The online gambling industry in Italy has maintained a steady upward trajectory in September 2024, with notable increases in several key segments. Online casinos have been the top performer, while poker tournaments are beginning to show signs of recovery.
Online Casino Surges Ahead
When it comes to Italy’s online gambling market, one standout performer in September was the online casino sector. According to Deally.eu, online casino spending jumped 22.4% year-on-year, reaching an impressive €241.1 million. This marks a solid 5.7% growth compared to August 2024.
The figures underline just how popular online casinos have become in Italy. Slots, roulette, and blackjack games have become the go-to for many, with a notable surge in higher-stakes players, particularly among young to middle-aged men. Lottomatica, which has dominated the space, continues to extend its lead, now inching closer to a 30% market share. Meanwhile, Sisal, another prominent player, has also performed well, retaining a market share of over 10%.
The trend reflects broader shifts in player behavior, with an increasing preference for casino games over sports betting. As the industry sees greater interest, the Italian Gaming Authority (ADM) has been proactive in implementing responsible gambling measures to keep things in check.
Online Betting: A Stable Yet Slower Growth
While the online betting sector has seen growth, it hasn’t been as dramatic as that of the online casino market. September 2024 recorded a 1.7% increase in spending, reaching €112.1 million. However, there was a more significant 21.2% decline compared to the previous month, indicating some fluctuations in this area.
Even with slower growth, Lottomatica’s dominance is evident, as it continues to pull ahead, inching closer to 30% market share in the online betting segment. Sisal, Bet365, and Snai are also performing well, maintaining market shares of over 10%. Football remains the biggest driver of betting, but the overall market growth continues to be more subdued compared to the online casino boom.
Poker Tournaments Show Promise
The online poker tournament segment has posted an encouraging recovery in September, offering hope to an area that had seen stagnation in recent months. Spending increased by 8% year-on-year, totaling €9.5 million. Month-on-month growth was even more promising, with a 14.5% increase.
PokerStars continued to lead the pack, with more than 40% of the market share, while Lottomatica and Sisal followed with 19% and 11% respectively. With the resurgence of poker tournaments, the segment is slowly regaining its momentum after a period of decline. It seems that Italy’s poker enthusiasts are returning to tournament play, perhaps looking for a more engaging and competitive experience.
Poker Cash Games Struggling
On the flip side, the poker cash game segment continues to decline, posting an 8.6% year-on-year decrease in spending to just €4.8 million. Despite this, there was a modest month-on-month increase of 5.5%, but the overall trend remains concerning for the sector.
PokerStars also retains its dominance here, claiming a market share of over 35%. Although the platform has managed to maintain a strong position, the overall decline in cash games is evident, reflecting the shifting preferences of Italian gamblers.
The Changing Face of Italy’s Online Gambling Demographics
What’s driving these shifts in the online gambling landscape? For one, demographic trends are playing a crucial role. A significant portion of the market consists of young to middle-aged males, with many opting for high-stakes casino games. This trend, combined with increased participation, is reshaping Italy’s gambling culture.
While online betting remains important, the growing interest in casino-based wagering signals a new direction. Football, still the most popular sport for betting, is being eclipsed by these casino games. To ensure that this boom doesn’t lead to adverse effects, the Italian Gaming Authority has implemented measures like self-exclusion tools and deposit limits. These responsible gambling initiatives are designed to foster a healthier environment for players and keep the industry sustainable.
