Baccarat: Why The Banker Is Always Favored
Baccarat is one of the most elegant and simple card games widely played in casinos across the globe. For those new to the game, Baccarat appears as a game of chance, but seasoned players know there’s more to it than meets the eye. One of the most intriguing aspects of Baccarat is the favoritism towards the banker.

Understanding The Basics
Baccarat is straightforward with three potential bets: the player, the banker, or a tie. Each round of Baccarat begins with two hands being dealt: one to the player and one to the banker. The goal is to bet on the hand that you believe will have a total closest to nine. Aces are worth one point, cards two through nine are worth their face values, and tens, jacks, queens, and kings are worth zero. What’s fascinating about Baccarat is the minimal house edge, making it appealing to both high rollers and casual gamblers.
House Edge and Probability
The primary reason the bet is favored is due to its lower house edge compared to the player bet. The house edge for the bet stands at approximately 1.06%, whereas the player bet has a slightly higher house edge of around 1.24%. Though at first glance, this difference might seem insignificant, it profoundly impacts the game’s outcomes over a longer period.
The Commission Factor
While the banker bet is favored due to the lower house edge, there’s a catch — the casino commission. Most casinos charge a 5% commission on winning bets. This commission ensures that winning does not become overwhelmingly profitable for the player in the long run. For example, if you bet $100 and win, you would typically get $95 instead of the full $100. This slight reduction is the casino’s way of balancing the higher probability of winning with the bet.
Strategic Insight
Strategically, betting is often touted as the best move. Since the game involves no decision-making after placing a bet (all drawing rules are predetermined), consistently betting minimizes losses over time. Some players alternate between player and bets or use patterns, but statistics back the strategy of continuously betting on the banker.
The banker bet in Baccarat is favored for a couple of compelling reasons: the lower house edge and the slightly higher probability of winning. By understanding these aspects, players can make more informed decisions and enhance their gaming experience. Whether you’re a veteran or a novice in the world of Baccarat, always remember to bet wisely and enjoy the thrill of the game.