The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has introduced new measures that will require players under the age of 25 to set a limit on how much they can deposit into their account. The move comes after this age demographic has been identified as a player group that is more vulnerable to gambling.
OLG Daily, Weekly, Monthly Deposit Limits for Under 25 Players
The level of engagement reported by the OLG in the iGaming revenue report for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, showed a 15% increase. As well as this, new research has shown that players under 25 appear in the player group that is more vulnerable to gambling.
Because of these findings, a new incentive for setting deposit limits will require players under 25 to set a cap on how much money they can add to their account.
The objective behind this move is to set early safeguards for younger players. In a statement, Duncan Hannay, OLG's President and CEO said, "Requiring a deposit limit is not about removing choice, it's about strengthening that choice by helping players to pause and consider what they are comfortable spending."
He also said, "OLG relies on research and best practices to guide how we engage with players and respond to emerging trends. This new measure is a practical, data-driven step to help players under 25 build safer play habits early.
Players Will Be Prompted to Set Limits
The new measures implements by the OLG come at a time when there is more focus and awareness on safer gambling and players are being encouraged to better self-regulate especially with the high volume of iGaming advertising.
For players under 25, they will be prompted to set a deposit limit after they deposit $500 or more into their Ontario casino account in one transaction. The deposit limits can be set for daily, weekly, or monthly amounts.
Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, said, "Responsible gaming remains a priority for the Ontario government, and striking the right balance between individual choice and protecting vulnerable players is essential."
He went on to say, "This initiative reflects the strong collaboration between government, agencies and industry partners to strengthen player protections and ensure Ontario's gaming market remains safe, responsible and trusted."
The OLG is also highlighting their PlaySmart program which includes deposit limits, spending reminders, and time-outs. Self-Exclusion in Ontario is also available via BetGuard the province's centralized self-exclusion tool.
Responsible play is a priority and making it a priority for individual players is what these new measures will bring.
OLG's Proline platform has been generating increased online gambling revenues and according to the last financial statement issued by OLG, online casino and sports betting revenue was CAD $585 million which is a 15% year-over-year increase.