Online Casino Growth Drives Revenue Surge in August
Denmark’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) for August 2024 reached DKK571m (£64.2m/€76.6m/$84.1m), marking a 4.3% increase from the same period last year, according to data from the Danish gambling regulator, Spillemyndigheden. This increase was largely driven by the substantial growth in the online casino sector, which posted a 20.8% year-on-year rise to DKK299m. This performance was also 5.3% higher than July, falling just short of the all-time monthly record of DKK309m set in March 2024.
In contrast, other sectors of Denmark’s gambling market saw declines. Sports betting revenue dropped by 14% year-on-year to DKK147m, which was also down by 1.3% from July. Meanwhile, land-based gambling continued to struggle, with physical slot machine revenue dipping by 0.2% to DKK96m. However, this was slightly better than the previous month. Land-based casino revenue also fell, down by 12% to DKK29m, a figure unchanged from July.
Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Intensifies
As Denmark’s licensed gambling sector faces both growth and challenges, efforts to combat illegal gambling operations have intensified. On August 22, 2024, a Danish court approved the blocking of 79 unlicensed websites offering illegal gambling services, following a request from Spillemyndigheden. This brings the total number of blocked sites to 162 in 2024, making it a record year for enforcement.
The move is part of an ongoing effort to protect consumers, particularly minors, from unlicensed gambling platforms that fail to meet Denmark’s strict regulatory standards. The court order included the blocking of several skin betting websites, which allow users, particularly younger audiences, to gamble using virtual items and currencies like “Robux” from the popular game Roblox. Spillemyndigheden’s Director, Anders Dorph, expressed relief over the shutdown of these platforms, underscoring the need to shield children from gambling-related risks.
Self-Exclusion Scheme Grows, Targets Vulnerable Users
August also saw the continued rise of participants in Denmark’s national self-exclusion scheme, ROFUS, which reached 51,893 registrants, an increase of 12.4% year-on-year. Of those registered, 66.6% have opted for permanent exclusion, while the rest have chosen temporary exclusions. The scheme aims to provide a safety net for those at risk of gambling addiction, offering individuals a pathway to limit or stop their gambling activities.
In addition, data from Spillemyndigheden reveals that younger individuals are increasingly using Denmark’s StopSpillet support service. Since its launch in 2019, the service has received 3,200 inquiries, with 37% of those coming from people aged 18 to 25—indicating a growing awareness of gambling risks among the youth.
Looking Forward: Balancing Growth and Regulation
As Denmark’s gaming industry navigates growth in online sectors and challenges in land-based operations, the country’s regulatory efforts to curb illegal gambling continue to expand. With Spillemyndigheden blocking more websites and telecom providers joining the initiative, the aim is clear: maintaining a fair, regulated gambling environment that protects consumers, particularly vulnerable groups like minors, from the dangers of unlicensed platforms.
The future of Denmark’s gaming sector will likely hinge on this delicate balance between fostering growth in the legal market and effectively regulating the industry to safeguard its users.
NetBet, a veteran in the European online gambling arena, has set its sights on Danish shores. As of February 2024, the Malta-based operator proudly brandishes a newly minted license from Spillemyndigheden, Denmark’s gambling authority. This strategic move plants NetBet’s flag in one of Europe’s most vibrant digital gaming landscapes.
Hitting the Ground Running with Premier Partnerships
Wasting no time, NetBet has woven a web of alliances with heavyweights in the gaming industry. Thanks to collaborations with Pragmatic Play and Push Gaming, players in Denmark can now access a treasure trove of popular titles, including the high-octane “Razor Returns” and the mythological “Gates of Olympus. “
The momentum continued into spring, with NetBet’s game library swelling by over 200 titles. A flurry of deals inked between March and April 2024 brought aboard an impressive roster: Playson, 1X2 Network, Amusnet Gaming, G Games, Nolimit City, Play’n GO, Stakelogic, and Wazdan. This influx of content promises Danish gamers an array of options, from classic fruit machines to cutting-edge video slots.
Denmark’s Digital Playground: A Growing Market
NetBet’s arrival comes at an opportune time. Since opening its doors to regulated online gambling in 2012, Denmark has seen its digital gaming sector flourish. Industry analysts project the market to hit a staggering $1.16 billion in revenue for 2024, with online casinos and sports betting leading the charge.
While some experts note a slight dip in per-user spending compared to recent years, the overall trajectory remains upward. Sports betting, in particular, is expected to maintain its strong position in the Danish market over the next half-decade.
NetBet: A Pedigree of Excellence
With roots stretching back to 2001, NetBet brings a wealth of experience to the Danish market. The company has built its reputation on a foundation of innovation, reliability, and top-notch customer service. NetBet’s trophy case includes accolades for excellence in player support, and its footprint extends across multiple European jurisdictions.
The operator has also made waves through high-profile sponsorships in the football world and by organizing unique events like its Multicultural Cup. This blend of gaming expertise and creative marketing positions NetBet as a formidable new player in Denmark’s competitive online gambling landscape.
As NetBet unfurls its banner in Denmark, local players stand to benefit from a rich tapestry of gaming options backed by some of the industry’s most respected names. This expansion marks another chapter in NetBet’s quest to become a dominant force in Europe’s regulated online gaming markets.
