Sports Betting Markets

With the advent of the internet, sports and betting information became readily available and wagering could be done in a few clicks. In short, sports betting was changed forever.

Initially during the 1980s and 1990s, however, it took days to make online deposits, websites crashed often, and sites came and went quickly. But within a few years, the betting public was able to instantly access a range of odds on just about any game, innumerable sports betting sites, and online resources geared toward making them smarter bettors.

By the 21st century, there was no end of quality sites online and numbers continued to grow.

Betting Market Articles

Accessing Sports Betting Markets

Using the latest technology, sports betting markets can be utilized around the world any time of day or night. From the United States, sports bettors can wager on all major U.S. sports as well as leagues throughout the rest of the world. Every year, one can find millions of available wagering opportunities.

Also, in the last few years, it’s become even easier to wager on sports. With the development of mobile apps and sports sites optimized for tablet, iPhone, Android, or smartphone, those who want to bet on a game can do so whenever they can connect with the internet.

The Online Markets

In the U.S., you’ll be able to easily wager on professional baseball, football, hockey, and basketball. College basketball and football, soccer, golf, tennis, and motor sports are also available. On many websites, you can also find many leagues from around the world. Soccer is the most popular sport, and even the smallest online sportsbook carries a dozen or more soccer leagues.

Numerous sports betting sites also offer rugby, cricket, darts, snooker, UFC/MMA, wrestling, cycling, volleyball, and other betting opportunities. Plus, you’ll usually find entertainment, political, and current events props. Many sites also include horseracing, however, this sport is not usually offered under the sports betting area of a website. Horserace betting is usually accessed on another part of the company’s site. Many websites provide bettors the chance to bet on both thoroughbred and trotter action, and some also carry dog racing.

Live Betting

Another form of sports betting that is growing in popularity is live betting, which takes one of two forms. The most common type involves basic odds wagering that continues to change as the game progresses. Included is spread, totals, some props, and other wagers.

The other type of live betting focuses on play-by-play wagering, and often includes the live telecast of the game. This tends to be much more volatile because you are continually wagering on the next play.

If you are betting on the Colts and Steelers using the first type of live wagering, the spread before the game may have the Colts at -7.5. But let’s say that in the first quarter Indy scores 10 points. You may then see the odds on the Colts go to -17.5 or even -21.5. A line will also be set for which team will make the next score.

Take that same game and bet on it utilizing the second form of live wagering. You’ll be able to bet on which team will score next or what will happen on the next play, such as a completed pass, a run for a gain, or a sack. As can be seen, there are many more bets to be made and much more cash can be won or lost using this method.

Brick and Mortar Sportsbooks

Along with online betting, sports bettors can also make bets at brick and mortar establishments. In the U.S, you will find the lion’s share of these establishments located in Las Vegas. In Vegas, you’ll find numerous establishments where you can watch, eat and drink, and bet on a host of sports.

Finding the Right Book

It’s important that as a sports bettor you find the sportsbook or sportsbooks that are right for you. The right book usually carries your popular sports, has banking practices that you prefer, and offers the best odds or lowest vig.

Other important elements may include special promotions, bonuses and awards, and quality of customer service. Of course, you always want to sign up at a book that is safe, secure, and professional in every manner.

Smart, Prudent Wagering

With so many sports betting opportunities at your fingertips, you should carefully monitor how much you wager in one day, week, month, and year. Keep strict records regarding your betting, including wager amounts, vig payments, and winning percentage. Never make a sports bet that you cannot afford. Limit how much you’re willing to lose at a given time and make careful choices only after competently handicapping a game. Don’t try to double up to make up for losses.

Savvy sports bettors know a good deal when they see one. They also understand that in the wide world of sports betting, there are no guarantees. Shop around for lines to give you the best deal, for games that you’re able to handicap accurately, and for the best deals around.