A recent study by Belgium’s Gaming Commission reveals that while most young adults prefer licensed gambling sites, a notable portion still accesses illegal platforms. Conducted by DataSynergy, the research surveyed 1,001 Belgians aged 18 to 30, highlighting shifting gambling behaviors following rule changes.
Despite the high use of legal sites, 28% of young gamblers in Belgium opt for illegal ones, with 8% using unauthorized services. Legal operators remain dominant in brand recognition, though three of the top ten recognized sites lack Belgian authorization.
The study also shows a preference for online gambling, with 48% gambling online since September 2024 versus 37% in physical venues. Most engage occasionally, but 23% gamble weekly or more and 10% nearly daily.
Word-of-mouth influences site choice, with 32% swayed by friends, while social media and TV ads have less impact, affecting 22% and 13%, respectively.
The survey indicates high awareness of legal gambling—94% could name a legal operator, but only 44% identified an illegal one. This persists despite stricter ad rules from July 2023 and a new minimum gambling age of 21 from September 2024. Nonetheless, platforms like Stake and Bet365 have gained attention.
The Gaming Commission notes this survey builds on 2023 data, tracking regulatory impacts to better understand youth gambling habits and inform policies to reduce illegal site access and promote safer practices.
Notably, participation among 18 to 20-year-olds, now prohibited from gambling, has dropped from 51% in 2023 to 39%, though underage activity continues, highlighting enforcement challenges.
As online betting prevails and peer influence affects choices, the Gaming Commission faces the task of bolstering legal options while addressing the allure of unauthorized operators.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
