International Policies and Practices on Gambling Taxation

The Kelly Criterion is a mathematical formula that can be used to make the most of your bets, whether in gambling or investing. In this blog post, we provide you with all the necessary information to understand this concept. We'll go over the basic principles and origins and give you simple examples to see how you can apply the Kelly Criterion to your betting tactics.  The Math Behind It? Using the Kelly Criterion is a strategy that balances the risk of losing with the potential for profitability, guiding you to bet a portion of your funds that corresponds to the probability of winning. It was formulated in 1956 by John L. Kelly Jr., a researcher at Bell Labs. Kelly, originally focusing on long-distance telephone signal noise, unexpectedly created a system that found its most significant applications in sports betting and finance.  The core of the Kelly Criterion is its formula, which can be expressed as: f*= bp-qb f*represents the fraction of your bankroll to bet b is the net odds received on the bet (expressed as b:1) p is the probability of winning q is the probability of losing, which is 1-p Simply put, the formula can be expressed as the given odds multiplied by the probability of winning, subtracting the probability of a loss and that total divided by the odds.? Can Kelly Criterion Be Used in Casino Games? The essence of the Kelly Criterion betting is to wager a portion of your bankroll based on your edge in a given wager. However, in casino games, this becomes impractical due to the inherent house edge present in these games. Unlike skill-based betting, where the player can have an edge, online casino games are designed to give the house an advantage. This means that the return to player (RTP) is never 100%, leading to a situation where the Kelly Criterion would consistently suggest a negative betting percentage. Using the Formula in Sports Betting This approach is especially well-suited to making sports bets. If you manage to properly provide values needed for applying the Kelly Criterion formula, you should always get an optimal percentage of your bankroll needed for the bet to be profitable. Here are some examples of how you can use it in different sports.  Kelly Criterion in Football Betting When betting on football, the odds and probabilities can vary significantly depending on the matchup, league, and other factors such as team form, injuries, and historical performance. Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where you're betting on a team with odds of 3:1 (meaning b = 3) and you estimate the probability of your team winning at 50% (p = 0.5). The probability of losing (q) would be 50% (1-p = 0.5).  Plugging these values into the Kelly formula would look like this: f*= (30.5) - 0.53 = 1.5-0.53 = 0.333 This result suggests that you should bet approximately 33.3% of your bankroll on this football match to optimize your bankroll growth. Kelly in Basketball Betting Basketball betting, with its dynamic odds and frequent scoring, presents unique opportunities for applying the Kelly Criterion. Suppose you find a game where the odds are 2.5:1 ( b = 2.5) and you believe the probability of your chosen team winning is 55% (p = 0.55). Consequently, the probability of losing (q) is 45% (1 - p = 0.45). In application, it would look like this: f*= (2.50.55) - 0.452.5 = 1.375-0.452.5 = 0.37 This calculation indicates that you should allocate 37% of your bankroll to this bet. Applying the Formula in Tennis Betting Let's say you're betting on a tennis match. You have odds of 2:1 (so b=2), and you believe the probability of your chosen player winning is 60% (p=0.6). Therefore, the probability of losing (q) is 40% (1 - 0.6 = 0.4). If we use these numbers for the Kelly formula, we get: f*= (20.6) - 0.42 = 1.2-0.42 = 0.4 This result suggests that you should bet 40% of your bankroll on this match for optimal profit growth. Half, Third, and Quarter Kelly Adjusting the Kelly Criterion by betting a fraction of the recommended amount, like half (?), a third (?), or a quarter (?) Kelly, is a common strategy to manage further risks. These variations help in smoothing the volatility in your bankroll while still adhering to the principles of the Kelly Criterion. Here are a couple of reasons why bettors choose to employ this strategy.  