Spelinspektionen Reports on Market Trends and Player Behavior

Spelinspektionen Reports on Market Trends and Player Behavior

Spelinspektionen, Sweden's gambling authority, has published its latest findings on gambling participation and industry perception. In collaboration with research firm Enkätfabriken, the Public Opinion Survey collected responses from over 1,600 individuals in November 2024, offering insights into how gambling is approached in Sweden and how regulatory efforts are perceived.

The survey indicates that 71% of respondents engaged in gambling activities over the past year, while 33% reported gambling every week. The data reflects the continued role of gambling in Sweden, with some forms of play being more prevalent than others.

Lotteries and number-based games maintain a significant presence, with 84% of gamblers reporting participation in these formats. The steady appeal of these games suggests that traditional gambling methods remain widely accepted despite the expansion of digital and interactive gaming options.

When asked about their reasons for gambling, 69% cited entertainment as the primary motivation, while 40% mentioned the possibility of large winnings. These responses indicate a mix of recreational engagement and financial aspiration, shaping how individuals interact with gambling platforms.

One aspect of the survey focused on Spelpaus.se, Sweden's national self-exclusion system designed to assist individuals who want to limit or stop their gambling activities. The findings show that 66% of respondents were aware of the program, suggesting that self-exclusion tools have gained public recognition, though a segment of the population remains either unaware or does not engage with these services.

The survey also measured public perception of gambling operators' commitment to responsibility. Responses varied, with 16% stating that gambling companies take full responsibility for addressing gambling-related risks, while 55% believe operators acknowledge these risks to some degree. However, 29% expressed skepticism, indicating that they see little to no responsibility being taken by gambling businesses. This division in opinion highlights an ongoing challenge for the industry in demonstrating commitment to player protection.

Spelinspektionen's report comes as regulatory oversight continues to develop. Recent measures introduced by the authority include new guidelines related to anti-money laundering and terrorist financing and an updated risk assessment framework for gambling operators. These initiatives suggest that compliance expectations are evolving, with greater emphasis on financial integrity and player protection.

The findings of this survey may inform further regulatory adjustments, particularly regarding responsible gambling awareness and operator accountability. If public trust in the industry remains uneven, regulators may introduce stricter enforcement measures, requiring companies to refine their social responsibility and consumer protection approach.

While regulatory discussions continue, Sweden's gambling market remains active. Svenska Spel, the state-owned operator, recently reported a 10.3% increase in operating profit for Q4 2024, pointing to continued financial stability in the sector. The company's performance may reflect broader market resilience despite regulatory changes and shifts in player behavior.

The survey's findings offer several key takeaways for online casinos. The continued dominance of lotteries and number-based games suggests that operators must consider how these formats influence player habits. While online casinos often focus on interactive slots and table games, demand for lottery-style offerings remains strong, shaping how platforms attract and retain players.

The mixed perception of gambling operators' responsibility may also influence business strategy. As a significant portion of respondents question whether companies address gambling-related risks, there may be increased pressure for transparency and enhanced player protection measures. Companies that proactively address these concerns may find themselves in a stronger position if regulatory scrutiny intensifies.

Spelinspektionen's survey provides insight into how gambling is structured in Sweden, how players engage with the market, and how regulatory initiatives are received. As participation remains steady, operators face the challenge of balancing commercial goals with evolving compliance expectations. The survey results may contribute to further regulatory discussions, shaping how the gambling industry functions in Sweden moving forward.