The online gambling industry has seen exponential growth over the past decade. As technology advances and regulations relax around the world, more people than ever before are placing bets and playing casino games on the internet. The global online gambling market was valued at $64.7 billion in 2020, but that figure is expected to more than double to $127.3 billion by 2027.
Several key trends have emerged that give insight into the future landscape of the online betting community, like at Winamax paris. Understanding these developments can help industry leaders, investors, and even players predict where things are heading next. Here is an overview of the major factors that will shape online gambling in the years ahead.
#1 Continued Rise of Mobile Betting
One of the most pronounced shifts in online gambling has been the move toward mobile devices for placing wagers. In 2020, over 40% of all online bets were placed on a mobile phone or tablet, up from just 18% in 2014. As smartphone technology continues improving and internet connectivity expands globally, mobile is expected to eclipse desktop betting in the next few years.
Some projections estimate over 75% of online gambling will take place on mobile devices by 2025. Operators are investing heavily in developing fast, intuitive betting apps along with promotions aimed specifically at mobile users. The convenience of betting anywhere, anytime that mobile provides is irresistible for both existing and new gamblers.
#2 Growing Popularity of Esports Betting
Along with mobile growth, another online gambling niche that is exploding is esports betting. Esports refers to competitive, organized video gaming events and leagues that are now drawing huge fanbases. The global esports audience topped 495 million people in 2020, many of whom are young millennials.
These digitally-savvy fans are also increasingly wagering on esports. Total esports betting handle hit just over $650 million in 2020, but Morgan Stanley predicts this figure could swell to $39 billion by 2025. As games like League of Legends, CS:GO, and DOTA 2 keep shattering viewership records, more sportsbooks are offering odds for major tournaments and even individual matches.
| Year | Total Esports Betting Handle |
| 2020 | $650 million |
| 2025 (projected) | $39 billion |
The increasing crossover between video gaming and sports betting represents an enormous opportunity for gambling operators. Capturing market share early in this nascent industry could pay major dividends down the road.
#3 Cryptocurrency Integration
Over the last few years, many online sportsbooks and casinos have started accepting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether for deposits and withdrawals. The advantages of crypto gambling for players include faster payouts, increased anonymity, and no processing fees.
Adoption is still in the very early stages, but crypto’s share of total online gambling revenue is climbing quickly. Some projections estimate that Bitcoin alone will account for over $100 billion in betting handle by 2025. Operators stand to benefit from reduced processing costs and tapping into crypto wealth.
Of course, the extreme volatility of cryptocurrency prices poses financial risks. But new stablecoin innovations which peg crypto to fiat currency value could accelerate adoption. Overall, expect online gambling sites to further embrace cryptocurrency payments in the coming years.
#4 Proliferation of iGaming
Many jurisdictions around the world are now regulating online gambling activities like sports betting and casino games. This opening of markets has given rise to international iGaming operators who can offer their services to players in multiple countries.
Industry leaders like Flutter Entertainment (FanDuel), Entain (partypoker), and DraftKings already hold licenses in over a dozen regulated markets across Europe, Australia, and North America. These conglomerates will continue expanding in newly regulated countries as more governments legalize online gambling.
Their scale and brand power make it extremely difficult for smaller, local operators to compete in the iGaming space. Expect more consolidation of major companies who have the resources to navigate complex regulatory and tax regimes across many international markets.
#5 Improving Technology and User Experiences
At its core, online gambling is a technology-based industry. As such, advancements in things like payment processing, geospatial tracking, biometrics, and analytics will open new possibilities for operators. The ultimate goal is crafting the most appealing, intuitive, and responsible user experiences that drive customer engagement.
For instance, some sportsbooks now offer “cash out” features which let players settle a bet early at lower or higher odds than originally placed. This innovation gives users more control and flexibility. Responsible gambling advocates are also pushing new tech like voluntary deposit limits and loss-modeling based on individual behavior.
While it is impossible to predict specifically what technologies will emerge, the clear trajectory is towards faster, more customized and socially responsible iGaming. Companies who prioritize product development and understand user motivations will gain an edge.
Bottom Line
Fueled by smartphones, esports, cryptocurrency, expanding markets and new technology, the next decade promises tremendous growth for online gambling. Total global revenue could hit $250 billion by 2030 by some accounts. While increased competition brings uncertainty, there will likely be huge opportunities for operators who move early in high-potential areas.
Understanding the macro trends shaping internet betting behavior provides direction on how to thrive. Companies must evolve offerings to what users crave while proactively addressing problem gambling concerns. By staying ahead of key developments instead of playing catch up, online gambling leaders can build the next generation of this massively lucrative industry.