Reduced volatility: By betting a fraction (like half) of what Kelly suggests, you reduce the fluctuations in your bankroll, leading to a more stable growth pattern. Less aggressive betting: This approach involves fewer initial bets and can be more suitable for those who are risk-averse or new to using the Kelly Criterion. Balance between growth and safety: Fractional Kelly strategies are the sweet spot between maximizing growth and protecting your bankroll from significant drops. What are Kelly Criterion Calculators?? For those looking to get serious about this strategy, Kelly Criterion calculators are a valuable tool. They simplify the process of determining the optimal bet size, eliminating the need for complex manual calculations. To use a Kelly Criterion betting calculator, you typically need to input the odds of the bet, your estimated probability of winning, and sometimes the total bankroll you are willing to bet. The calculator then uses the Kelly formula to determine the optimal bet size as a percentage of your bankroll. A key feature in many of these calculators is the Kelly multiplier. This is an adjustable factor that allows you to bet a fraction of the amount suggested by the pure Kelly Criterion, often used as a way to reduce risk. As mentioned above, this multiplier can be half, a third, or a quarter. For the full Kelly Criterion number, use a multiplier of 1.  Pros and Cons? The method is primarily aimed at enhancing the long-term growth of your betting bankroll, simultaneously working to reduce the risk of depleting all your betting funds. By using this criterion, bettors make informed decisions and align their betting strategies with the goal of long-term profitability while avoiding the pursuit of immediate, high-risk gains. There are several advantages to using the Kelly Criterion: Guides optimal bet sizing: This is crucial for maximizing the growth of your bankroll over an extended period. Emphasizes risk management: By recommending that only a portion of your bankroll should be placed on any given bet, it mitigates the likelihood of significant losses. Focus on long-term strategy: This makes it an ideal approach for disciplined bettors who are in it for sustainable gains rather than quick, risky wins. However, the Kelly Criterion is not without its drawbacks: Challenging to estimate winning probabilities accurately: Overestimation, for instance, can lead to overly aggressive betting and potential financial setbacks. Complex calculations: This is particularly the case in dynamic betting scenarios, and might demotivate some bettors. Understanding the percentages in Kelly Criterion betting is crucial for effective application. The formula's result, expressed as a percentage, indicates the recommended portion of your bankroll to wager. A positive value implies favorable odds and suggests that a bet is advisable. The higher the percentage, the stronger your edge is perceived, indicating a larger bet. Conversely, a negative or zero value signifies unfavorable odds, advising against placing the bet.  Minimize Your Betting Risk with Kelly Criterion Formula The Kelly Criterion betting approach stands as a beacon for bettors seeking a balanced method of managing their bankroll. This formula is not just about maximizing returns; it's equally focused on minimizing risk, ensuring you don't put your entire bankroll at stake. Its application in betting scenarios, especially in sports betting, is relatively straightforward, making it accessible even for those who are new to this concept.  So, if you're looking to optimize your betting strategy while keeping risks in check, consider implementing the Kelly Criterion to your next wager. It's a step toward more disciplined, calculated, and potentially profitable betting experiences.

From the very modest beginnings, starting in 1972, when five players competed in the Intergalactic Spacewar Olympics and the winner received a one-year subscription to Rolling Stone, we've reached the point where the biggest eSports tournaments are on the brink of becoming Olympic sports. The crucial trial period could be during this year’s Asian Games. The eSports program will include eight medal events and two demonstration events, with competitions being held in: Dota 2 League of Legends FIFA Arena of Valor Dream of the Three Kingdoms 2 Hearthstone PUBG Mobile Street Fighter V eSports Tournaments The biggest eSports tournament on arcade games occurred in 1980 on one of the most famous arcade games in history, Space Invaders. The tournament had over 10,000 participants. In 1993, Doom's four-player deathmatch created the groundwork for online multiplayer games like Halo, Call of Duty, and Overwatch. However, when we think about eSports in today’s terms, the starting point was Quake’s Red Annihilation online tournament in 1997. The development of Twitch in 2011 was a game changer. It had 3.2 million visitors a month when it launched. A year later, that number exploded to 20 million. Finally, these tournaments had a platform where they could attract bigger crowds. From that point on, some of the biggest eSports events took place in quite well-known venues like: Arthur Ashe Stadium Staples Centre Wembley Arena Sang-am World Cup Stadium The International Without a doubt, the biggest eSports events are for Dota 2. And, the International has no match regarding prize pools, considering that last year, the tournament surpassed $40 million in awards. The International currently holds the top six positions for the biggest eSports Tournaments’ prize pools. Originally hosted in 2011 as a promotional event for the game, the International has been held every year since, except in 2020, when it was postponed