Photo: CC0 Public Domain
Arbitrage betting is a popular strategy in the world of
sports betting. If you're a seasoned bettor, you have most likely tried this strategy. Read on as we discuss more arbitrage betting, including what it is and its pros and cons.
Overview
Arbitrage betting is a strategy that involves taking advantage of differences in odds between different bookmakers or
betting exchanges to make a profit. It works by placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event at different bookmakers or exchanges, so that no matter the outcome of the event, the bettor will make a profit.This betting is possible because the odds offered by different bookmakers or exchanges may differ slightly, creating an opportunity for the bettor to profit by placing bets on all possible outcomes at the different odds. This betting strategy requires a significant amount of research and knowledge of the betting market, as well as the ability to place bets quickly to take advantage of changes in odds.
Pros & Cons of Arbitrage Betting
Arbitrage betting can be a profitable strategy for those who have the knowledge and resources to take advantage of differences in odds between bookmakers or betting exchanges.Some of the pros of arbitrage betting include:
Low risk: Since the bettor is placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event, the risk of losing money is significantly reduced.
Consistent profits: Arbitrage betting can provide consistent profits over time, as long as the bettor is able to find and take advantage of differences in odds.
Flexibility: Arbitrage betting can be done on a variety of different sports and events, allowing the bettor to diversify their portfolio.
Cons to consider
Time-consuming: Arbitrage betting requires a significant amount of research and the ability to place bets quickly to take advantage of changes in odds.
Limited opportunities: The opportunities for arbitrage betting may be limited, as bookmakers and betting exchanges are becoming more efficient at setting similar odds.
Risk of account closure: Bookmakers and betting exchanges may close the accounts of those who engage in arbitrage betting, as it is considered a form of advantage play.
Legal: In some countries, betting may not be legal and therefore it could bring legal problems.
Capital: Arbitrage betting requires a significant amount of capital to start with as you need to place multiple bets to take advantage of the difference in odds.
Different Types of Arbitrage Betting
Pre-match Betting
Pre-match bets refer to bets that are placed before a sporting event or competition begins. These bets are typically placed on the outcome of the event, such as who will win or the final score. They can also be placed on specific events within the game, such as the first goal scorer, the total number of points scored, or the number of yellow cards that will be shown.Pre-match bets are typically offered by bookmakers and betting exchanges, and the odds are set before the event starts. The bettor can analyze the teams, players, and other factors that may affect the outcome of the game and place their bets accordingly. These bets can be placed online or in-person at a physical bookmaker.Pre-match bets are different from live bets, which are bets that are placed during the game, after it has started. These bets are typically offered by online bookmakers and betting exchanges, and the odds can change in real-time as the game progresses.
Live Betting
Live bets, also known as in-play bets, refer to bets that are placed during a sporting event or competition, after it has started. Unlike pre-match bets, which are placed before the event begins, live bets are placed while the event is taking place, and the odds can change in real-time as the game progresses.Live betting is typically offered by online bookmakers and betting exchanges, and they can be placed using a computer or mobile device. The types of bets that can be placed during a live event vary depending on the sport and the bookmaker or exchange, but they can include bets on the outcome of the game, the next goal scorer, the total number of points scored, and many other factors.Because live bets are placed during the game, bettors have the opportunity to see how the game is progressing and make more informed decisions about where to place their bets. This can make live betting a more exciting and dynamic way to bet, but it also requires a quick thinking and good knowledge of the sport and the teams/players.Additionally, live betting also provides a wider variety of betting options compared to pre-match bets, such as over/under on certain events (e.g. total corners, total goals, etc) or the next team to score.
Arbitrage Betting Tips
Here are some tips for those who are interested in trying their hand at arbitrage betting:
Compare odds: Compare the odds offered by different bookmakers and betting exchanges to find opportunities for arbitrage betting. Use odds comparison websites to make this task easier.
Use reputable automated software: If you decide to use software, use one that is tried and tested since they give you an actual win percentage.
Always counter-check your calculations: If you want to do arbitrage by yourself, ensure you have the right figures and formula. Any slight mistake will, most certainly, result in losses.
Act fast: Arbitrage betting opportunities can disappear quickly, so it is important to act fast and place your bets as soon as you find an opportunity.
Have a good amount of capital: Arbitrage betting requires a significant amount of capital to start with as you need to place multiple bets to take advantage of the difference in odds.
Have an account with multiple bookmakers and exchanges: Having accounts with different bookmakers and exchanges allows you to quickly place bets and take advantage of arbitrage opportunities as they arise.
Be aware of the potential legal issues: Some countries may have laws that prohibit or restrict betting, so be sure to check the legalities before engaging in it.
Be aware of the potential risk of account closures: Some bookmakers and exchanges may close the accounts of those who engage in arbitrage betting, as it is considered a form of advantage play.
Final Words
Remember that arbitrage betting is a complex and dynamic field, new types and variations may appear over time and some of them may be more or less profitable depending on the market conditions and the bettor's ability to identify and take advantage of opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bookmakers permit arbitrate betting?
Unfortunately, no. Arbitrage betting favors you by increasing your chances of winning, leaving sportsbooks at a disadvantage.
Which sports can I wager on?
You can place arbitrate bets on any sporting activities, including Football, Basketball, Tennis, and even eSports.
Does arbitrate betting require a huge bankroll?
Considering you will be betting on different outcomes at once, it's advisable to have a sizeable bankroll.
