Playtech announced that, through a number of agreements, its RNG casino and live services, as well as its entire platform, were made live on the very first day of the market opening.

In the next weeks, Playtech plans to announce "a further wave" of deals in Ontario.

In the past, Playtech supplied the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation with data analytics tools and other services, so it was technically active in the province.

The business revealed in January that it would launch NorthStar Gaming in the newly regulated province using its IMS platform, casino, live casino, poker, and bingo technology.

"This is a significant market in size and a major milestone for Playtech in North America," stated Shimon Akad, chief operating officer of Playtech.

We are overjoyed to have started with so many licensees on day one, and we can't wait to welcome more partners in the days to come. Additionally, we anticipate that Ontario will lead the way in responsible gaming, a sector where our AI-powered technology and capacity to analyse specific player behaviours will be of utmost significance.

Launching the regulated market was a three-year process that began in April 2019 when the provincial government announced plans to break the online gambling monopoly of the lottery in Ontario.

Last September, the government released the final requirements for online betting and gaming, and in 2020, they proposed legislation to allow for a licensing scheme.

"As we continue to enhance our efforts on sustainability of the gambling sector in general, we wholeheartedly welcome Ontario's igaming market launch," wrote Charmaine Hogan, head of regulatory affairs at Playtech.

As in Ontario, a well-functioning regulatory structure places early and consistent focus on safeguarding players by bringing operators and suppliers under local supervision.

Playtech is utilising AI to evaluate player conduct and identify early warning signals of problematic gaming. Then, they communicate with those players in-play and on a personal level using automated tools and tailored communications.

"We are committed to sharing our technology, tools, and experience with everyone. While we have seen initial interest from operators, our ultimate goal is to help create a more responsible and sustainable entertainment industry. We will keep engaging with all relevant parties and sharing our research findings and best practices wherever possible."

An pending takeover bid by TTB Partners has not stopped Playtech from reporting an adjusted net profit of €112.3m (£93.4m/$123.3m) for the fiscal year ending in 2021.