due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. Since 2013, the game's battle pass system has crowdfunded the prize pool. In the first ten competitions, the tournament had either 16 or 18 teams participating, but the format expanded in 2022. From the 8th to the 30th of October, the International 2022 will be the longest Dota 2 tournament to date. In addition, through the last chance qualifier, more teams will be added to the TI11 roster. Through the Last Chance Qualifiers round, the second and third-place finishers in each region will be able to fight for a seat on the main stage in one last LAN event, increasing the total number of teams from 18 to 20. After the LCQ concludes, the group stage will begin, with all 20 teams competing for the 16 available playoff positions. League of Legends World Championship The League of Legends World Championship is one of the world's most renowned and watched events. It's also the video game that receives the most attention from viewers across the globe. The success peaked in 2018 when 99.6 million people saw the final, and the prize pool was 6.45 million. More frequently referred to as Worlds, the Championship is the pinnacle of the annual professional League of Legends season. Teams battle against one another for the champion title, a Summoner's Cup trophy weighing 70 pounds, and a multi-million dollar prize. The 2022 League of Legends World Championship is the twelfth iteration of this championship, organized by the game's developers at Riot Games. This year's event will take place from September 29 through November 5. Four venues in: Mexico City Atlanta San Francisco New York City Twenty-four teams from 11 regions earned a spot in the tournament through regional circuits in China, Europe, North America, South Korea, and Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau/Southeast Asia. Twelve teams had to compete in a play-in round to get to the main event. The group stage will separate teams into four groups of four, and the knockout stage will start with the quarterfinals. The 2022 prize pool is over $2.2 million. Call of Duty League In the 2022 season, 12 teams will compete in four Majors using a combination of online and LAN formats. Each Major tournament will take place over the course of four weeks, with the first three weeks consisting of each team competing in online qualification matches against five other randomly chosen teams. Following these three weeks, the rankings will be used to seed the teams into the main tournament, with the four worst teams moving to the Elimination Bracket. The League started on January 21 and will end on August 7. A Pro-am event will occur in the middle of the season, matching professional players against amateur players. In addition, a Call of Duty: Warzone tournament that will include Call of Duty League pro players, broadcasters, and other influencers will also be arranged. The Call of Duty League (CDL) is an esports competition run by the game publisher Activision. In 2019, the League was announced, and the first season began in 2020. The prize pool for the 2022 World Title is $2.55 million. You'll recognize the format if you're a fan of conventional North American professional sports leagues or the Overwatch League. Participants are city-based franchises financed by separate ownership groups. The League uses a tournament point system and playoff format, with players on the roster guaranteed a minimum annual salary and benefits, as well as a portion of winnings and revenue-sharing based on how well the team performs. Fortnite World Cup If there's one game that skyrocketed in record time, from game release to the point of having one of the biggest eSports tournaments, then that is Fortnite. This year, for the first time since 2019, Epic is holding an in-person Fortnite competition. The creators announced the FNCS Invitational 2022, to be held in Raleigh, North Carolina, on the 12th and 13th of November. A total prize pool of $1 million will be up for grabs. During ten weekly qualifying events, players will be divided into five groups depending on the region they play in. The top 100 solo and 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup finals. There will be ten weekly Qualifier events. The top 100 solo and top 50 duo players will qualify for the Fortnite World Cup Finals. Namely, players will be divided into five groups depending on their region. The competition will begin with the Arena mode, where competitors must collect points to reach the Open event. During Stage 2 of The Fortnite Open, players will have three hours and up to ten matches to score the most points they can. Afterward, a group of elite players will go to the Open Finals. In the final stages, top players from every region will again have the same time frame of three hours and ten matches to score as many points as possible. Epic will then decide who is eligible for awards. Fortnite secured the largest individual prize win of any eSports athlete. Kyle Giersdorf, known as Bugha, was 16 years old when he won $3 million after a 