Spanish online gambling revenue saw a substantial increase in the first quarter of 2021, with growth of 15.1 per cent compared to the same period last year. According to figures released by the Spanish gambling authority, Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ), the total online gambling revenue for the first three months of the year reached €240.1 million.
The growth in revenue can be attributed to a surge in online gambling activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people turned to online gambling as a form of entertainment while stuck at home due to lockdowns and restrictions on social gatherings. The closure of land-based casinos and betting shops also contributed to the increase in online gambling revenue.
Online sports betting was the largest contributor to the overall revenue, accounting for €126.9 million in the first quarter, representing an increase of 18.4 per cent compared to the same period last year. Online casino games also saw a significant increase in revenue, reaching €93.6 million, an increase of 15.7 per cent compared to Q1 2020.
The popularity of online gambling in Spain has been steadily increasing in recent years, with more and more players opting to place their bets online rather than at traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. The convenience of being able to gamble from the comfort of home, as well as the wide variety of games and betting options available online, have contributed to the growth of the online gambling market in Spain.
Despite the growth in revenue, the Spanish online gambling market has faced some challenges in recent months. The government has been cracking down on unlicensed operators and imposing stricter regulations on the industry in an effort to combat problem gambling and protect consumers. This has led to some concerns among online gambling operators about the sustainability of the market in the long term.
Overall, the increase in online gambling revenue in the first quarter of 2021 is a positive sign for the industry in Spain, demonstrating its resilience in the face of challenges and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions. With the continued growth in online gambling activity, it is likely that the Spanish online gambling market will continue to thrive in the coming years.
