Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW), a key player in North America’s sweepstakes and social gaming space, is ending its operations in Canada. The move affects both real-money and free-play gaming on its flagship platforms, Chumba casino and Global Poker.
Canadian Access to End by October 23
VGW recently notified users that Canadian access to Chumba and Global Poker will be fully blocked as of October 23. This follows a phased shutdown beginning August 28, when purchases of Gold Coins will be disabled. By September 25, gameplay will stop entirely, though users can still redeem Sweeps Coins for prizes until final closure.
“We can confirm that following careful consideration, we’ve informed players of a decision to phase out our brands that offer products in Canada (Chumba Casino and Global Poker),” a VGW spokesperson said. “We understand this is an adjustment after many years and our valued Canadian players may be disappointed.”
The company called the move a “strategic, isolated” decision, not linked to Canadian regulations. Chumba and Global Poker have long operated legally across the country, excluding Quebec, using a sweepstakes model that doesn’t require regulatory oversight.
U.S. Pressures Prompt VGW Retreat
VGW’s decision appears to be shaped by growing legal scrutiny in the United States, where it holds a large presence. In the past year, multiple states have challenged the legality of sweepstakes-based online casinos. Some have issued cease-and-desist orders, while others—like New Jersey, Connecticut, and Montana—have passed laws banning them outright.
This wave of regulatory pressure has prompted VGW to reduce or end Sweeps Coin offerings in around a dozen states. In some areas, such as New York and New Jersey, the company has halted real-money-style gaming entirely.
Though VGW has maintained free-play access in many U.S. states, the decision to fully exit Canada suggests the market no longer aligns with its operational priorities.
DraftKings Ends U.S. Credit Card Deposits, Not in Ontario
Meanwhile, DraftKings is making a notable shift in its U.S. operations. Starting August 25, the company will no longer accept credit cards for deposits into sportsbook and casino accounts across the United States.
According to a company spokesperson, the change is a “strategic business decision” aimed at helping customers avoid credit card fees and interest charges. Several U.S. states have already banned the use of credit cards for online gambling through legislation or regulation, including Massachusetts, Iowa, and Tennessee.
However, this change will not apply to Ontario, where DraftKings operates under the province’s regulated online gambling framework. “DraftKings will still accept credit cards for deposits in Ontario,” the spokesperson confirmed.
Credit Cards Still Popular Among Ontario Bettors
Despite concerns over responsible gambling, credit cards remain a common funding method in Canada. A Paysafe survey from late 2024 found that credit cards ranked third among preferred deposit options for Ontario sports bettors, behind only debit cards and digital wallets.
With Ontario allowing a broad range of payment options, DraftKings’ move reflects the growing divergence in policy between U.S. states and Canadian provinces when it comes to funding online gaming accounts.
Source:
“VGW pulling plug on Chumba Casino, Global Poker across Canada”, canadiangamingbusiness.com, August 24, 2025
“DraftKings scraps credit cards in USA, will keep them in Canada”, canadiangamingbusiness.com, August 23, 2025
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