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Distorted beliefs about luck, skills and gaming knowledge, and their impact on gambling behavior

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Recreational and problem gamblers alike hold some irrational beliefs about gambling. Erroneous gambling related beliefs (EGRBs) imply beliefs in luck and skills, and illusion of control as players develop various winning strategies based on broader beliefs about the nature of randomness. Gamblers’ distorted beliefs of luck and skills result in problem gambling. People think that luck will change, and they will win their lost money back. However, each gambling event is independent of the previous one, like each toss of the coin is completely independent of the previous tosses. So, the odds in your 8 th bet will no more be in your favour simply because you lose the earlier seven bets. Over time, the more you risk, the more you lose.

In the context of online gambling, best online casinos Canada offers a variety of games to gamblers that can be accessed from anywhere. These include video slots, jackpots, table and card games, and sportsbooks. There are noticeably more online games than land-based games. No restrictions on bet admission lead to bigger jackpots for all players.

Video slots

Video slots like Gonzo’s Quest, Starburst, and Thunderstruck are among the most popular ones. Low volatility video games award small but frequent wins, while high volatility video games give a single, chunky win.

Jackpots

Jackpots like Powerball, Buffalo and Bonanza can be progressive, pooled, fixed or local, and have the highest reward that a video slot can pay.

Table and card games

Table and card games like blackjack, roulette and baccarat are skill-based games, and are found in different variants including Pai Gow and Red Dog.

Live games

Live games like poker, blackjack and baccarat are streamed and played live in full HD.

Sportsbook betting

Sportsbook betting, like soccer, baseball and basketball offers a live betting feature, so players can make wagers as the game unfolds.

Specialty titles

Specialty titles like Bingo, Keno and Wheel of Fortune are distinct and general.

Other beliefs and myths about gambling

Gambling will eventually pay off

Gamblers have a persistent belief that the next bet will pay, despite repeatedly losing the next bet. There is a delusional belief in the gambler that a stroke of luck is only a wager away, that results in gambling addiction. The belief that gambling will eventually pay despite losing a considerable about of money reinforces belief in gambling, and is the driving factor behind compulsive gambling.

Irrational belief in a big win

Those who are not addicted to gambling, they are clear when enough is enough. They walk away from their losses and get on with life. However, this does not happen with a compulsive gambler. They keep coming back with the irrational belief of an eventual big win.

I’m lucky, I almost won, and will make it this time

If you almost won, that doesn’t mean you are due for a real win. Future gambling outcomes are in no way influenced by the previous ones.

Playing multiple games increases the chances of winning

You may win more often by playing two slot machines or poker games at once, but you will have to spend more also. And remember, the more you play, the more are your chances of losing.

Betting on the same number will increase my odds

The outcomes of most games of chances, particularly lotteries and slot machines, are completely random, and cannot be altered, no matter what you do. Betting the same number each time won’t help you more than betting different numbers. No matter how many times you have betted for the number or how many people have betted on a particular number, the odds remain the same each time.

Loss Disguised as a Win (LDW)

Slot machines are programmed to promote problematic play, and win for the house. They operate on a principle called Loss Disguised as a Win (LDW) wherein the player is given a win of credits with a spin, which is fewer than the original wager. These frequent wins keep the player engaged, despite a net loss.

Gambler’s Fallacy or “Monte Carlo Fallacy”

Many people suffer from the “Gambler’s Fallacy” or “Monte Carlo Fallacy”, which is an erroneous belief that if something has happened a lot of times in the past, it will happen less in the future, and vice-versa. The fact is that each event is independent of the earlier outcomes. The odds of a head after 10 successive head tosses on the 11th toss remain 50:50, it is not affected anyway by earlier 10 consecutive head tosses. The same goes with gambling. Odds and chances are mathematical probabilities, and are not controlled in any way by metaphysical powers or luck.

It’s my lucky day

Simply because you feel that it’s your lucky day, it’s not that you are going to win. Needing money, or hoping to win, has absolutely no influence on the outcome of a game of chance.

Signs of problem gambling

Gambling becomes a problem when you have trouble stopping. Warning signs of problem gambling are:

 Feeling guilty or worried about gambling
 Gambling to win back lost money
 Borrowing money, selling things, and committing criminal acts to obtain money for gambling
 Experiencing extreme highs from wins, and extreme lows from losses

Financial implications of problem gambling

Financial troubles associated with problem gambling include reduced disposable income, financial insecurity, job loss, and increased debt.

