Visa and Discovery Bank reveal how spending on entertainment like sports betting surges in South Africa
Streaming, sports betting and digital bookings are among SA’s top ten fastest-growing spending habits, according to a new report by Visa and Discovery Bank.
Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africans are betting big, literally, on online entertainment. According to a newly released consumer spending report from Visa and Discovery Bank, digital entertainment is now among the top ten spending categories in the country.
From binge-worthy streaming to a surge in sports betting and online event bookings, South Africans are leaning into the digital realm not just for convenience, but for connection, excitement and even escape.
“Online entertainment continues to surge,” the report states.
The SpendTrend25 study dives deep into five years of local and global data, examining how spending habits have evolved in response to inflation, tech innovation and lifestyle changes.
Despite a high interest rate environment and tighter household budgets, South Africans are prioritising entertainment, especially in its online form.
With sports betting listed, the trend signals a clear shift: people want on-demand excitement, and they’re finding it in apps, live games and streamed content.
Tech-savvy nation
The findings point to a tech-savvy nation increasingly confident in digital payments and online experiences. The use of digital wallets is on the rise, and omni-channel retail experiences like ordering online and collecting in-store are now the norm.
Yet, it’s the rise of online entertainment that’s turning heads. The demand is about more than fun – it’s about value, variety and flexibility. With a wave of subscription services now expanding into areas like AI tools, groceries and even sports bookings, the digital economy is becoming as diverse as it is dynamic.
And while consumers remain cautious, still favouring cash for budgeting, digital spending is undeniably on the rise, reshaping what leisure looks like in a modern, mobile-first South Africa.
As banks, businesses and brands take note, one thing is clear: online entertainment isn’t just trending, it’s transforming.
