Colorado’s sports betting market has experienced significant shifts since the state legalized wagering in May 2020.

One of the most debated policy changes is the gradual elimination of promotional tax deductions for sportsbooks. This move, designed to create a more stable and equitable revenue environment, has profound implications for operators, state coffers, and the overall market dynamics.

Key Takeaways:

• Initial Advantage: When sports betting launched in Colorado in May 2020, sportsbooks were allowed to deduct promotional costs (e.g., free bets, deposit matches), reducing their taxable revenue – even to negative figures.
• Phased Out Deductions: Starting in 2023 and set to disappear by 2026, deductions are being progressively limited (2.5% in 2023, 2.25% in 2024, 2% in 2025, then zero).
• Revenue Growth: Despite a slight drop in the betting handle, state tax revenue rose from $12.4 million in FY 2021-22 to $24.2 million in FY 2022-23, with further growth projected.
• Operator Concerns: Reduced promotional spend has prompted some operators to scale back marketing efforts, potentially affecting market growth.
• Broader Implications: Comparisons with states like Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan highlight differing regulatory approaches, aiming for long-term market stability.

A Tax Policy That Changed the Game

Here’s how Colorado developed their betting taxes to the next level.

Initial Tax Structure and Its Incentives

When Colorado first opened its doors to sports betting, sportsbooks enjoyed a key advantage: the ability to deduct promotional expenses from their taxable revenue.

These deductions covered costs such as free bets, deposit matches, and other marketing incentives. For many operators, this policy lowered their effective tax burden to the point where some even reported negative taxable revenue.

In the fiscal year 2021-22, Colorado collected approximately $12.4 million in sports betting taxes on around $4.8 billion in wagers. This setup allowed sportsbooks to invest heavily in promotions, spurring market growth and increasing player engagement.

The Phase-Out Plan: A Shift Toward Stability

However, the landscape began to change in 2023. Recognizing the potential for market distortions and long-term instability, state regulators initiated a phased reduction of promotional deductions:

• 2023: Deductions capped at 2.5% of the handle.
• 2024: Further reduced to 2.25% of the handle.
• 2025: Lowered to 2% of the handle.
• 2026 and beyond: Eliminated altogether.

Colorado aims to level the playing field and boost state tax revenue by stripping away these deductions. Early indications from the fiscal year 2022-23, which saw tax revenue increase to $24.2 million even as overall wagering dipped slightly, suggest that the policy change already has a measurable impact.

Economic Impacts on Operators and the State

The Revenue Equation

For the state, the removal of promotional deductions means a steadier stream of revenue. Projections indicate that tax collections could reach:

• FY 2023-24: Around $24 million.
• FY 2024-25: Up to $27 million.

These gains come at a time when the sports betting handle is expected to stabilize or grow modestly, ensuring that Colorado’s coffers continue to benefit from a robust market.

Operator Responses and Concerns

Not all operators are cheering the news. Some, like DraftKings, have already reported a reduction in their marketing spend in Colorado. With fewer deductions available, the cost of running aggressive promotional campaigns has risen. This could lead to:

• Market Contraction: Operators may scale back on promotions, which in turn might dampen player acquisition and retention efforts.
• Competitive Pressures: Smaller operators, who previously relied on high-risk marketing tactics, might find it harder to compete against larger firms with deeper pockets.

Industry analysts point out that while the phase-out might curb some of the short-term volatility, it could also stifle growth if promotional incentives dwindle too rapidly.

Regulatory Rationale Versus Industry Fears

Proponents of the policy change, including many state regulators, argue that eliminating promotional deductions will ultimately lead to a healthier and more competitive market. They believe that a stable tax environment benefits all stakeholders by:

• Encouraging Responsible Growth: Without the lure of heavy promotions, operators may focus on sustainable business models.
• Ensuring Fair Competition: Similar restrictions in states like Virginia and Pennsylvania have shown that limiting deductions can foster long-term profitability.

Conversely, the Colorado Gaming Association has voiced concerns that these measures might hinder market expansion. The fear is that reducing promotional spending could make the market less attractive to new entrants and slow innovation.

What Lies Ahead

The policy shift in Colorado is not merely a tax adjustment – it’s a fundamental realignment of market incentives. As operators adapt to higher effective tax burdens, they may need to innovate in other areas to attract and retain customers.

