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Canada’s gambling world is changing fast in July. Across the country, both online and land-based gambling are seeing big shifts. Ontario is still leading the way. It recorded more than CAD 338 million in online gambling revenue in May 2025, and by the end of the 2024-25 financial year, it had brought in over CAD 3.2 billion from internet gambling. This growth is now pushing other provinces to follow. Alberta, which has been slower to embrace online gambling since passing the iGaming Act (Bill 48), will allow legal online poker and shared poker pools starting in 2026.
With more new casino options being offered, many users in Canada have access to online casinos that offer crypto gaming, table games and the chance to win big bonuses. Other provinces like British Columbia, Quebec and Saskatchewan are also staying active with their own online gambling platforms, though none have yet reached Ontario’s level. As more people play online, new casinos are launching in Canada with attractive offers. There are many new and popular platforms this July that are offering CAD $1,600 in bonuses and 200 free spins, and others which have a CAD $200 match bonus with a low 20x wagering requirement. These platforms are also focusing more on mobile gameplay and easy payment methods, including crypto options. King Casino is also growing in popularity, especially for live games like blackjack and roulette. Many Canadian players now prefer these live casino experiences because they feel more realistic, and the technology keeps improving. According to TalkSPORT, platforms are gaining users fast this month.
In Halifax, gambling is also in the spotlight, but in a more complicated way. While most attention is on online platforms, Halifax still has a strong connection to land-based gambling. However, the city’s main casino has been seeing less revenue over the past year, and there’s growing concern about the social effects of gambling in the region. A recent report out of Halifax warned that people are being harmed by things like video lottery terminals and called for better safeguards to protect local communities. These concerns are becoming more important now that online gambling is expanding so quickly. While Halifax doesn’t yet have a big online presence like Ontario, the trend is growing and regulators are paying attention.
Elsewhere in Canada, new developments are drawing attention from the gambling industry. In Ottawa, a new Hard Rock Hotel and Casino opened on July 3, bringing excitement and a fresh wave of gambling tourism to the region. Some experts believe this could pull in players from Atlantic provinces like Nova Scotia, including Halifax. While local venues may be quieter, players may travel for larger events and bigger prizes.
Technology is also playing a huge role in how Canadians gamble. Platforms are now using more advanced features like artificial intelligence to personalize offers, improve customer service and monitor gambling behavior. Apps are easier to use than ever with smoother interfaces and safer payment methods. There’s also a strong push for more secure gambling sites. As more platforms appear, regulators and gambling companies are under pressure to ensure players are protected.
