Tools and Safeguards for increasingly sustainable gaming: Data and analysis of the Online Gaming sector in Italy

Social Sustainability has been a priority for some years now, not just for governments in developed countries, but also for companies operating in those countries. In the Online Gaming sector, this concept is reflected in a vast array of policies and procedures, including as part of the Responsible Gaming programs. In contrast to illegal gaming, safeguarding players from fraud and problematic gaming and the prevention of underage gaming are the cornerstones of the regulated Italian framework, which, together with digitalisation, the enhancement of broadband connections and the growth in the number of smartphones, have influenced consumer behaviour and shaped the evolution of the sector, both in terms of the offer and volumes of controlled games, and in terms of the user base.
During 2017 Gross Gaming Revenue from Online Gaming in Italy increased by 34% and its share of overall gaming (offline + online) grew to 7.2%. The number of players also grew (to 4% of the adult population of Italy), as has the revenue for the state (+29%) due to more gaming moving to the legal circuit, to the detriment of the illegal sites.
Mobile Gaming also continues to grow, both in terms of initiatives (+13%) and in terms of volume of playing (+52%), led by sport betting and Casino Games.
GGR from Online Gaming is growing in other markets too: Italy remains the second biggest market after the United Kingdom (where GGR increased by 6%) and is followed by France (+15%) and Spain (+31%).