Stake Smart

Mission statement

Stake casino is dedicated to fostering responsible gambling practices to all customers on our platform and within our community. We are committed to ensuring that our customers are educated on our various responsible gambling tools available for use, promote gambling as a form of entertainment and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their gambling activities.

5 Tips For Effective Management Of Your Gambling Activities

• Effective management of your gambling activities can be done by prioritizing other recreational activities too
• Before a gambling session, have a plan in mind of how much you want to spend gambling, and how long you will be gambling for
• Do not spend more than what you can afford to lose
• Understanding the odds and knowing the risks associated with gambling
• Identify when you are no longer having fun or where gambling has become a problem for you, and stop
• Set loss limits , wager limits to assist with managing your gambling activities

Knowing the Odds

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about gambling – understanding the odds of gambling helps put the chances of winning into perspective.

Stake offers two products, Casino and Sportsbook.

Both products have different win rates and probability that players need to be aware of, which will help to understand the risks associated with gambling.

House Advantage/House Edge

Games have a house edge to ensure a percentage of the total amount wagered is returned to the House, which in this case is Stake.

Randomness

All gambling has an element of randomness – there is no way to control the outcome of any casino game or sporting event.

Independent Outcomes

Games/Spins are not related. Their outcomes are not dependent on how much, or how long, you’ve previously played the game for.

Odds and Probability

Odds and probability are ways to describe your chances of winning. Whilst the odds can appear to be low, there are no certainties in betting.

Introducing Our Responsible Gambling Tools

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment. In order to assist you in keeping your gambling activities fun, Stake has a range of responsible gambling tools which you are able to make use of at any point in time.

Play for fun, not for funds.

Gambling Limits

Loss limit

A loss limit allows you to set a limit on how much you can afford to lose over your set period of time. The limit can be set over a period of one day, one week or one month. It is a net loss limit. Profits made during your set period will not count towards your limit amount. If you are profitable during the set period, you are able to use your profits to continue to wager and bet until you reach your loss limit. Unsettled bets count towards the limit. Please check your unsettled bets if you are unable to place bets, as these unsettled bets may be causing you to reach your limit.

Wager limit

A wager limit (or betting limit) allows you to set a limit on how much you can wager over your set period of time. The maximum bet limit can be set over a period of one day, one week or one month. The limit is not a net limit so profits are excluded. This means, if you are profitable during the period these profits are not offset against your maximum bet limit.

To increase or decrease your limits you must remove existing limits and create new limits. Upon removing limits a 24-hour cool off period will commence before you are able to create your new limit.

Self-Exclusion

A self-exclusion tool offers the ability to suspend all access to your account should you feel that you are at risk of developing a gambling problem, or in some cases, believe you currently have one.

The available periods are as follows:

• 6 Months
• 1 Year
• Indefinite

In the event an indefinite exclusion is set, access to your account(s) will remain blocked until such time should you actively request to revoke the indefinite exclusion. The indefinite exclusion imposes a minimum exclusion period of at least 6 months, from the date of application. Once the 6 month period has lapsed, your account can be considered for reactivation subject to a formal return to play review.

In order to initiate the review process, please contact our support team via email.

Temporary Exclusion

Stake also provides alternative options to suspend your account temporary, known as temporary exclusion . Whether you would like to take a break from gambling to re-evaluate your personal goals, save some money or simply spend time on other activities, the option is made available to you.

The available periods are as follows:

• 1 Day
• 1 Week
• 1 Month
• 3 Months

Note: Stake reserves the right to self-exclude a customers account should we determine that gambling may not be safe for you to continue.

Application of Temporary Exclusion or Self-Exclusion

1. Upon initial application, your account will enter into a 24 hour cooling off period

2. Once 24 hour cooling off period has lapsed, you will be presented the applicable timeframes

3. In the event no self-exclusion period is selected, your account will reopen automatically

4. No further activity will be permitted once the exclusion has been applied and taken effect

5. It will not be possible to reactivate your account until the chosen time period has lapsed

6. Where a defined self-exclusion is in effect, your account will automatically reactivate once the chosen time period has lapsed

7. Where an indefinite self-exclusion is in effect, whether applied by the client or operator, a minimum of 6 months must pass before the account can be considered for review

Help Organizations

If you are worried about yourself, or if someone you know is having problems managing their gambling, there are several external support agencies that can assist with providing advice.

