Sports Betting Exchange

What is a Sports Betting Exchange?

Matched betting is only possible when there is an exchange. Such sports exchanges make it possible not to bet against the online bookmakers with high ratings, but against other players. Alternatively, you can make a prediction, create your bet, and let other players back or lay it as they match your wager. You can choose to back team A and its winning odds. Now all you have to do is wait and see if another punter will back your selection or put their money against you (lay). In other words, this time it is not the house that always wins, but the bettors.

Now you may wonder what is in it for the bookmakers. Why would a betting site allow a betting exchange under its roof?! The answer is quite simple. Whenever you match a bet, the bookie gets a commission out of your stake. The commission rate is a percentage that depends on the operator. Still, the bottom line remains the same: you are not trying to outsmart the bookmaker, but other players instead.

What sports can I bet on at a Betting Exchange?

Normally, whenever a punter hears of a betting exchange, they think football. This is undoubtedly true as events from top leagues in Europe and around the world are usually featured. However, football is not the only sport you can match-bet at an exchange. Here are some other examples.

What are the types of bets, odds and markets at Betting Exchanges?

As we already mentioned earlier, punters are limited in their choice of sports bets and markets. You can choose to back a bet or lay it, while you wager For a prediction or Against it. The markets possible are the main three – 1X2. You can stake your money on a win of team A, win of team B, or a draw. Here lies the best aspect of sports betting exchanges. Your chances of winning double if you decide to lay someone else’s prediction.

Example:
If someone is betting on Team A to win, you can decide to lay their bet. In this case, you will win in case the match finishes with a draw or should team B comes out victorious.

As far as odds are concerned, sports exchanges have long odds for betting which is of benefit to all punters. Value bets here are common mainly due to the fact that it is not the bookie that determine the coefficients, but the players. Therefore, strategies, such as scalping, are perfect for betting exchange sites.

What are the pros and cons of betting exchanges?

No matter how perfect sports betting exchanges may appear to be, they are not without their flaws. Here are just a few of their main advantages and disadvantages.