?? Non-Sticky Bonuses
In the realm of online casinos, there exist two primary forms of casino bonuses: the "sticky" bonus and the "non-sticky" bonus. The latter is the only option available in certain jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom. Skilled gamblers are likely familiar with these terms, however, for those new to the realm of digital casinos, a brief explanation follows.
When utilizing a "sticky" bonus, the deposit made is immediately linked to the bonus funds provided by the casino, meaning that withdrawal of winnings is not possible until all wagering requirements have been fulfilled.
In contrast, the "non-sticky" bonus allows players to utilize their personal cash balance without any restrictions or bonus conditions. This bonus only comes into effect when the bonus balance is utilized.
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?? What is a Non-Sticky Bonus?
The types of bonuses that casinos offer can vary significantly, particularly when it comes to making a deposit. While many players prefer non-sticky bonus casinos, it is worth considering the differences between non-sticky and sticky bonuses before making a decision. A "sticky" bonus refers to casino credit that can be used but not withdrawn. The bonus stays in your account until it is gambled away or until the wagering requirements have been met, if there is anything left to cash out.
To illustrate, if a player named Jim deposited 100€ and claimed a 100% "sticky" bonus, his starting balance would be 200€, with the bonus terms immediately coming into effect. Conversely, if Jim claimed a "non-sticky" bonus, his balance would read 100€ + 100€, with any winnings collected while utilizing the initial 100€ available for immediate withdrawal without any wagering requirements or bonus terms. However, to withdraw, Jim would need to forfeit the 100€ bonus balance. In the event that Jim loses his initial 100€, the bonus would become active, requiring him to fulfill all wagering requirements. In essence, it serves as a "free second chance" and is why it has been referred to as a "lifeline" bonus. The "non-sticky" bonus has become increasingly prevalent in recent times, due in part to changes in regulations. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and one's own playing style.
?? The Classic Type Non-Sticky Bonus
A few years ago, the sticky bonus was a common offering among online casinos. The concept is straightforward, as demonstrated in the following example. Imagine you received a 100% bonus on your first deposit of $100. The credit is added to your account immediately, resulting in both $100 credit and a $100 sticky bonus. You place your bets using your real money and have the option to withdraw at any time, but the bonus would expire.
Once you have gambled away your credit, you continue playing with the bonus. The bonus cannot be withdrawn, but any amount above the original bonus can be cashed out. For example, if you have a $100 bonus, and after gambling away $50, you win $250. Your credit would now be at $300. You can immediately withdraw €200 without any bonus conditions, while the sticky bonus expires with the payout.
?? Non-Sticky Bonus
Currently, many players believe that it would be even more beneficial if the bonus could not only be used for playing, but also be withdrawn directly. A non-sticky deposit bonus is a type of bonus where you deposit into the casino and receive a bonus. To unlock this free credit, it must be wagered a certain number of times, typically between 35 and 50 times.
The bonus cannot be withdrawn until the bonus conditions have been met. However, you have complete control over your real money and can withdraw it at any time. However, upon withdrawal, the bonus balance will be removed from your account. This also applies to any winnings that result directly from the non-sticky bonus. Despite this, the bonus rule is considered fairer for most players, as it allows for the option of cashing out at any time while still having a realistic chance of fulfilling the bonus requirements.
?? Key Facts About Non-Sticky Bonus
- In March 2018, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) prohibited the practice of linking casino bonuses to players' own deposits. As a result, all bonuses in the UK market must now be "non-sticky".
- The "non-sticky" bonus allows players to play using their cash deposit without any bonus conditions applied. The bonus only becomes active when the bonus balance is utilized. This is considered the most equitable form of bonus.
- This type of bonus is not limited to the UK market, as "non-sticky" bonus offers are also available to players in the European Union. Additionally, it is often referred to as a "Parachute bonus" or "Life-line bonus".
- It is important to note that bonuses in general increase the Expected Value (EV) and long-term winning chances for players. The "non-sticky" bonus also allows players to request a withdrawal at any point while still utilizing their cash balance, but doing so would require forfeiture of the bonus balance.
?? Casinos and Non-Sticky Bonus Offers
It is crucial to comprehend that online casinos do not typically employ the terms "sticky" or "non-sticky" in reference to bonuses. If uncertain, it is recommended to inquire with customer support. Changes and modifications are continually being made, thus it is not advisable to make assumptions. Despite recent regulations mandating that all UKGC casinos convert their bonus offers to "non-sticky", some casinos have yet to comply. Essentially, "non-sticky" bonuses provide players with a complimentary second chance and, though wagering requirements may be higher than usual, it is still a worthwhile option as there is nothing to lose. Unlike "sticky" bonuses, bonus terms do not impede on the player's cash deposit.
It is difficult to state with certainty as the iGaming industry is constantly evolving. This also varies depending on the specific market. The regulation and supervision of gambling in most European countries is overseen by governmental entities. These agencies are responsible for implementing regulations, restrictions, and conditions that protect players' safety. Fundamentally, policies and regulations imposed across Europe are similar, but can differ in specifics, such as the structure of bonuses. Will bonuses continue to be offered? It is likely.
Players appreciate deposit bonuses and some even avoid playing without one. However, regulations are becoming stricter and it is possible that bonus offers will become less accessible in the future. In Sweden, for example, as of January 1, 2019, online casinos are only permitted to offer their players a single bonus during their lifetime membership. High taxes may also prompt casinos to abandon bonuses altogether, but there is currently no indication that this will occur. The regulatory authorities must prioritize responsible gambling without imposing rules that are overly restrictive, as this could potentially motivate players to seek alternative, unregulated gambling options.