The online gambling market figures in the finance sector were compiled using data from operators representing approximately 80% of the market. However, due to different operating circumstances during lockdowns, it is not advisable to compare year-on-year figures, according to the Commission.
In the final month of lockdown in England, online slots revenue reached a new monthly high of £202.9m, representing a 15.2% increase from February and a 1.5% increase from the previous high in December 2020. The number of slots players also hit a record high at 3.3 million, up 10.0% from the previous month and 10.1% from the record set in December 2020. Additionally, the number of spins exceeded 6 billion for the first time. The average slot session length was 21 minutes, matching the lowest recorded, while the number of sessions lasting an hour or more increased by 8% month-on-month to 2.7 million.
In contrast, online sports betting revenue decreased by 5.1% to £250.5m, despite the occurrence of the Cheltenham Festival in March. However, the number of sports bettors surpassed six million for the first time, and the number of bets placed reached a record high of 375.2 million. Non-slot igaming revenue grew to £71.2m, representing a 10.8% increase from February, and the number of online casino players increased by 13.0% month-on-month. Poker revenue declined slightly to £9.2m. Virtual betting saw a 17.7% increase from February, while esports betting grew by 16.9%. Other revenue amounted to £2.1m, marginally lower than in February.
The Commission conducted a survey to examine changes in gambling habits since the start of lockdown. A previous similar survey was carried out in the fourth quarter of 2020. The survey results indicated that more gamblers reported a decrease in their gambling activity since the start of the first lockdown in March 2020 compared to an increase, with a smaller gap than in Q4 of 2020. Among all respondents, 3% reported a significant increase in gambling under lockdown, while 12% reported a significant decrease. Respondents who had gambled three or more times in the month prior to the survey were more likely to report an increase in activity, with 40% indicating an increase and 9% stating a substantial increase. Men, particularly young men, were more likely to report an increase in their gambling. The main reasons given for increased gambling were boredom (47%), having more spare time (35%), having more money (20%), the desire to gamble (33%), and substituting lost income (13%).
The Commission urged operators to remain vigilant as lockdown restrictions ease, as some individuals may still feel isolated and vulnerable. Regarding the review of remote customer interaction, the Commission did not confirm whether it will be included in the wider Gambling Act review conducted by the Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). However, the Commission stated that their work on the consultation is ongoing, and they will provide an update on their next steps to address the risks identified in their casework. They emphasized the importance of operators setting appropriate action thresholds and promptly addressing potential harm.
