The rise of cryptocurrencies in online gambling

  (photo credit: INGIMAGE)
(photo credit: INGIMAGE)

The evolving technology of the digital age has pushed digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum to a notable demand in online gambling.

Cryptocurrencies regulate more than finance. These digital currencies transform standard gameplay and cash-out procedures while providing safe and secure transactions that are transferred immediately and anonymously. This change not only acknowledges the wish for more privacy and efficiency, but it also provides a wider market for online casinos, including across borders. 

Having said that, a company specializing in the Finnish gambling industry, Uusimmatkasinot.com, concluded, "That crypto is here to stay." It looks like all new online casinos are moving into a more innovative and inclusive experience for online gamblers.

Why Crypto? Advantages in the Online Gambling World

Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are revolutionizing online gambling by providing speed, privacy, and cost reduction. The daily $3 million volume of bets placed in cryptocurrencies worldwide signifies that digital currencies are accepted more widely in gambling.

Similarly to traditional banking methods such as bank transfers and credit cards, cryptocurrencies are much cheaper for players and operators. "Their flexibility and speed are the main game changers in casino payment systems," says Roni Jokisalo, an expert in online casino payment methods from uusimmatkasinot.com.

Cryptocurrencies offer online casinos: 

  • Enhanced Privacy and Anonymity

  • Improved Security
  • Swift Transactions
  • Reduced Costs
  • Instant Payouts

Industry insights project significant growth in crypto gambling. In fact, the crypto segment is expected to capture $250 million of Finland's $1.31 billion gambling market in 2024. 

Regulatory and Security Challenges

The integration of cryptocurrency payments in the online gambling business poses special challenges in regulatory and security areas. Because of their anonymity, illicit activities such as money laundering are a concern.

The European Union is tightening crypto currency regulations in an attempt to eliminate money laundering and funding of terrorism. The pieces of legislation like the Directive (EU) 2018/843 and the 5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD5) are at the forefront.

Advanced security means like SSL and TLS encryption are deployed progressively to eradicate this issue. Transaction monitoring systems, blockchain analytic tools such as Chainalysis and Elliptic, mandatory KYC procedures, and geolocation restrictions are providing access to the issues.

As a result, fraudulent activities related to cryptocurrencies have considerably dropped—from 35% in 2012 to 1% and below today.

The unstable nature of cryptocurrencies is also extremely dangerous to the financial stability of both the players and casinos. Casino operators are starting to use stablecoins like USDT in their operations to counter price volatility. 

Cryptocurrency in Finnish Gambling

Even though the regulations are strict, Finnish crypto adoption is increasing. The adoption of the number of coinowners in Finland has reached 300K in 2024, and it is likely to go up to over 1M in 2034. Cryptocurrencies can be treated as goods by the government from the point of view of the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA). This is a look that is affecting, in a great way, the local gambling culture. 

Finding the Best Crypto-Friendly Casinos

Only verified casino licenses and strong KYC measures can assure safe gambling. Platforms like Bitkingz and CryptoLeo feature a high level of protection and provide users with different opportunities for crypto transactions. These first movers are now modernizing and lifting standards in the online casino business.

Underground licenses let online casinos function without terms of use or regulation. An eCOGRA license defines an extra level of trust. Effective implementation of KYC is a key aspect that helps stop the abuse of the gaming platform for criminal activities like money laundering. Casinos with robust identity verification prohibit fake objectives and make the process more secure overall.

Key Considerations Include:

  • Robust KYC measures
  • AML compliance
  • Transaction monitoring
  • Educational resources
  • Prompt customer service

The Future of Crypto in Online Gambling

Digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum are widely accepted now and on the rise. By 2028 approximately 34.26% of all players might switch to crypto, being security and simplicity measures. By 2028, nearly 34.26% of all gamblers could be using cryptocurrencies because of their security and ease of use.

Conclusion

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are gradually changing the sphere of the internet for online wagering. They offer security, reliability, and convenience. In line with that, online casinos now hold the capability of going beyond the traditional ways of transaction.  Using digital currencies, online casino players gain the ability to postpone or even diminish service fees and speed up the gaming process. 

This article was written in cooperation with uusimmatkasinot.com