10-week competition between April and June 2019. Valorant Champions The 2022 Valorant Champions is an impending eSports tournament for the Valorant video game by Riot Games. It's the culminating event of the 2022 Valorant Champions Tour, the second iteration of this tournament. The competition is scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, between September 2nd and 18th, 2022. The total prize pool for the tour is $3.3 million. In November 2020, Riot Games announced the first ever Valorant Champions Tour. It was held in Berlin's Verti Music Hall between the 1st and 12th of December. In 2021, the VCT attracted over 10,000 teams. In February of the same year, it was announced that the VCT Game Changers would be an additional tournament program for women and other marginalized communities. As the lowest division, Challengers were to be divided into six zones. If a team makes it through Challengers, they will progress to Masters, where they will no longer be separated into regions, and the top 16 teams from Masters will continue to Champions, the final event of VCT. The format of VCT was reworked for the second season. Namely, the number of stages in Challengers and Masters tournaments was lowered from three to two, although the basic structure of Challengers, Masters, and Champions remained the same. Challengers and Masters tournaments contribute to teams' overall circuit points. In stage two of Masters, 16 teams proceed to the VCT's global championship tournament, which is held annually. There's a Last Chance Qualifier tournament for the last four teams, and the winner of the Stage Two Masters qualifies automatically. Honor of Kings World Champion Cup The Honor of Kings is a multiplayer online battle arena for the iOS and Android mobile platforms. The tournament has yet to be announced, but it is expected to be at the end of 2022. For the first time since 2020, the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup 2022 will involve teams from outside the United States, where 16 teams will compete for the $10 million prize pool. The tournament's form of participation is also still up in the air. It may be held online or offline, depending on the general circumstances and travel limitations. However, since the Honor of Kings World Champion Cup is an S-tier event and so costly, it's likely to be hosted offline like the majority of tournaments right now. An unprecedented amount of $10 million in prize money will be awarded in this event, making it one of the most lucrative in the history of mobile gaming. The PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) has a prize pool of $6 million, which puts it in second place in the mobile gaming industry. In previous years, the Honor of Kings World Champions Cup already had big prize pools, ranging from 4.5 and 4.6 million dollars in 2019 and 2020 to 7.7 million in 2021. EVO Championship Series Maybe it isn't among the biggest eSports tournaments, but not many will leave out EVO when it comes to historical significance. In the esports world, the Evolution Championship Series is a yearly competition devoted exclusively to fighting games. Like in Super Battle Opera, participants from across the globe participate in this event, mainly from Japan. The Battle by the Bay was the initial name of the inaugural Evolution, which included Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2. In 2002, the event's name was shortened to Evolution Championship Series or EVO. The number of people attending each tournament has steadily increased over time. Since 2005, it has occurred at several Las Vegas Valley locations. Sony Interactive Entertainment and Endeavor esports venture RTS will control the event jointly starting in 2021. In 2022, the Evolution Championship Series will return to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas for EVO 2022, which will take place between the 5th and 7th of August. Last year, the prize pool for 26 tournaments was $168,500. In Sunnyvale, California, a 40-player Super Street Fighter II Turbo and Street Fighter Alpha 2 tournament called Battle by the Bay kicked off the competition in 1996. Since its inception, the competition has grown, with more than 1,000 players in 2009. In 2004, the decision was made to switch from arcades to console versions. Other than official competitions, there's a BYOC (Bring Your Own Console) section where many other games are played and side events are hosted. PUBG Global Championship The PUBG Global Championship is the culmination of the 2022 Competitive Season and is considered the World Championship for the game. The best 32 teams throughout the year will compete from November 1 until December 1. The PMGC 2022 boasts a $4 million prize pool, a decrease of $2 million from last year. With the PMWI in August and the addition of the game to the postponed Asian Games, the schedule is different than in earlier years. The PMGC 2022 will include the best teams from each Pro League (PMPL). Thirteen Pro Leagues are organized between June 20 and October 2. The