BetOnline Changing the Way They Award Bonuses

In a previous article we explained that there were changes happening at popular online sportsbook BetOnline (Rated A+ at SBA). In that article we discussed their new rewards program which put players into special categories based on their handle. Handle refers to the total amount wagered so it is synonymous with “action” in generic sports betting terms. Essentially, the more money a person wagers the higher tier they are and the more perks they get.

Just this week BetOnline.ag also declared that the way that they award bonuses is changing as well. Although they are still going to offer signup bonuses, like the current one they have for a 50% free play credit when using promo code: BET1000 when depositing, they will also start sending out special bonus offers. These offers will be more of the “risk-free” variety. They look something like this: “Bet $100 on any player prop between now and Sunday and if it loses we will refund your bet”.

The model is more in line with what we see from U.S. based sportsbooks like Hard Rock. These offers are usually sent directly to the player via email and require the player to hit an “opt-in” button. Many times these offers don’t require any rollover, which is definitely a change from the way the industry has operated for the last 30 years.

They have even started using the same language as the “onshore” based books. Instead of “bonus” they are now offering a “boost”.

Players we talked to are much happier receiving these offers than the standard 50% with a 10X rollover requirement. One player referred to these types of rollover offers as “stale”.

From a sportsbook’s point of view, offers like these generate more impulsivity and an increased chance that the player might act on the offer and deposit funds.

We are also getting reports that players are receiving free cash rebates from BetOnline. They receive an email which states something along the lines of “Here is your cash reward for April based on your activity”. The email will have a dollar amount listed and a button that says “claim cash reward now”.

Changes like these are a good thing. Sportsbooks should always be working on ways to improve or morph into what the modern player is looking for.

Scott Morris
SBA Staff writer