Gamblers Anonymous

Website: https://gamblersanonymous.org/ga/

Gambling Therapy

Website: https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/

Contact: [email protected]

The National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling provides a range of resources, including answers to commonly asked questions, a gambling behavior self-assessment, information about treatment and the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) to connect you with help in your state (Canada).

Tel:+18004262537 Chat: https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/chat/

Gamtalk

Gamtalk provides information on helplines, treatment and online resources from organizations around the world dedicated to helping those struggling with problem gambling.

Website: https://www.gamtalk.org/treatment-support/

Minors

Stakecasino-ca.com does not support underage gambling.

Underage gambling is illegal, and is defined as anyone who is under the age of 18 years old at the time of account registration.

No winnings should be paid to such players if identified as someone who is underage.

Tips for Parents

• Do not leave your computer unattended when your casino software is running.
• Password-protect your casino program.
• Do not allow minors to participate in any gambling activity.
• Keep your casino account number and payment card(s) out of reach of minors.
• Do not save passwords onto your computer.
• Limit the amount of time your children spend online and make use of software to prevent your children from accessing inappropriate material.

Gambling Blocks

There are gambling site blocker apps available to help restrict access to gambling websites as a protective measure in safeguarding yourself, or in some instances, safeguarding the risk of gambling exposure to a minor. Betblocker

https://www.betblocker.org

Netnanny:

Netnanny offers protective measures which varies from website and app blocks to parental controls.

Website: https://www.netnanny.com/

Gamblock:

Gamblock is a mobile app that blocks access to thousands of gambling websites and provides access to useful resources. Website: http://www.gamblock.com/

*Stake does not accept any liability in respect of any third-party software.

Responsible Gambling FAQ’s

1. Isn’t problem gambling just a financial problem?

No. Problem gambling is a behavioural addiction that has financial and other consequences. Even if the person pays off their gambling debts, they can still have other problems caused by gambling.

2. Do you have to wager often to be considered as someone being affected by problem gambling?

It really doesn’t matter how often a person wagers. If a person’s gambling is causing emotional, physical, financial, relationship or other challenges for themselves and the people around them, then they are affected as a result of problem gambling.

3. How much money do you have to lose before gambling is a problem?

The amount of money lost or won does not determine when gambling becomes problematic. Problem gambling is a behavioural addiction, of which negatively affects ones finances simply as a direct result of the behavioural addiction. While gambling can cause financial problems, it is not the only warning sign of a gambling problem. When gambling affects an individual’s relationships, job, mental, physical or financial well-being, it is problematic.

4. Who is at risk for problem gambling?

Problem gambling does not discriminate and can impact anyone who gambles regardless of economic, social, cultural or levels of education. Anyone who gambles can develop a gambling problem. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a gambling addiction, genetics, environment, medical history and age may all play a role.

5. How can I protect myself from problem gambling?

• Educate yourself on the risks associated to gambling
• Understand that gambling is entertainment, not a source of income
• Use of Responsible Gambling tools plays a critical role in managing your gambling activities
• Budget for your gambling activities
• Avoid chasing losses or wins, no bet outcome is guaranteed
• When the fun stops, it is a clear indication that you need to stop

6. What are responsible gambling interactions?

Responsible gambling interactions are communicated in the form of an email or software messaging. These interactions are aimed at promoting healthy gambling activity, assisting you in understanding the tools and resources available in order to manage your gambling activities. They typically include information about setting limits , recognizing signs of problem gambling, and accessing support resources.

7. How can I self-exclude my account on your platform?

• Proceed by selecting the self-exclusion option
• By clicking the self-exclusion option, this will generate a confirmation email, sent to the email address registered on your account
• Confirm the self-exclusion request by clicking on the ‘start self-exclusion’ option
• A 24-hour cooling off period will commence of which you will be prompted to confirm the applicable timeframe of your self-exclusion once cooling off period has lapsed
• In the event you do not proceed with the selection of your self-exclusion period, the account will remain open indefinitely

Help Organizations

If you are worried about yourself, or if someone you know is having problems managing their gambling, there are several external support agencies that can assist with providing advice.

Gamblers Anonymous

Website: https://gamblersanonymous.org/ga/

Gambling Therapy

Website: https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/

Contact: [email protected]

The National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling provides a range of resources, including answers to commonly asked questions, a gambling behavior self-assessment, information about treatment and the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) to connect you with help in your state (Canada).

Tel:+18004262537 Chat: https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/chat/

Recognise The Signs of Gambling Dependency?

