written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
17 Mar 2023
Journalist, Editorial Department
The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling in Spain has released its report for the fourth quarter of 2022, revealing a remarkable 78.2% year-on-year increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for the sector. The report indicates that revenue reached €313.3 million (approximately $28.1 billion), marking a 27.1% rise from the €240.8 million ($21.6 billion) reported in the third quarter.
This growth was primarily driven by sports betting, with operators reporting a GGR of €141.4 million ($12.69 billion). This figure represents a staggering 223.4% increase compared to the same period last year and is also 52.8% higher than the previous quarter, contributing to a 45.1% overall growth in GGR.
The regulator provided a breakdown of the sports betting sector, highlighting a 108.5% increase in pre-match bets and a 13.8% rise in live betting. Wagering on horse racing saw a 63.6% increase, while other forms of betting rose by 86.8% year-on-year. However, the regulator noted that the fourth quarter of 2022 was exceptional due to the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar in December.
Land-based casinos reported revenues of €142.3 million ($12.77 billion), which is a 32.4% increase compared to the same period in 2021 and an 11.1% rise from the third quarter. Casinos accounted for 45.4% of the industry's GGR, slightly surpassing sports betting. Revenue from slot machines increased by 27.3% year-on-year, while roulette revenue rose by 51.7%. Gross income from poker grew by 26.8%, although bingo revenue fell by 11.5% to €3.6 million ($323.2 million).
The average monthly number of active gaming accounts rose to 1,185,452, reflecting a 22.9% year-on-year increase and a 21.1% rise compared to the third quarter. The average monthly total of new gaming accounts reached 131,095, which is 21.6% lower than in 2021 but still represents a 23.9% increase compared to the third quarter of 2022.
In related news, Sycuan Casino Resort has announced a new partnership with the San Diego Loyal soccer club.