The future might see:

• New Marketing Strategies: Operators may use non-monetary incentives, enhanced customer service, and loyalty programs.
• Technological Innovations: Using platform improvements and user experience enhancements could become the new battleground for market share.

The move is expected to lead to a more predictable revenue stream for the state, even if it means a slower pace of market expansion in the short term. This could contribute to a more mature and sustainable sports betting ecosystem in the long run.

Sources

• Colorado Department of Revenue
• PlayColorado.com
• Colorado Legislative Council Staff Fiscal Notes

Sports betting in 2025 is shaping up to be one wild ride.

With a jam-packed calendar of events across the globe, bettors have plenty of action to choose from. Whether you’re tracking buzzer-beaters in March Madness or placing a wager on the outcome of the PDC World Darts Championship in December, this year’s lineup is set to deliver non-stop excitement.

Here’s our rundown of the top 25 sports betting events scheduled from March to December 2025.

March–April Sports Events

Kick off 2025 with thrilling events like NCAA March Madness, the Masters Tournament, and the Grand National, setting the stage for an adrenaline-packed betting season.

1. NCAA March Madness (March 18 – April 7)

Basketball fans, this is your playground. The madness is back with nail-biting upsets, bracket busts, and player prop bets that keep you guessing until the final buzzer.

2. Masters Tournament (April 7–13)

At Augusta, golf becomes a battleground for betting with legends like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm. Expect wagers on top contenders and long-shot bets that add a twist to every swing.

3. Grand National (April 5)

This iconic horse race at Aintree in the UK never disappoints. Punters love the thrill of long-shot odds and betting on those surprising jockey-horse combos.

May Sports Events

May brings world-class competitions such as the French Open, UEFA Champions League Final, FA Cup Final, Kentucky Derby, and Indy 500, offering diverse betting opportunities.

4. French Open (May 19 – June 8)

In Paris, clay meets class. The French Open is all about predicting which clay-court specialist will break through, making it a hotspot for Grand Slam betting trends.

5. UEFA Champions League Final (May 31)

The Champions League Final in Munich is where European giants clash. With markets on team performance, goal scorers, and even halftime outcomes, this game is a betting bonanza.

6. FA Cup Final (May 17)

Held at Wembley, this classic football showdown always brings drama. Bettors get in on underdog stories and the ever-uncertain penalty shootouts.

7. Kentucky Derby (May 3)

The “Run for the Roses” is more than a horse race—it’s an event steeped in tradition. Expect wild exotic bets as fans wager on Triple Crown contenders and unexpected upsets.

8. Indy 500 (May 26)

In Indianapolis, speed is king. Whether it’s the pole position, fastest laps, or overall race outcome, every moment at the Indy 500 is a chance for some high-octane betting action.

June Sports Events

June features global spectacles including the FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Euro 2025, Wimbledon, the US Open (Golf), and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, fueling excitement in multiple sports.

9. FIFA Club World Cup (June 15 – July 13)

This global football fiesta in the USA features club rivalries like you’ve never seen. With 32 teams on the field, expect diverse betting options that reflect football’s growing international flavor.

10. UEFA Euro 2025 (June 16 – July 7)

Euro 2025 in Germany is set to be a roller coaster. Group stage twists and knockout stage drama provide a myriad of betting opportunities for football fans across the continent.

11. Wimbledon (June 30 – July 13)

The grass courts of London host Wimbledon, where betting gets as traditional as it is thrilling. Look for wagers on five-set marathons and star performance on the lush lawns.

12. US Open (Golf) (June 12 – 15)

At Oakmont, the challenge is real. Bettors are drawn to the US Open for its mix of course difficulty and championship pedigree, making every swing a potential money-maker.

13. 24 Hours of Le Mans (June 11 – 15)

Endurance racing at Le Mans tests the limits of teams and machines. Wagers here focus on team durability and how hybrid cars stack up against the clock.

July Sports Events

July heats up with marquee events like the Tour de France, NBA Finals, and World Aquatics Championships, promising dynamic betting markets across various disciplines.

14. Tour de France (July 5 – 27)

Cycling’s grand tour brings more than just pedaling—it’s a stage for betting on stage winners, yellow jersey contenders, and tactical team strategies throughout France.

