attended the National Franchise Show in January 2024 and offered $100 in cash to players for opening a new account and depositing $15.
This was followed by further breaches of the regulations in March and April of 2024, when BetMGM’s affiliate partners engaged in prohibited inducement marketing.
The $110,000 penalty is open to appeal before the Licence Appeal Tribunal.