Sweden’s gambling industry recorded a 3 percent increase in gaming turnover for 2024, reaching SEK 27.8 billion ($2.68 billion). The latest figures from Spelinspektionen, the Swedish Gambling Authority, highlight the steady growth of the sector, particularly in online gaming and betting. However, Casino Cosmopol continues to decline, and the government is now considering tighter gambling regulations.
Strong growth in Q4 2024
In the last quarter of 2024, Sweden’s gaming market experienced a boost in turnover to SEK 7.6 billion. This is an 8 percent growth compared to the corresponding quarter of 2023 and a 14 percent increase from Q3. Online games and betting drove the market with a 6 percent improvement, achieving SEK 4.6 billion in turnover. Land-based gaming also recorded a 9 percent rise, adding SEK 63 million.
State lottery and games performed strongly, climbing 19 percent to SEK 1.7 billion. Public lotteries saw a more modest growth of 5 percent, reaching SEK 1.1 billion. However, Casino Cosmopol continued its downward trajectory, reporting a steep decline from SEK 92 million in Q4 2023 to SEK 31 million in Q4 2024.
Online and lottery segments drive growth
For the entire year, Sweden’s gambling market grew by 2.5 percent to SEK 27.8 billion. Online gaming and betting remained the dominant segment, increasing by 3.5 percent to SEK 17.8 billion. Land-based gambling rose slightly by 4 percent to SEK 237 million.
State lottery and games maintained a steady upward trend, growing by 2 percent to SEK 5.7 billion. Public lotteries followed suit with a 2.5 percent increase, generating SEK 3.7 billion in turnover. The most significant change came from Casino Cosmopol, which reported a drastic 66 percent drop in revenue, falling to SEK 160 million for the year.
Self-exclusion registrations rise
Spelinspektionen also reported an increased 3 percent in the registrations of self-exclusion within Spelpaus, Sweden’s exclusion system. Some 120,600 individuals had chosen to be blocked out of gambling services as of December 2024, a showing that responsible gaming still remains of primary concern throughout Sweden.
Swedish government to review gambling act
During the expansion of the market, the Swedish government has also committed to reviewing the Gambling Act in Sweden. This move is to implement more stringent controls aimed at enhancing player protection and gambling-related harm concerns. The details of the possible change are yet to be released, but the review marks a move towards increased control in the sector.
