Microbetting is now the fastest-growing part of in-play betting. Its popularity is rising every day. Its rise has been quick and extensive. Experts now predict it could hit $20 billion in bets by 2027.
It’s easy to see the appeal. Platforms like 22Bet let players bet on nearly anything during the game. The bets can be very specific, too.
But there’s a downside. Read on! We’ll explore the hidden risks of microbetting. Some are calling for stricter market regulations.
What is Microbetting?
You can place small, quick bets at almost any time during a game. The results of these bets are determined just as fast.
Microbetting is proving popular thanks to its fast feedback loop. Players know whether they’ve won or lost almost instantly. The fact that it works so well with mobile viewing experiences has also contributed to its rise. Fans can now place microbets on their mobile devices. They can do this while watching a game live.
Why is Microbetting Dangerous?
Microbetting can be great fun — there’s no denying that. But it’s risky, particularly when we compare it to more established forms of in-play betting.
And these aren’t the only risks that come with microbetting.
Addiction and Problem Gambling
A big debate around microbetting is its rumored link to problem gambling. Some think microbetting is more addictive than other types of gambling. This could lead to a rise in problem gambling, especially among younger players.
Microbetting requires quick bets. Players have almost no time to think about the odds or chances of winning. This makes it hard for players to make responsible choices. In some cases, it can even lead to problem gambling.
Financial Impact
Microbetting can hurt players financially. It makes them place more bets than they usually would.
The other issue is the temptation to recover previous losses by placing more and more small bets. This is a risky strategy in gambling. It often leads to losing a lot of money.
Lack of Specific Regulation
Microbetting is not yet regulated separately from other forms of sports betting. Players can now place as many bets as they want during games. Yet, they can also lose a lot of money.
Opponents of microbetting are trying to find a link between gambling addiction and these quick bets. If they succeed, we can expect clear rules for microbetting in the future.
Regulators could make tougher regulations for younger players, as they have for online slots.
Can Microbetting Be Made Safer?
Microbetting isn’t harmful when used responsibly and for fun. Players often run into trouble when they chase losses or bet too much. The quick pace of microbets can make this worse.
In the UK, for example, the Gambling Commission now limits online slot bets to £5 for adults and £2 for players aged 18–24. Each game must also have a short delay between rounds to slow down play.
Similar rules might arrive for microbetting soon. Yet, there’s still a debate about how strict they should be.