The report, based on fresh data from the European Gaming & Betting Association in partnership with H2 Gambling Capital, reveals how shifting consumer behavior, rapid mobile adoption, and evolving regulatory frameworks are driving a dramatic transformation across all 28 European markets.
“The data makes it clear: the future of European gambling is mobile-first,” said Anastasiia Poltavets, CMO at Atlaslive. “Operators who don’t prioritize mobile optimization and seamless experience risk falling behind in a market where player expectations have drastically evolved.”
Digital channels fuel growth
While land-based gambling remains the largest segment, ing for €75.5 billion in 2024, the online sector is the industry’s primary growth engine. Online gambling revenue reached €47.9 billion, with projections indicating a rise to €66.8 billion by 2029, driven by a 6.9% annual growth rate.
This momentum is not just about convenience — it's about a complete shift in player preferences. In 2023, online ed for 37% of total gambling revenue. That figure has grown to 39% in 2024 and is expected to reach 45% by 2029.
Mobile dominates the digital shift
Among digital channels, mobile is king. In 2024, 58% of online gambling revenue came from mobile devices. That share is forecast to surge to 67% by 2029, signaling an irreversible shift in how consumers access games and betting platforms.
This trend mirrors broader digital behaviors across Europe, where mobile has become the default medium for entertainment, commerce, and social engagement.
Key product insights
The report highlights varied performance and digital penetration across gambling product categories:
* Casino Games are the undisputed online leaders, generating €21.5 billion digitally out of a total €30 billionmarket. Online casinos now for 45% of all online gambling revenue.
* Sports Betting continues to thrive online, with €13.7 billion of its €20.1 billion total coming from digital channels — a 68% online share.
* Lotteries remain primarily land-based (€30.9 billion out of €38 billion), but online lotteries are poised for rapid expansion, with a 7.7% CAGR projected through 2029 — the highest among all online products.
* Gaming Machines remain a land-based stronghold, with all €24.9 billion generated through physical venues.
National variations reveal opportunities
Europe’s digital gambling maturity varies significantly across countries:
* Sweden leads the digital revolution with 68.3% of gambling revenue from online channels, closely followed by Finland and Denmark (both 68.1%).
* In contrast, major markets like Italy (21.7%), (22.6%), and (27%) show relatively low online adoption, highlighting major growth potential for digital operators.
National product preferences also vary:
* Casino-heavy markets: Malta (73% online casino share), Estonia (72%), Latvia (63%)
* Betting-dominant markets: Cyprus (74%), Slovakia (64%)
* Lottery-focused markets: (37% of online revenue), Denmark (26%)
Outlook: Stability and expansion
Despite the rise of digital, land-based gambling is not fading. It is projected to grow 1.8% annually, reaching €82.4 billion by 2029, fueled by social experiences, tourism, and traditional entertainment value.
Online segments will continue their expansion:
* Online casinos: €30.8 billion by 2029 (7.5% CAGR)
* Online sports betting: €19.2 billion (6.9% CAGR)
* Online lotteries: €10.4 billion (7.7% CAGR)
Strategic imperatives for industry stakeholders
The findings carry critical implications for operators, technology providers, and regulators:
* Operators must adopt mobile-first development, invest in omnichannel platforms, and tailor strategies for underpenetrated markets like and Italy.
* Tech providers should focus on mobile-native solutions, cross-platform integration, and scalable, localized systems to pan-European operations.
* Regulators face the challenge of ing digital growth while ensuring consumer protection, taxation efficiency, and market fairness — especially in countries with untapped online potential.
Conclusion: The future is here
Europe’s gambling industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation. With digital revenue growing, mobile dominating, and player expectations evolving rapidly, the market is poised for sustainable, long-term expansion.
“This is more than a technological trend,” added Poltavets. “It’s a lifestyle shift. The operators who embrace mobile-first innovation while delivering engaging, secure, and accessible gaming experiences will lead the next chapter of European gambling.”
To explore the full report, regional breakdowns, and strategic insights for 2025 and beyond, visit: https://atlaslive.tech/blog/the-european-gambling-revolution-euro1234-billion-market-transforms-in-the-digital-age.
Atlaslive
Atlaslive, formerly known as Atlas-IAC, underwent a rebranding campaign in May 2024. It is a B2B software development company that specializes in creating a multifunctional and automated platform to optimize the workflow of sports betting and casino operators.
Key components of the Atlaslive Platform include Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and Retail Module. Follow the company on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest news in iGaming technology.
Source: GMB
