Bet365 is stepping away from China and other high-risk markets, according to strategic advisory firm Regulus Partners. The shift takes effect on 27 March 2025. This move is part of a broader strategy to focus more on regulated areas, putting the spotlight on the key move: See more details in the perspective of Regulus:

  • Bet365’s decision impacts its last big “dark grey” market, reducing non-regulated exposure to under 10%. China likely made up less than 5% of the company’s current revenue. The shift comes after years of scaling down operations in the region.

  • Back in 2014, China was probably Bet365’s second-largest market after the UK. At the time, it may have contributed less than 20% of total revenue. Growth in other markets and regulatory pressure made China easier to drop.

  • Bet365 used the “.com brand” model, avoiding direct local operations or agents. This method skirts onshore risk but faces increasing disruption. Chinese authorities have become more effective in cracking down on offshore betting traffic.

  • The Chinese betting market remains large, estimated at $20bn in net revenue. But risks are rising with tighter AML enforcement and digital surveillance. Operators face more scrutiny even outside China, especially in the US.

  • The exit underlines a growing split in the gambling world. Regulated markets are becoming the focus, while “dark grey” ones carry more risk. Companies still active in China may gain an edge but at higher regulatory and legal cost.

  • As fewer firms try to cover both regulated and grey areas, reputational risks are clearer. Regulators are more digitally advanced and focused on compliance. One industry analyst put it simply: “Strict legal justification is no longer the only risk factor.”

  • Bet365 now joins other operators distancing themselves from high-risk zones. This supports industry efforts to align with compliance standards. The challenge lies in balancing innovation without stepping into legally murky territory.

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