Spain’s Q4 Gambling Sector Results Reveal a Healthy Industry

Spain’s gaming industry has reported a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €315.29 million ($341.35 million) for the fourth quarter of 2023, according to the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ). The authority closely monitors the state of the market, delivering detailed reports that help shape new regulations. Most sectors experienced growth, indicating a healthy balance between player safety and operator interests.

The Casino Segment Performed in Line with Expectations

Breaking down the GGR increase of 0.55% year-on-year, the casino sector traditionally performed the best, contributing €171.27 million (185.44 million), or 54.32% of total revenues. A substantial annual rise of 20.23% highlighted robust performance despite industry-wide economic uncertainties. Player preferences remained consistent with previous quarters, though some sub-segments pulled further ahead. 

Slot machines accounted for 25.86% of the Q4 casino sector revenues, growing by 5.36%, followed by live roulette with 15.26%, demonstrating a growth of 10.70%. Meanwhile, Black Jack reported an increase of 10.83%, while conventional roulette decreased by 0.80%. These results reflect the growing popularity of the online segment, which is traditionally slots-dominated.

Outside of casino games, Poker revenues reached €25.41 million ($27.51 million). Several high-profile tournaments in the previous quarter resulted in a 5.25% revenue decrease compared to Q3, as the competitive sector remains the most profitable. Bingo and contests remained the least popular, with revenues settling at €3.84 million ($4.16 million) and €0.05 million. These results are unsurprising, given that these sectors occupy a stable niche.

The Industry Adapted to Ongoing Challenges

Sports betting recorded a 1.09% growth compared to Q3 2023 but a notable decline of 18.83% compared to the same quarter in the previous year, attributed to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar held between November and December 2022. Conventional counterpart sports betting experienced a significant drop of 75.98%, while live betting increased by 58.13%, horse racing bets by 6.05%, and other bets by 30.66%.

Overall, player deposits and withdrawals increased by 9.36% and 5.25%, respectively, compared to the previous year. In marketing, the industry displayed confidence in advertising programs, increasing spending by 20.91% compared to Q3. New accounts also increased by 20.11%. Active gaming accounts reached 1,269,585, growing by 17.26% compared to Q3, while new accounts recorded a quarterly increase of 20.11%.

The DGOJ’s report highlights the resilience and growth of Spain’s gaming industry, showcasing positive trends in various sectors despite global challenges and changes in consumer behavior. The DGOJ balances shareholder interests and safe gambling measures and maintains close communication with the broader industry. Meanwhile, operators’ adaptability and strategic investments in marketing and advertising contribute to their ongoing success.