Britain-based online gaming platform Bet365 has informed its clients that it will cease operations in the Chinese market by March 27th, 2025.
The announcement was made via email to customers on March 19th, according to Chinese-language gaming platform World Gaming Information.
In the email, Bet365 stated that it would no longer be able to provide services in the region starting March 27th, 2025. The company also noted that any unsettled bets beyond this date would be void, and the funds would be returned to users’ withdrawable balances.
Customers will still be able to log into their accounts and make withdrawals until April 30th, 2025. After this date, users will need to contact the platform directly to retrieve any remaining funds.
Commenting on the move in a LinkedIn post, Alun Bowden, SVP of Strategic Insight at Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, LLC, described the development as “really interesting.” He noted that while Bet365’s decision raises many questions, the company’s tight-lipped nature leaves few answers.
Bowden suggested that Bet365 may be prioritizing its expansion in the US, where gaining market share is a key strategic objective. He also highlighted a growing divide between established “online gambling 2.0” businesses, which are focusing on regulated markets, and “3.0” crypto-driven platforms that operate with less regulatory oversight.
Bowden pointed out that established operators are increasingly moving toward fully regulated markets as grey-market opportunities diminish. While higher EBITDA margins are often found in grey or black markets, companies are under increasing pressure to adapt to stricter regulatory environments.
He also remarked that it seems unviable for businesses to operate in both regulated and grey markets simultaneously, adding that the ongoing shift could persist until a major crypto-driven platform achieves a significant breakthrough, such as an IPO or acquisition.
