Russians Surge to Online Gambling

Soon after the collapse of the Soviet Union, many visible changes occurred in Russia. One such change was the instant adoption of Western habits such as gambling. Sparkling casinos and slots could be found almost anywhere. Over the past two decades locals, especially in Moscow, grew very accustomed to such institutions.



In early July, the government outlawed land-based casinos in Russia except for in four far-flung locations. No casinos have been built in these locations, as of yet. According to investors, some of these regions are too remote and their infrastructures are too underdeveloped for such projects.



Prior to its being disbanded, the gambling industry in Russia was a great source of revenue for the government. In 2008, the industry as a whole provided 400,000 jobs and had a turnover of $3.6 billion. Since the legislation passed in July, 35 underground casinos have been shut down.



With nowhere else to go, Russian gamblers have turned to the internet. As of yet, there are still stipulations and loopholes in legislation that permit citizens to use internet gambling resources. Since July, the number of internet cafes that offer online gambling portals has tripled.



The Russian government has lost a lot of revenue through its current actions, but it remains adamant about getting rid of gambling entirely. Recently Moscow deputy mayor, Sergei Baidakov, said “We are seriously concerned about the rise of surrogate technologies,” in reference to online gambling. Online gambling in Russia has taken off, and it may take a long time for the administration to get rid of it.



There are a few online casinos in Russia and players should take advantage of the gambling opportunities that are still available. Many international casinos accept Russian players and there are even a few that accept roubles as playing currency.