Fixed odds lock in a specific price at the time of the bet regardless of market movements, while tote odds are dividends calculated from a betting pool and are only known after the race.
The critical distinction for any punter is that fixed odds provide price certainty, whereas tote dividends are unknown until the correct weight is declared.
The advantage of locking in fixed odds
Fixed odds ensure your price is locked in, which is highly beneficial when a horse is firming or being backed in. If the price shortens before the jump, you are protected and receive the higher price you secured early. This removes the risk of seeing your potential return collapse as the race approaches.
How Top Tote and SP dividends are calculated
Tote betting relies on the pool, with Top Tote offering the best dividend among the Super TAB, NSW TAB, and Tatts. The Starting Price (SP) is the average of on-course bookmakers and isn’t released until after the race has been run. In both cases, you are riding the flucs and cannot guarantee your return before the horse jumps.
Understanding Top Fluc and BOB products
Top Fluc is the best price recorded in the betting ring during official betting, typically starting 25 minutes before the jump. The “Best of the Best” (BOB) product is one of the most sought-after offerings because it grants the punter the greater of the three totes or the Top Fluc. Betfair offers a similar “Best of 5” product which includes the Best of 4 plus the Betfair Exchange Starting Price.
Maximising value and profit on turnover
Serious punters prioritise value over raw strike rates to ensure long-term bank appreciation. Elite Racing’s analysis of the “sweet spot” between $3.00 and $10.00 (AM odds) showed a profit of $6,539 (+20.3%) using BOB, despite a lower strike rate than shorter-priced bets. Whether you are betting to a $1,000 bank or a $10,000 bank, securing the best possible price is the only way to maintain a positive profit on turnover (POT).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Top Tote and Best Tote?
Top Tote takes the best of the three main totes, while Best Tote and SP takes the higher of those three totes or the official Starting Price.
When is a Top Fluc price recorded?
It is the highest official price recorded from the betting ring during the official betting period, usually starting 25 minutes before the race.
Does the size of my bank affect my percentage profit?
No, a punter with a $1,000 bank earns the same percentage profit and capital gain as someone with a $100,000 bank, provided they follow the same strategy.
Horse racing betting involves financial risk. Bet only what you can afford to lose. For support, visit Gambling Help Online or call 1800 858 858.