In sports betting, odds with a minus sign in front of them represent the amount you need to wager to win back $100.
So, when you see -140, it means that you need to bet $140 to win $100.
Let’s put this into a real-world example
If you were to place a $100 bet on a team with -140 odds, and they win, you would win approximately $71.43. Here’s how I arrived at this number:
$100 (your stake) / 140 (odds) x 100 = $71.43
So, your total payout would be $171.43 (your original stake of $100 plus your winnings of $71.43).
How does this affect your betting strategy?
Understanding these types of odds is great when creating a successful betting strategy.
When you see negative odds like -140, it implies that the team or player is favored to win. The lower the negative number, the higher the chances of winning.
However, while betting on favorites might seem like a safe strategy, it’s important to consider the potential return.
As the example above shows, betting on a -140 favorite would yield a lower return than an underdog with positive odds.
When should you consider this type of bet?
Considering a bet with -140 odds depends on your risk tolerance and betting strategy.
If you’re confident about the outcome and are willing to risk more for a smaller return, then this type of bet could be worth considering.
However, always remember that even favorites can lose, and betting involves risk.
Finding the most profitable odds
To maximize your potential winnings, it’s advisable to compare odds across different bookmakers.
Tools like OddsJam can be invaluable in this regard, helping you find the most profitable odds for any given event.
Knowledge is power when it comes to betting. The more you understand, the better your chances of making profitable bets.