Have you ever wondered if it is possible for matched betting to work without relying on free bets? Matched betting and free bets are undoubtedly linked, with the premise of the former being built on the offering of the latter, but is it the only way?
In this blog post at Casino Beasts, we are going to explore whether matched betting can be just as effective without the use of free bets. We’ll look at whether it is possible, whether you can do matched betting without a betting exchange, and whether matched betting is allowed by bookies or not.
Whether you are new to the concept of matched betting or looking further into the topic, keep reading to learn more about this intriguing part of the gambling world.
Does Matched Betting Work Without Free Bets?
Matched betting usually involves placing a real money bet and using free bets to bet on an outcome in an event, as well as betting on that outcome not to happen in an effort to turn a profit. But what happens if there aren’t any free bets to grab? Is it still a good idea? Is it even possible?
Yes, matched betting can work without free bets, but it is trickier. The idea is to place bets on a specific event’s outcome to happen and betting on it not to happen, similar to normal matched betting. However, without free bets, you need to use your own money for every stake, which means you could lose out.
Although you might cover all outcomes, the odds are not guaranteed to always be in your favour, which could lead to losses.
Can You Make a Living From Matched Betting?
Making a living from matched betting might sound tempting, but it is not as straightforward as it seems. While some people might see a return on some bets, relying on it as your only source of income is risky, just like doing so with any form of gambling.
One big reason is that matched betting depends on finding the right conditions, like favourable odds and promotions. These opportunities can dry up over time, making consistent earnings uncertain.
Another potential pitfall is that bookmakers and betting exchanges may stop you from accessing their sites if they suspect you are taking advantage of their offers. This can limit how much you can earn.
Matched betting is not foolproof, and its unpredictable nature makes it unreliable for paying the bills. For these reasons, it is generally not advised to depend on matched betting for a steady income, just like it is not recommended you rely on any form of gambling as a way to make a living.
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Can You Do Matched Betting Without an Exchange?
Matched betting relies heavily on using a betting exchange, and for good reason. A betting exchange allows you to ‘lay’ a bet, which is crucial for covering all possible outcomes of an event.
If you place a regular bet, known as a ‘back’ bet, you are betting on something to happen, like a team winning. With an exchange, you also place a ‘lay’ bet, which is betting on that same team not to win. This means you are covered no matter what happens.
Without an exchange, you would not have the ability to lay bets. This makes it impossible to effectively carry out matched betting, as you can’t neutralise your risk the way you could with an exchange.
Can You Get In Trouble For Matched Betting?
The good news is that matched betting is not illegal, meaning it does not involve breaking any laws. However, that does not mean it is without risk when it comes to your accounts with bookmakers.
Bookmakers have terms and conditions, and they usually frown upon matched betting. If a bookmaker realises you are using their promotions to engage in matched betting, they might decide to restrict or even ban your account.
These actions are within their rights since matched betting can go against their terms and conditions. Losing access to these accounts can disrupt your betting activities and limit your chances to bet elsewhere.
So, while you won’t face legal trouble, there is a fair chance that matched betting could lead to issues with some bookmakers, potentially affecting your ability to place bets in the future.
Do Bookies Ban Matched Betting?
Bookmakers indeed take a firm stance against matched betting. They design their promotions to attract and keep regular customers, so matched betting can undermine their business model.
If a bookmaker spots someone consistently using offers in a way that suggests matched betting, they might take action. This could range from imposing restrictions on your account to banning you outright from their platform.
If you are banned or restricted, it means you could lose access to promotions and potentially your account. This makes it difficult to place bets as you used to.
It is important to remember that while matched betting is not illegal, it does go against the rules set by bookmakers. Being aware of this can help you make more informed decisions about how you choose to bet.
Remember to always bet responsibly and keep in mind that winning is never guaranteed, which is part of the excitement of placing a bet but is also a reason that gambling should never be viewed as a way to generate income; it is intended as entertainment.