Signs of financial problems include:

 Overdue and unpaid bills
Increased spending on credit cards
 Repeatedly borrowing money from friends and family
 Secretive about money problems
 Receiving calls from collection agencies

Gambling is not for making money, seek help if required

Gambling addiction results in problems that extend well beyond financial losses, such as relationship issues, career-related consequences, and social isolation. If you can afford it and play only for recreational purposes, not for making money, gambling isn’t really a problem. Remember that gambling is not a way to make money. If you have become addicted to gambling, seek the help of professionals with recovery, simply don’t rely on your will power. Because if you could do it with will power, you would have stopped it on your own before your life was devastated.

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Property Markets in Alberta and B.C. Show Strong Momentum

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Calgary and Edmonton have both seen a steady level of property sales in recent months.

People who want to buy homes have focused on the location of each property. In both cities, there are options in both new developments and established neighborhoods. Pricing has stayed stable compared to some Canadian markets. Buyers often look at access to schools, parks, and workplaces as they make their choices. New construction projects have brought more units onto the market in some areas.

Condos and single-family houses both see attention. Some buyers prefer newer houses on the outskirts, while others choose homes near central districts. Demand for rental units has risen in many areas of Alberta as well. In most markets in this province, there are properties at a range of different price points.

Strong Buyer Interest in British Columbia

In Vancouver and other large cities in British Columbia, property purchases have stayed at a high level. Buyers study the location, price range, and future changes in each community before making an offer. Areas close to public transit, work, and schools often get the most interest. The supply of homes for sale can be limited, especially for single-family houses near the city center.

Home builders in some parts of British Columbia continue to start new projects. Suburban towns near Vancouver have seen people move from central communities as they seek different price points and more space. Most sales activity comes from a mix of local people and those considering a move from other regions.

Comparing Regional Housing Trends

Markets in Alberta and British Columbia have shown strong sales volumes in both urban and suburban neighborhoods. Buyers in Calgary and Vancouver have sought properties for their location, price point, and plans for future development. In comparison, other cities like Montreal and Ottawa have seen less change in housing demand.

Toronto homes for sale draw buyers based on inventory, neighborhood perks, and pricing. Properties in these areas often attract people considering options across Canada, leading to more balanced market activity in each region.

Influences on Current Demand

The activity in Alberta and British Columbia is shaped by different factors. Economic stability, employment rates, and population growth all play a role. In Calgary, job growth and a reasonable cost of living make the city attractive for new arrivals. Many companies offer positions in energy, construction, and services. This consistent employment keeps more people interested in both renting and buying homes.

British Columbia sees demand for property due to its location near the Pacific, a large service economy, and its climate. Many buyers see homes close to workplaces and public amenities as valuable. The limited space in some Vancouver neighborhoods can lead to more competition for each listing. New government policies on housing and lending may also affect the way buyers choose their properties.

Supply Factors and Market Balance

Builders respond to demand with new projects in both provinces. In Alberta, building new single-family homes or townhouses is common, especially in the outskirts of cities. This can help stabilize prices and supply for buyers who want new properties. By contrast, British Columbia often sees apartment and condo developments due to limited land near city centers.

Inventory levels can still be tight in some parts of both provinces. A limited number of new listings can cause more competition and keep prices firm. In some suburbs, developers offer new construction, while some older core neighborhoods have homes that are renovated or improved. The mix of these options shapes buyer and seller choices week by week.

The Effect of Amenities and Community Features

People choose homes not just for size or price, but also for access to amenities. In Alberta, neighborhoods with nearby schools, healthcare clinics, and parks see steady sales. In British Columbia, walkability, transit options, and access to local shops are important to people buying properties.

Communities that blend these features with reasonable prices often see more interest. Safety, commuting time, and local services also play roles in how buyers look at each listing. Some buyers prefer new developments that offer updated services and features, while others seek established communities with a track record of maintenance and stability.

Urban and Suburban Patterns

Both Alberta and British Columbia show activity in city centers and outer areas. In Calgary and Edmonton, downtown condos appeal to people who want to live near work or entertainment venues. In outer districts, large homes and yards attract buyers who want space and quiet.

Vancouver shows a similar split. Central neighborhoods offer easy access to employment and culture, while areas further out often mean lower prices and larger lots. Over time, people may move from one type of neighborhood to another as their priorities change.

A Look at Pricing and Future Supply

Property prices in Alberta have not risen as quickly as in some other Canadian regions, making the market accessible for many first-time buyers. British Columbia sees higher average prices due to demand and restraints on new supply, especially for new houses in city centers.