Often we find it is easier identifying problem gambling in others, but harder to recognise when this affects us as individuals. Although problem gambling often results in financial problems – the impact of problem gambling usually stretches much further than this. Recognizing the effects of gambling dependency is crucial in identifying and addressing the problem before it escalates further. Gambling dependency, also known as gambling addiction or gambling disorder, can have profound consequences on various aspects of an individual’s life.

Is Gambling Affecting My Mental Health?

Problem gambling can have a serious impact on your mental health. Do any of these statements sound familiar to you?

• I have extreme emotions or mood swings
• I feel that gambling is the only thing I really enjoy
• I have difficulty sleeping
• I often feel depressed or anxious
• I have suicidal thoughts
• I use gambling to avoid difficulties

Is Gambling Affecting My Relationships?

Gambling addiction can have a serious impact on relationships which can make it even harder on the gambler. Consider the following:

• I’m arguing more with my partner or family – especially about money, budgeting and debt.
• I’m preoccupied with gambling and finding it difficult to focus on other things.
• I’m spending less time with my friends and more time gambling.
• I’m not able to tell people the truth about how much I have lost.
• I’m stealing money from friends and family to gamble with.

The impact of gambling on relationships is profound and multifaceted, affecting not only the individuals directly involved but also their loved ones, including children. Recognizing the signs of gambling addiction and seeking help

early is crucial in mitigating its destructive effects on relationships. Counseling, therapy, support groups, and financial guidance can provide individuals and families with the tools they need to navigate the challenges posed by gambling addiction and rebuild their relationships on a foundation of trust, communication, and mutual support.

Is Gambling Affecting My Finances?

One of the most obvious ways in which gambling can become problematic is when debt begins to mount or when savings or money meant for other things is being spent on gambling.

Do any of these statements describe your situation?

• I am struggling to pay my bills on time.
• I am juggling my credit card debt.
• I have taken out a payday loan.
• I am using business money to gamble with.
• I have gambled with my savings.
• I am hiding my financial situation from those close to me.

Recognizing the signs of gambling addiction and seeking professional help

is paramount in mitigating the financial fallout and reclaiming control over one’s financial future. Through counseling, support groups, and financial planning, individuals can break free from the grip of gambling addiction and embark on a path towards financial stability and recovery.

Stake is committed to responsible gambling, for more information visit https://www.gamblingtherapy.org

Contact: [email protected]

Self-Assessment

Gambling can be an enjoyable pastime for many people, providing entertainment and the thrill of taking a risk. However, for some individuals, gambling can become more than just a harmless activity. It can develop into a serious problem that affects various aspects of their lives. Recognizing the signs of problem gambling is the first step towards addressing this issue. This self-assessment tool is designed to help you reflect on your gambling behaviour and determine whether it may be causing problems in your life. It is essential to approach this assessment with honesty and openness to gain a clear understanding of your gambling habits.

Do you have a gambling problem? Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Have there ever been periods lasting two weeks or longer when you spent a lot of time thinking about your gambling experiences, planning out future gambling ventures or bets, or thinking about ways of getting money to gamble with?

2. Have there ever been periods when you needed to gamble with increasing amounts of money or with larger bets than before in order to get the same feeling of excitement?

3. Have you ever felt restless or irritable when trying to stop, cut down, or control your gambling?

4. Have you tried and not succeeded in stopping, cutting down, or controlling your gambling three or more times in your life?

5. Have you ever gambled to escape from personal problems, or to relieve uncomfortable feelings such as guilt, anxiety, helplessness, or depression?

6. Has there ever been a period when, if you lost money gambling one day, you would often return another day to get even?

7. Have you lied to family members, friends, or others about how much you gamble, and/or about how much money you lost on gambling, on at least three occasions?

8. Have you ever written a bad cheque or taken money that didn’t belong to you from family members, friends, or anyone else in order to pay for your gambling?

9. Has your gambling ever caused serious or repeated problems in your relationships with any of your family members or friends? Or, has your gambling ever caused you problems at work or your studies?

10. Have you ever needed to ask family members, friends, a lending institution, or anyone else to loan you money or otherwise bail you out of a desperate money situation that was largely caused by your gambling?

*REMINDER: this self-assessment will help you figure out if there is, or you are developing a problem. If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions, you should seek help.

Stake is committed to responsible gambling, for more information visit https://www.gamblingtherapy.org