bet365 Halts Credit Card Deposits in U.S. Due to Regulatory Concerns

(AsiaGameHub) –   bet365 has ceased allowing credit card deposits in the U.S., mirroring a broader industry trend as regulators impose stricter consumer protection rules for sports betting.

Per the operator, consumers will no longer be permitted to use credit cards to fund their accounts, though alternative payment methods (debit cards and Apple Pay) remain available as long as they are not linked to any credit line.

Against the backdrop of growing focus on gambling-related financial risks, bet365’s decision aligns with actions taken by other major industry players—DraftKings and FanDuel—who already have similar restrictions in place.

Many gamblers are frustrated by the excessive charges and interest fees credit card companies apply to gambling-related transactions. Across the U.S., numerous states are either considering an outright ban on consumers using credit cards for gambling or taking a wait-and-see approach (“waiting for the dust to settle”). In a February letter to operators, Elizabeth Warren expressed her displeasure with these practices, calling the exorbitant fees from credit card companies on gambling transactions “abusive” and stating that many such transactions are designed to—and ultimately do—take money from American citizens.

While bet365’s decision may help strengthen its market position (as many operators target Massachusetts, where credit card deposits are currently illegal), the company was initially barred from re-entering the Massachusetts market following the state’s 2023 legalization of sports wagering.

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has since reopened its licensing process in response to bet365’s request, potentially paving the way for its entry.

Commission Chair Jordan Maynard welcomed the renewed interest, stating:

That does hearten me, that people still want to enter the legal market in Massachusetts… So I have to say I respect that.

Operators like FanDuel have also highlighted the benefits of aligning payment rules across states, noting that consistent policies can reduce friction for users moving between jurisdictions.