15. NBA Finals (June–July)

The NBA Finals always deliver blockbuster moments. Bettors have a field day with series outcomes, MVP races, and individual player props that capture the season’s climax.

16. World Aquatics Championships (July 11 – August 3)

Held in Singapore, this event dives into betting on individual races and relay events, with a special eye on Olympic qualifiers.

August–September Sports Events

International showdowns in August and September – such as the Rugby World Cup, US Open (Tennis), World Athletics Championships, and Ryder Cup – captivate bettors worldwide.

17. Rugby World Cup (August 22 – September 27)

In England, rugby roars on the global stage. Bettors focus on pool stages, knockout rounds, and team form as nations battle for supremacy in this rough-and-tumble sport.

18. US Open (Tennis) (August 25 – September 6)

New York’s hard courts set the stage for the US Open, where players battle for late-season momentum. Bettors keep a close watch on hard-court specialists in this high-energy tournament.

19. World Athletics Championships (September 13 – 21)

Tokyo hosts track and field’s finest, offering markets on everything from sprint times to world record-breaking performances. It’s a must-watch for betting on Olympic dreams.

20. Ryder Cup (September 25 – 28)

Golf’s Ryder Cup pits Team Europe against Team USA in a battle of national pride. The event’s head-to-head format drives intense betting on both team performance and individual contributions.

October–November Sports Events

Classic contests in October and November, including the MLB World Series, Melbourne Cup, and the Ashes Series, continue to draw passionate betting action.

21. MLB World Series (October)

Baseball fans, this is where the drama unfolds. The World Series delivers postseason matchups and pitching duels that make it one of the most exciting betting events in the USA and Canada.

22. Melbourne Cup (November 4)

In Australia, the Melbourne Cup is a national obsession. Bettors relish the exotic markets and international contenders that make this race a standout event.

23. Ashes Series (November 2025 – January 2026)

This storied cricket rivalry between England and Australia offers deep betting markets. From match outcomes to individual performances, every Test match is a bet on history in the making.

December Sports Events

The year winds down with high-stakes events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the PDC World Darts Championship, offering a thrilling finale to 2025.

24. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (December 5–7)

The season finale for Formula 1, held at Yas Marina in the UAE, is a spectacle of speed and strategy. Betting here focuses on driver standings and race outcomes that can redefine a season.

25. PDC World Darts Championship (December 15 – January 3, 2026)

Rounding out the year in London, the PDC World Darts Championship brings precision and pressure into sharp focus. Bettors love the unpredictability of high-checkout finishes and potential upsets in this unique sport.

Betting Trends to Watch in 2025

• Football Dominance: With events like UEFA Euro 2025 and the FIFA Club World Cup, football remains at the top of betting volumes.
• Tennis Grand Slams: Wimbledon, US Open, and French Open continue to deliver high-stakes betting opportunities, with a focus on player form and surface performance.
• Niche Markets: Emerging events like the World Aquatics Championships and Rugby World Cup offer bettors unique angles outside the mainstream sports.
• Classic Betting Events: Horse racing staples like the Kentucky Derby, Grand National, and Melbourne Cup continue to attract loyal betting communities.

Staying informed about team form, injury updates, and expert analysis is key to making smart bets in these dynamic markets.

Sources

1. Biggest Sports Events of 2025 – MySportsTourist
2. 2025 World Sporting Event Calendar – Topend Sports
3. 2025 Sporting Calendar: Ultimate Guide to Major Sports Events – Sport Social
4. 2025 Sports Events Calendar – The Punters Page
5. Major Sporting Events Calendar 2025/2026 – Roadtrips

In 2025, traditional gambling models will undergo a revolution as blockchain technology takes center stage.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) betting platforms now allow users to wager on their favorite events and set their own custom odds, bypassing the constraints of traditional bookmakers. By harnessing smart contracts, immutable ledgers, and decentralized markets, these platforms are redefining what it means to bet fairly and flexibly in a global digital economy.

The Mechanics Behind Decentralized Betting

At the heart of P2P betting lies blockchain’s promise of transparency and user control.

Unlike conventional bookmakers, where odds are dictated by centralized algorithms and risk models, decentralized platforms empower every user to act as both bettor and bookmaker.

Decentralized Odds Setting

Imagine having the power to set your own odds for almost any event – from sports matches to quirky outcomes like “Will it rain tomorrow?”

