BetMGM vs DraftKings: Which Sportsbook Is Better for the Bettor?
BetMGM launched its online betting platform in 2019, rooted in a partnership between industry giants MGM Resorts International and Entain plc. It operates across 20 states and Puerto Rico, extending its reach to Ontario, Canada, showcasing a diverse sportsbook through various platforms including iOS, Android, and desktop. BetMGM offers a welcoming bonus of up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets, catering to a wide audience with a minimum deposit of $10 and offering numerous payment methods for user convenience.
DraftKings, transitioning from a daily fantasy sports platform in 2012 to a comprehensive sportsbook post-2018, is listed on the Nasdaq with its main operations in Boston. The platform offers its services in numerous U.S. states and Ontario, Canada, providing a welcome bonus of $150 in Bonus Bets for a minimal initial bet of $5. DraftKings emphasizes user accessibility with its wide array of payment options and a relatively swift withdrawal process across both mobile and desktop interfaces.
Key Stats & Features Comparison
| Feature | BetMGM | DraftKings |
| Welcome Bonus | Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets | Get $150 in Bonus Bets |
| Mobile Apps (iOS/Android) | Yes | Yes |
| Appstore Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Google Play Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Legal States | 23 | 23 |
| Live Betting | Yes | Yes |
| Live Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Payout Speed | 1-5 Days | 1-5 Days |
| Rewards Program | BetMGM Rewards | Dynasty Rewards |
| Sportsbook Review | BetMGM Sportsbook Review | DraftKings Sportsbook Review |
Great Rewards Program
What Users Say About Their Overall Experience at BetMGM
Bonuses & Promotions
The sports betting app has received mixed reviews regarding its bonuses and promotions. Approximately 60% of users have expressed satisfaction with the generous and frequent bonuses and promotions, particularly appreciating the bonus bets and boosts. However, around 30% of users have reported issues with receiving their bonuses and high wagering requirements. The remaining 10% of users have mixed feelings, suggesting improvements such as more deposit match bonuses and faster updates on parlays.
Functionality & User Experience
Users have praised the app for its user-friendly interface, wide range of betting options, and quick transactions. However, a considerable number of users have reported issues with the app's functionality, including frequent login issues, slow loading times, and occasional freezing.
Cashiering
Users have a mixed bag of experiences with the cashiering aspect of the sports betting app. While many appreciate the swift and efficient deposit and withdrawal process, a significant number of users report issues with withdrawing their winnings and unsatisfactory customer service. Some users have reported technical issues, such as the app failing to update deposited amounts promptly.
Odds & Pricing
Users appreciate the competitive odds offered by the app and the variety of betting options available. However, some users feel that the app is rigged and have complaints about the app's performance, with users experiencing lag and slow processing times when placing bets. There are mixed reviews about the customer service.
Market Coverage
Users have praised the app's wide range of betting options across various sports. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of options for betting on certain sports and events. They have also suggested the addition of real-time updates for player milestones and the ability to bet on future games, not just live ones.
Support
The sports betting app's support has room for improvement. A significant number of users have expressed dissatisfaction with the support, particularly regarding issues with withdrawals and account access. Communication seems to be another area where the support team falls short. However, a few users had positive experiences with the support team, appreciating the quick response and resolution of their issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the sports betting app has a mix of positive and negative aspects across different categories. While users appreciate the bonuses and promotions, user-friendly interface, and wide market coverage, there are significant issues with functionality, cashiering, odds, and support that need to be addressed to improve the overall user experience.
Great Choice for NFL & NBA
What Users Say About Their Overall Experience at DraftKings
DraftKings Overall Review
After analyzing the user reviews, the following average review of the DraftKings sports betting app can be summarized:
1. Bonuses & Promotions:
- Positive Aspects: The app offers generous bonuses and daily promotions, with a rewards system that some users find appealing.
- Negative Aspects: There are complaints about the lack of incentives for existing customers, technical issues with bonuses, and misleading promotions.
