Stake is a cryptocurrency-based online casino and sports betting platform operated by Medium Rare NV, licensed in Curaçao. Launched in 2017 by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, the platform specializes in crypto transactions and offers traditional casino games alongside comprehensive sports betting markets.
Stake Casino has established itself as a leading cryptocurrency gambling platform since its 2017 launch, offering a distinct alternative to traditional online casinos. By focusing exclusively on cryptocurrency transactions, the platform attracts users seeking faster processing times, enhanced privacy, and the convenience of digital asset management. This review examines Stake's offerings, security measures, game selection, and overall performance to help potential users make informed decisions.
The online gambling landscape has evolved dramatically with the integration of cryptocurrency technology. Stake Casino represents this evolution, built from the ground up to serve crypto-native users. Founded by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, who previously developed games for online casinos through their company Easygo in 2016, Stake emerged as their flagship platform combining their industry expertise with blockchain technology.
Operating under a Curaçao license through Medium Rare NV, Stake has expanded its reach globally while maintaining a focus on cryptocurrency transactions. The platform's growth trajectory includes the 2022 launch of Stake.us for U.S. residents and a brief expansion into the UK market that concluded in March 2025. With a reported $2.6 billion in revenue for 2022, Stake demonstrates significant market presence in the crypto gambling sector.
Stake Casino offers an extensive library exceeding 3,000 games, sourced from over 20 leading software providers. The game portfolio spans multiple categories including slots, table games, live dealer experiences, and proprietary Stake Originals developed in-house.
The slot selection features titles from prominent developers including Pragmatic Play, Hacksaw Gaming, Kalamba Games, OneTouch, and Octoplay. Players can access classic three-reel slots, modern video slots with advanced features, and progressive jackpot games. The platform's search and filter functions enable users to sort games by provider, volatility, and theme, streamlining the discovery process.
Traditional casino enthusiasts will find comprehensive table game offerings including multiple blackjack variants, roulette formats (European, American, French), baccarat, and poker variations. These games utilize random number generator technology to ensure fair outcomes, with many titles offering adjustable betting limits to accommodate different bankroll sizes.
Stake's live casino section provides real-time gaming experiences with professional dealers streaming from dedicated studios. The live portfolio includes blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game show-style offerings. High-definition video streams and interactive chat features create an immersive environment that replicates land-based casino atmospheres. The live dealer section operates continuously, ensuring availability across all time zones.
Stake's defining characteristic is its cryptocurrency-exclusive payment infrastructure. The platform does not accept traditional fiat currencies, requiring all deposits and withdrawals to occur through digital assets.
The casino accepts multiple cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and various stablecoins. This multi-currency approach provides flexibility for users holding different digital assets and allows players to avoid conversion fees when possible.
Cryptocurrency transactions on Stake typically process within minutes for deposits and under one hour for withdrawals, significantly faster than traditional online casinos using bank transfers or card payments. The blockchain-based system eliminates intermediary banks, reducing processing delays and associated fees. Users maintain control over their transaction timing, as blockchain confirmation speeds depend on network congestion and selected transaction fees.
Stake operates within the cryptocurrency gambling sector, which has grown significantly since 2017. The platform exclusively processes transactions through digital currencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major cryptocurrencies, eliminating traditional banking delays and offering enhanced privacy for users.
The casino holds a Curaçao eGaming license and previously operated in the UK market until March 2025. With reported revenue of $2.6 billion in 2022, Stake represents one of the largest crypto-focused gambling platforms globally, maintaining offices across Serbia, Australia, and Cyprus.
Beyond casino games, Stake offers comprehensive sports betting markets covering major international sports and niche competitions. The sportsbook includes pre-match and live betting options across football, basketball, tennis, cricket, and numerous other sports.
Recognizing the growing esports audience, Stake provides dedicated markets for competitive gaming including League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and other popular titles. Virtual sports simulations offer continuous betting opportunities on computer-generated events, providing action when live sports are unavailable.
Stake operates several promotional programs designed to enhance player value and engagement. The platform features weekly raffles with prize pools reaching $75,000, racing competitions with $100,000 in rewards, and provider-specific promotions such as Pragmatic Drops and Wins.
The VIP program offers tiered benefits based on wagering activity, with higher tiers unlocking increased rakeback percentages, exclusive bonuses, and dedicated account management. The rakeback system returns a percentage of the house edge to players, providing ongoing value regardless of individual session outcomes. Current promotions include up to 3.5% rakeback for eligible users.
