Bet Early Or Late: What’s Actually Better?
Thinking about when to place a bet is common, whether you are new to gambling or have placed a few wagers before. Some people like to act quickly, while others wait until the event is about to start.
In the sections below, you will learn how timing affects the experience of betting and see what changes between placing a bet early and leaving it until later. Read on to learn more.
Do Odds Change Closer To The Event?
Odds tend to move as the event approaches. This happens for a variety of reasons, such as updates on player injuries, weather conditions, or changes in betting volumes. In the UK, markets like football and horse racing often see changes in odds as more information becomes available.
For example, if more people start backing a certain outcome, bookmakers may shorten the odds. If a key player is ruled out late on, odds might shift to reflect the change.
Before placing a bet, it could help to check the odds available at that moment. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
Is Early Betting Really Better Value?
Placing a bet well in advance, often referred to as ante-post betting, involves making a selection before the final line-up or conditions are confirmed. This is more common for larger events, such as the Grand National or major football tournaments. These early markets may offer higher odds due to the uncertainty involved.
If you place a bet early and your selection later becomes a favourite, the payout could be higher compared to someone betting closer to the event. That said, ante-post betting carries added risk. If your selection doesn’t take part, some bookmakers do not refund the stake. This depends on their individual ante-post rules.
Before placing an ante-post bet, it may help to review the bookmaker’s terms. Some markets clearly state whether a refund applies if a selection is withdrawn.
Why Late Bets Can Sometimes Pay Off
Waiting until shortly before an event starts can allow you to access the most recent updates. This includes confirmed team line-ups, last-minute injuries, or weather changes. This type of information could shape your view of the market.
Some bettors prefer to wait until they have as much detail as possible before making a selection. Bookmakers respond to new information quickly. This can create price changes that some may look to take advantage of, though outcomes are never certain.
Placing a late bet does carry its own considerations. If many users are online or if there’s a delay in loading, you might not be able to place the bet in time. Being aware of this risk may be useful when waiting until the last few minutes before an event begins.
Does It Matter More In Horse Racing?
In horse racing, timing can play a bigger role due to the nature of how races are confirmed. Final runners are declared closer to race day. If you place an ante-post bet before this, there is a possibility the horse may not run. In these cases, stakes are typically not refunded under ante-post rules.
However, if you place a bet on the day of the race and your horse is withdrawn before the start, most bookmakers will return your stake. This is subject to the terms of the specific bet and market.
Some UK bookmakers offer what is known as “Best Odds Guaranteed” on race-day bets. This means if you take a fixed price earlier in the day and the starting price is higher, the bookmaker pays the higher price. This is available with many UK bookmakers from around 08:00 on race day, though times can vary by operator. This feature does not usually apply to ante-post markets, tote bets, or certain multiple-bet types.
Is Live Betting Worth It Over Pre-Match?
Live betting lets you place wagers after the event has started. This is now common in sports like football, cricket, and tennis. Odds update in real-time as events unfold, which can create new opportunities for those following closely.
Pre-match betting locks in the odds at the time you place the bet. This means you’re relying on the information available before the match or race begins.
Some people choose live betting because it allows them to respond to what they’re seeing. Others prefer pre-match betting for the clarity it offers. Odds can move quickly during live betting, so having a stable internet connection may be helpful.
Both styles of betting have their own approach. It comes down to how you prefer to follow a sport or event.
When Do Bookies Adjust The Odds?
Bookmakers review and adjust odds based on many types of new information. This includes official announcements, injury updates, changes in weather, and how much money is placed on each outcome. These shifts can happen several times throughout the day.
For example, if a popular selection sees a large number of bets, the odds may shorten. If interest in another outcome fades, the odds could drift.
During live events, in-play odds can change every few seconds. This depends on what is happening in the match or race. Some bookmakers update more frequently than others. If you’re comparing odds, checking across different sites could show you how markets are moving.
The Bottom Line On Timing Your Bets
When you place your bet can influence the odds you receive, the type of bet you choose, and the information you have. Betting earlier may give you access to different prices but with limited information. Betting later can offer more clarity, but odds may have shortened.
In horse racing, timing has a more direct impact. Ante-post betting can offer higher odds but includes a higher risk. Race-day betting may include refund policies and price features like Best Odds Guaranteed, depending on the bookmaker.
Some people use a mix of early and late bets depending on the event and their preference. Reviewing the terms of the market and understanding what’s in place could help you make an informed decision.
Bet Online at Mr Luck
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.