top teams will participate in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South East Asia, and South Asia PMPL Regional Championships. From the PMGC launch in 2020, Tencent couldn't host it as a LAN event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time ever, after the imminent PUBG Mobile World Invitational (PMWI) and a better COVID-19 situation, PUBG fans are hoping for an offline event for the biggest event of the year. The PUBG Mobile World Invitational will be held in Riyadh from August 11 to August 20. Twenty teams will battle for $3 million in Saudi Arabia. Week one of the PMWI features the main event, where 20 teams will compete for $2 million. During the second week, The Afterparty Showdown will be played, where the top five teams from week one, six regional teams, and one special invite will participate. Overwatch League Blizzard Entertainment's Overwatch League (OWL) is a professional eSports league for the video game Overwatch. The Overwatch League, like its Call of Duty counterpart, also follows the model of North American professional leagues. Twenty city-based teams, backed by ownership groups, began signing free agents to contracts for the 2022 season in October 2021. March 1 was the deadline for all teams to have a minimum of six players signed to season-long contracts. Like in the NFL or NBA, teams compete in the regular season to reach the playoffs. At BlizzCon 2016, it was revealed that its first season would begin in 2018, with a total prize pool of $3.5 million. Throughout the years, this amount remained in the same vicinity. Before the 2022 season, the maximum number of players on a team stayed at 12, while the minimum was six. Therefore, the players' minimum salary was raised from $50,000 to $50,700. The 2022 Overwatch League season is the fifth iteration. The season is played on an early version of Overwatch 2, unlike the prior four seasons, which were played on Overwatch. It began on May 5, and the champion will be known by October 22. Apex Legends Global Series Championship Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment announced the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) in 2019, with the first season beginning in 2020–21. The series uses a promotion and relegation format throughout the seasons, culminating in the ALGS Championship. The prize pool for the inaugural season was $2.58 million, and it was increased to $5 million for the second season. EA and Respawn expanded for the 2021–22 season, allowing Xbox and PlayStation players to compete. The competition consists of three phases: Split One Split Two ALGS Championship Five regional Pro Leagues constitute splits North America, EMEA, APAC South, APAC North, and South America. In each Pro League, 40 teams come through online qualifications and direct invitations based on prior performance. Then a total of 40 teams advance to the split Playoffs. Split Two playoff winners and Last Chance Qualifier event winners will proceed to the ALGS Championship match. Counter-Strike Global Offensive WESG had a $1.5 million prize pool in 2016 and 2017. After that, however, the primacy was taken over by PGL. The PGL Major Antwerp 2022, also known as PGL Major 2022 or Antwerp 2022, was the seventeenth Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) Major championship. In Sportpaleis, twenty-four teams competed in the event between May 9 and May 22, with the majority qualifying via their respective regional competitions. It had a prize fund of US$1,000,000, half of what it was in 2021. FaZe Clan, the first foreign CS:GO team to win a Major, took the trophy, finishing above 23 other teams. The format was set in three stages: The Challengers Stage featured a 16-team Swiss System Format, with the Buchholz system and initial seeds used to seed matches. The top eight teams advanced to the Legends Stage, while the bottom eight teams were eliminated. The Legends Stage used the same format and seeding system as the Challenger Stage. Finally, in the Champions Stage, eight teams battled in a Single-Elimination bracket, seeded using the final rankings from the Legends Stage. FAQ Is there a dress code at eSports competitions? Competitors must wear official team uniforms during all on-site matches and interviews at major eSports championships. The logos must be visible at all times, and hoodies are not permitted. Other than approved headsets, they're prohibited from wearing headgear or face masks. What types of games do eSports include? An eSport is any video game in which a player competes against another person. A few of the most popular esports game types are: Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas Battle Royales Real-Time Strategy Games First Person Shooters Fighting Games Sports Games Which are the best channels to watch live eSports games? The best place to watch the biggest eSports tournaments is probably Twitch.tv. This site is geared toward gamers who share their gaming experiences. YouTube Gaming users also have the option to broadcast their bouts.

