Stake is a cryptocurrency-based online casino operated by Medium Rare NV, holding a Curaçao gaming license. Launched in 2017, the platform offers casino games and sports betting with cryptocurrency transactions.
Stake Casino represents a significant player in the cryptocurrency gaming sector, combining traditional casino offerings with blockchain-based payment systems. Founded in 2017 by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, the platform emerged from their earlier venture Easygo, a game development company for online casinos established in 2016. This foundation in game development provided technical expertise that shaped Stake's operational approach.
The platform operates through Medium Rare NV, a Curaçao-incorporated entity holding the necessary online casino licensing. With reported revenue of $2.6 billion in 2022, Stake has established itself as a major operator in the crypto gaming space. The company maintains a distributed operational model with offices in Serbia, Australia, and Cyprus, supporting staff across multiple regions.
The evolution of Stake reflects broader trends in cryptocurrency adoption and online gaming convergence. The founders leveraged their game development background to create a platform that prioritized cryptocurrency integration from inception rather than retrofitting traditional payment systems.
Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani's experience with Easygo provided crucial insights into casino game mechanics and player preferences. When launching Stake in 2017, they positioned the platform to capitalize on growing cryptocurrency adoption. The timing aligned with increased mainstream awareness of Bitcoin and alternative cryptocurrencies, creating a receptive market for crypto-native gaming platforms.
Stake's expansion demonstrates a calculated approach to regulatory environments. The December 2021 UK market entry through TGP Europe partnership represented a move into a highly regulated jurisdiction. This required adapting operations to meet UK Gambling Commission standards while maintaining the platform's cryptocurrency focus.
The August 2022 launch of Stake.us as a separate entity for US residents addressed the complex American regulatory landscape. By creating a distinct platform, Stake could navigate state-by-state regulations while maintaining its international operations. This dual-platform strategy reflects understanding of jurisdictional compliance requirements.
Stake provides a comprehensive gaming portfolio spanning traditional casino games and sports betting. The platform architecture supports both automated gaming and live dealer experiences, accommodating different player preferences.
The casino section includes standard offerings such as slots, blackjack, and roulette. These games operate on provably fair algorithms, a feature particularly relevant to cryptocurrency users who value transparency. The platform hosts games from multiple providers, creating variety in themes, mechanics, and return-to-player percentages.
Slot games constitute a significant portion of the catalog, ranging from classic three-reel formats to complex video slots with multiple paylines and bonus features. Table games include various blackjack variants, roulette types, and poker formats. The selection caters to both casual players and those seeking specific rule variations.
Live dealer games add a real-time element to the digital casino experience. Professional dealers operate physical gaming equipment while cameras stream the action to players. This format bridges the gap between online convenience and the atmosphere of physical casinos.
The live section typically includes blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game show-style offerings. Players interact through chat functions and make decisions in real-time, with results determined by actual card draws or wheel spins rather than random number generators.
Sports betting functionality extends Stake's appeal beyond casino game enthusiasts. The sportsbook covers major international sports with pre-match and in-play betting options. Markets include traditional sports like football, basketball, and tennis, alongside esports competitions.
The betting interface provides odds in multiple formats and supports various bet types from simple match winners to complex accumulators. Live betting features allow wagers during ongoing events, with odds adjusting based on game developments.
Stake operates under a Curaçao online casino license through Medium Rare NV. The platform maintains offices across Serbia, Australia, and Cyprus, supporting a globally distributed workforce. The company focuses on cryptocurrency transactions as its primary payment method.
The platform expanded its reach through strategic partnerships and regional adaptations. In December 2021, Stake entered the UK market via TGP Europe partnership. For US residents, a separate platform Stake.us launched in August 2022 to comply with regional regulations.
Cryptocurrency integration defines Stake's operational model. Users primarily transact in digital currencies rather than traditional fiat money, affecting deposit, withdrawal, and gameplay processes.
The platform accepts multiple cryptocurrencies, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for transaction speed, fees, or privacy features. Bitcoin remains a primary option, alongside alternatives like Ethereum, Litecoin, and others. This multi-currency approach accommodates users with different cryptocurrency holdings.
Cryptocurrency transactions typically process faster than traditional banking methods. Deposits often confirm within minutes depending on blockchain network conditions. Withdrawals similarly benefit from blockchain efficiency, though processing times vary by cryptocurrency and network congestion.
The absence of traditional banking intermediaries reduces certain friction points but introduces cryptocurrency-specific considerations. Users must manage wallet addresses correctly and understand blockchain confirmation requirements. The platform provides guidance on transaction processes, though cryptocurrency familiarity remains beneficial.
Operating in the online gaming sector requires addressing security and regulatory compliance. Stake's history includes both standard operational measures and notable security incidents.
The Curaçao license provides the legal framework for Stake's operations. This jurisdiction offers a relatively accessible licensing process compared to stricter regulatory environments like the UK or Malta. The license requires certain operational standards but allows flexibility in cryptocurrency integration.