2. Cashiering:
- Positive Aspects: The app is praised for its quick payouts and ease of depositing funds.
- Negative Aspects: Users have reported issues with the app's reliability, lengthy verification process, ineffective customer service, and restrictive withdrawal policies.
3. Odds & Pricing:
- Positive Aspects: Some users appreciate the pre-calculated odds and wide range of betting options.
- Negative Aspects: There are complaints about perceived unfair games, slow loading times, poor customer service, and unattractive promotions.
4. Market Coverage:
- Positive Aspects: Users appreciate the extensive range of betting options.
- Negative Aspects: The app's slow speed, issues with location check and two-step authentication, lack of information for individual player bets, and unreliable teaser options are areas of concern.
5. Support:
- Positive Aspects: Some users find the app's customer service helpful and reliable.
- Negative Aspects: Many users have expressed dissatisfaction with slow response times, unresolved technical glitches, and difficulties with account verification.
Conclusion: While the DraftKings sports betting app has some positive aspects, there are significant areas that need improvement to enhance the overall user experience. These include improving the bonus system for existing customers, enhancing the app's reliability and speed, providing more information for individual player bets, and improving customer service response times.
The app is horrible. The app keeps closing out every time I try and place a bet. smh. I had to withdraw my money and go to another betting app.
The app keeps freezing and a big delay from when I press a selection on the app....an app keeps crashing
I love the games love to win some big money
Whose Bonuses are Better?
Bonuses play a crucial role in the betting experience. Whether through welcome offers, loyalty rewards, and unique promotions, these are the ways that BetMGM and DraftKings bring in new users and retain existing ones. We’ve listed all of the available bonuses across both of these sportsbooks so you can see the whole picture.
BetMGM Bonuses
What Users Say About BetMGM's Bonuses
Mixed Response to Bonuses & Promotions
The reviews indicate a mixed response towards the bonuses and promotions offered by the sports betting app. A majority of users, approximately 60%, have expressed satisfaction with the bonuses and promotions, stating that they are generous and frequent. They particularly appreciate the bonus bets and boosts, which they find to be a major incentive for continued use of the app. The quick payouts and user-friendly interface of the app also receive positive feedback.
Dissatisfaction with Bonuses & Promotions
However, around 30% of users have expressed dissatisfaction with the bonuses and promotions. They report issues with receiving their bonuses, even after meeting the required conditions. Some users also criticize the high wagering requirements attached to these bonuses. A few users have reported technical issues with the app, such as slow loading times and glitches, which they feel negatively impact their betting experience.
Mixed Feelings and Improvement Suggestions
The remaining 10% of users have mixed feelings about the app. They appreciate the bonuses and promotions but suggest improvements such as more deposit match bonuses and faster updates on parlays.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the majority of users are satisfied with the bonuses and promotions offered by the sports betting app, there is room for improvement in terms of the conditions attached to these bonuses, the technical performance of the app, and the customer service.
Had several bonus bets that showed up on my page but never was able to use them. Contacted customer service but never resolved my issue or refunded my bonus bet I wasn't able to use
Pretty awful experience not receiving promos
No pay out... no bonus rounds or free spins... pathetic... waht a joke... fair gaming yea right
DraftKings Bonuses
What Users Say About DraftKings Bonuses
The reviews about DraftKings' bonuses and promotions are a mixed bag.
Positive Aspects:
- Generous Bonuses: Approximately 40% of users have lauded the app for its generous bonuses, especially for newcomers, and the daily promotions.
- Rewards System: Users express satisfaction with the rewards system and the potential to win big from bonus bets.
- Success Stories: A few users have shared their success stories, winning substantial amounts using these bonuses.
Negative Aspects:
- Lack of Incentives for Loyal Customers: Around 60% of users have voiced dissatisfaction with the bonus and promotion system, criticizing the app for not providing enough incentives for existing or loyal customers.
- Technical Issues: Users report technical issues with the bonuses not functioning properly within the app, expressing frustration over customer support's inability to resolve these issues.
