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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the gambling industry in Canada

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When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, choices made by the gambling market made profound long term impacts on the industry. This became clear during the first phase of the lockdown. Many land-based gaming outlets had to close down by order of the government. Individual players moved in droves to online gaming, even though it didn’t have the same feel as physical outlets.

Between the first and second waves of restrictions, some outlets opened, and customers eagerly returned. But even now, as casinos have learned to operate under restrictions, it’s obvious the casino community has yet to recover fully. The future of the gambling terrain is…uncertain.

To add fuel to the fire, the Problem Gambling Index Score has risen in this period. Four studies have noted a link between higher issue severities and increased problem gambling. While land-based gambling access was restricted, individuals turned to online casino sites. Potential problem casino addicts with no access to work or daily movement were stuck in front of their PCs all day, often gambling.

Online gambling has continued to gain in popularity. The recent legalization of online gaming in many jursidictions has increased the exposure of and the number of people who indulge. Lottery ticket sales, online casino table games, and electronic slot machines are all wildly popular.  The one exception may be sports betting, which has been affected by the worldwide suspension and postponement of professional games.

Many countries have taken measures to reduce the possible effects of the lockdown when it comes to online gaming. Some employ measures like limiting advertising and establishing a daily bet cap. But how exactly has the lockdown affected this industry, and what can be done about it? Let’s find out.

What is the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the Gambling sector in Canada?

The Problem Gambling Severity Index is commonly used in prevalence gambling studies to assess risk factors. Emerging data from a study by the Alberta Gambling Research Institute revealed a link between severity and gambling.

Contrary to current opinion, the lockdown measures implemented had several implications on the public and even drove individuals into the arms of gambling slot machines. The casino industry continues to thrive even after the pandemic.

Before the widespread lockdowns, virtual gaming was not nearly as relevant to the Canadian gaming industry as it is today. But gambling research has revealed  casinos and gambling platforms turned to websites and mobile applications to stay afloat amid the lockdowns.

Increased problem gambling was the expected result. This was particularly prevalent in younger age groups, especially males.

Canadians from all over the country began looking for trusted online casinos. Individuals began to do searches and check out websites to understand their odds. Problem Gambling status was on the rise, with the casino offering a range of activities and slots. They also offered several bonuses and deals such as welcome bonuses, free spins, and the first no deposit bonus.

With these, they could attract more new players and users to their platforms. In turn, these players spent more money. Virtual casinos are now more popular than ever before. There’s simply no doubt the COVID 19 pandemic has had a significant effect on the betting world.

But to stay in business, gambling platforms must regularly update their websites. They also offer new and existing players a diverse range of bonuses and promotions, and they do their best to ensure the safety of their patrons.  A great resource for dependable online casinos can be found at most trusted online casino Canada. Since not all casinos are created equal, choosing the right site can be difficult if you’d like to guarantee a fun and safe gaming experience.

Further development

The Closing Procedure

While Parliament governs the electronic gambling community in Canada, the Criminal Code’s enforcement and gambling regulation are handled at the provincial or territorial level.

When the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on Canada industry became clear in early 2020, it was primarily provincial and territorial agencies that swung into action. They issued directives to shutdown land-based gambling. The orders did not specify a reopening date.

Policymaking, Planning, and Consultations

Provincial regulators and private sector operators recognized the reopening process even before closing. It was clear that it would be complex, risky, and subject to revision when it occurred. The primary condition is if it results in poor health outcomes.

In April 2022, sector representatives in most provinces began informal meetings. These meetings were to understand the conditions for an eventual reopening, the operational strategy to take, and the strategies to employ.

This led to an early and unanimous realization that the process would be successful only if everyone worked together, communicated openly, and took a cohesive approach.

The Procedure for Reopening

The majority of nations took a step-by-step strategy to reopen their economies. Any enterprises deemed “non-essential” were to remain closed to all except distanced operations. Each following recovery phase allowed for the resumption of operations of a new group of firms or activities. Some of which were subject to limits or requirements even today.

Businesses were classified into distinct groups under this regime based on their risk to individuals’ health. During the previous reopening phase, enterprises were generally grouped with businesses.

