The conclusion of the FIFA World Cup has led to a shift in the global iGaming landscape. Following the tournament's end on June 19 and the ongoing off-season for domestic leagues, many markets are experiencing a noticeable reduction in acquisition interest, primarily due to the lack of significant sporting events. This week’s reporting period, from July 20 to July 26, brought about substantial changes across various iGaming sectors worldwide as they adjusted to this post-World Cup scenario.
Without the daily matches that had engaged audiences, numerous markets faced declines, particularly those reliant on their national teams and corresponding betting activities.
**Top 5 Gainers of the Week**
– **The Netherlands (+23.5%)**
The highest growth rate this week was seen in the Netherlands, spurred by the return of club football. While the European leagues remain on summer break, early continental qualification matches became a crucial source of demand, elevating interest in the Dutch iGaming sector.
– **Angola (+13.9%)**
After a significant drop of 23.4% the prior week, Angola experienced a rebound resulting from new regulatory developments. This sparked increased interest in topics such as licensing, compliance, and market access, contributing to a renewed focus in the sector.
– **Venezuela (+9.2%)**
The revival of club football in Venezuela also influenced the market positively. This week, interest surged, particularly due to a notable match that was relocated following the earthquakes in June.
– **Switzerland (+9%)**
Switzerland attributed its growth to lottery activities, demonstrating that even in periods with a lower frequency of sports events, lotteries can effectively stimulate the iGaming industry.
– **Tunisia (+8.6%)**
In Tunisia, increased participation in national sports activities has generated higher interest in the iGaming market.
**Top 5 Decliners of the Week**
– **Singapore (-58.3%)**
Singapore recorded the largest drop this week, attributed to a decrease in World Cup-related demand amid heightened enforcement measures. Following the World Cup final on July 19, Singapore Police announced intensified enforcement efforts from May 1 to July 20, which compounded the impact of the post-tournament slump.
– **Panama (-41.5%)**
In Panama, the decline can be explained by the end of the World Cup momentum, resulting in a typical post-event correction, bringing activities back to more normal levels.
– **Slovenia (-39.8%)**
Similar to Panama, Slovenia experienced a decline indicative of a standard post-World Cup adjustment, rather than any regulatory interference.
– **Peru (-38.9%)**
Peru's drop stemmed from two factors: a decrease in tournament-related demand coupled with stringent market restrictions.
– **Mali (-36.8%)**
Mali's decline was impacted by both the aftermath of the World Cup and supply-side disruptions. The country's regulators suspended agreements with BET 223, Premier Bet, and 1xBet due to tax disputes on July 22.
**Market Spotlight: Singapore (-58.3%)**
Singapore's marked reduction in activity highlights how the conclusion of the World Cup's demand and intensified regulatory actions can negatively affect the market. The dual pressures of no ongoing major sporting events and increased enforcement against illegal gambling created a significant downturn in acquisition intent.
As observed in Singapore, the drop in engagement can be swift following a major sporting event, particularly when it coincides with regulatory crackdowns.
