The gaming landscape in Denmark witnessed remarkable expansion in the initial months of 2016, driven by a surge in wagering on sporting events and digital casino entertainment. This upswing mirrors a worldwide pattern of escalating interest in internet-based gambling.
The Danish regulatory body for gambling, Spillemyndigheden, announced that the overall gaming income (GGR) reached 975 million Danish kroner (approximately $145 million USD), a substantial 30% rise compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year. Internet gambling emerged as the clear leader, constituting a significant 78% of the total GGR.
Internet-based sports wagering generated 585 million Danish kroner, a 33% year-over-year increase, with digital platforms representing 64% of all sports bets.
The online casino segment wasn’t far behind, exhibiting a 25% revenue surge, reaching 390 million Danish kroner. While online poker remained stable at roughly 40 million Danish kroner over the past two years, the expansion in other casino games, notably slots, fueled the overall success of the online casino sector.
Speaking of slots, they commanded the largest portion of online casino game revenue at 68%, overshadowing poker’s 12% share.
As of April 2016, Denmark had granted 40 licenses to 27 authorized gambling entities – 15 licenses for betting and 25 for online casinos, signifying a well-structured market.
Traditional casinos also enjoyed growth, with revenue ascending from 75 million to 95 million Danish kroner. Denmark boasts seven land-based casinos, encompassing establishments in Aarhus and Copenhagen, and even one situated on the ferry line linking the two cities.