Arbitrage betting is a very specific type of betting. However, as a beginner, you might not fully understand what this betting strategy entails. Thus, it makes sense to start by explaining what arbitrage betting is.
At its core, arbitrage betting means placing bets on all possible outcomes of a single event by exploiting the odds differences between a sportsbook and a betting exchange. And why do that? To lock in a guaranteed return, no matter who wins. In this article, I’ll explain how this betting strategy works, how to maximize it, and answer key FAQs.
Quick facts about arbitrage betting
- Arbitrage betting is also called a sure bet.
- This betting strategy involves placing two opposing bets, one with a sportsbook and the other on a betting exchange.
- Arbitrage opportunities arise when the lay odds on a betting exchange are lower than the back odds offered by a sportsbook.
- Bettors often use an arbitrage betting calculator to ensure accurate stake placement.
- Arbitrage betting is legal in countries where betting is permitted.
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Pros and cons of arbitrage betting
As a seasoned bettor, I’ve tested the arbitrage betting strategy across major sports like tennis and football. Here are the key pros and cons I’ve observed:
Advantages
- Offers a safer approach to betting
- Encourages diversification of bets by backing at a sportsbook and laying at a betting exchange
- Guarantees returns regardless of the outcome
Disadvantages
- Finding arbitrage opportunities can be time-consuming
What is arbitrage betting? – Arbitrage betting explained
Beginner or not, every sports bettor is always looking for ways to up their game. So even if you’re not currently asking, “What does each way mean in betting,” chances are you’re still curious about “what is arbitrage betting.”
Arbitrage betting, often called sure bets, arbing, or arbs, is a strategy that involves placing bets on all possible outcomes of a sporting event to guarantee a return regardless of the event’s outcome. This typically involves backing an outcome with a sportsbook (betting for it to happen) and laying the same outcome on a betting exchange (betting against it). By doing this, you cover all possible outcomes of the event.
The success of this strategy relies on finding the right combination of odds and calculating stakes accurately, often with the help of an arbitrage betting calculator.
To better grasp the answer to what is arbitrage sports betting, let’s consider an example:
| Betting source | Odds |
| Sportsbook (back) | 7.00 |
| Betting exchange (lay) | 6.00 |
In this example:
- You back the outcome at the sportsbook with odds of 7.00 (betting for it to happen).
- You lay the same outcome on the betting exchange with odds of 6.00 (betting against it happening).
This creates the arbitrage opportunity because the odds from the two sources differ, allowing you to guarantee a return by covering both sides of the bet.
Now, is arbitrage betting legal? The answer depends on your location. In countries where betting is legal, arbitrage betting is also legal. However, sportsbooks often discourage this practice as it removes their advantage.
Betting exchanges, on the other hand, are typically more tolerant since their model supports this betting strategy. However, restrictions can still apply, especially if you’re arbing between two exchanges.
While arbitrage betting is often rewarding, it comes with challenges. Odds can shift rapidly, making it necessary to monitor changes and adjust your calculations in real time. Therefore, beyond just asking, “What is sports betting arbitrage,” it’s also important to understand how to stay ahead of these changes.
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How to make the most of your arbitrage betting
Now that you’ve got your answer to the question, “What is arbitrage betting,” the next step is learning how to make the most of this betting strategy. Below are some of my top tips to help you maximize your experience and potential rewards:
There’s no point in finding a solid arbitrage betting opportunity if you’re placing bets on a sportsbook or a betting exchange site that can’t be trusted. Don’t just focus on
what betting sites accept credit cards, although that’s important.
Go the extra mile to confirm that your chosen sportsbook or betting exchange site offers competitive odds, secure transactions, fair payouts, proper licensing, and a user-friendly interface.
🧮 Use an arbitrage calculator
Manually calculating your bets or guessing the numbers isn’t just time-consuming; it can also cost you money. Instead, make use of an arbitrage betting calculator. These tools help estimate the exact amounts to wager on each outcome, whether you’re backing at a sportsbook or laying at a betting exchange.
From my experience, a good arbitrage calculator pulls in real-time odds from various sportsbooks and exchanges. Therefore, if the odds shift unexpectedly, the tool can help you quickly find a good replacement without missing a thing.
Some sportsbooks aren’t too fond of bettors who consistently place arbitrage bets. If they suspect that’s your main strategy, it could lead to account restrictions or outright bans. Hence, it’s smart to read a few
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articles to find out how tolerant a sportsbook is of this strategy.
To stay under the radar, try rounding your wager amounts. For example, if your calculator suggests betting $58.57, consider rounding it to $60. You might make a tiny sacrifice, but it’s worth it to protect your account.
🎲 Use responsible gaming tools
It’s not enough to just ask, “What is arbitrage betting?” As a beginner bettor, you also need to understand the value of responsible gaming tools.
These tools allow you to set deposit limits, time restrictions, or even self-exclude if needed. Once you sign up with a sportsbook, activate these tools to maintain a healthy, balanced betting experience.
Conclusion – Arbitrage betting ensures a return despite the outcome
We began by explaining what arbitrage betting is. And, as you already know, arbitrage betting means placing bets on all possible outcomes of a single event between a sportsbook and a betting exchange. This strategic approach helps guarantee a return, no matter how the event plays out.
To truly make the most of this betting strategy, be sure to use an arbitrage calculator and round your bet amounts to avoid drawing attention. With these tips in place, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your arbitrage betting experience.
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What is arbitrage betting? FAQs
🎲 What is arbitrage in betting?
Arbitrage betting in sports is the practice of placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event between a sportsbook and a betting exchange to ensure a guaranteed return.
🚫 Is arbitrage sports betting allowed in all sportsbooks?
No, not all sportsbooks allow arbitrage sports betting, even though it is legal. Hence, it’s smart to round your bet amounts to avoid detection and protect your account.
📈 How do I make the most of my arbitrage sports betting strategy?
To get the best out of your arbitrage sports betting, focus on choosing trusted sportsbooks and betting exchange sites, using an arbitrage calculator, and activating responsible gaming tools to keep your betting balanced.