Some provincial and territorial governments moved the entire jurisdiction through reopening phases. Others, particularly those with larger populations, took a more regional approach. They imposed relaxing restrictions in each local region of the jurisdiction based on the pandemic risks. Mostly based on a number of active cases and a number of new cases trends that region presented.

As a result of this strategy, multiple phases were implemented across the province or territory. Every province and territory imposed numerical limits on the size of public gatherings. Ranging from 5 or 10 to 25, 50, 100, and so on. Larger numbers apply to outdoor spaces and increasing numbers. This was done as jurisdictions progressed through the various reopening phases.

Summary

A review of the land-based industry’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic to date is a good demonstration of how determined and concerted planning action can create the ground work for economic recovery. It is achieved once associated health and safety issues are mitigated. It also indicates some tendencies that will likely affect how the sector evolves in the coming years. There has certainly been a decided shift to online gaming and going forward, online gaming will certainly become a permanent feature of the entertainment industry.

Todayville Content Team works with a wide variety of clients to develop compelling content solutions. Our experienced team develops strategic campaigns that use video and storytelling, digital advertising and social media to help our clients position and distinguish themselves in the market.

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Why Flying Private From Calgary Is Better Than Commercial

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This is a guide to flying privately from Calgary, offering everything from cost-saving tips to the perks that you can expect. 

Flying privately has always been considered a privilege of the ultra-rich. Until now. While it’s not cheap, it’s much more affordable than it has been before, thanks to a wide range of options arriving on the market and soaring airfares in the commercial sector. 

With a host of private jet services on offer at YYC Calgary International Airport, flying in style and comfort has never been more accessible — now, there are fixed-based operators, empty-leg flights, and a host of charter services you can choose from. Whether you’re hopping over to Vancouver for the weekend or flying halfway around the world, there’s a private service for you at YYC Calgary International Airport. 

Let’s get into all the reasons why flying private from Calgary is better than commercial travel. 

Calgary International Airport Can Get Too Busy 

We’re talking about Canada’s fourth-largest airport here, which processed some 18.5 million passengers in 2023 alone. If you’re travelling during the holiday season, then you can expect long queues at the check-in desk, more queues at the security checks, and longer waiting times at the gate. This can be pretty frustrating and stressful, especially if you’re travelling with children or in large groups. 

Flying in an aircraft charter from Calgary removes all of these concerns. Arrive at the airport within thirty minutes of departure, be whisked off to the private lounge at your chosen fixed-base operator, enjoy your seamless private check-in, and board your jet. It takes all the stress out of flying while elevating the most luxurious and exciting components. 

As soon as your vacation or business trip is over, all you want to do is get home and relax. Flying privately all but guarantees that you arrive on time and enjoy a hassle-free experience as soon as you land. Say goodbye to tiring customs checks or the risk of lost baggage and long delays for connecting flights. 

Flying Privately Is Easier (and Cheaper) Than You Think

Flying privately has always been seen as the ultimate flex for the ultra-wealthy — and let’s be honest, private jet ownership still is. But swapping narrow seats and crying kids for serenity at 45,000 ft is more accessible than it used to be. Thanks to some clever cost-saving innovations and rising commercial airfares, private jet travel is starting to look like a surprisingly affordable option for more people.

If you bought your own jet, you’re talking about a minimum purchase price of a few million plus nearly half a million in annual running costs. This puts ownership out of reach for most people, but there are other options. With empty-leg flights (where jets are repositioning and would otherwise fly empty), you can snag luxury flights for prices that won’t break the bank. Think hundreds instead of thousands — assuming you’re a little flexible with your schedule.

For frequent fliers, membership programs or fractional jet ownership are absolute game changers. For a flat fee, you can access planes when you need them, minus the hassle of maintenance or storage costs.

And let’s not forget charter services. Whether it’s a quick hop to a neighbouring city or a transcontinental trip, renting a jet can be cost-effective if you’re travelling with a group — remember, you’re paying for the plane, not the seat. A light jet might set you back $1,300 per hour, but divide that by a group of four travellers for a 6-hour flight, and you’re suddenly rethinking that commercial first-class ticket.