Stake operates under a Curaçao eGaming license issued to Medium Rare NV. While Curaçao licensing provides legal operational framework, it represents a less stringent regulatory environment compared to jurisdictions like the UK, Malta, or Gibraltar.
In September 2023, Stake experienced a significant security breach resulting in the theft of over $41 million from one of its Ethereum wallets. The FBI attributed the attack to North Korea's Lazarus Group. The platform continued operations following the incident, though the event raised questions about wallet security protocols and hot wallet management practices.
The platform implements SSL encryption for data transmission and stores cryptocurrency holdings across hot and cold wallet systems. User account security features include two-factor authentication, though the effectiveness of these measures depends on proper user implementation.
Stake's platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, functioning seamlessly on iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. The mobile interface maintains full functionality including game access, account management, deposits, withdrawals, and customer support. In December 2024, Stake became the first online casino to release an application for Apple Vision Pro, demonstrating commitment to emerging technology platforms.
Customer service availability represents a potential limitation, as support primarily operates through email contact rather than live chat or phone options. Response times vary based on inquiry complexity and support team availability. The platform maintains a FAQ section addressing common questions about account management, payments, and gameplay.
Stake's regulatory history includes both expansion and contraction. The platform briefly operated in the UK market through a partnership with TGP Europe beginning in December 2021. However, in February 2025, Stake announced the surrender of its UK gambling license following complaints about advertising content, with UK operations ceasing on March 11, 2025. This withdrawal highlights the challenges cryptocurrency casinos face when operating in strictly regulated markets with comprehensive advertising standards.
Stake Casino serves a specific niche within the online gambling market: cryptocurrency users seeking a dedicated platform for digital asset wagering. The casino's strengths include its extensive game library, fast cryptocurrency transaction processing, comprehensive sports betting integration, and mobile optimization. The VIP program and rakeback system provide ongoing value for regular players.
However, potential users should consider several factors before joining. The cryptocurrency-exclusive payment system excludes players without digital assets or those preferring traditional banking methods. The Curaçao licensing jurisdiction offers less regulatory oversight than stricter gambling authorities. The 2023 security breach and subsequent UK market exit raise questions about operational security and regulatory compliance. Limited customer support options may frustrate users requiring immediate assistance.
Stake Casino best suits experienced cryptocurrency users comfortable with digital asset management and blockchain technology. Players seeking traditional payment methods, comprehensive regulatory protection, or extensive customer support options may find better alternatives among conventionally licensed online casinos. As with all gambling platforms, users should assess their risk tolerance, understand the legal status of online gambling in their jurisdiction, and gamble responsibly within their financial means.
No, Stake exclusively processes transactions through cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and other digital assets. The platform does not accept credit cards, bank transfers, or e-wallets using fiat currency.
Cryptocurrency withdrawals typically process within one hour, though actual timing depends on blockchain network congestion and confirmation requirements for the specific cryptocurrency used.
Stake operates under a Curaçao eGaming license issued to Medium Rare NV. The platform previously held a UK license but surrendered it in March 2025, ceasing operations in the United Kingdom.
In September 2023, hackers stole over $41 million from one of Stake's Ethereum wallets. The FBI attributed the attack to North Korea's Lazarus Group. The platform continued operations following the incident.
US residents can access Stake.us, a separate platform launched in August 2022 specifically for the American market, which operates under different regulations than the main Stake.com site.
Stake's VIP Club offers tiered benefits based on wagering activity, including increased rakeback percentages, exclusive bonuses, priority support, and dedicated account management for higher-tier members.
Yes, Stake provides live dealer games including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game show formats with professional dealers streaming in real-time from dedicated studios.
Stake's sportsbook covers major international sports including football, basketball, tennis, cricket, as well as esports competitions and virtual sports simulations for continuous betting opportunities.
Stake has established high-profile sponsorship agreements across sports and entertainment, including partnerships with UFC, Everton Football Club, Drake, and various international sports organizations.
Stake's live dealer section offers real-time gaming with professional dealers, HD video streams, and interactive features across blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game show formats.
Comprehensive sportsbook covering international sports, esports competitions, and virtual sports with pre-match and live betting options for cryptocurrency users.
Stake Casino surrendered its UK gambling license and ceased operations in the United Kingdom following advertising complaints.
Stake became the first online casino to release an application for Apple Vision Pro platform.
FBI attributed the $41 million Ethereum wallet hack to North Korea's Lazarus Group.