- Bait and Switch Tactics: Some users accuse the app of employing bait and switch tactics and complain about the app's slow and glitchy performance, which they believe hampers their decision-making during live betting.
- Referral System Issues: A handful of users have reported issues with the app's referral system, claiming they did not receive the promised rewards for referring friends.
- Misleading Promotions: Some users express disappointment with the app's promotions, describing them as misleading or only applicable to certain types of bets.
- Performance Complaints: Complaints about the app's slow loading times and technical bugs have also been raised.
Conclusion: While DraftKings does offer bonuses and promotions that some users find appealing, there are significant issues that need to be addressed. These include enhancing the incentives for existing customers, fixing technical glitches, and ensuring that the promotions are transparent and straightforward.
Great deals but the app is laggy and it doesn't keep up with my Parlay legs in real time.
The app is easy to follow and use. good games and lines. plus has nice bonus features.
Didn't honor an insurance bet.
Mobile Apps Comparison
The iOS and Android mobile apps for BetMGM and DraftKings both offer robust functionality and user-friendly interfaces, catering to a broad spectrum of bettors. Users appreciate the intuitive navigation, comprehensive betting markets, and the ease of managing accounts directly from their smartphones. Both apps receive praise for their reliability and the smooth experience they provide, from placing bets to withdrawing winnings. Ultimately, the choice between BetMGM and DraftKings' mobile apps may come down to personal preference for specific app features or the availability of certain bets and games.
- BetMGM iOS betting app: 4.5/5 stars from 3.5k ratings in the App Store
- BetMGM Android betting app: 4.2/5 stars from 27.4K reviews in the Play Store
- The DraftKings iOS betting app: 4.8/5 stars from 682.9K reviews in the App Store
- DraftKings Android betting app: 4.6/5 stars from 136K reviews in the Play Store
Great Rewards Program
What Users Say About BetMGM's App
Mixed Reviews Overview
The sports betting app has received a mixed bag of reviews from its users. A significant number of users have praised the app for its user-friendly interface, wide range of betting options, and quick transactions. They also commend the app for its generous promotions and reliable customer support.
Functional Issues
However, a considerable number of users have reported issues with the app's functionality, including frequent login issues, slow loading times, and occasional freezing. Some users have also expressed dissatisfaction with the app's customer service, describing it as unhelpful and slow to respond.
Overall Satisfaction and Suggestions
Despite these issues, a majority of users seem to enjoy using the app, particularly appreciating the app's betting perks and easy navigation. However, improvements could be made in terms of functionality and customer service.
WORST APP EVER. Locked my account for no reason and Customer Care won't help. Use any other betting site for your own sanity
They'll take ur money if you lose but if you want to cancel a bet you can't and it says in the by law subsection that they are not allowed to void or cancel a bet once it's started but they gave me a bullshyt reason for them canceling my one bet but taking my money on the same game bet BULLSHYT FRAUDULENT ACTIONS BY THEM
I've been playing on here on and off for over a year. Sports betting is good but the slots are glitchy and will suck you dry quicker than you can blink. Very disappointing. However payouts are pretty quick
Great Choice for NFL & NBA
What Users Say About DraftKing's App
The app is horrible. The app keeps closing out every time I try and place a bet. smh. I had to withdraw my money and go to another betting app.
The app keeps freezing and a big delay from when I press a selection on the app....an app keeps crashing
I love the games love to win some big money
Leagues Comparison
When comparing the range of leagues offered, BetMGM provides access to over 120 leagues, while DraftKings expands its reach with over 180 leagues. This difference reflects each platform's commitment to catering to a diverse audience, offering a broad spectrum of sports across various global markets. The selection can influence a bettor's choice, depending on their interest in niche or international sports alongside mainstream leagues.
The edge in this category goes to DraftKings with its abundance of national and international leagues available.
BetMGM's Leagues
User Reviews for BetMGM's Leagues
Mixed Reviews on Market Coverage
The sports betting app has received mixed reviews from users, with many praising its wide range of betting options across various sports. Users have appreciated the app's user-friendly interface, quick transactions, and reliable customer support. They have also commended the app's speed and quality improvements, as well as its unique markets not found on other sportsbooks.
