Hi Rabbi, What are the halachos on making a deal or a bet? Is it considered gambling? Also if cheating is involved by either one of the parties involved or by a third party is it still valid? Thanks so much

It is a complex issue, mainly because each side doesn't really part willingly from his money and this is what's called "asmachta lo kanya", so it's like stealing. The best way to do it is by having each side willingly part with their money by laying it out on a table or giving it to a third party, and then the "winner takes all". Obviously cheating invalidates the entire issue.