The US and UK Lead the Global List of Countries with the Most Online Gambling, According to New Study

While traditional sports like football and horse racing might come to mind first, the online gambling industry in both the US and UK is unusually diverse. Surprisingly, sports such as cricket, tennis, boxing, rugby, and golf see gamblers wagering significantly more in the UK, with some spending hundreds of pounds a month.

Online gambling has surged in the UK and the USA, putting them as the top two countries for player use, according to a new report.

This rise can be attributed to a confluence of factors, from tax-free winnings to the convenience of playing from your sofa.

However, this trend is not has caused concerns for gambling experts, who point out the potential for addiction and financial woes for many people.

Let’s look at a trend gathering momentum across both sides of the Atlantic.

 

The major draw of Internet gambling across the Atlantic

The rise in this digital activity doesn’t come as a surprise to gambling specialists.

The convenience and tax-free nature of online gambling are major draws for both US and UK residents. No longer confined to brick-and-mortar casinos, players can access a vast array of games from the comfort of their homes. Also, unlike some countries, winnings in the UK aren't taxed.

Several other factors have contributed to this boom.

Betting offers

One other factor is betting offers. Online gambling platforms compete fiercely for customers, and a key tactic is attractive bonuses.

No deposit bonuses, for example, allow players to try out games with free credit or spins, potentially sparking interest and luring them into spending their own money. While these offers can be a fun way to explore a platform, they can also be a gateway to unhealthy gambling habits, particularly for those susceptible to addiction.

This is why it’s always important to double-check bonus terms before signing up, as many of them come up with unfavorable conditions.

An ingrained betting culture

While traditional sports like football and horse racing might come to mind first, the online gambling industry in both the US and UK is unusually diverse. Surprisingly, sports such as cricket, tennis, boxing, rugby, and golf see gamblers wagering significantly more in the UK, with some spending hundreds of pounds a month.

In the US, the rise of fantasy sports and niche sports betting like e-sports is attracting a new generation of gamblers.

The pandemic’s legacy

The COVID-19 pandemic had a big effect on the online gambling industry across the world, but particularly in the US and the UK.

With traditional sporting events being cancelled or restricted, many fans turned to the web for their fix. Even with the return of live sporting events, the allure of online options persists.

The convenience and variety offered by online platforms continue to attract a large audience in both countries, despite live events being fully open for over two years now.

The dark side of the coin

Online gambling may be popular, but it has many risks. Addiction is a major concern in both the US and UK, sometimes leading to bankruptcy, fraud, scams, and increased substance abuse.

These, in turn, can cause significant problems in work and personal relationships. Public Policy Exchange, a UK-based think tank, estimates that roughly 0.5% of the adult population struggles with gambling addiction, with even more than that at severe risk. Similar figures have been released by concerned organizations in the US.

This has led to both the US and the UK governments taking steps towards regulating their online gambling industries.

The UK brought in a levy on online slot machine stakes, while some US states are legalizing and regulating online gambling to create a safer environment for players. Y

Yet some experts believe these measures don't go far enough. Charles Ritchie, co-chair of Gambling with Lives, an advocacy group, argues that stricter regulations, including slower spin speeds, affordability checks, and increased public awareness campaigns also need to be introduced to address problem gambling in both the US and UK.

The future of online gambling: a global balancing act

The rise of the online gambling market shows no signs of slowing down globally, with its convenient and lucrative nature continuing to attract players.

However, governments must be very aware of the downsides associated with this trend. Balancing growth with responsible gambling practices is key for both the US and UK over the coming years. This will include stricter regulations, promoting responsible gambling habits, and providing robust support systems for those struggling with addiction.

To not do so will lead to a lasting problem gambling crisis- and societal damage - in both countries.