Online betting evolution

The online betting history basically starts in 1994 when the government of Antigua and Barbuda passes the Free Trade and Processing Zone Act. This is the first gambling regulation act that offers licenses to online bookmakers.

Although many other countries adopted similar laws, many of the online bookmakers and online casinos are still licensed under Antigua and Barbuda jurisdiction. The number of online bookmakers increased especially in the last few years and now there are literally hundreds of sports betting sites.

Some old and major land based bookmakers have their own betting software while others own a “white label” operation developed by companies specialized in online betting. Online betting sites accepts only clients over 18 years old (which is the age of majority in most countries around the world) and clients from countries where the gambling is legal.

Some countries restricted and even banned online betting as well as other online gambling activities. In other states the bookmakers must obtain a local license in order to operate their business legally. In some countries such as United States, which is the country with the largest number of online bettors, the online gambling situation is unclear. The US government restricted the access of foreign gambling sites on the local market but the decision is not final due to the World Trade Organization action against this abusive act.

Though, one thing is for sure: the online betting industry is expanding each year as the number of internet bettors increases and the bookmakers profit follows the trend. The number of telephone and SMS bets starts to decline as the internet becomes more accessible. The Smartphones enable bettors to place their bets faster and easier, from practically anywhere. So now you don’t even need a computer to browse the odds and place your bets at your favorite bookmakers.