Why Online Gambling is Gaining Popularity Among Europe
Ever since online casinos first started accepting real cash wagers, the growth of online casinos has been exponential. It has become a fun and socially acceptable form of entertainment. Now, with the introduction to fast and safe mobile payment options, the online gambling world has sealed its deal.
What does this mean for EU players? Péter Deli, an expert in iGaming, aims to answer the question in this article. According to the gambling market analysis done by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), the market is growing 10% per year. Players are migrating from land-based casinos and bookmaker shops to online gambling. As a result, online EU gambling will reach €29.3 billion in 2022.
Strictly Regulated Industry Standards
One of the reasons gambling in Europe became so popular in recent years is the level of trust and regulation. The UK Gambling Commission is one of Europe’s stringent regulating bodies when it comes to licensing and regulating casinos. Their stamp of approval ensures player safety and fair play.
Another common licensing body in the European gambling industry is the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). Malta issues the highest number of online gaming licenses in Europe. Low tax rates, transparency, and guaranteed fair gaming are the perks you get with the MGA licence.
More Payment Options and Responsible Gaming
Statista.com reports that in 2023, mobile gambling will cover 55% of the total gambling revenue of 33 billion euros. Earlier this year, the UK Gambling Commission banned the usage of credit cards for online betting.
The new regulation doesn’t mean that players are left only with debit cards. Quite the opposite, even the European land-based casinos don’t offer as many payment options as their online rivals.
For instance, Hungarian players that frequent https://kaszinok.online/ have the option of using Visa. However, not everyone is comfortable with the idea of directly linking a personal bank account to their casino profile. Like many platforms, online casinos give the added benefit of alternative payment methods. Many of them accept eWallet payments, prepaid cards, cryptocurrencies, and bank transfers.
New and Exciting Game Features
The future of online gambling has never been more thrilling. Some player-favourite features are Augmented/Virtual Reality and live dealer tables. 3D graphics and other realistic visuals provide an experience that traditional casinos can’t emulate.
One of the most popular entertainment options among Europeans is sports betting. Virtual platforms offer betting markets on football, rugby, boxing, and dozens of other sports. Online betting also brought games like darts, table tennis, and hurling into the mainstream.
When it comes to sportsbooks, it is a one-stop-shop for all the major leagues and events in Europe. Live streaming and in-game real-time betting options are particularly popular with bettors. The majority of Europeans own smartphones, which makes it possible to watch the games from anywhere. Apart from live events and real-life sports, you can also try betting on virtual races and esports.
Online casinos have a wider variety of games, high definition animations, and soundtracks. Yet, if you choose to play at an online casino, you get better sign-up bonuses, free spins, and other promotions. Plus, the house edge in online casinos is lower compared to land-based casinos.
Gamification
What is gamification? It’s the process of applying video game elements and features to other platforms. Both video games and casinos have benefited from high-quality graphics and better gameplay. So why are European players so attracted to online leaderboards and tournaments?
Loyalty programs and VIP rewards are one of the aspects of gamification. Points and other incentives keep you motivated to spin the reels. A similar approach is an achievement-based gameplay: you reach specific goals and unlock perks.
Another element is social media and leaderboards. Online casinos are fun without anything else. Yet, the competitive environment with tournaments and ranking systems make the games more interactive. Sharing online gaming progress on social media can be a considerable boost in well-being for those who are going through social distancing.
Conclusion
In summary, the online gambling market in Europe has been gaining momentum ever since its legalization – and it shows no signs of stopping. From bonuses to high-quality graphics, Europe has been and remains number one in the online casino industry.
