The internet has dramatically changed many industries, and gambling is no exception. In recent years, online gambling has exploded in popularity, with brands like All Slots Casino New Zealand, offering convenience, variety, and accessibility that brick-and-mortar establishments simply cannot match. This rapid growth shows no signs of slowing down as more countries regulate and tax online betting, integrated resorts incorporate digital elements, and internet access becomes ubiquitous. Online gambling is well on its way to overtaking land-based gambling globally.
Wide Range of Online Gambling Options
The breadth of online gambling today spans far beyond just online poker and sports betting. Casino staples like slots, blackjack, and roulette have made a seamless transition to mobile and web platforms. And with advanced live dealer technology, players can now experience the atmosphere and social engagement of a real casino straight from their living room.
In addition, online lottery sales are surging around the world. Lottery subscriptions allow people to conveniently play popular games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Some country lotteries even offer special online scratch card games. Bingo has also gained traction in recent years, with sites using chat functions and bonuses to build lively in-app communities.
The variety goes even further, with unique offerings like virtual sports betting, online mahjong, and digital versions of traditional Asian gambling favorites. Simply put, the internet provides endless versatility for old and new forms of gambling alike.
Key Online Gambling Growth Statistics
In the past decade, the online gambling industry has charted tremendous growth:
- The global online gambling market is projected to reach $127.3 billion by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2020 to 2027 (Grand View Research)
- In 2020, over 2.9 billion people worldwide gambled, up 11.6% from 2019 (H2 Gambling Capital)
- Global online gambling gross win hit $66.7 billion in 2020, with year-over-year growth of 44.6% (H2 Gambling Capital)
- From 2018 to 2020, the number of people who gambled digitally rose by 100 million (H2 Gambling Capital)
- It’s estimated that 1.6 billion people, or roughly 20% of the global adult population, will wager online by 2025 (Juniper Research)
A few key factors driving this upswing are increased internet access and mobile device usage, changing consumer preferences, and evolving regulations. As more jurisdictions introduce licensed online gambling frameworks, players are transitioning from the black market to regulated alternatives.
Online Gambling Market size by Region
| Region |
2020 Market Size (bn) |
2027 Projected Market Size (bn) |
CAGR |
| North America |
$24.1 |
$37.1 |
7.4% |
| Europe |
$29.6 |
$40.0 |
5.1% |
| Asia Pacific |
$12.0 |
$30.8 |
17.1% |
| Latin America |
$5.7 |
$12.5 |
13.9% |
| Middle East & Africa |
$3.8 |
$6.9 |
10.4% |
Asia Spearheads Growth in Emerging Markets
While North America and Europe dominate the current online gambling landscape, emerging markets will power most of the future expansion.
Asia Pacific, in particular, will chart tremendous growth in the coming years. As internet connectivity spreads across the region’s dense population centers, younger demographics drive mobile adoption, and countries update outdated gambling laws, Asia is positioned to become the largest online gambling market by 2027.
Latin America and Africa represent other high-growth frontiers. Countries like Mexico, Colombia, Nigeria, and Kenya are gradually opening regulated online gambling markets to meet surging consumer demand and capture tax potential. As regulatory frameworks develop across these regions, operators are taking notice.
Future of Online Gambling
Already on a steep growth trajectory, online gambling still likely remains in its infancy. As technology continues advancing in areas like virtual reality and cryptocurrency, more innovative products will emerge. And with generational shifts in preferences plus developing world markets unlocking, expansion seems inevitable. While land-based gambling maintains an enduring appeal, the convenience, variety, and reach of online alternatives point to it claiming the dominant position within the next decade on a global scale.
