Ontario’s iGaming Regulatory Restructuring: iGO and AGCO Separate
Overview of the Regulatory Separation
Ontario has implemented a significant structural change in its online gambling governance with the official separation of iGaming Ontario (iGO) from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), effective May 14. This division follows the enactment of the iGaming Ontario Act and creates two independent entities with distinct roles and reporting structures.
Key Structural Changes
Governance Realignment
Rationale for the Separation
- Conflict Resolution: Addresses conflict of interest identified in an Auditor General report regarding AGCO’s dual role
- Enhanced Accountability: Strengthens iGO’s governance structure
- Market Responsiveness: Enables iGO to adapt more quickly to market changes
- Centralized Oversight: Consolidates gambling-related revenue operations under one ministry
Operational Implications
For iGO
- Expanded Autonomy: Can now optimize resources and respond nimbly to shifting market conditions
- Leadership Transition: Martha Otton extends tenure as Executive Director until March 2025 while iGO seeks a new President and CEO
- Market Oversight: Continues to oversee 50+ registered operators managing 80+ online gambling platforms
