When it comes to online sportsbooks, bookmakers and casino sites, there are a number of different terms and acronyms thrown around that may seem a little perplexing, especially if you are a newcomer. One of those with which you are likely to come into contact is ‘SP’, which holds a lot of significance within numerous markets. Consequently, you may be wondering, ‘What does SP mean in betting?’ in order to address this exact question, we will be breaking down the definition of this term as well as the role it plays within the world of betting as a whole.
What Does SP Stand For?
To begin with, we must explain what does SP mean in the context of betting. Put in the simplest of terms, this acronym stands for ‘Starting Price’, with this referring to the price or odds at which a betting selection begins. This is determined as soon as a related event goes live, which is incredibly important as it immediately reflects market expectations in terms of the event’s outcome, all whilst directly affecting potential returns.
What Does SP Mean In Horse Racing 
If you are a frequented bettor, however, you may also be questioning ‘what does SP mean in horse racing’ specifically. This represented the final odds of a select horse at the start of its race. As there are so many tangibles to horse racing betting, this subtle indication is extremely useful in determining the perceived chances of a horse, with the odds likely fluctuating a lot before the starting price is settled.
How Is Starting Price Determined? 
Now that you know exactly what SP means, understanding how a starting price is determined is also important. A whole number of factors are taken into consideration for this process, with market dynamics, betting activity, and expert insights all combined to determine the final odds of a market. All factors are assessed in depth and accurately in order to arrive at a fair price for each selection/ Some of the key elements that are taken into starting price deliberation are as follows.
Form & Performance 
Whether it is for football betting, horse racing, or any other sporting market, one of the main things that determines a selection’s starting price is form. By using previous performances as a key factor, these pieces of information give some of the best indications about how a selection could potentially perform in an upcoming event.
Event Conditions 
As much as form could be a deciding factor, the conditions of an event can also have a significant impact. Consequently, many sportsbooks and online bookmakers take into consideration the conditions and weather of an event, as this could have some adverse impacts. Most commonly, this is seen in horse racing betting as rain, track length, and weight handicaps could affect a race’s outcome or the performances of the race participants.
Expert Opinions 
Although statistical data is often highly useful, expert opinions are also heavily used when it comes to determining a starting price. Insights from analysts, experts, and, on some occasions, pundits assess the chances of the betting selections based on various criteria, all of which contribute to the changes in odds and the starting price overall.
Market Trends 
In addition to all of this, bookmakers also use market trends to set a starting price. When monitoring market trends and movements leading up to an event, the odds change accordingly, with the prices fluctuating dramatically should there be a high volume of bets placed leading up to a game or race. 
Is Starting Price Important For Matched Betting? 
If you are someone who utilises the matched betting strategy specifically, you may be wondering what is the significance of starting prices on this approach. When it comes to monitoring changes and movements of odds, matched bettors can identify more favourable opportunities for placing both back and lay bets. Doing so could help people maximise potential profits by utilising more beneficial odd positions. In addition, when a starting price is determined, bettors can better access and calculate outcomes.
Speaking of calculating matched betting outcomes, though, we here at OddsMonkey have you covered. Thanks to the range of betting calculators on site, potential returns can easily be determined, with only the bettor’s stake and the starting price of their chosen selections being required. 
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