Platforms such as Chancer illustrate this shift perfectly.

On Chancer, users create custom betting markets where odds emerge from peer consensus or individual preferences. This democratization of odds setting not only promotes fairness but also reflects the diverse opinions and knowledge of the betting community.

Smart Contract Automation

Blockchain’s ability to execute self-enforcing agreements – known as smart contracts – is another game changer. When you place a bet on platforms like Casinc, the entire process – from deposit to payout – is handled automatically.

Running on networks like Ethereum or Solana, these smart contracts eliminate the need for intermediaries, ensuring that outcomes are verified on-chain and payouts are executed instantly once conditions are met. This automation reduces operational costs and minimizes disputes, providing a seamless experience for users.

Provably Fair Systems

One of the most compelling benefits of blockchain is its transparency.

Every bet and its outcome are recorded on an immutable ledger, allowing users to audit results at any time. Platforms such as Slotana and Dexsport leverage this transparency to establish provably fair systems.

In these ecosystems, players can verify that the odds and outcomes are free from manipulation, thereby building trust in the platform.

Global Accessibility and Privacy

Decentralized betting platforms also break down traditional geographic and regulatory barriers. Thanks to no-KYC policies found on platforms like 1xBit and Kryptium, users can participate anonymously, preserving their privacy while engaging in global markets. With crypto payments, these platforms transcend the limitations of fiat currencies, offering an inclusive environment where anyone with an internet connection and a crypto wallet can join the action.

Liquidity Pools and Matching Engines

For a betting market to function smoothly, liquidity is key. Modern P2P platforms integrate sophisticated matching engines and liquidity pools.

For example, GammaStack provides robust technology that pairs back and lay bets efficiently, while platforms like Purebet aggregate liquidity across various protocols. This ensures that even niche or custom betting markets have sufficient liquidity to operate without delays or price distortions.

Leading P2P Betting Platforms in 2025

Several platforms are pioneering this decentralized revolution. Here’s a look at some of the leaders reshaping the industry:

Chancer

Chancer is at the forefront of custom market creation. Its proprietary blockchain system allows users to set up bespoke betting markets, whether for predicting the outcome of a sports match or a pop culture event. The platform’s social betting integration means that users can opt for private or global participation, making it a flexible tool for both casual and serious bettors.

Dexsport

Operating on multiple blockchains – including BNB Chain, Polygon, and Avalanche – Dexsport stands out with its shared liquidity pools and no-KYC approach. By aggregating liquidity from over 20 networks, Dexsport ensures instant payouts and smooth market operations, blending traditional sports betting with modern prediction markets.

Kryptium

Built on Ethereum, Kryptium offers various betting modes, including head-to-head, pool, and layered betting options. Its platform is designed to be censorship-resistant and is governed by a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), giving users a direct voice in decision-making and platform evolution.

BetDEX (Monaco Protocol)

Leveraging Solana’s high-speed blockchain, BetDEX provides near-zero fee transactions and AI-driven odds optimization. Its focus on efficient liquidity aggregation makes it an attractive option for users who demand both speed and reliability from their betting platforms.

Prophet Exchange

As the first licensed P2P sportsbook in the U.S. (New Jersey), Prophet Exchange merges traditional regulatory compliance with the decentralized ethos of blockchain. It allows users to create customizable back/lay bets and offers a regulated environment that appeals to more risk-averse bettors.

Technological Innovations Driving Adoption

The rapid adoption of blockchain-based betting platforms is propelled by several technological advancements:

Dynamic Liquidity Solutions

Innovative liquidity solutions are critical for ensuring that custom markets remain active. Shared vaults – like those implemented by Dexsport – enable instant payouts without the delays inherent in traditional banking systems. Moreover, cross-chain compatibility, exemplified by platforms such as Purebet, guarantees deep market liquidity by integrating multiple blockchain networks.

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how these platforms operate.

AI-driven tools help in detecting fraud and suspicious betting patterns, as seen on platforms like Casinc. Additionally, machine learning algorithms -such as those used by Smort on Solana – offer predictive analytics that assist users in setting competitive odds.

Web3 Integration and Social Features

The integration of Web3 technologies further enriches the user experience.

