1 in 6 Swedes have played online casino games, survey finds
The research found notable demographic differences between casino and betting players.
Sweden.- A new survey by affiliate Casinofeber has found that online gambling was a significant pastime in Sweden in 2025. Nearly one in six respondents (18 per cent) reported playing online casino games, while close to one in five (24 per cent) placed bets online.
The research, conducted between July 3 and 17 2025, gathered responses from 3,463 people, including 1,004 active igaming participants. Of these, 501 completed the casino-focused survey and 503 took part in the betting survey.
Slots continue to dominate in the casino segment, with 49 per cent of respondents citing them as their preferred option. Among sports bettors, football was the clear leader, with 63 per cent wagering on the sport.
The study found notable demographic differences between casino and betting players. Men accounted for 62 per cent of the betting group, while casino gaming appeared to show a more balanced gender split with 55 per cent of players being male. Most participants were in their 30s or 40s and employed full-time.
Spending levels were generally modest. The majority reported monthly gambling costs either under SEK99 (just over €9) or between SEK200 and SEK999 (up to €100). Only 17 per cent of casino players and 10 per cent of bettors said they spent SEK1,000 or more per month.
Knowledge gaps around licensing were evident. Some 65 per cent of casino players said they did not know how to verify whether an operator was licensed by the Swedish gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, while 18 per cent acknowledged using unlicensed sites. Spelinspektionen itself estimated an 85 per cent channelisation rate in 2024.
Bonus use and withdrawal issues also surfaced: 35 per cent of casino players had redeemed bonuses, but 27 per cent said they had experienced problems, often due to unclear terms or difficulties cashing out winnings. While just over half described withdrawals as smooth, a significant minority reported recurring complications.
Reforms of Swedish gambling legislation are expected following the review of the Swedish Gambling Act of 2018 by investigator Marcus Isgren last year. Isgren’s report recommended amending the legislation to expand the definition of illegal gambling operators.
In late 2025, Erik Eldhagen was appointed state secretary for gambling regulation under financial markets minister Niklas Wykman. From April, a complete ban on gambling with credit will come into force.
