Modern bookmakers are constantly working to improve the quality of their services. They aim to make betting more comfortable, enhance navigation and functionality, and fix errors. In addition, developers introduce new types of bets. Simple singles, systems, or accumulators are no longer surprising, so in this guide, you’ll learn what a chain bet is, how it’s calculated, and whether it can help grow your bankroll. For many players, platforms like 1xbet also make it easier to explore such innovative betting options.
A chain bet is a complex bet that combines the features of singles and accumulators. It is a series of individual bets put in a predetermined pattern of bets placed by the bettor.
The player looks at the bet line and selects a number of singles in one coupon. Each next bet in the chain relies on the outcome of the previous ones. If the first bet is not yet resolved, the second one is not activated. The player sets the exact order of the selections.
Main Features of a Chain Bet
Some main features that define this type of bet are described below:
- The value of the first bet, which starts the chain, is the bet for each following single.
- If a single event is lost and there is not enough money remaining (less than the first stake), the next bet is determined on the existing money.
- Pay-out is credited only after the final event has been resolved by the bookmaker.
- A chain bet is lost if the initial wager loses and no money is left for the rest of the links.
This system might at first look cumbersome, yet in the real world, one will quickly realize after only a single attempt.
Example of Chain Bet Calculation
Let's consider a realistic example. Let us assume a coupon with four events:
- Ukraine vs Lithuania: Total Under (3.5), price 1.70
- Poland vs Austria: Away team not to lose (X2), price 1.76
- Northern Ireland vs Germany: Total Over (3.0), odds 2.12
- Scotland vs Belgium: Handicap 1 (+1.5), odds 1.90
We begin with a bet of $15
Scenario 1: All predictions are correct
How the bookmaker calculates the chain:
- $15 × 1.70 = $26
- (26 – 15) + (15 × 1.75) = 11 + 26 = $37
- (37 – 15) + (15 × 2.12) = 22 + 32 = $54
- (54 – 15) + (15 × 1.90) = 39 + 29 = $68
Here, $15 grew into nearly $70. The bankroll was doubled over four times — a fantasy outcome, though an extraordinary one in the real world.
Scenario 2: The Second Link Loses
Assume Poland beats Austria, and hence bet #2 is lost.
- $15 × 1.70 = $26 (bet #1 wins).
- (26 – 15) + (15 × 0) = 11 + 0 = $11
- (11 – 15) + (15 × 2.12) = –4 + 32 = $28
- (28 – 15) + (15 × 1.90) = 13 + 29 = $42
Here, even after losing one link, the chain ends at $42. Net profit = $42 – $15 = $27.
You can also practice calculating yourself for cases when the 3rd or 4th bet is lost.
Strategy Tips for Chain Bets
This is just an example that a well-established chain bet can significantly boost your bankroll if all the matches are carefully analyzed. Here are a few hints:
- Choose markets with odds of 2.00 or higher. Otherwise, an early loss wipes out the entire chain.
- Place your most reliable selection in first position. If the first link fails, the entire chain collapses.
- Maintain the coupon up to 3–4 events. More games decrease chances of success.
Only thorough analysis and sufficient choice of matches will ensure the outcomes exactly. It's preferable to build coupons on weekends, as the schedule allows for more top matches. If there is doubt, it's wiser to lose a day of betting and preserve your bankroll.
Benefits of Chain Bets
- Good chances of gain in the event that all the choices are winners.
- A single losing bet does not necessarily ruin the whole chain.
- Success opportunities are usually higher than an accumulator.
Drawbacks
- Not all bookmakers offer the ability to make this bet.
- High risk when wagering with high odds.
- Last Thoughts
Chain bet is a replacement betting system that can step in place of accumulators or systems for some bettors. Profitability is solely dependent on how good the bettor analyzes each match. With self-discipline and sound decisions, a chain bet can become a very handy tool for expanding your bankroll. Good luck!