The UK's online gambling and betting sector is booming, and the country offers many legal and reliable sportsbooks. However, the UK Gambling Commission, the main regulatory body in the state, has one of the strictest requirements globally.
These imply identity and financial checks, deposit and bet size limitations, and a mandatory self-exclusion program. At the same time, overseas platforms are also not banned, and British players often opt for this opportunity.
What are the main reasons they select wagering on international markets, and how does this decision affect their betting habits?
Broader Choice of Online Bookmakers
It’s not a secret that the UK has lately strengthened its policies, and compliance with standards is often complicated and costly for iGaming operators. The licence issuer aims to decrease the number of online sportsbooks in the country to make the sector more controlled. On the other hand, international betting sites don’t have so many limitations and restrictions and offer customers freedom and flexibility.
Fewer Limitations Regarding Deposits and Bets
The UKGC has recently implemented new regulations that limit the maximum bet a user can make per spin or round. Moreover, authorities place restrictions on the amount of cash punters can spend on bookmaker sites, which depends on their financial statements. Undeniably, this law was initiated to educate gamblers on responsible behaviours and highlight the importance of budgeting in this risky entertainment. However, British bettors are often dissatisfied with the conditions and search for alternative sportsbooks with more opportunities.
Chance to Wager Anonymously
Identity checks and compliance with KYC policies are essential for UK-based betting sites, so every operator licensed in the country must initiate customer verification during registration. At the same time, many users prefer to keep their personal details private and unwillingly share them with online casinos and bookmaker sites. Most platforms in other jurisdictions also require users to pass an ID check, but finding some no-verification bookies is still possible. Punters can place sports bets anonymously in this case but still enjoy secure and fair conditions.
Lack of Self-Exclusion Tools
GamStop was launched in 2018 with the aim to decrease the number of British residents suffering from gambling-related disorders. This program covers all casinos and betting sites registered in the UK and bans access to self-exclusion users. Punters select the term themselves: it varies from six months to five years. However, the ban cannot be cancelled or even suspended, so compulsive individuals have to pass the entire self-exclusion period to return to gambling. This factor distracts users from GamStop and encourages them to select alternative platforms outside the jurisdiction. In this case, they don’t risk being blocked from their favourite entertainment and can enjoy wagering at any time.
Self-excluded users often choose overseas sportsbooks to get around the ban and still place bets while restricted from UK platforms. Here, risk-seekers must be especially attentive to safer gaming requirements, implying adherence to bankroll management practices and limiting time on the chosen site.
Higher Bonuses and Promotions
As mentioned, UK casinos pose multiple restrictions and often limit bonus opportunities to their customers. On the other hand, bookmaker sites registered in different jurisdictions are more flexible. Promotions are an important part of the betting sector, and users want to get as many rewards as possible to boost their experiences without additional investments. Selecting non-British platforms is viable since they provide fair terms and conditions while offering a more diverse bonus choice.
Better Odds and Broader Market Coverage
International bookmakers often offer more lucrative betting opportunities since they cover multiple disciplines. Moreover, punters can count on better odds on the same events, potentially multiplying their eventual winning without depositing a fortune. Lots of sports are available, and users can find niche betting markets to boost excitement.
Extended Number of Payment Solutions
The UK Gambling Commission thoroughly monitors all aspects of the iGaming sector in the country, and its limitations also concern payment methods. British players cannot use credit cards and cryptocurrencies on domestic betting sites. However, these banking options are common in online gambling. Overseas platforms offer their members the opportunity to use Bitcoin and its alternatives to enjoy secure, lightning-fast, and anonymous deposits and withdrawals. In addition, many sportsbooks accept credit cards, so bettors can always borrow some money from the bank to have more fun.
The Final Word
Even though UKGC licensing is one of the most prestigious globally, British bookmakers face numerous limitations and restrictions from the government. Therefore, its residents who are passionate about betting often seek alternative gambling destinations. International bookies are more flexible regarding deposit limits, market coverage, and bonus sizes, which is why they are a common choice among UK punters. However, everyone engaging in this risky entertainment should remember to maintain responsible gambling habits and manage their bankroll for maximum advantages.
