Online Gaming Industry: Making Investors Sit Up

The verdict is in – people love gambling online, from the comfort of their homes and when they are on the go. The introduction of online gaming transformed the gambling industry in the ‘90s, and things have never been the same. This is a rapidly growing industry, and there is no end in sight to its meteoric rise as more players – and investors – sit up and take notice.

Prior to the 1990s, if you wanted to play a game of chance, pull the lever on a slot machine, or be dealt a hand of blackjack, you needed to leave the house. You had to drive to your nearest land-based casino or take a trip to Las Vegas, Reno, or similar gambling cities. Today, online gaming sites continue to grow because of their convenience and ease – you can spin the roulette wheel in your underpants!

Online gambling sites have been steadily growing in revenue since the mid-2000s, and it is now more than a $41 billion annual industry! Most industries fluctuate on a quarterly or yearly basis, but online gaming grows consistently year after year. Why is this such a lucrative industry for investors?

Why Are Online Games of Chance so Consistent in Their Growth?

People are enjoying online gaming more and more, and one of the main reasons is that governments around the world are easing restrictions on gambling. State and federal governments in the US, Europe, and Asia are opening up markets that have been blocked to casinos in the past.

As a result, online gambling is no longer seen as something ‘below the radar’ or on the fringes – it is above board and on the up and up. This legality and respectability have attracted more operators and investors – some online casinos are even listed on the stock exchange!

Technology Is Now in the Palms of Our Hands

As has become so glaringly obvious over the past decade or so, technology is more present in our lives than ever before. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and tech hardware of all kinds are now a part of our daily routine, and we always have our phones in our hands. Sure, we use our smartphones for business and communication purposes, but we also use them for entertainment more than ever.

When you look down and see your phone in your hand, linked up to the internet and online gambling apps and sites, it is pretty hard to convince yourself to get in the car and go down to the casino to make a bet on your team. Instead, many people simply log on to an online casino and place their bet at an online sportsbook. It’s fast, it’s easy, it’s convenient, and it pays the same dividends – for many players, the choice is that simple.

Traditional Casinos Are Getting in on the Action

In addition to online-only companies setting up betting apps and online casino sites, many traditional casinos are choosing to move online. Some of the biggest casinos in Vegas, Macau, Atlantic City and Monte Carlo are promoting their websites alongside their traditional advertising campaigns. Yes, they want you to come into their casinos for a big night out, or on a lavish holiday – but with their apps and sites, you can take the excitement home with you.

Advertising Is Another Big Factor in Online Gaming’s Success

Advertising is another big component of online gaming’s huge success. Gambling websites and online casino apps are pouring money into ad campaigns on television (where permitted), podcast ads, sponsorship deals, and online marketing. Betting companies and online casinos are sponsoring sports teams, buying bus benches and transit banners, and doing everything in their power to remind consumers to gamble on the go.

As online gambling and gaming continue to report record-breaking profits, there is no doubt that investors will want to sink even more of their money into this industry. As long an online gaming sites and apps continue to embrace new technology, disruptive ideas and create new games, their profits are certain to grow.

Do you enjoy placing bets and playing casino games online, or do you prefer to go to the casino and play in person? Share your opinions and thoughts below.