By:Jens
2009-10-14

A traditional gambler, or a novice, may well wonder what are the specific advantages to betting on a betting exchange, that a traditional bookmaker may not be able to offer? The truth is that there are a great many advantages to betting on a betting exchange over a traditional bookmaker and outlined below are just a few;
Better Odds : One of the most recognisable advantages on a betting exchange is that they tend to offer better odds than you will find with any bookmaker. On average, research has shown that a punter can receive 15% better odds in their favour using an online betting exchange such as Betfair and better odds mean more for your money!

Total Flexibility :  Not only can you back a selection, but you can also lay a selection, backing against the selection winning the bet. You can shop around the exchanges to find a market that you feel offers you the best value for money or you can set up your own exchange and set the odds you feel are right to attract punters to take the odds you are offering! You are only limited by how much you have in your account to cover these bets should they win!

Anonymity : Betting exchanges guarantee all their customers, whether they are backing or laying bets, complete anonymity so all customers never know the identity of the person they are backing or laying against.

Live Betting :  Not only can you now bet on horse races, soccer matches etc before they start, with the advent of live betting, it is now possible to back and lay bets during an event in response to the events happening live! This new and lucrative market for betting has really taken off over the past few years and much of that is down to the success of this form of betting on the exchanges.

Ease of Use : Betting on an exchange such as Betfair, could not be simpler. The interface is easy to follow with all markets clearly identified and odds shown clearly. Searching the markets is simple to follow, making the whole experience enjoyable and easily understandable. All bets are matched by state of the art software from markets across the globe and all financial transactions are fully automated, ensuring prompt, almost immediate, payment.

While betting exchanges may differ slightly from traditional bookmakers, they offer a whole new avenue of opportunity for the punter, if used wisely, to turn his meagre stake, into a healthy profit.