Global Online Sports Betting Market 2024–2033

Reports Description

As per the current market research conducted by CMI Team, the global Online Sports Betting market is expected to record a CAGR of 14.2% from 2023 to 2032. In 2022, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 36,564 million. By 2032, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 116,787 million.

The Online Sports Betting market refers to the industry involved in offering sports betting services to customers over the Internet. In this market, individuals can place bets on various sports events and outcomes using online platforms and mobile applications provided by licensed sports betting operators.

Online sports betting has become increasingly popular due to the convenience and accessibility it offers to bettors. It allows users to place bets from the comfort of their homes or on the go using their smartphones or computers. This has significantly expanded the reach of sports betting, attracting a broader audience of sports enthusiasts and casual bettors.

Key features of the Online Sports Betting market include:

• Variety of Sports: The market covers a wide range of sports events, including popular ones like football (soccer), basketball, tennis, cricket, hockey, and many others. Some platforms also offer betting options for niche sports and non-sporting events.

• In-Play Betting: Many online sports betting platforms provide in-play or live betting options, allowing bettors to place bets during the course of a sporting event. This dynamic betting experience adds to the excitement and engagement of users.

• Betting Markets and Odds: The market offers various betting markets for each sports event, such as money line, point spread, over/under, and prop bets. Odds are provided for each betting market, indicating the potential payout if the bet is successful.

• Responsible Gambling Measures: Responsible gambling practices, including age verification, self-exclusion, and limits on betting amounts, are typically implemented by licensed operators to promote responsible betting behaviour.

• Bonuses and Promotions: Online sports betting platforms often offer bonuses, free bets, and promotional offers to attract new customers and retain existing ones.

• Licensing and regulation: In many jurisdictions, online sports betting is subject to licensing and regulations to ensure fair and transparent operations and protect consumers.

• Global Reach: The Online Sports Betting market operates globally, with platforms catering to customers from various countries, subject to regional regulations and restrictions.

Online Sports Betting Market – Significant Growth Factors

The Online Sports Betting market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by various factors that have contributed to its popularity and expansion. Some of the key growth factors include:

• Increasing Internet Penetration: The widespread availability of the Internet and the growing number of Internet users worldwide have expanded the potential customer base for online sports betting platforms. Easy access to online betting websites and mobile applications has enabled more people to participate in sports betting activities.

• Rising Popularity of Sports: The global popularity of sports, such as football (soccer), basketball, cricket, and others, has led to a surge in interest in sports betting. Fans are eager to engage with their favourite sports and teams by placing bets on the outcomes of matches and tournaments.

• Convenience and Accessibility: Online sports betting offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility. Bettors can place bets anytime and anywhere, using their computers or mobile devices. This 24/7 accessibility has attracted a broader audience, including casual bettors who may not have otherwise engaged in traditional betting methods.

• In-Play Betting: The introduction of in-play or live betting has been a game-changer for the industry. Bettors can now place bets while the sporting event is in progress, allowing for real-time engagement and dynamic betting opportunities.

• Mobile Betting Applications: The proliferation of mobile betting applications has played a significant role in the market’s growth. Mobile apps make sports betting even more convenient and user-friendly, catering to the increasing number of users who prefer betting on their smartphones and tablets.

• Technological Advancements: Advancements in technology have enhanced the overall sports betting experience. From user-friendly interfaces to secure payment options, technological innovations have contributed to attracting and retaining customers.

• Growing Acceptance and Legalization: Many countries and jurisdictions have started to legalize and regulate online sports betting, which has removed barriers and created a safer and more reliable betting environment. Legalization has also attracted reputable operators and investors to the market.

• Marketing and Promotions: Aggressive marketing strategies and enticing promotional offers by online sports betting operators have helped to create brand awareness and attract new customers. Bonuses, free bets, and loyalty programs are commonly used to incentivize users to sign up and place bets.

• Integration of Online Casinos: Some online sports betting platforms also offer online casino games, creating a one-stop destination for users who enjoy both sports betting and casino gaming.
• Global Sporting Events: Major sporting events, such as the Olympics, FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and Super Bowl, attract enormous betting interest and contribute to spikes in the market’s growth during these tournaments.