Sports betting odds are influenced by various factors, both general and specific to different sports. Recent performance, win-loss records, past matchups, and statistics are crucial in determining odds. The absence of key players due to injuries or suspensions can significantly shift the odds. Teams often perform better at home due to familiar conditions and support from local fans. Heavy rain, for instance, might impact a football game's score. Past encounters between teams or players can influence odds, especially if there's a consistent pattern of wins or losses. When you look at the odds on betting sites, you have to consider many factors. We cut through those aspects to help you secure the best odds, choose the appropriate market, and determine the optimal timing for your betting picks. 1. Know your sport inside out By deeply understanding the sport, bettors can better interpret statistics and trends that can influence games and use them to predict outcomes more accurately. Regularly following a sport provides deeper insights into player form, injuries, and potential line-up changes.  In addition to tactics, team dynamics, playing styles, and historical performances against certain opponents, bettors often consider players' personal problems, such as disagreements with their coaches. These details will help you make smarter decisions and find valuable bets at top betting sites. 2. Don't just stick to one bookmaker  Bettors can limit themselves if they stick to a single bookmaker. For example, various bookmakers give different odds on the same events. By shopping around, bettors can be certain they are receiving the most value for their bets. Even little variations in odds might lead to considerable increases in possible winnings over time. This approach, known as odds shopping, is critical for anyone serious about profiting from sports betting. Furthermore, several bookmakers provide a range of incentives, promotions, and special deals that might be helpful to bettors. These may include welcome bonuses, free bets, improved odds, and cashback offers, all of which can provide value above and beyond the odds. Certain bookies may specialize in specific sports or events or provide greater market depth. By sticking to a single bookmaker, a punter may miss out on the extensive coverage of favorite sports or events. Finally, the betting experience can differ dramatically among bookies regarding user interface, customer service, and the availability of extra services, such as live streaming, in-play betting, and cash-out choices. 3. Don't bet only on the favorites Favorites typically have lower odds because they are more likely to win, meaning the potential returns on a bet are down compared to betting on an underdog. Also, sports are inherently unpredictable, and upsets are more common than one might think. By betting only on favorites, bettors ignore the potential value that can be found in underdog victories. Sometimes, favorites are overvalued based on reputation rather than current form or specific matchup conditions. Ultimately, odds are influenced by public perception and betting patterns. The fact is that favorites often attract attention and money, which might lead to shorter odds and less value for the bettor. 4. The fewer selections, the better Keeping your bets simple or placing single bets might be a more successful strategy than accumulating picks. The fundamental reason for preferring fewer selections is the increased probability of winning—each additional selection in a bet multiplies the risk since every selection must be correct. By betting on fewer selections, you reduce the impact of variance. With fewer bets, the outcome is more likely to reflect your skill and knowledge rather than random chance. Also, focusing on fewer selections allows for more thorough research of each choice. When betting on a single game or event, you can analyze relevant situational factors and concentrate on identifying value in the betting markets. This detailed analysis is more likely to lead to rational betting decisions than spreading your focus across many games or events. 5. Avoid the temptation of odds-on prices Be mindful of the false sense of security that odds-on prices can create. Upsets are common in sports, and even the most favored can lose, leading to significant losses, especially if a bettor has staked a large amount due to a low return. Effective bankroll management is crucial in sports betting. Punters risk more money than they stand to win, which means that even a few losses can be challenging to recover from. One of the critical aspects of successful betting is finding value. Odds-on bets often offer little to no value as bookmakers adjust the prices to reflect the high probability of the outcome. So, the risk-to-reward ratio in odds-on betting is skewed. 6. Consider the less obvious markets Mainstream betting markets, like match winners or total points, are heavily analyzed and bet on. Bookmakers price these markets rather accurately. Less obvious markets might receive a different level of attention, leading to more favorable odds or mispriced lines that savvy bettors can exploit. If you have specialized knowledge of a particular aspect of a sport, less obvious markets allow you to leverage this expertise. For example, if you thoroughly understand individual player performances in basketball, you might find great value in player-prop NBA betting. 7. Make sure you understand the market Understanding betting markets is the foundation for making informed and strategic decisions. Different markets offer different types of bets, each with its own rules and strategies. Each market requires a unique approach to research, risk assessment, and understanding of the sport. Prop bets, for example, require specific and detailed knowledge of players and teams.  