How to use it
- Enter the lay stakeThe backer's stake you accept, in naira. This is what you win if the selection loses, before commission.
- Enter the lay oddsThe decimal odds you lay at on the exchange.
- Enter the commissionThe exchange's cut on your net winnings, in percent.
The formula
Liability = lay stake × (lay odds minus 1). Profit if the selection loses = lay stake × (1 minus commission). Loss if it wins = the liability.
Worked example
You lay ₦1,000 at 3.50 with 5% commission. Your liability is ₦1,000 × 2.50 = ₦2,500. If the selection loses, you keep ₦950. If it wins, you pay ₦2,500.
| Lay odds | Liability on ₦1,000 |
|---|---|
| 1.50 | ₦500 |
| 2.00 | ₦1,000 |
| 3.50 | ₦2,500 |
| 6.00 | ₦5,000 |
| 11.00 | ₦10,000 |
Laying long odds is risky: a small stake can carry a big liability. Look at the liability first, not the stake.
Lay bet FAQ
Is laying the same as backing the other outcomes?
Close to it. Laying Team A is like backing the draw and Team B together, at a price set by the exchange.
Who pays commission?
The exchange charges commission on net winnings in a market, usually only when you win. Rates differ by exchange.
Can I lay at a bookmaker?
Normal bookmakers only let you back. Laying needs a betting exchange.
How does laying help with free bets?
It locks in part of the free bet's value. See the matched betting calculator.