Online Gambling Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Sports Betting, Casinos, Poker, Bingo), By Device (Desktop, Mobile), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa), And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Online Gambling Market Summary

Moreover, regulatory developments, the increasing popularity of online betting, and strategic partnerships between industries are driving market growth. For instance, in March 2024, Betsson AB diversified its worldwide presence with a majority stake in a sportsbook business in Europe, consolidating its B2B business. Integrating 5G tech and growing consumer adoption of AI-based gaming experiences are primary drivers for growth. In February 2024, Entain Plc subsidiary BetMGM extended its deal with NBC Sports to include exclusive integrations for the 2024 NFL season to enrich user experience on digital platforms. State-of-the-art smartphones now offer AI, VR, and AR features, allowing for more engaging gambling applications. Access to low-cost smartphones and accessible gambling apps is further fueling market expansion.

The online casino sector is growing with the advancement in virtual reality (VR) and blockchain technology. VR-based gaming provides an interactive gaming experience with a realistic casino atmosphere and live dealer interaction. For example, SLTM Ltd.'s SlotsMillion continues to be at the forefront of VR gaming experiences. At the same time, blockchain technology is changing payment security and transparency. Cryptocurrency-based online gambling platforms such as BitStarz now have more than 5 million active players, underlining the rising adoption of decentralized transactions in the industry.

The sector is also favored by freemium business models and in-app ads, recruiting new players using free-to-play options while earning revenue through advertising and microtransactions. As governments around the world launch revised legislation, additional markets are opening to legalized online gaming, positioning the sector for steady growth over 2030.

Type Insights

The market has been segmented into poker, sports betting, bingo, and casinos. The sports betting segment dominated the market with a revenue share of over 50% in 2024 attributed to the expanding legalization of internet sports wagering and in-game betting popularity. The increasing availability of mobile-friendly online gambling sites and sportsbook and media company partnerships have also helped drive growth. For example, DraftKings extended its agreement with Amazon.com, Inc. in March 2024, becoming the official sports betting operator of Prime Video's soccer broadcasts, making it more convenient and interactive for bettors.

The casino's type segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period from 2025 to 2030 due to the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, which is enhancing online casino games and making them more interactive and engaging, thereby increasing the number of users. For instance, in January 2024, Lucky Block diversified its portfolio of online casinos by adding more than 150 live and interactive games with improved user engagement options. Also, the addition of cryptocurrency as a form of payment and round-the-clock customer support is further increasing the popularity of online casinos to facilitate secure and uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Device Insights

In terms of devices, the desktop segment dominated and accounted for significant revenue in 2024 as a result of its enhanced graphics, sound quality, and adjustable performance attributes. Desktops offer more screen real estate and a more engaging gaming session with a better gaming experience, thus being the user choice for individuals playing high-risk games and live dealer casino platforms. With the increasing monopoly of mobile gaming, desktops cannot be ignored because they are reliable, are equipped with processing capabilities, and can support VR-capable gambling platforms, which are more engaging for players.

Nevertheless, the mobile market is still growing at a rapid pace, fueled by technological innovation and the growing availability of cheap smartphones. During 2024, the mass rollout of 5G connectivity, AI-enabled gaming, and enhanced graphics performance further fueled mobile gambling. Top betting apps such as CricBaba, Sky Bet, and bet365 have upgraded their UI and security features, offering users a smoother and more secure experience of mobile gambling. Mobile gaming provides remote access, rewards for loyalty, a variety of deposit options, and multiplayer gaming, all of which contribute to its robust market growth. With increasing power in mobile devices, the trend towards on-the-go gambling is expected to continue.

Regional Insights

North America online gambling industry is anticipated to witness a significant CAGR over the forecast period, driven by the progressive legalization of online betting and sports wagering across several U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The region has seen a surge in mobile-based gambling activities, supported by robust internet infrastructure, increasing smartphone penetration, and rising consumer acceptance. The U.S. sports betting segment, in particular, continues to dominate regional revenues, bolstered by high-profile partnerships between sportsbooks and major leagues like the NFL and NBA. This regulatory progress, coupled with increased operator investments and marketing, is positioning North America as one of the fastest-growing markets in the global online gambling landscape.

U.S. Online Gambling Market Trends

The U.S. online gaming industry grew at a fast pace in 2024, fueled by mounting state-level legalization, growth in mobile betting adoption, and technology innovation. The legalization of online sports betting and iGaming in several states, such as New York and Ohio, have strongly propelled market revenue. Gaming experiences developed based on AI, payment security, and the incorporation of blockchain for transparent transactions are increasing user trust and interaction. Furthermore, leading operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel are diversifying their product offerings by entering into partnership deals with sports leagues and media outlets, underpinning continued market expansion as more states legalize regulated online gaming.