Dissatisfaction with Certain Sports and Events
However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the app's market coverage. They have pointed out the lack of options for betting on certain sports and events, such as horse racing, Bkfc, and specific games. Some users have also expressed a desire for more betting options similar to those offered by other sportsbooks, such as DraftKings and FanDuel.
Suggestions for Improvement
Several users have also mentioned the need for more player prop options and the ability to combine different types of bets into parlays. They have also suggested the addition of real-time updates for player milestones and the ability to bet on future games, not just live ones. In terms of market coverage, users have praised the app's wide range of sports to bet on, including NBA, soccer, and MLB. However, some users have expressed a desire for more niche markets, such as F1 and African Champions League games.
Conclusion: Room for Expansion
Overall, while the app is generally well-received for its wide market coverage, there are areas for improvement, particularly in expanding the range of sports and betting options available to users.
I've been playing on here on and off for over a year. Sports betting is good but the slots are glitchy and will suck you dry quicker than you can blink. Very disappointing. However payouts are pretty quick
Maine now has online betting but you don't include it.
Betmgm is SHADY. They manipulate their parlay options and betting lines so it is usually not accurate (compared to other sites such as Draftkings and Fanduel) or omit certain ones they feel are good chances to hit. As for the betting lines. I've noticed that it frequently changes drastically the day of. so they can lock your previous bet due to the change in odds. It is obvious this isn't simply just according to line movement as there have been -200 to -300 disparities compared to other sites
DraftKings' Leagues
User Reviews for DraftKings Leagues
After reviewing the feedback, it's evident that users have a varied experience with DraftKings' market coverage.
Positive Aspects:
- Extensive Betting Options: A significant number of users appreciate the extensive range of betting options, highlighting the app's ability to challenge their sports knowledge.
- In-Game Options and Hockey Bets: The in-game options and the vast selection of hockey bets are also commended by some users.
Negative Aspects:
- App Speed: A common issue raised is the app's speed, with many users finding it slow and laggy, which hampers their ability to place real-time bets.
- Location Check and Authentication: Some users report problems with the app's location check and two-step authentication process.
- Market Rules and Information: There are grievances about the app's market rules and the lack of information provided for individual player bets. Users feel that the app could do a better job of keeping them informed about changes in team lineups.
- Same Game Parlay Feature: Users have mixed feelings about the same game parlay feature. While some enjoy it, others report limitations on the amount they can bet.
- Teaser Options: Complaints about the app's teaser options being sporadic and unreliable were noted.
- Voided Bets: A few users caution others to be mindful of voided bets and advise reading the rules before placing a bet.
Conclusion: While DraftKings offers a wide range of betting options, it could enhance its market coverage by addressing issues with speed, providing more information about individual player bets, and improving its same game parlay and teaser options.
It's disgusting how rigged the live games are the only redemption for them is sports betting they have so many options
Any type of bet you could imagine but the app crashes alot and lagging to much
The app is easy to follow and use. good games and lines. plus has nice bonus features.
Unique Offerings
BetMGM Additional Features:
- Live Betting: Daily events with a user-friendly interface.
- Live Streaming: Access to stream various sports events.
- Poker: Cash games and daily tournaments available.
- Early Cash Out: Option for selected markets.
- Same-game Parlays: For eligible events, clearly marked.
- Friend Referrals: Bonuses for meeting wagering requirements.
- MGM Rewards: Earn points redeemable for various services.
DraftKings Additional Features:
- Same Game Parlays: Combines multiple wagers within a single event.
- Live Betting: Real-time odds adjustments for ongoing events.
- Player Prop Betting: Bets on individual player performances.
- Early Cash Out: Allows ending bets early for a portion of the potential win.
- Marketplace: Trading platform for collectibles, including NFTs.
- Player-Centric Betting: "Player Pages" for centralized prop betting on individual athletes.
