Sports arbitrage betting, also known as “sure betting”, “arbing” is the process of betting on every possible outcome of a sports market when there is a significant odds difference between betting sites.

Arbitrage betting is a profitable mathematical betting technique that can generate guaranteed profits every time the sequence of wagers is placed correctly.

In this guide, you will read about the relevant components and steps in arbitrage betting such as how to find them, the risks of it, and the method to calculate it.

What is the definition of arbitrage betting?

Arbitrage betting, commonly referred to as sports arbitrage or “sure bets,” is a sophisticated betting technique employed to ensure profits regardless of the outcome of a sporting event. This method capitalizes on the variations in odds set by different bookmakers.

Essentially, it involves placing multiple bets on all potential outcomes of an event across various betting platforms, exploiting the odds discrepancies to guarantee a financial gain.

The foundation of this strategy lies in the mathematical principle where the aggregated implied probabilities of all possible outcomes, as indicated by the odds, sum up to a value less than one. This scenario presents a lucrative arbitrage opportunity.

It’s important to understand that this form of betting usually requires substantial investment for relatively modest returns, as most arbitrage opportunities offer less than 1.2% profit. Moreover, the practice is generally frowned upon by bookmakers. They may react by partially voiding an arbitrage bet or, in more extreme cases, closing the bettor’s account.

Arbitrage betting is a nuanced and complex strategy, requiring both a deep understanding of sports betting mechanics and keen analytical skills to identify and exploit odds discrepancies effectively.

How to spot arbitrage betting opportunities?

Spotting arbitrage betting opportunities is possible with several methods including the manual method or using services.

The easiest and most budget-friendly way to spot arbitrage bets is by using a free sure bet finder software. It can scan bookie odds and compare them to spot odds discrepancies between bookies.

The downside of this method to spot arbitrage bets is the limited access to betting opportunities because of scanning speed and limits applied by the scanner.

The most effective method to spot sports arbitrage opportunities is by using premium arbitrage betting software. It scans bookie odds with a higher speed and efficiency.

The third and least effective method to detect arbitrage bets is by watching the odds and finding opportunities manually. This way requires more time investment and has lower efficiency and profitability in sure betting.

What are the key elements of arbitrage betting?

The key elements of the sports arbitrage betting process are:

  1. Access to multiple sportsbooks is necessary for sure betting because of the need to cover every outcome of a market. This step of arbing is possible only when using multiple bookies.
  2. Odds inconsistencies between betting sites are also a key element for successful sports arbitrage betting. It is required to earn a guaranteed profit on sure bets while covering each outcome with mathematically calculated stakes.
  3. Stake calculations are the essential part of arbing. Covering each outcome with the right stakes is the only way to generate profits no matter which outcome wins.
  4. A large Bankroll is required because you need to have funds at multiple sportsbooks to practice sure betting. Increasing the number of bookies used allows access to more wagering opportunities.
  5. Knowing the risks of arbing is also essential to a successful long-lasting profitable activity. Such risks are covering one outcome with the wrong odds or stakes or getting your bookie’s accounts limited.

Resources used: [1], [2], [3], [4]

FAQ

Is arbitrage betting still possible?

As of 2024 sports arbitrage betting is still a possible betting strategy and generates decent profits when used at many sportsbooks.

Which is more profitable: pre-match or live arbitrage betting?

In-play arbitrage betting is more profitable, however, it requires more skill and the ability to place sure bets fast.