Many countries with growing populations are increasingly seen as promising markets in the iGaming segment, particularly in areas like lotteries, casinos, and online gambling. This growing interest is driven by several factors. One is the presence of a young, tech-savvy population. Another is the rapid expansion of mobile networks, which fuels the unstoppable rise of the mobile entertainment sector.
Over the past decade, many regions have experienced truly transformative changes in the way people engage with gambling. This shift affects everything from traditional betting shops and classic casinos to mobile and online gaming, which continues to grow and develop a vibrant culture.
Mobile gaming is at the forefront of this revolution. This is due to the local availability of smartphones and the expansion of 3G and 4G networks, which have made online casinos accessible to the residents. Mobile technology allows people to play casino games, participate in lotteries, and bet on sports worldwide. Also, cryptocurrencies are actively growing, and mobile payments are becoming increasingly convenient. This only reinforces the market growth trend.
Many people prefer modern slot machines with advanced features in gambling entertainment. Also at the peak of popularity are so-called fast games like Plinko, which give instant winnings. Such a trend can be observed in many countries, such as India. This is because the game does not need to be downloaded anywhere: visit information sites like https://www.plinkogames.in/ and choose a site to play.
Policymakers in various regions have also taken note of the rapid growth of sports betting and online casinos. In some jurisdictions, new regulations have been introduced to better control the sector and ensure proper taxation.
For example, in 2024, one government announced that a 10% tax on all sports betting winnings—domestic and online—would take effect starting January 1, 2025. The goal is to turn the fast-growing gambling industry into a new source of revenue for the national budget. Regulatory authorities in these markets are also being strengthened, including oversight, tax collection, and promoting responsible gambling practices.
What do these developments signal? Countries want to fine-tune economic opportunities with regulatory oversight. They are positioned as dynamic markets that are also regulated.
As the global iGaming sector continues its strong growth, stakeholders must navigate both the opportunities and challenges of rapid digitalisation and increasingly complex regulatory frameworks. The industry is at a crossroads, marked by deep digital integration and evolving consumer behaviour. Mobile technology now accounts for a significant market share—exceeding 90% in some areas—and plays a key role in driving the expansion of gambling services.