Customer Support Comparison
In evaluating the customer support of BetMGM and DraftKings, we scrutinize their responsiveness, efficiency, and the breadth of assistance provided. This examination reveals how each platform ensures user concerns are promptly and effectively addressed, highlighting live support, resource availability, and social media engagement as pivotal elements of their service frameworks.
BetMGM Customer Support:
- Speed and Effectiveness: Notably quick in addressing concerns, with professional staff available around the clock.
- Live Chat: Offers 24/7 access to support staff with a seamless transition from automated messages to human agents.
- Agent Interaction: Tested through multiple daily sessions, displaying consistent and rapid response times.
- Social Media: Active engagement on various platforms, with a specialized team responding within an average of 90 minutes.
DraftKings Customer Support:
- Support Platform: Extensive resource site with articles and tutorials aiming to preemptively address user questions.
- Speed and Effectiveness: Varied response times were observed, with potential delays during peak hours.
- Social Media: Maintains a responsive Twitter presence, answering direct messages with an average response time of 90 minutes.
Each platform has tailored its customer support to provide timely and effective solutions, with BetMGM focusing on speed and DraftKings on comprehensive self-help resources.
Time (ET) | BetMGM Time to Resolution | DraftKings Time to Resolution |
9:00am | 3 minutes and 25 seconds | 5 minutes and 26 seconds |
12:00am | 3 minutes and 47 seconds | 6 minutes and 11 seconds |
6:00pm | 5 minutes and 50 seconds | 9 minutes and 12 seconds |
10:00pm | 5 minutes and 45 seconds | 10 minutes and 4 seconds |
BetMGM's Customer Support User Reviews
Mixed Feedback on Support Services
After analyzing the reviews, it's evident that the sports betting app's support services have room for improvement. While some users had positive experiences with the support team, the majority expressed dissatisfaction and highlighted various issues.
Dissatisfaction with Support
Many users reported that their accounts were blocked without clear explanation, leading to frustration. Attempts to resolve these issues with the support team often resulted in unhelpful responses or long waiting times. Some users found the process of withdrawing winnings to be tedious and time-consuming due to extensive identity verification requirements.
Communication and Response Times
Communication seems to be a significant area of concern, with users citing poor response times and lack of resolution to their queries. Some users waited for weeks without receiving a response, which further exacerbated their dissatisfaction.
Positive Experiences
On a positive note, a few users had positive experiences with the support team. They appreciated the quick response and efficient resolution of their issues. Additionally, some users praised the app's user-friendly interface and smooth navigation, attributing these to the efforts of the technical support team.
Conclusion and Areas for Improvement
In conclusion, while there are positive aspects to the app's support services, the negative experiences outweigh them. Key areas for improvement include enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the support team, improving communication with users, and streamlining the process for withdrawals to reduce user frustration.
WORST APP EVER. Locked my account for no reason and Customer Care won't help. Use any other betting site for your own sanity
They'll take ur money if you lose but if you want to cancel a bet you can't and it says in the by law subsection that they are not allowed to void or cancel a bet once it's started but they gave me a bullshyt reason for them canceling my one bet but taking my money on the same game bet BULLSHYT FRAUDULENT ACTIONS BY THEM
Had several bonus bets that showed up on my page but never was able to use them. Contacted customer service but never resolved my issue or refunded my bonus bet I wasn't able to use
DraftKings Customer Support User Reviews
DraftKings Support Review
After analyzing the reviews, it is evident that the DraftKings sports betting app's support has received mixed feedback.
Negative Aspects:
- Slow Response Times: A significant number of users have expressed dissatisfaction with the support service, citing slow response times.
- Unresolved Technical Glitches: Users report unresolved technical glitches, which contribute to a frustrating experience.
- Account Verification Issues: Difficulties with account verification are common, with some users having their accounts locked or restricted without clear reasons. The support team was often not helpful in resolving these issues.
- App Performance: Frequent crashes and freezes have been reported, further compounding user dissatisfaction with support.