Regional expansions required additional licensing arrangements. The UK partnership involved meeting UK Gambling Commission requirements, while the US platform operates under applicable state regulations. However, in February 2025, Stake announced it would surrender its UK license and cease UK operations by March 11, 2025, following complaints about advertising content.
The September 2023 security breach highlighted vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency platform operations. Over $41 million was stolen from a Stake Ethereum wallet in a hacking incident. The FBI attributed the attack to North Korea's Lazarus Group, a sophisticated threat actor known for targeting cryptocurrency platforms.
This incident underscores the security challenges facing crypto-based operations. While blockchain transactions offer certain security advantages, wallet management and platform security require robust protective measures. The breach prompted security reassessments and likely influenced subsequent operational protocols.
Stake's growth trajectory includes legal disputes and regulatory scrutiny common in the online gaming industry.
In June 2023, a Manhattan federal judge dismissed a $580 million lawsuit against Stake. Plaintiff Christopher Freeman, claiming to be an early associate of the founders, alleged exclusion from the business through illegal tactics. The dismissal on jurisdictional grounds resolved the immediate legal threat without addressing the underlying claims on their merits.
The February 2025 decision to exit the UK market followed complaints about advertising practices. A social media advertisement featuring adult content performer Bonnie Blue alongside the Stake logo drew criticism for potentially attracting underage audiences. This controversy illustrates the scrutiny facing gaming operators regarding responsible advertising, particularly when using social media influencers.
Stake has pursued technological differentiation through platform development and emerging technology adoption.
In December 2024, Stake released an application for Apple Vision Pro, becoming the first online casino on the spatial computing platform. This move demonstrates willingness to explore emerging technologies and create novel user experiences. The Vision Pro app represents a bet on immersive computing as a future gaming interface, though mainstream adoption of such hardware remains uncertain.
Stake Casino occupies a distinctive position in online gaming through its cryptocurrency focus and rapid growth. The platform combines traditional casino games and sports betting with blockchain-based transactions, appealing to users comfortable with digital currencies. Its evolution from a 2017 startup to a multi-billion dollar operation demonstrates successful execution in a competitive market.
However, the platform's history also includes significant challenges. The 2023 security breach exposed vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency operations, while the 2025 UK market exit highlights regulatory and reputational risks. These incidents illustrate the complex environment facing crypto gaming platforms, where technological innovation must balance with security, compliance, and responsible operation.
For potential users, Stake offers a comprehensive gaming platform with cryptocurrency advantages like faster transactions and blockchain transparency. The extensive game selection, live dealer options, and sports betting provide variety. Yet users should consider the regulatory landscape, security considerations, and their own cryptocurrency familiarity when evaluating the platform. As the online gaming industry continues evolving, Stake's trajectory will likely depend on navigating regulatory requirements while maintaining its technological differentiation.
Stake is a cryptocurrency-based online casino and sports betting platform operated by Medium Rare NV under a Curaçao license. It offers traditional casino games, live dealer experiences, and sports betting primarily through cryptocurrency transactions.
Stake was launched in 2017 by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, who previously founded Easygo, a game development company for online casinos, in 2016.
Stake accepts multiple cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and various other digital currencies, allowing users to deposit, wager, and withdraw using their preferred cryptocurrency.
Stake operates under a Curaçao online casino license through Medium Rare NV. The platform previously held UK licensing through a partnership but announced its exit from the UK market in February 2025, with operations ceasing March 11, 2025.
In September 2023, over $41 million was stolen from a Stake Ethereum wallet in a hacking incident. The FBI attributed the attack to North Korea's Lazarus Group, a sophisticated cybercriminal organization.
US residents can access Stake.us, a separate platform launched in August 2022 specifically for the US market. This platform operates under applicable US state regulations and differs from the international Stake.com site.
Stake offers slots, blackjack, roulette, poker variants, and other traditional casino games. The platform also features live dealer games with real-time streaming and a comprehensive sportsbook covering major sports and esports.
Stake announced its UK market exit in February 2025 following complaints about a social media advertisement featuring adult content performer Bonnie Blue, which critics claimed could attract underage audiences. The company surrendered its UK gambling license with operations ending March 11, 2025.
Stake has established partnerships and sponsorships across sports and entertainment sectors, reflecting its market position in cryptocurrency gaming.
Explore how Stake integrates blockchain technology with traditional casino games, offering provably fair gaming and fast cryptocurrency transactions.
Experience real-time gaming with professional dealers and comprehensive sports betting markets covering international sports and esports competitions.
Stake Casino ceased UK operations and surrendered its gambling license after complaints regarding social media advertising content.
Stake became the first online casino to release an application for Apple Vision Pro spatial computing platform.
The FBI confirmed North Korea's Lazarus Group was responsible for the $41 million Stake wallet security breach.