Business is underway for a major gaming operator in Alberta.
Key Takeaways
- PointsBet’s pre-registration in the Western Canadian province has begun, signaling licensing and soon-to-be regulation.
- There are plenty of other suitors interested in Alberta.
- PointsBet plans to launch “in the coming months.”
PointsBet announced on Tuesday that the sports betting and online casino company has received authorization from Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) to advertise and pre-register residents for its platform before the Canadian province’s launch.
Alberta sports betting will be the second operating province for PointsBet, which offers sports betting and iGaming in Ontario.
“Alberta's move toward an open, competitive iGaming framework is a positive step for Canadian players, offering more choice and consumer protections in a safe and regulated environment,” said Scott Vanderwel, CEO of PointsBet Canada. “We're excited to introduce our innovative, Canadian-focused sports betting and online casino products to Alberta residents, supported by industry-leading speed, responsible gaming tools, and local expertise.”
According to their website, Alberta users can sign up now. PointsBet says its full sports betting and iGaming product will be available “in the coming months.”
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Province of wagering
The ALGC’s Play Alberta platform is currently the only gaming operator authorized to take regulated wagers. That is expected to change in 2026, potentially before the next NFL season begins.
PointsBet is one of several gaming companies that have wasted little time moving toward licensing and regulation in Alberta. The ALGC told Covers last month that the Western Canadian province has already received great interest from multiple operators.
Other companies operating in Ontario are expected to pursue an Alberta launch, including major U.S. players like DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, and theScore Bet. There are also multiple “grey” or “black” gaming companies operating in the province, and the ALGC is welcoming those online sportsbooks and casinos to apply for licensing.
Alberta passed an iGaming bill in May 2025 with hopes of cleaning up unregulated sports betting and online casino wagering and creating an Ontario-like betting market, which offers 50 different operators.
Market growth
PointsBet has previously reported significant market growth in Ontario, where it offers sports betting, horse racing, and online casino games, so it’s no surprise that the company was quick to pursue Alberta licensing. Revenue increased by 26% in Ontario during fiscal year 2025, and PointsBet overcame a $15.1 million EBITDA loss.
The gaming company has enjoyed no partnership revenue sharing, small licensing fees, and a tax rate that helps PointsBet stay committed to the Canadian market.
“PointsBet Canada remains dedicated to delivering a fast, reliable, and entertaining experience, powered by its proprietary technology platform,” the operator said. “The company is proud to have built an authentically Canadian sportsbook, supported by Canadian employees and designed specifically to address the needs of the Canadian market.”
PointsBet also operates heavily in Australia, the company’s headquarters. The gaming operator sold off its U.S. presence to Fanatics in 2023.
