Loss volume in slots without auto limit function

1) Introduction

Auto limits are built-in controls (daily/weekly deposit limit, session duration limits, automatic pauses). These allow the player to lock in spending limits in advance. The lack of such functions leads to a sharp increase in the likelihood of overspending and an increase in the volume of losses.

2) Mechanism of growth of losses without autolimits

Lack of an external barrier: the player relies only on self-control, which weakens in a state of involvement.
Catch-up behavior: After big losses, players are more likely to make additional deposits without restrictions.
The effect of extended sessions: in the absence of auto-pause, the game session can last 2-3 times longer.
Instant re-deposits: There is no block or delay, it is easy for the player to deposit money again.

3) Benchmarking (with limits vs without)

Average loss per session: 30-50% higher in the absence of auto limits.
Maximum drawdowns (P95-P99): multiply as there is no system limit from above.
The share of players with "super losses": in slots without autolimits is almost twice as high.
The frequency of additional deposits: grows 2-3 times, especially in night sessions.
Average duration of the game: increases by 40-60% due to the lack of stops.

4) Behavioral features of players

Recreational: more often come out when the budget is lost, but some of them without auto-limit remain in the game longer.
Involved: prone to overspending; the absence of limits significantly increases their spending.
High rollers: take advantage of the lack of limits to play high stakes; their losses form the main "heavy tail" of the distribution.

5) Context 2025 in Australia

In the Australian market in 2025, discussions around mandatory auto limits have been intensified, since it is their absence among some operators that is associated with an increase in aggregate losses.
Uncapped players contribute significantly to the total spend, with the top 5% forming the majority of the losses.
Given that average spending is growing, it is the absence of barriers that becomes one of the main factors in the concentration of losses.

6) Final conclusions

Autolimits reduce the risks of overspending, and their absence leads to an increase in losses and lengthening sessions.
The difference in the volume of losses between games with and without auto limits is tens of percent.
In 2025, the Australian market shows: the structure of expenses and losses is distorted towards players without autolimits, they form the bulk of the "heavy tails" of the distribution of losses.