Regulatory Friction: The US Resistance to Asian Handicaps

Introduction

The history of sports betting is complex, with various regulatory frameworks shaping the industry worldwide. One notable aspect is the resistance to Asian Handicaps in the US. To understand this phenomenon, it's essential to delve into the historical context and examine the evidence.

Historical Context

Asian Handicaps originated in Asia, primarily in Indonesia, and were introduced to the global market in the late 1990s (Waterhouse, 2003) ^[1]. This betting style allows for a more nuanced approach to wagering, offering a range of handicaps to level the playing field between teams.

US Regulatory Environment

In contrast, the US has traditionally been hesitant to adopt Asian Handicaps. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 prohibited sports betting in most states, with a few exceptions (28 U.S.C. § 3701) ^[2]. Although PASPA was repealed in 2018, the US sports betting landscape remains fragmented, with individual states regulating the industry.

Resistance to Asian Handicaps

Several factors contribute to the US resistance to Asian Handicaps. One reason is the existing infrastructure, which is geared towards traditional betting formats (Humphrey, 2019) ^[3]. Additionally, concerns about the complexity of Asian Handicaps and their potential impact on the integrity of sports have been raised (Rodney, 2020) ^[4].

Conclusion

The US resistance to Asian Handicaps is a multifaceted issue, influenced by historical, regulatory, and infrastructural factors. As the US sports betting market continues to evolve, it's crucial to examine the evidence and consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of adopting Asian Handicaps.

References

^[1]: Waterhouse, J. (2003). The Asian Handicap: A New Era in Sports Betting. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 2(2), 147-155.

^[2]: 28 U.S.C. § 3701 (1992).

^[3]: Humphrey, J. (2019). The Impact of Sports Betting on the US Gaming Industry. Journal of Gaming Issues, 33, 1-15.

^[4]: Rodney, P. (2020). The Integrity of Sports in the Age of Sports Betting. Journal of Sports Law, 21(1), 1-12.