Luxury That Fits Your Schedule

YYC Calgary International Airport has 71 gates and averages almost 200 departures every day. With so much activity, cancellations and long delays are not uncommon. These can occur due to anything from maintenance issues to crew shortages. This year alone, WestJet, which operates out of Calgary, has been plagued with strikes and supply chain issues. Air Canada and WestJet also performed poorly in a list of North American airlines ranked by on-time departures. 

Why risk the doom and gloom of commercial air travel at YCC Calgary when you can just fly privately? Fly on your own schedule, guarantee swift take-offs, and arrive at your destination on time. This is even more pertinent for business travellers who can’t risk being late when important meetings and deadlines are at stake. It doesn’t just have to be for work — there are times that require quick actions and getting to places faster to be with family and friends for crucial moments, and flying privately can save you from both the bureaucracy and the wait times.

Fly Private, Fly Better

Flying private from Calgary is less about getting from A to B and more about air travel on your terms. Everything that you’ve ever hated about flying can disappear with the click of your fingers and a call to your jet broker. No matter the occasion — business trips, weekend getaways, intergenerational family vacations — private travel prioritizes the journey’s aesthetics and practicality as much as the destination. 

Once you’ve skipped the lines, breezed through customs, and sipped a coffee in your own space at 30,000 feet, you’ll never look at commercial travel the same way again. Go on, make the switch with confidence.

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How to Streamline Your Car Sales in Toronto? The Pointer for Car Sellers

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Many car owners doubt whether selling their property is worth the hassle they may face during sales. That’s reasonable because a car is not a small item, and you probably spent much on its purchase at some point and regularly invested in it to maintain it in good condition. Then, selling it for pennies is not your choice.

We went ahead and contacted Topcashforcars.ca, a company that is reputed for giving the highest cash prices for cars in Toronto. Their approach is straightforward and reduces hassle for sellers who want to sell their vehicles profitably without the complexities of dealing with customers.

Choosing the Right Counterparty Is a Key to Success

First, have you already decided where and to whom you can sell a vehicle? That’s your #1 thing to do. Typically, the choice is either selling autos to individuals who want to buy a second-market car to save some dollars or to specialized companies engaged in car buying. These companies are diverse enough and they often offer good conditions for a seller although their pricing is diverse too.

How can you get in touch with such buyers?

  • For individuals who buy second-hand vehicles, you can search on big Canadian bulletin boards online and sometimes, on social networks.
  • For the companies to deal with, Google is your best friend to ask for help. However, our consultants, Topcashforcars.ca also are among these buyers, so you can make it even easier and apply to them.

What is more beneficial for a car seller at this stage? We can surely say that dealing with car-buying companies considerably saves you time. The whole negotiation process can take a couple of hours, so you won’t wait long and remain under pressure of uncertainty. 

Making It Lighting-Fast Is Possible

The previous tip leads to another one: you can sell a car in a lighting-fast mode. Just do some easy preps like its examination at the service station to consider what price can you claim for it and clean it up. This takes no more than a day if you have a good service station in your neighborhood and it helps clearly understand the price and the condition of your car.

Then, you can ensure you set a real price by using special online calculators provided by the same car-buying companies. It may take just a couple of minutes and you’ll get a precise calculation based on your vehicle’s type, age, model, condition, and specific features. 

Getting Cash Instead of Bank Transfers or Checks Is Faster

One more thing you can do to sell your auto as fast as possible is to sell it for cash. Bank operations often take additional days to be processed. Thus, even if you are lucky enough to get in touch with a good buyer quickly, and even if you conclude a deal in a day or two, it’s not guaranteed that you get money to your bank account similarly quickly. Applying for cash transactions you avoid troubles with banks and extra commissions for the transaction too.

As you can see, selling a vehicle can be eating pears for you if you plan your sale and follow the tips we shared in this article.

If followed, these recommendations can allow you to easily sell your car and make a handsome return in the process. It is even more rewarding because time and energy has become invaluable and cash for cars, Toronto based companies and specifically Topcashforcars.ca, will ensure the vehicle is sold for the best price with little input from the owner. When selling a car, it is ideal to do enough research, plan and choose the right buyers so that the car selling process is fast and efficient.

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