Positive Aspects:
- Helpful and Reliable Service: A smaller group of users have praised the app's customer service, describing it as helpful, fast, and reliable.
- Quick Resolution: These users appreciated the quick resolution of problems and the ease of navigation on the site.
Conclusion: While some users have had positive experiences with DraftKings' support, the majority have faced challenges. The support team needs to improve their response time, provide clearer communication, and ensure that technical issues are resolved promptly to enhance user satisfaction.
DONT WASTE YOUR TIME! IF A PROBLEM ARISES ITS A MONTH OF ENDLESS EMAILS TO A THIRD WORLD COUNTRY!
Easy to use. support is responsive
If you want to start gambling. please don't. You may win. but you will most likely lose more than you will win. I have gambled close to 400k on the app this year and have won some and lost some. But trust me. it's not worth it. The support team talks about good faith. but it only applies when it benefits them. The final straw for me was 12-13-2023 when they spoke to me about good faith and have void similar situations but say tough luck when a less known player is injured playing minimal time.
Who's Got Better Security?
BetMGM Security
For BetMGM, their security framework includes licensing across all active states, employing AES, HTTPS, and SSL encryption for data protection, advanced intrusion detection systems for server security, mandatory two-factor authentication, regular security audits, and strict data privacy policies.
DraftKings Security
DraftKings ensures security through state-specific licensing, SSL encryption for data safety, strong two-factor authentication, visible web safety indicators like padlock icons, and a comprehensive security program, although it does not disclose specific firewall or defense details.
Odds Comparison
In our odds comparison section, we evaluate the betting lines and odds offered by BetMGM and DraftKings. This analysis aims to provide insights into which platform might offer more favorable conditions for various sports and events.
Game | BetMGM | DraftKings |
76ers vs. Knicks | 3.20 (1.36) | +210 (-258) |
Rangers vs. Hurricanes | O 6 (2.00) | U 6 (1.83) | O 6 (+1.05) | U 6 (-125) |
Arsenal vs.FC Porto | O 3.5 (2.30) | U 3.5 (1.55) | O 3.5 (+275) | U 3.5 (-3.99) |
Which Sportsbook is More Responsible?
DraftKings
DraftKings emphasizes the importance of responsible gaming by providing various tools and resources aimed at promoting safer gambling practices. Their approach includes:
- Limit-Setting Tools: These tools allow users to set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on their deposits and spending, offering a proactive way to manage gaming activity and prevent excessive gambling.
- Cool-Off Periods: DraftKings offers the option for users to take a break from their accounts for both short and extended periods, which is beneficial for self-regulation and preventing gambling addiction.
- Self-Exclusion: This feature enables players who recognize they have a gambling problem to voluntarily exclude themselves from the platform, thus preventing further gaming activities.
- DK Safer Play: A specialized website dedicated to responsible gambling, DK Safer Play provides valuable information, quizzes, and assistance for addressing gambling-related issues.
- Opt-Out Program: Users can unsubscribe from marketing communications, which helps reduce gambling temptations, through their account settings or by contacting support.
BetMGM
BetMGM, in partnership with the American Gaming Association, underscores the significance of responsible gambling with a comprehensive set of tools:
- Deposit and Spend Limits: Users can set limits on their deposits and bets over daily, weekly, or monthly periods, which aids in managing gambling habits.
- Daily Time Limit: This tool helps users control the total amount of time spent on gaming, from sign-in to sign-out, encouraging shorter gaming sessions.
- Cool Off Time Limit: Offers users the option to take a break for periods ranging from 3 to 180 days, which can help with self-regulation.
- Self-Exclusion: Similar to DraftKings, this allows users to exclude themselves from betting on all BetMGM platforms for a specified duration, aiding in the fight against gambling addiction.
- Reality Check Reminders: Periodic reminders are sent to users to evaluate their gaming time, promoting awareness and responsible gambling behavior.
- Account Closure: Users have the option to temporarily or permanently close their account, which can be a decisive step for those seeking to stop gambling.
