An Introduction to Punto Banco Baccarat

Also known as North American Baccarat, Punto Banco differs from the other two most popular versions of the game. This version of Baccarat is by no means less complex than its classic counterpart; it would be easy to learn, but difficult to master. A favorite among many high-rollers, Punto Banco delivers a plethora of new interesting rules that make the game even more exciting. Here, you will find the hottest Punto Banco facts that will allow you to acquaint yourself better with the game or upgrade your overall strategy!

Simple Rules and Winning Requirements

To win a round of Punto Banco, you need to bet on a hand that would reach number 9. Punto Banco Baccarat is similar to Blackjack in many ways, as the cards that are used are distributed from a “shoe” containing several decks of regular playing cards. Prior to any dealing, a player would make a wager on one of the three possible fields: Player (also called Punto), the bank (Banco), and tie. Taking into consideration the different policies online casinos have on their games, the RTP rate is calculated to be approximately 98.90%, which is quite good for a card game.
After the wagering stage, the dealer hands out two cards for both the players and himself. The number cards (2 – 9) carry the value of their numbers, while all face cards (jacks, queens, kings) have a value of 0. The Ace card is valued at 1 point. If after the initial deal a player has a score of 0 to 5, a third card is automatically dealt. If a participant reaches a 6 or a 7, they will have to stay. If the combination of both cards exceeds the number 9, the total score of the hand is considered to be the far right digit of the sum (for example if you’re dealt 7 and a 7 = 14, the hand score would be 4). Every outcome of a player’s hand determines if the Bank would draw an additional card. Here are the values that dictate the next dealing sequence:

• – If a player draws from 2 to 3, the Banker will draw with 4 or less
• – If a player draws from 4 to 5, the Banker will draw with 5 or less
• – If a player draws from 6 to 7, the Banker will draw with 4 or less
• – If a player draws an 8, the Banker will draw with 2 or less
• – If a player draws a 0, 1, 9, the Banker will draw with 3 or less

A Basic Punto Banco Strategy and Tips

While most people like to alternate between the different betting fields, the most common strategy for players is to bet on the side of the bank. Given the fact that the online casino has a relatively low house edge of around 1%, people like to play on the bank’s side. Other Punto Banco strategies include an alternation between the betting fields, with the intention of minimizing your losses and maximizing your bets. Below, we have depicted a few strategies which you might find informative. 

Avoiding the Tie Bet

The payout of the TIE bet is a cool 8:1 and in some cases 9:1, when particular decks are used. The payout does seem quite alluring at first, but the house edge is 14%. Which means that making consecutive tie bets is definitely not the best course of action. People that usually want to be safe, bet on the Banker.

Manage Your Streaks

It is quite possible to find yourself in a very beneficial position only after a few rounds; however, it is important that in such cases a player doesn’t make the mistake and bet constantly in one place. Alternating between winning/losing streaks is accepted to be as one of the most optimal Punto Banco strategies ever.

Increasing Bets Smartly

While it is easy to get tempted to bet big, it is equally easy to lose your entire bankroll. This doesn’t mean that a player shouldn’t increase their wagers at all. The best way to do it is increasing your stake by 15-20% when you’re ahead; this way, even if you lose you will still retain a stable position. It is advised that wager increases should be done once in a while.

Systems Don’t Work

No matter how well and logical some Punto Banco systems might seem, it is known that none of them work. Most are based on general betting systems which theoretically depict a proportional rise in funds, while quickly recovering from losses. Unfortunately, every budget has a limit, and if you encounter names like Martingale, Parolli, Fibonacci bear in mind that such systems sound too good to be true.

Should You Choose Any Casino Bonus Mind the Wagering Requirements

When you visit any casino, you will have several opportunities to benefit from a specific type of bonus. People would often like to opt out of the opportunity, as this way they will avoid the completion of any wagering requirements (this rule depends on a casino’s individual policy). Classic Baccarat usually goes up to a 5% contribution rate; however, there is a bit of a drawback to Punto Banco, as some casinos do not provide any contribution rate to this Baccarat variation. If you’re a fan of this version, it is always good to check out the terms and conditions of the casino for additional information.

Baccarat vs Punto Blanco – The Differences

While not many, there are quite a few which are considered significant. One in particular is the rule about the number of the players – the dealer is the only one that deals out the cards. In Punto Banco, the two cards you’re given will be face-down as opposed to the classic way of putting them face up. Another rule is the hand forcing; predetermined card value combinations will dictate an automatic draw to the player/dealer. The playing tempo of Punto Banco is considered to be quite fast when compared to the other Baccarat variations.

Closing Notes

While still being a gambling game, Punto Banco is insanely fun. The game has a firm cult following among gamblers, and today this version of Baccarat holds a very special place in the halls of almost every online casino. Although simple, the game can turn against you really fast; the important thing to remember is to stay smart and relaxed. Mobile and live versions of the game exist for the sole purpose of allowing the player to be immersed further in the atmosphere of Punto Banco. Try out the game for yourself and you will be addicted to its gameplay simplicity and entertainment value.