Spread betting is a completely different concept in betting than conventional sports betting or betting through an exchange. In spread betting, the bookmaker determines the "spread" on an event and you bet against it.

You can bet either above (buying) or below (selling) the spread and if you are successful, you are paid out on your stake multiplied by the points over or under the spread that you predicted. However, if the score goes against you then your loss is your stake multiplied by the points either under or over the spread (the opposite that you bet).

Worked example

• A gambler believes that there will be more than 13 corners, and 'buys' at £25 a point at 13.
• If the number of corners is 16, the gambler wins (16 - 13) = 3 x £25.
• If the number of corners is 10, the gambler loses (13 - 10) = 3 x £25.
  
• A 'sell' transaction is similar except that it is made against the bottom value of the spread.

Free spread bets and cash offers

Spread betting firms offer some great cash promotions and free spread bets for those who wish to take up spread betting. This normally involves placing a certain number of bets (buy or sell) with a minimum risk (typically £20). The details of four popular spread firm's offer are details below.

	Open a Sporting Index account and place 5 bets (each bet must have the potential to win and lose £20 or more) and we'll give you a £200 Total Goals bet on any live UK, UEFA Champions League or UEFA Cup match. Alternatively you can claim £100 Cash
	Place just five settled sports spread bets and receive a £100 Supremacy or Total Goals bet on a live football match. Place another ten settled sports spread bets and receive a further £100 Supremacy or Total Goals bet on a live football match.
	Simply complete the application process and once you have your account, all we ask you to do is place three trades with us. As soon as those trades are settled, we’ll send you a bottle of champagne with our thanks. Contact us for a referral if you would like to earn us a bottle of bubbly :)
	Once you place minimum of 10 bets (of minimum qualifying value) you will be eligible for a free £100 per goal stake on the Total Goals in any live Premiership match