South Africans are becoming addicted to sports betting

15 Views

A new survey into sports betting in South Africa says the industry is experiencing a massive online boom. Particularly among gamblers aged 18 to 34, online sports betting is even starting to challenge the popularity of the National Lottery.

South Africa’s gambling revenue – including casinos and online sports betting – is projected to touch R64 billion in 2025. Nevertheless, there are concerns that gamblers are endangering their finances by using essential or borrowed funds for sports betting.

SPORTS BETTING IN SOUTH AFRICA

Accordingly, InfoQuest, tracked the habits and attitudes of 300 local gamblers for a period of one year, reports Daily Investor. Its study found that sports betting was the most frequent gambling transaction per month. With an average occurrence 11 times per month.

Meanwhile, the National Lottery, saw an average occurrence 10 times per month. And is more popular with older gamblers (35 to 65). However, while the industry is generating significant revenue and employment opportunities, there are heightened concerns about addiction and illegal operators.

CASINO VISITS DIPPING

Who needs a ‘hot machine’ at a casino when you can gambling all day long online? Image: File

Interestingly, InfoQuest found that in-person gambling at casino tables declined from 7 to 5 occurrences per month. However, 48% of South African gamblers said they’re engaging in sports betting and other activities more often than they were one-year ago. As such, the growing engagement – enabled by easily accessible online platform – represents shifting social norms towards gambling.

Moreover, only 37% of surveyed gamblers claim they use surplus funds – money they don’t need for anything else – to gamble. Therefore, 63% are using essential money meant for food or savings on sports betting and other activities. In turn, “this underscores the need for closer monitoring of gambling behaviour and its broader societal impacts in South Africa,” finds the report.

GAMBLING STATISTICS

50% of gamblers say they incorporate gambling into their monthly budgets
16% of gamblers say they have borrowed money to fund their gambling.
15% of gamblers say they have been unable to control their desire to engage.
20% of gamblers say they have sought help or are currently seeking help for their gambling addiction.

If you think you’re struggling with sports betting or other forms of gambling, you can contact Gamblers’ Anonymous HERE.