Europe Online Gambling Market Trends

Europe online gaming industry dominated globally in 2024, accounting for over 41% of the global share. This leadership is largely attributed to widespread legalization, high-speed internet penetration, and the growing use of mobile gambling platforms. Countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Germany, and the UK have well-established regulatory frameworks that support the expansion of online casinos, live dealer games, and sports betting—the latter continuing to be the region's largest online gambling segment, according to the 2024 European Gaming & Betting Association (EGBA) report.

Europe is projected to remain the world’s largest online gambling market, driven by strong consumer engagement and advanced digital infrastructure. Emerging trends such as AI-powered personalization, virtual reality (VR) gaming, and cryptocurrency-based transactions are enhancing the user experience. Moreover, strict, responsible gambling measures enforced by regulatory bodies like the EGBA and the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) are promoting a safer and more transparent gambling environment, further reinforcing the region’s market dominance.

The UK online gambling industry remains a major market, supported by a solid regulatory framework under the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Over 40% of UK adults participate in some form of online betting, with sports betting and casino games being the most popular products. Operators, including Bet365, Flutter Entertainment, and Entain, have expanded their offerings through mobile-optimized platforms and exclusive deals with sporting leagues. However, the sector is facing tighter controls, including affordability checks, advertising limits, and stronger player protection measures introduced in the 2023 Gambling Act Review, which could affect long-term growth while promoting responsible gambling.

Germany's online gambling industry is rapidly growing due to the enactment of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüNeuRStV) in 2021, which fully legalized online sports betting and casino games. The introduction of state-regulated licenses has attracted more legal operators, boosting consumer confidence and engagement. Germany benefits from a robust digital infrastructure, high disposable incomes, and a developing esports betting industry, all of which drive market growth. Nevertheless, challenges such as strict deposit limits, advertising restrictions, and high tax rates (5.3% on stakes) remain for operators. Despite these challenges, the market continues to thrive, with large operators focusing on localized, mobile-first gaming solutions to enhance user interaction.

Asia Pacific Online Gambling Market Trends

The Asia-Pacific online gaming industry grew significantly in 2024 owing to increasing smartphone penetration, higher disposable incomes, and changing regulatory environments. China, India, Japan, and Australia are some of the primary drivers, with sports betting, online casinos, and esports wagering becoming popular. The rise of cryptocurrency-based gaming and mobile-friendly gaming websites has also supported market growth. Even so, regulatory ambiguity is still a challenge, whereby certain nations have stringent controls on online gambling while others consider the feasibility of legalizing it. AI-powered gaming experiences, VR-based casinos, and blockchain transactions are transforming the region's digital gambling landscape.

China's online gambling industry, despite stringent regulations, is still a significant contributor to the Asia-Pacific regional market, whereby the user base is constantly increasing across offshore betting sites and underground online casinos. Though gambling is generally banned under Chinese law, most players use VPNs and cryptocurrency transactions to circumvent bans. The growth of esports betting and live-streamed gambling has further fueled activity, especially among young users. To counter this, the Chinese government continues to clamp down on illegal operators and tighten cybersecurity measures to regulate online gambling activity, but demand for digital betting remains robust.

India's online gaming industry is growing exponentially, driven by rising internet penetration, mass adoption of smartphones, and increasing interest in real-money gaming. Mass-market platforms such as Dream11, MPL, and Betway have witnessed high user growth, especially for fantasy sports and cricket betting. Though gambling is subject to state regulations, the Indian government is looking at federal-level regulations to bring the industry under one umbrella and enhance tax collections. The growth of UPI-based payments, blockchain transactions, and local gaming content is also increasing market accessibility. With millions of new gamers joining the online gaming community, India is emerging as a growth market in the region.

Middle East & Africa Online Gambling Market Trends

The Middle East & Africa (MEA) online gaming industry slowly grew in 2024 with increased internet penetration, growing adoption of smartphones, and enhanced demand for sports betting. Though harsh laws and religious constraints restrict gambling across most countries in the Middle East, online betting is on the rise in some areas via offshore sites and cryptocurrency-based betting. In Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa in Africa, the market is recording robust growth on account of mobile-based betting, growing digital payment systems, and football betting popularity. Nonetheless, regulatory risks and gambling addiction concerns remain driving market dynamics.

Turkey online gaming industry is nevertheless a limited but active market, with state-controlled betting sites ruling the roost. The private online gambling operations have been banned by the Turkish government, with only the state-owned platform IDDAA permitted to provide legal sports betting. Yet most players use VPNs and cryptocurrencies to access offshore gambling websites, which are still challenging to control. Government campaigns notwithstanding, casino gaming, poker, and sports betting demand is on the rise. The government has ramped up fines and cybersecurity efforts to stifle unauthorized platforms, but the availability of global online gambling websites points to enduring demand in the nation.

