The Truth Behind House Edge
- Payouts depend on how many winners share the pool.
- Operator takeout reduces the distributable pool.
- Value often lies in under-backed selections.
House edge is the built-in statistical advantage a casino has over players. It’s expressed as a percentage of each bet the casino expects to keep over the long run.
How it works: Games are designed so the expected value (EV) of a player’s bet is slightly negative. For example, if a game has a 2% house edge, the long-term average loss is ₱2 for every ₱100 wagered.
Common examples:
- Roulette (single-zero): ~2.70% house edge.
- Blackjack: ~0.5% to 2% depending on rules and player strategy.
- Slots: typically 4% to 12% depending on the machine and configuration.
Variance vs. expectation: Short-term results can vary widely (wins/losses), but over many bets the results converge toward the expected loss implied by the house edge. Understanding house edge helps players set realistic expectations and manage bankrolls more effectively.
In the Philippines, gambling activities are regulated by PAGCOR and other authorities. Only participate via licensed operators.
Always gamble responsibly. Set limits, avoid chasing losses, and seek help if gambling impacts your well-being. Visit PAGCOR for official guidance.
Varies by game/operator
Multi-leg pick’em formats
Depends on winners