Online Sports Betting Market – Mergers and Acquisitions

• Flutter Entertainment (formerly Paddy Power Betfair) and The Stars Group: In May 2020, Flutter Entertainment, the parent company of Paddy Power and Betfair, acquired The Stars Group, which owns brands like PokerStars and BetStars. The merger created one of the world’s largest online gambling companies, with a significant presence in the online sports betting and gaming markets.

• Caesars Entertainment and William Hill: In September 2020, Caesars Entertainment acquired British bookmaker William Hill for $3.7 billion. This acquisition provided Caesars with a strong foothold in the U.S. sports betting market and expanded its online sports betting capabilities.

• DraftKings and SBTech: In 2020, DraftKings, a leading daily fantasy sports company, completed its merger with SBTech, a sports betting technology provider. The merger allowed DraftKings to develop and operate its own in-house sportsbook platform.

• Entain (formerly GVC Holdings) and MGM Resorts International: In early 2021, Entain, the parent company of Ladbrokes and Partypoker, rejected an $11 billion takeover bid from MGM Resorts International. The proposed acquisition aimed to bolster MGM’s online gambling presence and expand its sports betting operations.

• Kindred Group and 32Red: In 2017, Kindred Group (formerly Unibet Group) acquired the online gambling operator 32Red. The acquisition expanded Kindred’s portfolio of brands and strengthened its position in the online sports betting market.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE RELATED MARKET

Online Sports Betting Market – Significant Threats

The Online Sports Betting market faces several significant threats that could impact its growth and sustainability. These threats include:

• Regulatory Changes: Changes in regulations and legislation governing online sports betting in different countries and regions can have a substantial impact on the market. Stringent regulations, restrictions, or outright bans on online betting in certain jurisdictions can limit market access and hinder business operations.

• Legal Challenges: Legal challenges, such as lawsuits or court rulings, could disrupt operations and create uncertainty for online sports betting operators. Legal disputes related to licensing, intellectual property, or consumer protection issues can lead to financial losses and reputational damage.

• Cybersecurity Risks: Online sports betting platforms are susceptible to cyber threats, including hacking, data breaches, and cyberattacks. A security breach can compromise customer data and erode user trust in the platform.

• Responsible Gambling Concerns: The nature of online sports betting raises concerns about responsible gambling practices. Excessive or problem gambling among customers can lead to reputational damage for operators and may result in increased regulatory scrutiny.

• Competition and Market Saturation: The Online Sports Betting market is highly competitive, with numerous operators vying for market share. The proliferation of betting platforms may lead to market saturation, intensifying competition and putting pressure on profit margins.

• Match-Fixing and Integrity Issues: Match-fixing and sports integrity issues pose significant threats to the credibility and reputation of online sports betting. Any perception of unfair practices or lack of integrity in sports events can undermine customer trust and confidence in the industry.

• Economic Downturns: Economic downturns or global financial crises can lead to reduced consumer spending on non-essential activities, including sports betting. During times of economic uncertainty, bettors may curtail their betting activities, impacting the market’s revenue.

• Technological Disruptions: Rapid technological advancements and emerging technologies, such as blockchain-based betting platforms or decentralized applications, could disrupt the traditional online sports betting model. Failure to embrace and adapt to technological innovations may put some operators at a disadvantage.

• Payment Processing Challenges: Online sports betting relies heavily on secure and efficient payment processing systems. Issues with payment gateways, banking regulations, or delays in payment processing can create customer dissatisfaction and hinder the platform’s performance.

• Negative Public Perception: Negative media coverage, controversies, or instances of problem gambling associated with the industry can lead to negative public perception and impact the overall image of online sports betting.

Report Scope

Category-Wise Insights

Based on Type:

The global online sports betting market is categorized into various types, including line-in-play, fixed odds betting, daily fantasy, e-sports betting, exchange betting, spread betting, and others.

Among these types, the line-in-play segment holds the largest market share and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.5% during the forecast period. Line-in-play, also known as live/in-game online sports betting, allows bettors to place wagers while a sporting event is still in progress.

This real-time betting feature attracts impulsive bettors seeking immediate action and excitement. However, it also comes with a higher risk of potential losses due to the dynamic nature of in-game betting, creating opportunities for unfavourable odds, known as bad lines.