South Africa online gaming industry is the largest online gambling market in Africa, with progressive legislation and robust betting culture. Sports betting is permitted by the National Gambling Act in the nation, while other online gambling, such as casino gaming, continues to be off-limits. However, an expanding number of licensed gambling operators and offshore sites offer access to an extensive variety of gambling activities. Mobile sports betting, especially on football and horseracing, continues to propel market expansion. As the government becomes more interested in legislation to license online casinos, South Africa may experience additional legalization, opening new avenues for local and international gaming operators.

Key Online Gambling Company Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market are 888 Holdings Plc, Bet 365 Group Ltd., Betsson AB, Entain Plc., Flutter Entertainment Plc., and William Hill Limited.

• 888 Holdings Plc. provides a variety of online gambling services, such as casino games, poker, sports betting, and bingo. It runs famous brands, including 888casino, 888poker, and 888sport, all designed for different parts of the gambling industry. It has a strong presence in Europe, the UK, and North America, with an emphasis on licensed and regulated territories. The company steadily augments its services by incorporating cutting-edge gaming technology, upgrading its live dealer offerings, and enhancing its mobile gaming experience.

• Bet 365 Group Ltd. specializes in its extensive sporting betting platform, featuring a range of markets, live coverage, and in-play betting features. The operator also offers online casino games, poker, and bingo, and thus is a versatile online gambling operator. Its website is multi-language and multi-currency capable, enabling it to have an international customer base. Bet 365 mobile application is well known for its simplicity and fluid betting experience. Its cash-out options, bet builders, and AI-based personalized offers continue to innovate.

• Betsson AB is a multi-branded online gambling operator, providing sports bookmaking, poker, bingo, and casinos. Having licenses in several European and Latin American markets, the company has positioned itself as a foremost player in regulated marketplaces. Betsson has a reputation for friendly platforms, excellent customer care, and responsible gambling campaigns. It spends considerably on AI-driven gamification and personalization to drive user engagement. Its sportsbook solutions also serve end-users and business customers, enabling other operators to embed Betsson's betting technology within their platforms.

Flutter Entertainment Plc. and Entain Plc. are some of the emerging market participants in the online gambling industry.

• Flutter Entertainment Plc. owns top brands such as PokerStars, Betfair, and FanDuel, offering sports betting, online poker, casino games, and daily fantasy sports. It has grown extensively in the U.S. market through FanDuel, which has emerged as a prominent player in legal sports betting. Flutter Entertainment also deals with live betting and mobile gaming, offering an optimized experience to users on various platforms. The firm has been incorporating VR and AI-powered gaming boosts to enhance the immersive experience of online gambling.

• Entain Plc. operates several top-tier gambling brands, such as Ladbrokes, Coral, and Bwin, with a wide array of betting products, including sports betting, online casinos, poker, and bingo. Entain has a strong presence within the UK, Europe, and North America and is actively expanding its online offerings. Entain is invested in technological innovation and responsible gaming, adopting AI-powered risk management tools to ensure the prevention of gambling addiction. The firm also ventures into virtual sports and esports betting in a bid to appeal to young users of digital betting platforms.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Betsson AB acquired Holland Gaming Technology Ltd. for €27.5 million. This acquisition enhances Betsson's presence in the European online gambling industry, particularly in the Netherlands, where online betting is expanding due to recent regulatory changes. The deal includes Holland Gaming’s proprietary gaming platform and user base, allowing Betsson to integrate advanced technology and broaden its offerings in the Dutch market. This move is part of Betsson’s broader strategy to scale its operations across Europe and improve user engagement.

• In 2024, 888 Holdings Plc finalized the acquisition of William Hill International from Caesars Entertainment for £2.2 billion. This acquisition enables 888 Holdings to incorporate William Hill’s established online and retail gambling assets outside the U.S., significantly boosting its presence in key European markets such as the UK, Italy, and Spain. The deal provides 888 Holdings with access to a strong customer base, proprietary technology, and an extensive sportsbook network, strengthening its market share amid increasing competition in the regulated European gambling industry.

• In 2024, Flutter Entertainment Plc announced the acquisition of a 56% stake in Brazil’s NSX Group, the operator behind the Betnacional brand, for $350 million. This strategic move allows Flutter to take advantage of Brazil’s rapidly growing online betting market, following the country’s updates to its regulatory framework. Betnacional is one of Brazil’s most popular sportsbook platforms, and this deal offers Flutter the opportunity to introduce new products and expand its presence in South America. The investment aligns with Flutter’s efforts for global expansion in emerging online gambling markets.

Online Gambling Market Report Scope

Global Online Gambling Market Report Segmentation

The report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global online gambling market report based on type, device, and region:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Sports Betting

  • Casinos

    • iSlots

    • iTable

    • iDealer

    • Other iCasino Games

  • Poker

  • Bingo

  • Others

• Device Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Desktop

  • Mobile

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Australia

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • Turkey

    • South Africa