In sports betting using American odds (moneyline odds), the plus sign (+) indicates the underdog and shows the amount of profit you would win on a $100 bet.
Here is how to interpret odds with a plus sign:
• Underdog: The team, player, or outcome with a plus sign is considered less likely to win (the underdog).
• Potential Payout: The number immediately following the plus sign indicates how much profit you would make if you wagered $100.
• Higher Risk, Higher Reward: Since the outcome is considered less likely, a winning bet on the underdog offers a higher payout compared to a bet on the favorite (which is indicated by a minus sign).
Example
If you see +200 odds:
• You would profit $200 if you bet $100.
• Your total return would be $300 ($200 profit plus your original $100 stake back).
If you bet a different amount, the payout scales proportionally. For instance, a $50 bet at +200 odds would yield a $100 profit.
In Contrast: The Minus Sign (-)
The minus sign (–) signifies the favorite. The number following the minus sign indicates how much money you need to wager to win $100 in profit.
• For example, –150 odds mean you must bet $150 to win $100 in profit.
In the context of online gambling and sports betting in the United Kingdom, the notation "+" (plus) is commonly used in American odds format to indicate how much a bettor would win on a £100 stake if their bet is successful. This format is one of the several ways odds are presented across betting platforms, alongside fractional and decimal formats, which are more traditionally used in the UK. When you see a "+" sign followed by a number, it tells you the profit you would earn on a £100 bet. For example, if the odds are +150, a £100 bet would return £150 in profit, plus the original £100 stake, for a total return of £250.
Several UK-licensed operators regulated by the UK Gambling Commission offer betting odds in American format, among other formats. Here are a few notable ones:
1. bet365: bet365 is one of the leading online gambling companies in the UK, offering a wide range of betting options including sports betting, casino games, and poker. It is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring a safe and fair betting environment. bet365 is renowned for its comprehensive sportsbook, live betting capabilities, and user-friendly interface. The platform allows users to switch between odds formats, including the American odds format, making it accessible to a wide range of bettors.
2. William Hill: William Hill is another prominent name in the UK gambling industry, with a long history dating back to 1934. It is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. William Hill offers a vast array of betting markets, competitive odds, and has a strong presence both online and through its physical betting shops across the UK. The operator provides the option to view odds in American format, catering to users' preferences.
3. Ladbrokes: Ladbrokes is a well-established brand in the UK betting market, offering sports betting, casino games, and more. It operates under a license from the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards. Ladbrokes is known for its extensive betting options, live streaming services, and innovative features like betting exchanges. Bettors can choose to view odds in American, decimal, or fractional formats.
4. Paddy Power: Paddy Power, part of Flutter Entertainment, is famous for its irreverent marketing and wide range of betting markets. It is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. Paddy Power offers a unique betting experience with its money-back specials, early payouts, and the ability to request odds for virtually any event. The platform supports various odds formats, including American odds.
Each of these operators brings its own strengths to the table, such as bet365's live betting and streaming services, William Hill's extensive market coverage, Ladbrokes' betting exchange, and Paddy Power's promotional offers. When choosing a betting site, it's important to consider factors like the range of markets, odds competitiveness, user experience, and the availability of customer support. Always ensure that any betting activity is conducted responsibly and within the regulations set forth by the UK Gambling Commission.