Market Shift in Spain: Casino & Slots Surge While Live betting & Poker Decline – Q2 2025 DGOJ Report Analysis

The second quarter of 2025 confirms an important market turn that for many is going unnoticed: vertical bets,casino and slots grow while live bets and poker fall. We review the most relevant data of the T-2 summary that the DGOJ has just published and discover what is behind the weakening of these two products.

The evolution of the main variables that each quarter shares the General Directorate of Game Management continues to show a solid and stable market as we see in the simple reading of the main graphics and figures. In addition, expectations are still generated among operators, affiliates and international suppliers that still do not have Spain among their priorities. However, beyond the significant advancement of data such as the GGR (That a 18.60% with respect to the same quarter of 2024); Explained by a growth in counterpart bets, in casino games and in slots, we have considered one step further and we have tried to find the reasons that explain the descents in segments of the game that now seem in a clear deterioration.

The key data of quarter 2 of 2025 (April, May, June)

First, it highlights how the GGR (Gross Gaming Revenue) total reaches the 410.26 million euros which means that the margin obtained by the operators – dating bonds and awards – grows a +2,79% Regarding the previous quarter and an outstanding +18,60% Facing the second quarter of 2024.

This growth is especially meritorious when analyzing the different game products since, such as, in June 2024 the 2024 Eurocup groups phase was played while in the second half of June 2025 the largest sporting event was the World Cup with Clubs with Atlético de madrid and Real Madrid matches in the United States. Thus, that the impact on the GGR of sports bets reaches 41.78%, it is still good news for the segment in which it is being invested in advertising. Also Casino games (which mean 52.74% of the total GGR, driven by slots, live roulette and the boom of Blackjack) continue to demonstrate that after their fall in relevance in the 2023 and 2024, they suppose most of the margin.

On the contrary, the impact of poker (4.66%) and bingo (0.82%) continues to fall considerably and consolidate a constant setback year after year, especially in the second and third quarter of the year. obviously the concern about the future of Poker operators is a reality as it has been uncommon in the fourteen years of regulated market see 25% falls both with respect to the previous quarter and comparing it with the same quarter of the previous year.in particular, Póquer tournaments are pointed out as the type of game that falls the most, with a -32,04%.

At the marketing and promotional activity data level, promotions (bonds) drop 6.63% compared to the anterior quarter, but they grow year -on -year +33,21%. In fact, it is estimated that bonds released in prizes reach € 32.70 m, while other types of promotions (not included in prizes) would exceed € 49.94m.

In any case, new accounts fall (11,64% regarding the first quarter) and active accounts also fall into a 2,41% Regarding the same data published in the first quarter.

Live Betting’s Decline: why Players Are Shifting Back to Pre-Match

Live betting, once a rapidly growing segment of the online gambling market, is experiencing a noticeable slowdown. Several factors appear to be contributing to this shift, with players increasingly returning to customary pre-match betting. It truly seems operators and affiliates alike are observing this trend.

One key reason is the advice given by betting operators themselves. They generally recommend planning more bets and analyzing them carefully, suggesting players avoid the quick decisions often required by live betting.It’s a strategy that emphasizes thoughtful consideration over immediate reaction.

Moreover, a robust risk management strategy for betting houses frequently enough leads to less focus on live betting. Live markets are more complex to model and can result in significant losses if trading errors occur. This complexity can also create opportunities for experienced bettors using automated systems.Many operators have responded by reducing the depth and variety of live markets, instead concentrating promotional efforts on pre-match options.

This shift is reflected in promotional offers. Live bets are frequently excluded from major promotions, like welcome bonuses. This makes pre-match betting more appealing to players seeking extra value.

Affiliates, especially those comparing odds, also point to the popularity of promotions centered around pre-match markets.Offers like “over 2 goals,” “scorer substitute” bets, and enhanced odds on combined bets are attracting players and driving activity towards pre-match options.

Recent reports indicate a decrease in new accounts – a significant 11.64% drop compared to the first quarter. This suggests a slower rate of player acquisition. Considering the generally less competitive odds in live betting, experienced players often prefer pre-match markets, where they typically find higher potential returns.

The Drastic Decrease in Poker

While operators like Winamax continue to host online tournament series with guaranteed prizes, the overall trend shows a decline in poker participation.