For instance, platforms like GOAT ARENA combine NFT rewards with AI prediction duels, while social betting apps like Wagr enable users to challenge friends and share betting victories on platforms such as TikTok or Discord. This fusion of social media and betting not only enhances engagement but also opens up new monetization avenues.

Regulatory Adaptation

Decentralized governance models are beginning to take shape as DAOs allow users to vote on key platform decisions – including fee structures and dispute resolutions.

Meanwhile, compliance tools integrated within platforms like Prophet Exchange help bridge the gap between decentralization and regulatory requirements, ensuring that even decentralized markets can operate legally in jurisdictions like New Jersey.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite their promise, blockchain-powered P2P betting platforms face several challenges:

Regulatory Uncertainty

While platforms like Prophet Exchange have secured licenses in regulated markets, many decentralized platforms operate in legal gray areas. Regulatory bodies are still catching up with the rapid evolution of blockchain technology, posing risks for platforms that fail to adapt.

Market Fragmentation

Liquidity remains fragmented across different blockchain networks. The split between Ethereum, Solana, and other blockchains can hinder efficient bet matching, especially in less popular markets. Overcoming this fragmentation is critical for ensuring a seamless user experience.

Volatility and Financial Risk

Crypto markets are notoriously volatile.

Sudden price swings can dramatically affect the value of bets, undermining confidence in the platform. Some operators, like Decode Casino, are addressing this by supporting stablecoins to mitigate the risks associated with price volatility.

User Education

The decentralized nature of these platforms demands a higher level of user literacy. New users often face steep learning curves, from setting up crypto wallets to understanding smart contract interactions. Educating users without overwhelming them remains a significant challenge.

Future Outlook for P2P Betting

As we look to the future, several trends are poised to shape the evolution of P2P betting platforms:

Mainstream Adoption

Partnerships with established sports leagues and major betting brands are on the horizon. For example, collaborations between traditional bookmakers like DraftKings and decentralized platforms could bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3, bringing more users into the decentralized ecosystem.

Layer 2 Scalability

To address issues of high transaction fees and slow processing times on major blockchains like Ethereum, many platforms are migrating to Layer 2 solutions such as zk-Rollups on Polygon. These solutions promise to reduce gas fees and accelerate transactions, making decentralized betting more accessible and cost-effective.

Hybrid Models

Hybrid models that integrate elements of traditional and decentralized betting are emerging. For instance, platforms might offer both P2P and conventional betting options, allowing users to choose the model that best suits their risk profile and betting style. This flexibility is key to capturing a broader audience.

Social Betting Expansion

Future iterations of decentralized platforms will likely further integrate social media elements, enabling users to place bets and share and discuss their experiences in real time.

Enhanced by blockchain’s transparency and AI-driven personalization, these social betting platforms could foster a global community of informed, engaged bettors.

Are P2P Betting Platforms Here to Stay?

Blockchain-powered P2P betting platforms are setting the stage for a new era in gambling.

By empowering users to set custom odds, ensuring fair play through smart contracts, and fostering a global, accessible betting environment, platforms like Chancer, Dexsport, and Kryptium are breaking down barriers in the industry.

While regulatory uncertainties, market fragmentation, and user education remain challenges, the ongoing technological innovations in AI, Layer 2 scalability, and social integration are paving the way for mainstream adoption.

For the industry, the future is both exciting and uncertain.

Success will depend on balancing decentralization with compliance, and technological advancement with user-friendliness. As the market matures, these platforms have the potential not only to capture a significant share of a projected $167 billion market by 2030 but also to redefine how we think about and engage in betting.

Blockchain-based P2P betting isn’t just an alternative to traditional bookmakers – it’s a paradigm shift that could democratize gambling for a global audience.

Sources:

1. Blockchain Betting on Sports Events 2025 – Tribuna.com
2. Decentralized Betting Platform Development – RocknBlock
3. People can set up custom P2P betting markets on Chancer’s new platform – CoinJournal
4. Decentralized Betting Protocol on GitHub – angelle-sw/sbp
5. Kryptium – Decentralised P2P Betting
6. Casinc Smart Contract Guide – CoinsBench
7. The Future of Sports Betting Trends 2025 – SDLC Corp
8. A Deep Dive into Decentralized Sports Betting Protocols – AntiEr Solutions
9. P2P Sports Betting on Dexsport – Dexsport Blog
10. P2P Betting Exchange Platform – GammaStack