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There are many approaches to gambling, and advanced-deposit wagering (ADW) has emerged as one of the most convenient. The concept is simple and self-explanatory: you must fund your account before placing bets. That might sound like standard procedure at every casino or sportsbook. So, what exactly are ADW games, and what makes them distinct?
How advanced-deposit wagering works
Advanced-deposit wagering may sound broad, since many online gambling platforms require you to fund your account before betting. However, ADW games are distinct for one crucial reason: they are based on pari-mutuel pools. Pari-mutuel betting involves pooling all wagers placed on a particular bet, taking a set percentage for the house, and distributing the remaining balance proportionally to winning ticket holders based on their bet sizes.
ADW betting is especially popular in horse and greyhound racing. It is convenient because it allows bettors to place wagers through online sites, mobile apps, or even over the phone. You can place bets from anywhere in the world without visiting the racetrack.
Notably, pari-mutuel odds are not fixed. Bettors effectively act as the oddsmakers, and odds fluctuate depending on betting activity. However, some ADW games and providers now offer fixed odds on certain races.
ADW betting is also advantageous for the racing industry. A portion of every wager is deducted and shared among stakeholders, including the racetrack, horsemen, the ADW provider, and the state.
ADW betting and the law: Where it’s legal in 2026
ADW betting is legal in most states—it has been since 2025. In fact, it is often the only legal way for people without access to racetracks to bet on horses and greyhounds. However, it is only legal when conducted through a licensed and regulated platform. The most popular ADW betting platforms in the US include TVG Network, TwinSpires.com, KeenelandSelect.com, and Xpressbet.com.
Why ADW betting is so convenient
ADW betting offers several advantages over traditional credit shops:
- Remote Betting: ADW operators provide online platforms and mobile apps, letting you place bets without being at the racetrack. You can wager from anywhere where ADW betting is legal.
- Expanded Market Access: ADW platforms consolidate races from across the country and even worldwide, giving bettors access to markets they might not otherwise reach.
- Data Access: Many ADW sites feature extensive race data, including live video streams and replays, enabling informed betting decisions.
- Bonuses: You can claim various bonuses, including welcome offers for signing up and deposit matches when funding your account.
- Stable Odds: While dynamic, odds are relatively stable because they reflect the bettors’ collective wagers.
- Low Minimums: Many ADW sites allow bets as low as $1—or less—even on exotic races.
Why ADW betting is a smart choice
Advanced-deposit wagering (ADW) is an ideal option for anyone looking for a legal way to bet on horse and greyhound racing. It offers the convenience of remote betting, access to expanded betting markets, dynamic yet stable odds, bonuses, low wager minimums, and valuable data for informed decision-making.