A common mistake bettors make is not fully understanding the distinctions between these different markets. Failing to grasp how a point spread works can lead to misinterpreting what constitutes a winning bet. 8. Don't bet with your heart Letting personal biases dictate betting decisions is a common pitfall in sports betting. This approach can significantly impair judgment and lead to decisions that aren't backed by sound reasoning or statistical evidence. Emotional betting ignores important aspects that influence the outcome and includes making bets based on love for the team or player rather than on an objective analysis. In NFL betting, a fan of a particular football team might consistently bet on their team to win despite player injuries or a poor run of form. While loyalty is admirable, it misses critical factors that should improve decision-making. 9. Pick your moment The ideal timing for placing bets and live bets varies depending on the nature of the sport, the type of bet, and the specific circumstances surrounding the event. Here's a breakdown of ideal time frames for both pre-game and live betting: Pre-game betting Early betting: Placing bets as soon as the lines are released can be advantageous, especially for seasoned bettors with a good sense of value. Early lines may not fully reflect recent developments or public betting trends, which creates betting opportunities. In NFL football betting, early lines can provide value before the market adjusts. Closer to the event: Waiting until the event starts has its benefits as well, allowing bettors to consider last-minute changes, such as injuries, weather conditions, or roster changes. In baseball betting, where starting pitchers are crucial, betting closer to game time can be wise. Market movements: Observing how the lines move and comparing odds in the days leading up to the event can provide insights into where smart money is going. For those less confident in their initial analysis, following these movements can aid in making wiser decisions. Live betting Early game observations: The beginning of the game is a critical time for live sports betting. Watching the first few minutes can give insights into the strategies teams employ, any unforeseen factors like weather impacts, or the game's general flow. Reacting to game dynamics: A key player getting injured, a significant change in momentum after a few big plays, or a team displaying unexpected form can be good moments to consider live betting. Halftime/breaks in play: Halftimes or breaks in play, like the end of a set in tennis, are strategic times for live sports betting. They provide a moment to assess the game without the pressure of ongoing play and can be ideal for placing bets based on first-half performances or expected adjustments. Avoiding late-game betting: While tempting, betting late in the game can be risky unless you have a clear read. Those live odds are usually less favorable, and the potential for unexpected changes diminishes. 10. It pays to follow less popular sports Major sports like football, basketball, and horse racing attract much attention from bettors and bookmakers. The odds in these sports are usually sharp, as bookmakers invest significant resources in setting accurate lines. Less popular sports, however, can maintain less efficient markets.  Concentrating on a niche sport allows you to develop expertise that gives you an edge over bookmakers. With less information available publicly, your in-depth knowledge, combined with odds comparison, can be a significant advantage. You can understand nuances and details often overlooked by others, giving you a better chance to spot mispriced odds or valuable betting opportunities. What Affects Sports Betting Odds? There can be several ways where the odds on sports betting futures can change before a season begins. For example, in the last few days and weeks leading up to games, events such as trades or free agent signings can transform the underdog into one of the favorites or create an even bigger divide between the two squads. Player injuries or absences due to suspensions or personal reasons and the location of the game can affect the odds. Teams generally perform better at home, which can lead to shorter odds. In MLB betting or other outdoor sports like college football, weather conditions can impact gameplay and thus affect the odds. Past matchups between the teams or players can influence odds, especially if one team or player dominates the other consistently. The specific strategies or styles of play can influence how a team stacks up against another, affecting the odds. For example, the over/under margin on two high-scoring NBA teams will significantly increase compared to the league average. Lastly, the dynamics of the betting market can also influence odds. Bookmakers adjust odds based on where the larger portion of the money is going. If many bets are placed on one team, the odds may be adjusted to balance the action.

Ever since card games became popular in casinos, people have tried to find a way to gain an advantage over the house. Casinos have quickly picked up on different techniques players employ, such as card counting, past posting, and collaboration with other players at the table. However, there's one technique that's still stuck in a gray area—edge sorting. This technique isn't exactly illegal, but many casinos have refused to pay the winnings that have been earned through it. In this article, we'll explain what edge sorting is, how it works in different card games, and give the most notable examples of when it worked. What Is Edge Sorting? The edge sorting technique involves identifying subtle differences on the back of playing cards to gain an advantage in gambling. The method relies on exploiting imperfections in the printing or cutting of the cards to determine whether a card has a high or low value. Certain decks of cards have imperfections in their design, such as variations in the size of the patterns or the patterns themselves. By closely examining the cards and memorizing these irregularities, a skilled edge sorter can categorize the cards into high-value and low-value groups and know which cards are face-down. How Does Edge Sorting Technique Work? In order for edge sorting to be explained, understood, and applied, a few things need to fall into place. Firstly, the casino has to use a specific deck of cards. Edge sorting can only be executed with specific decks of cards that have irregular patterns on their edges. These irregularities may be variations in the size of the patterns or slight differences in the shape of the pattern. Once you determine these