How Online Gambling Grew From a Niche Idea to a $153B Industry by 2030
The rise of online gambling began in the mid-1990s as the internet became widely accessible. One of the earliest developments was the launch of InterLotto in 1995, marking the start of a booming industry. Since then, online casinos, sportsbooks, and review platforms have spread across the globe. The first major step came in 1994 when Antigua and Barbuda passed the Free Trade & Processing Act. This law allowed the creation of the first online casinos, setting a precedent for digital gambling. By the end of 1996, 15 online casinos were operating, and within a year, that number jumped to 200.
The International Lottery in Liechtenstein Foundation (ILLF) introduced InterLotto in 1995, becoming the first online lottery. As the industry grew, so did the need for guidance. Casino review portals emerged to help players compare bonuses, game selections, and banking options. Sites like kiwigambler now evaluate casinos based on licenses, game catalogues, and payment methods. Regulation has varied by country. New Zealand’s Gambling Act of 2003, for example, bans remote interactive gambling but permits overseas online betting. Meanwhile, the industry has expanded rapidly. Over 85 countries now host online gambling platforms, from casinos to sportsbooks. Affiliate marketing has played a key role in growth. Informational sites promote casinos and sportsbooks, earning commissions for driving traffic. This strategy has helped the industry flourish, with nearly 4,500 online gambling businesses operating globally in 2023.
The online gambling market continues to expand, with projections reaching USD 153.6 billion by 2030. Review platforms, affiliate marketing, and varying regulations have shaped its growth. Today, the industry spans casinos, sportsbooks, and lottery sites across dozens of countries.
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