How Many Betting Sites Exist in The World? A Full List of Licensed Operators Right Now

The online betting scene is growing at an incredible rate. More and more betting sites keep emerging in the industry with different promises and focuses. However, not all are safe for you. Some want your money, others are after your details, but a licensed bookmaker will never defraud you. That's why you should prioritise using them.

Luckily, we examined a large number of them, including Mastercard betting sites, in the course of this review. That's why all the platforms you'll find here are safe and trustworthy. You'll learn about the regulatory landscape, how to pick the safest platforms, and other important details for safe and rewarding punting. Also, we'll discuss the rising cryptocurrency and mobile betting trends in the industry.

Legal Framework: Is Online Betting Legal Worldwide?

Despite the fast-growing nature of the industry, the legality of online betting varies by country. You wouldn't expect the legal framework in South Africa, as shown on onlinebettingsa.co.za, to be the same as in Korea. Some nations legalise it due to the potential growth it might bring to the economy, while others restrict or regulate it strictly due to its effect on culture and other aspects of the region.

Looking at the North American region with the USA in mind, there has been a significant change since the ban was lifted in 2018. The state regulates the gambling industry in the US. Now, online sports betting is legal in over 30 states, including New Jersey and Florida, while it remains banned in Utah.

How Many Licensed Betting Sites Exist in 2025?

Are they 500 or 5000? Knowing the exact number of licensed global betting brands will be challenging. But there are over 4900 online gambling sites globally. It's obvious that the gambling market hit USD 78.66 billion in 2024 and is projected to surge in 2025. Many factors have contributed to the immense growth in these few years.

The mobile-first platforms became trending because of the convenience and safety they brought to the industry.

Complete List of Licensed Betting Sites Around the World

If you wish to bet with peace of mind, it is best to use platforms that are licensed. Here are 10 top betting sites that have licences from credible regulators.

Top 20 Betting Sites Globally (Ranked for 2025)

Because each betting site has its unique attributes, picking the best amongst them is challenging. For instance, Stake ranks high amongst cryptocurrency platforms just as Pinnacle leads the high odds betting sites.

Meanwhile, after considering security, sports and game coverage, bonuses, interface, and payment methods. Here is a list of the top 20 bookies.

The Best Betting Sites 2025

Since we have different types of bettors online, they'll also have diverse preferences. Our team considered some of these factors before listing the best entertainment betting sites for each category. Check them out:

• Beginners: There is always a first time, and the betting space isn't an exception. Newbies need platforms with friendly interfaces, comprehensive guides, and simple designs. That's why we recommend Betway, Betano, and Unibet.
• Mobile users: Many punters look for platforms that give them access to online betting anywhere and anytime. The mobile-first feature ensures this, and you can pick from 1xBet, Bet365, and Betwinner.
• Crypto Enthusiasts: Bookmakers are jumping on the cryptocurrency trends now, and crypto users will love it. Stake, BC.Game, and 1xBet, amongst others, support a wide range of Cryptocurrencies.

New Betting Sites Launched in 2025

Finding a 2025 bookmaker with a verifiable license is quite challenging. It's just like finding no ID betting sites in the world where KYC is mandatory. However, we still have some newly created bookies for you. They are:

• Jeffbet: Established in 2024 and licensed by the UKGC.
• Dragonbet: Created in 2022 and holds a UKGC licence.
• Zetbet: Founded in 2022 and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.

Best Betting Sites for Sign Up Offers

Bonuses spice up the gaming experience by boosting the punter's bankroll for more betting sessions. The welcome offers are the most common and almost all bookies offer them. You can claim betting sites bonus no deposit, free bet, spins, bonus matches, etc.

From betting sites that accept Revolut, cards, e-wallets, and other banking options. We found the promotions on the following platforms exciting.

1. 1xBet - 120% match up to $540 for a sportsbook. Casino players get $3000 plus 150 free spins.
2. Betano - 100% match up to $3000.
3. Bet365 - $30 bet credits. 10 days of free spins for casino players.

Mostbet is also gaining popularity among new users thanks to its sign-up rewards and fast registration. If you're planning to get started there, check out this Mostbet deposit guide to claim your welcome bonus quickly and easily.

Best Sites With Risk-Free Bonuses & Promotions

Online betting sites with no deposit bonus offers are hard to find. That's because punters don't claim them with top-ups. However, platforms like William Hill offer a $30 no-deposit offer when you bet $10 for the first time. Similarly, casino players can claim 88 free spins from 888casino without topping up.

Further, many other platforms give cashback in their loyalty schemes. You can claim a birthday promo on 22Bet and 1xBet. Referral offers are another form of no-deposit offers up for grabs in online bookmakers.

What Games & Markets Are Available

The range of sports and games you can access depends on the platform you play on. Top UFC betting sites like Betwinner, 22Bet, and Bet365 boast of 40+ sports and thousands of casino titles. They include football, soccer, basketball, esports, slots, baccarat, roulette, and live dealer titles. Some even have special lobbies for Aviator, 22Games, Lucky Numbers, and other specialty games.

AI Tools, Tips & Predictive Betting Features

It is important to understand that winning is not guaranteed in online gambling. However, some platforms now predict outcomes with the help of artificial intelligence. While their forecast has a high success rate, punters should not over-rely on it.

Conclusion: What to Know Before You Choose a Betting Site

With many sports betting sites that accept Mastercard, VISA, Crypto, and others out there, picking the best can be challenging. But that doesn't mean you can't get the ones that will give maximum satisfaction.

All you need is a proper investigation of the license, security measures, bonuses, and review from existing users. Luckily, we've listed some top brands with credible licenses in this article. Now you can get a soothing betting site whether you're a pro or a newbie.