How should players assess risk when considering an insurance bet?

[Datweirdo]

When considering an insurance bet in blackjack, players should assess the risk by evaluating the probability of the dealer having a blackjack and the impact on their overall expected returns. Since insurance pays 2:1 but only benefits the player if the dealer’s downcard is a 10-value, it typically carries a high house edge. Skilled players often avoid insurance unless card counting or similar techniques indicate an unusually high number of 10-value cards remaining, increasing the likelihood of a dealer blackjack.

 

[CR7]

Absolutely, evaluating the probability of the dealer having a blackjack is crucial when deciding whether to take an insurance bet in blackjack. One important point to note is that insurance is generally considered a poor choice for players due to its high house edge, as you correctly mentioned. Skilled players typically rely on card counting or other advanced strategies to gain an edge before considering an insurance bet. This approach is based on the understanding that the likelihood of a dealer blackjack increases as the number of high cards remaining in the deck rises. Therefore, players who assess risk effectively and incorporate such techniques into their gameplay can make more informed decisions when faced with the option of taking insurance in blackjack.