The popularity of line-in-play betting is driven by the thrill and engagement it offers to bettors, enabling them to make strategic decisions based on the unfolding game scenarios.

However, it is essential for bettors to exercise caution and responsible gambling practices while participating in live betting due to the rapid changes in odds and potential volatility, which may lead to unexpected financial outcomes.

Based on Sports Type:

The global online sports betting market is segmented based on sports types, including football, cricket, tennis, baseball, volleyball, basketball, hockey, horse riding, boxing, golf, racing, and others.

Among these sports types, football holds the highest market share and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.20% during the forecast period. Football is a widely popular sport with a massive global fan base, making it a significant driver of the online sports betting market.

Some of the popular football teams and leagues that attract online betting include NFL (National Football League) and Canadian football for American football enthusiasts, as well as renowned football clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Juventus. The football segment is further divided into sub-categories, such as FIFA, UEFA/EURO, Premier League, and others.

Notably, the FIFA World Cup is a highly anticipated event for both football enthusiasts and gambling enthusiasts worldwide. Online sportsbooks provide valuable insights through historical data, allowing bettors to make informed decisions when placing bets on football matches.

Football betting offers a wide variety of betting options, including moneyline bets, outright bets, in-play bets (live betting), accumulator bets, and special bets. Premier League betting sites, specifically, offer an extensive range of markets, along with attractive free bets, promotions, regular accommodations, secure payment transfers, and access to mobile applications for convenient betting experiences.

The popularity of football and the extensive range of betting options available have contributed to the dominance of the football segment in the online sports betting market. However, bettors are advised to gamble responsibly and make informed decisions based on reliable information when participating in online football betting or any other sports betting activities.

Online Sports Betting Market – Regional Analysis

• North America: The North American region, especially the United States, was a significant player in the Online Sports Betting market. The market witnessed significant growth following the legalization of sports betting in several states, expanding the market’s potential. The popularity of sports like football, basketball, and baseball contributed to the market’s growth.

• Europe: Europe was one of the largest and most established markets for Online Sports Betting. Several countries in Europe have a long history of sports betting, and the region is home to many prominent online betting operators. Major sports events like football leagues, tennis tournaments, and horse racing attracted significant betting interest in this region.

• Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region exhibited considerable growth potential in the Online Sports Betting market. Countries like China, Japan, and India showed increasing interest in online sports betting, driven by rising internet penetration and a growing interest in sports. Cricket, football, and horse racing were popular sports for betting in this region.

• Latin America: Latin America showed promising opportunities for the Online Sports Betting market. Some countries, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, considered legalizing and regulating online sports betting, paving the way for potential market expansion.

• Middle East and Africa: The Middle East and Africa region presented the untapped potential for the Online Sports Betting market. While regulatory restrictions were more prevalent in some countries, there were emerging opportunities in certain regions with favourable gambling regulations.

• Rest of the World: Other regions not covered above also demonstrated various levels of interest and growth in online sports betting. Factors such as regulatory changes, technological advancements, and sports popularity influenced the market’s performance in these regions.

List of the prominent players in the Online Sports Betting Market:

• BETSSON AB
• FORTUNA ENTERTAINMENT GROUP A.S.
• LAS VEGAS SANDS CORPORATION
• bet365
• Flutter Entertainment plc
• 888 Holdings Plc
• Entain
• Kindred Group plc
• MGM Resorts International
• Kindred Group plc
• Wynn Resorts Ltd
• NOVIBET
• Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited
• Resorts World at Sentosa Pte. Ltd.
• Sun International
• RTSmunity a.s.
• SKY INFOTECH
• Peermont Global Proprietary Limited
• SJM Holdings Limited
• Sportradar AG
• FanUp Inc.
• Rivalry Ltd.
• EveryMatrix
• Kairos Group
• BETAMERICA
• Scientific Game
• ComeOn Group
• Others

The Online Sports Betting Market is segmented as follows:

By Type

• Line-In-Play
• Fixed Old Betting
• Daily Fantasy
• E-Sports
• Exchange Betting
• Spread Betting
• Others

By Sports Type

• Football
• Cricket
• Tennis
• Baseball
• Volleyball
• Basketball
• Hockey
• Horse Riding
• Boxing
• Golf
• Racing
• Others

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America