- Gaming History Review: This feature enables users to review and assess their gaming behavior, offering insights into their gambling patterns and potential issues.
Both DraftKings and BetMGM offer a comprehensive suite of tools designed to promote responsible gambling. Each platform provides limit-setting features, self-exclusion options, and resources for individuals seeking help with gambling issues.
Final Thoughts
In comparing BetMGM and DraftKings, one observes distinct characteristics and offerings that define each sportsbook. Both platforms have established a significant presence in the online betting industry, providing a comprehensive range of betting options across numerous sports and events. BetMGM, a collaboration between MGM Resorts International and Entain plc, launched its online platform in 2019, featuring a generous welcome bonus and a robust rewards program. DraftKings, transitioning from a daily fantasy sports platform to a full-fledged sportsbook, emphasizes user accessibility and a diverse array of betting markets.
The legal operation across over 20 states and in Ontario, Canada for both sportsbooks highlights their widespread appeal and compliance with regulatory standards. They offer comparable services in terms of mobile app functionality, payment methods, and customer support, ensuring a user-friendly betting experience. The responsible gambling tools provided by both BetMGM and DraftKings underscore their commitment to safer gambling practices, with each platform offering various mechanisms for self-regulation and support.
In summary, BetMGM and DraftKings each bring unique features and services to the table, catering to a wide audience of bettors with their respective strengths in bonuses, betting options, and user experience.
FAQs
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Meet Our Authors
Paruyr Shahbazyan
Paruyr Shahbazyan began his business career in 2000 as a private entrepreneur. Over thirteen years, he developed a deep understanding for business and leadership, laying a solid foundation for his professional journey.
In 2013, Paruyr stepped into the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating. This online mass media platform, which he led until 2020, focused on providing in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting, earning a reputation for its quality content.
Continuing his innovative approach in 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This venture showcases his dedication to integrating advanced technology in the evolving landscape of sports betting. Through these diverse experiences, Paruyr has continuously influenced and shaped the betting industry, driving new trends and setting high standards.
| Experience | Year |
| Engaged in private entrepreneurship | 2000-2013 |
| Founder and President at Bookmaker Rating, an online platform focused on sports and betting | 2013-2020 |
| Co-founder at Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol | 2022 |
"Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports."
- Paruyr Shahbazyan, Founder, RG
Principles and Ethics
Paruyr Shahbazyan's core beliefs lie in the power of informed decision-making and integrity in the betting industry. He understands that the foundation of successful betting is not just about odds and predictions, but also about the trust and reliability of the information provided. Paruyr advocates for a betting environment where transparency and knowledge are paramount, ensuring that bettors are well-equipped with accurate data and insights.
Strategic Vision
Paruyr's vision is to revolutionize the sports betting industry through the integration of technology. He sees the future of betting as a blend of traditional sports knowledge with innovative tech solutions, like decentralized protocols, to enhance user experience and fairness. His aim is to create platforms that are not only user-friendly but also uphold the highest standards of ethical betting, contributing to a more responsible and enjoyable betting culture.
Future Perspectives
Looking towards the future, Paruyr envisions a betting landscape that is more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally connected. He anticipates a significant shift towards more decentralized and transparent betting systems, driven by blockchain technology. Paruyr is committed to being at the forefront of this change, continuously exploring new possibilities and innovations that can redefine what it means to engage in sports betting in a digital world. His focus is on building systems that prioritize user empowerment, fairness, and the global growth of the sports betting community.
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman Hansen is the Editor-in-Chief at RG.org. With over two decades of experience in sports journalism and iGaming content, Sol finds working with RG.org a refreshing experience focused on transparency and responsible, informed sports gambling.
No, that bonus won't make you rich; it might lead to a gambling addiction even faster.
Notable Achievements
Sol is the creator of the world's largest book on digital art, a work collected by Harvard University libraries for its historic significance. He also served as the head of innovation at the Bank of Montreal, specializing in advanced technologies.
