High Risk Arbs
Arbitrage is a great way to squeeze extra value out of gubbed accounts, and our ATM and Dutching software can help.
For Pro members, in particular, there are loads of opportunities that pop up throughout the day. However, even on gubbed accounts, you need to proceed with caution. This is especially true with large arbs.
Here are three things you should consider with large arbs (and small arbs too):
- Is this actually an arb?
- We do our best to ensure that the data on our software is as accurate as possible but, with hundreds of thousands of data points being collated, it is inevitable that errors happen from time to time. Possible errors could involve the odds for each team being reversed, incorrect line values being added, or rule differences between bookies. With any arb it is your responsibility to double-check that the bets that you are placing are actually risk-free.
- Is it a palpable error?
- Bookies also make mistakes from time to time. They might list the teams the wrong way round, or accidentally offer odds that are much too high and are completely out of line with every other bookie. If it should be obvious to the average person that the odds have been offered accidentally it is considered a 'palpable' error.
Bookies are within their rights to cancel any bets placed on palpable errors. They will also take a close look at the accounts that placed those bets. If you see a 'palp' it is best to avoid it completely.
- Bookies also make mistakes from time to time. They might list the teams the wrong way round, or accidentally offer odds that are much too high and are completely out of line with every other bookie. If it should be obvious to the average person that the odds have been offered accidentally it is considered a 'palpable' error.
- Is this going to get me flagged?
- Even if you are sure the arb is legit, and it is not a palpable error, you might still choose not to place it. The reason that large arbs often exist is because the odds on an outcome have changed but one bookie has been slow to react. If you place a bet at that bookie you may alert them to the change in the market and, in the process, get yourself flagged as a sharp bettor. This could lead to the liability limits on your account being decreased and cost you more money in the long run that you will make from the individual arb.
The key to long-term success in arbing is to stay off of the bookies radar, so make sure you consider all the risks before placing any bets.