differences, you can start sorting out the cards. Secondly, the dealer must approve card rotation, so it's possible to sort out high and low-value cards. For example, you can ask the dealer to rotate the cards that have high value so you can identify them later on. This request is often made as part of a superstitious ritual or preference. High rollers, who may have more influence or privileges, might have a better chance of getting the dealer to comply with this request. Thirdly, the table must use an automatic shuffler. By using an automatic shuffler, the irregularities on the card edges can be maintained in their relative positions during the shuffle, making it easier for the edge sorter to identify high-value or low-value cards during the game. Once you have everything in place, you'll be able to determine the winning hand in most rounds and use this advantage to rake in big winnings. Poker Edge Sorting We have bad news for all you poker players. Edge sorting in poker is almost impossible due to external factors. Even if other players at the table were okay with your suspicious rotation of the cards, these cards would be regularly dealt to other people who would rotate them back and ruin your strategy. Even the legendary poker player Phil Ivey hasn't used this technique for poker. The famous controversy behind Phil Ivey and edge sorting popularized this technique after this American poker player used it to win almost $9.6 million during four sessions at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City. He won another $12 million by playing Punto Banco at the Crockfords Casino in London. This resulted in a huge battle in the courts where Ivey claimed he didn't cheat but admitted to using edge sorting. However, he won that money in baccarat, a card game that's perfectly suited for edge sorting. Baccarat Edge Sorting Baccarat is a perfect card game for edge sorting as it doesn't involve other people, and it relies on simple principles. The basic idea is that you bet on either your or the dealer's hand to be the winning one, with each card having a specific value. The most valuable cards in baccarat are 6s, 7s, 8s, and 9s. Therefore, you want the dealer to rotate these cards so that you know when they're coming and gain a significant edge. It's because of this unique gameplay that edge sorting in baccarat can be so successful, as seen in the case of Phil Ivey. It's one of the most notable edge sorting examples to date. However, many casinos have spotted this technique and will look for signs if you try to use it. Blackjack Edge Sorting Theoretically, it's possible to utilize edge sorting as a means of gaining an advantage in blackjack, provided the dealer is willing to fulfill your requests. In this scenario, you would need to rotate specific cards to identify picture cards and potentially gain an advantage over the house. This technique can be advantageous if you arrange the shoe in a way that allows you to spot these high-value cards However, it's crucial to note that such a strategy can only be effective in rare circumstances where you are the sole player at the table and there are no other players expressing concerns about delays caused by your actions. In a typical blackjack game, accommodating requests for card rotation and attempting to exploit edge sorting would likely disrupt the flow of the game and draw attention from both the dealers and other players. Thus, successfully employing edge sorting in blackjack to gain an advantage is highly unlikely in typical casino settings. Edge Sorting in Online Casinos Because edge sorting in card games relies on the dealer rotating the cards, the only way it can work is in live baccarat games. Unlike in physical casinos, you can't ask the dealer to rotate the cards since online games are typically automated and lack human dealers. Moreover, online games are observed by numerous players, making it impractical for dealers to accommodate individual requests. However, there are still some aspects of edge sorting that can be adapted to online play, particularly in games like baccarat. The main idea is to focus on understanding the composition of the remaining cards in the shoe rather than predicting specific upcoming cards. By determining whether there's a higher proportion of high or low cards left, players can gain a slight advantage in their decision-making, akin to card counting. While this approach doesn't guarantee success, it can stack the odds in the player's favor. The feasibility of discerning the differences on the back of cards in online casinos is uncertain. Cameras used in online games often have wide-angle lenses that may not allow players to notice such minute details. However, it's worth noting that modern live baccarat games in reputable online casinos often employ high-definition graphics, with some even offering resolutions as high as 4K. While it's technically possible to see the back of the cards, it's still challenging. Conclusion Edge sorting is a controversial technique that has garnered attention in the casino world. While it has been employed to gain an advantage in games like baccarat, its effectiveness and legality hinge on specific circumstances. This method relies on identifying irregularities on the back of cards to categorize them into high- or low-value ones. However, successful implementation requires specific decks with irregular patterns, the cooperation of dealers to rotate the cards, and the use of automatic shufflers. [sigma-mt-blog-post-play recordids="768534,862327"] FAQ Is edge sorting illegal? The legality of edge sorting depends on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances. While it's not inherently illegal in some places, many casinos consider it a form of cheating and may ban players caught using this technique. What is the most common sorting technique used by card players? The most common sorting technique used by card players is card counting. Card counting refers to keeping track of the cards that have been dealt in a card game to predict the cards that are yet to be dealt. What is edge sorting in Mississippi Stud? Edge sorting is not specifically associated with Mississippi Stud because it's virtually impossible to implement it in poker games.