Personal Passion
Writing is Sol's daily practice and his art. He loves enriching readers with every story, reflecting his commitment to helping people through his work.
Interests
An avid sports lover, technology enthusiast, and a dedicated collector of both digital and physical art, Sol is habitually curious and a serial experimenter who loves to test new things…it's the only way to learn.
Cristina Varela Galan
Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project
“Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.
Nick Ashbourne
Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game back in 1998, and he's written about them professionally since 2014.
Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports, and his sports betting expertise has grown since its legalization in Ontario in 2022.
Between 2022 and 2023 he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets, and in 2024 he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the Responsible Gambling team.
Anna Kravtcova
Ph.D. in organizational psychology, an internationally certified psychologist (EuroPsy 2022, Cognitive behavioural therapy of mindfulness 2020, International Society for Emotional Intelligence 2017, Russian Psychological society 2014, American Psychological Association(Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychologist) 2011), speaker of many international conferences (USA, Brazil, Portugal, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.). TEDx speaker.
Mike Rosenberg
Mike made the decision to dive headfirst into the booming world of sports betting fresh out of college. Back in the day, when 1-800 pick lines and sports pagers were all the rage, he couldn't resist the allure, having grown up idolizing sports legends like Sweetness, MJ, and Slammin Sammy. Mike dedicated his early years to the industry, tirelessly analyzing games, writing articles with free picks, and selling his expertise on reputable handicapping sites. Unlike many others, Mike was known for his integrity and only released one Game of the Year per sport, per season. His hard work and unwavering commitment paid off, earning him a devoted following and propelling his career to new heights. Then came the explosion of Daily Fantasy Sports. Believe it or not, companies like DraftKings and FanDuel used to pay Mike's company to increase their brand exposure. Now, those same industry giants don't even bother responding to his emails. While Mike appreciates the convenience of being able to place legal bets in his own backyard, he can't help but feel disheartened by what has become of the industry. People are being led astray, falsely believing that a mere $5 wager on a 20-team same-game-parlay will be their ticket to financial security. If there’s one thing Mike learned from making book back in the day, it’s that parlays are a bookie’s best friend. A bankroll is the only leg you have to stand on in the battle with the books, and Mike’s here to offer up advice on how to protect it.
Mark Medina
Mark Medina is a longtime NBA reporter that includes stints as a Lakers blogger with The Los Angeles Times (2010-12), Lakers beat writer with the Los Angeles Daily News (2012-17), Warriors beat writer with Bay Area News Group (2017-19) as well as an NBA reporter/columnist for USA Today (2019-21) and NBA.com (2021-23). Medina is also an NBA insider with Fox Sports Radio and frequent contributor to CBSLA's SportsCentralLA with Jim Hill and with Spectrum Sportsnet.
Daria Tuboltseva
Daria went to St. Petersburg State University and earned a bachelor of international journalism. Working as a sports journalist from 2014, from 2016 as a hockey journalist. Covered 5 World Championships, 2022 Winter Olympics, 2020 World Juniors, 6 Gagarin Cup Finals.
Owner of a telegram channel Coolest Game on Earth.
Integrative nutritionist specializing on sports nutritionology.
Paul M. Banks
Paul M. Banks is a professional Content Creator whose career has seen bylines in numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, FOX Sports and Sports Illustrated.
Banks has made scores of guest appearances on live radio and television, featuring regularly on NTD News, WGN-TV, CCTV, ESPN Radio, the History Channel, SiriusXM and CBS Sports Radio.
He is the Founding Editor of The Sports Bank.net, which has been featured and linked in hundreds of leading media outlets all across the world.
He has also authored two books, one of which, "No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in Sports Media," became an assigned textbook in journalism courses at State University New York-Oneonta.
Nikhil Narain
Nikhil Narain is a die-hard cricket romantic, published author, and has worked for some of the leading digital websites and broadcasters in India and overseas. An alumnus of the London School of Economics, Nikhil's forte is using data and numbers creatively to weave interesting stories and revolutionize the way cricket statistics are generated and analyzed.
