A new monetisation model at Kick for gambling
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5 Apr 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes Kick has changed its remuneration policy by doing away with hourly payments for gambling streamers, particularly those working on slot machines and casinos. The change is aimed at promoting more responsible content and limiting the risk of gambling addiction. While some creators welcome this decision, others are concerned that it will affect their revenues, especially for smaller streamers. However, Kick continues to support this type of content without hourly fees, with other sources of revenue such as subscriptions and advertising.
Kick, an up-and-coming streaming platform, recently announced a major review of its remuneration policy, directly affecting streamers specialising in gambling. In a strategic move to refine its business model and address concerns about responsible content, Kick has decided to remove hourly payments for content creators in the ‘Slots & Casino’ category. A decision that marks a new stage in the platform’s approach to a fast-growing and, at times, controversial sector.
A strategic change
Since its creation, Kick has sought to differentiate itself from Twitch, the dominant platform in the sector, by offering a more generous monetisation model, including hourly payments for certain creators. Until recently, streamers broadcasting casino games and slot machines could benefit from an hourly payment of $16, an incentive that enabled them to maintain regular activity and monetise their broadcasts more easily.
However, Kick’s new policy now excludes this category of creators from hourly payments. This decision has received a mixed reception, with some seeing it as a necessary change to prevent streamers from being encouraged to extend their gaming sessions, a practice that could have negative effects on their audiences and their own well-being.
The aim of this change is clear: to align remuneration with more responsible content practices, while preserving the possibility for creators to earn money via other mechanisms, in particular revenue generated by advertising and subscriptions.
Why this decision now?
Kick has made no secret of the reasons behind this policy review. Although the platform continues to support gambling-related content, it has taken this decision in response to growing criticism of the impact of monetising gambling streamers. Offering a guaranteed payout per hour could, according to some observers, encourage streamers to prolong gambling sessions, thereby increasing the risk of problem gambling behaviour.
This change is part of a drive to reduce the risk of gambling addiction. Streamers are often seen as role models, and their activity can have a significant influence on their communities. Kick wants to avoid promoting an environment where creators are encouraged to lose control over the time they spend streaming.
Since 13 May 2024, French-speaking streamers have already been banned from broadcasting gambling-related content on streaming platforms, due to French legislation and strict policies regarding the promotion of gambling.
Reactions from the community
Initial reactions from users and content creators have shown widespread support for this decision. Several comments on social networks expressed positive opinions, stressing that remuneration for gambling streamers should not be automatic.
One user, FrankIRL, resolutely stated, ‘Gambling is not something you should get paid for.’
However, the decision has not been without controversy. Some voices are concerned about the impact this could have on smaller creators who rely on these hourly payments to maintain their business. They now find themselves in a system where their income depends more on the generosity of their subscribers or the success of their commercial partnerships.
No renunciation of gambling content
It is important to stress that, despite this change, Kick is not withdrawing from the gambling sector. The platform continues to offer the ability to stream and watch casino content, relying on user-controlled filters to avoid exposing those who don’t want this type of content.Some popular streamers, such as xQc, Trainwrecks and Roshtein, remain iconic figures in this category and continue to promote online gaming platforms such as Stake, a highly influential partner brand in the crypto casino space. These creators, despite the removal of hourly payments, still benefit from exclusive contracts and other significant revenue streams, but this policy could force an evolution in the way they approach their streaming activities.