Stake Secures Alberta iGaming License Ahead of Gray-Market Deadline

Stake is set to launch its online gambling platform in Alberta on Oct. 12—just 24 hours before the province’s hard deadline for gray-market operators to transition into the regulated market.

The Australian-backed sports betting and online casino operator has secured regulatory approval from the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) and is finalizing an operating agreement with the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC).

Stake Expands Into Regulated Gaming

“Stake has built one of the world’s most recognizable brands in online gaming by doing things differently,” said Kris Abbott, country manager at Stake Canada, in a press release. “We move faster, we build bigger, and we create an entertainment experience that genuinely shapes internet and sports culture.”

The move marks a major strategic pivot for the brand. Stake has long maintained a dominant presence in Canada’s unregulated online gambling space—accounting for an estimated 31% of the national gray market, according to H2 Gambling Capital chief operating officer Josh Hodgson.

Hodgson told Casino.org that they estimate that Stake generated CA$921 million in FY 2026, second only to Super Group, at 32% (CA$942 million).

Stake Targets Future Ontario Launch

Stake Canada was created to expand into regulated Canadian markets. Stake is also seeking regulatory approval to launch in Ontario’s private iGaming market, which launched in 2022. The Alberta market launched July 13.

As of Oct. 8, the AGLC lists 41 licensed iGaming operators—including state-run Play Alberta and three licenses for Cadtree Limited—with 39 active sites currently accepting wagers.

“Stake Canada’s approach to regulated market entry is grounded in preparation, accountability, and a long-term commitment to compliance,” said Birgitte Sand, board member at Stake Canada, per G3 Newswire.

Deadline for Gray-Market Operators Approaches

Stake also operates in regulated gambling markets across Europe and Latin America.

Stake’s Alberta launch comes ahead of an Oct. 13 regulatory deadline for gray-market operators to transition to the province’s regulated space. According to AGLC documents, after the July 13 market launch, operators were granted a 90-day grace period on a case-by-case basis, allowing operators to demonstrate a path to compliance that was unattainable before July 13.

“Stake Canada’s approach to regulated market entry is grounded in preparation, accountability, and a long-term commitment to compliance,” said Birgitte Sand, a board member at Stake Canada. “Securing licensing in Alberta provides a strong foundation for the company’s development in Canada and reflects the importance we place on meeting local standards and player safety.”

Sand also commended the Alberta government, the AGLC, and the AiGC for establishing the province’s commercial iGaming framework. Beyond North America, Stake currently operates in regulated markets across Europe and Latin America.