Plans for more new units are in place in several Alberta and British Columbia cities. This includes condos, single-family houses, and mixed-use buildings that can serve a range of buyers. Future building projects may affect future prices and supply levels if they proceed as planned.

Summary

Property markets in Alberta and British Columbia continue their activity due to local demand, supply, and economic factors. Buyers in Calgary and Vancouver pay close attention to location, price, and development plans. Cities in Alberta and British Columbia offer a mix of options for people seeking different types of homes at various price points. Local amenities, market inventory, and employment opportunities all shape the activity in these property markets. As local conditions change, builders and buyers keep adjusting their decisions according to their most practical needs and preferences.

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The Best US Hopes for Wimbledon 2025: Who Could Break the Curse at SW19?

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For American tennis fans, Wimbledon has turned into a tournament of nostalgia and heartbreak. The days of Pete Sampras being the biggest name on grass feel like a lifetime ago – and while Serena Williams has done well for the U.S., she’s now out of the picture. And in recent decades, the men’s title hasn’t been lifted by a US player since Sampras back in 2000 – a quarter of a century ago, no less.

But as we start gearing up for Wimbledon 2025, there’s hope in the air. There’s a whole new generation of American talent—both men and women… And it’s finally starting to break through. With some pretty strong grass-court performances over the past year, there’s actually a bit of hope that maybe the stars and stripes could do it again… finally.

So, let’s take a closer look at the top U.S. contenders for Wimbledon 2025.

Taylor Fritz 

When it comes to the American men, Taylor Fritz has to be the most consistent threat. Currently ranked inside the ATP top 10 – at number 4 no less, he’s matured into a well-rounded player, with a game suited perfectly to grass courts. He has a powerful serve, a clean ball-strike, and super sharp net play… and he could be dangerous at Wimbledon.

Last year he made it to the quarters before going out in a five-setter – and this time around, he’ll want to get at least one step further. Obviously, it won’t be easy going against the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic—both of whom are the names dominating the Wimbledon betting odds—but if the draw opens up, he could enjoy a serious run.

Ben Shelton

Fritz might be the reliable American option, but then there’s Ben Shelton – very much a wildcard. The 22-year-old exploded onto the scene with a deep run in the US Open in 2023, and while grass isn’t necessarily his natural surface, he’s nothing if not adaptable. And with his huge serve and fearless playing style, he’s a complete nightmare to go against in best-of-five tennis.

Shelton showed plenty of promise in the 2024 grass court season – with strong showings at Queen’s Club and Halle. And if he gets hot, we wouldn’t be too surprised to see him crash the quarterfinals or beyond. If you’re looking for a dark horse, he could be your guy.

Sebastian Korda

Of all the American men, Sebastian Korda is arguably the best suited for a grass game. Tall, elegant, and technically impressive, it’s almost like he was built for Wimbledon. He managed to make it to the fourth round in 2021 but has struggled with injuries ever since. However, if he’s fit and healthy, his court coverage and touch could cause issues for even the best player.

If he is in top form going into Wimbledon 2025, he could surprise some of the higher seeds. He’s already beaten some of the top-10 players on grass, and he’s someone with the mentality to perform well even on the biggest stage. 

Coco Gauff 

Let’s look at the women… and here we have Coco Gauff, who is unquestionably our biggest Wimbledon hope. Still only 21 years of age, she already has years of Grand Slam experience under her belt—and she even has a US Open title to her name. Her big breakthrough came at Wimbledon back in 2019 when she famously beat the legendary Venus Williams… at just 15 years old. Since then, she’s just gotten even better, especially on faster surfaces.

Her serve is one of the best on the WTA Tour, and her athleticism makes her a tough contender out on grass. With the main competitors being Iga Świątek, who struggles on this surface, and Elena Rybakina, who lacks consistency, this could potentially be her year.

Madison Keys

And we really shouldn’t count out Madison Keys – the 29-year-old who still has the power game to do serious damage on grass. And she got all the way to the Wimbledon quarter finals as recently as 2023.

Her huge serve and flat groundstrokes always work well on grass… and with her experience, she could get a long way if the competition goes her way. Wimbledon is about fearless aggression… and Keys has that by the bucketloads. She may not be the favorite – but savvy fans know that, if the form and conditions are right, she could make it at least to the semis.

Will it be the year for the US at Wimbledon? It’s hard to say… and we’d definitely need a bit of luck on our side. But at Wimbledon, anything is possible!

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