The analytical platform Blask has shared its latest weekly report on the week-over-week dynamics of iGaming markets based on the Blask Index. Here are the key highlights:
Biggest Growth:
- 36.7% β Turkey: The strongest growth of the week, recovering from a 25.2% increase the previous week, as the media coverage of the Paymix-3 investigation concluded and suppressed demand returned to normal.
- 24.8% β Spain: On May 26, the regulator blocked the unlicensed prediction market platforms Polymarket and Kalshi, prompting local players to seek available competitors in the country.
- 22.2% β France: The UEFA Champions League final on May 30, where Paris Saint-Germain defeated Arsenal, triggered a surge in betting activity.
- 20.1% β Hungary: Budapest hosted the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in history, boosting gambling activity in the country.
- 18.8% β Botswana: No specific reason identified for the growth.
Biggest Decline:
- 29% β Colombia: A week without matches in the national football league Primera A during the break between semifinals and the final on June 3 and 9 left the market without significant events.
- 23% β Haiti: A second consecutive week of noticeable interest decline without major sporting events or regulatory changes, as the market returns to normal after elevated levels last month.
- 22.5% β Republic of Congo: Player interest is returning to normal levels after a one-time spike last week, with no new growth triggers.
- 20.6% β Tanzania: Regulatory pressure amidst government threats to unlicensed bookmakers has made access to resources difficult, and brands have reduced promotional activity.
- 17.6% β Ecuador: No specific reason identified during the reporting period.
According to Blask analysts, the illegal betting market in Turkey is estimated at $10 billion, placing the country third among 134 tracked nations. As pressure on the illegal segment eases, demand in the country returns naturally, without new marketing incentives or promotions. In early June, new updates on the Paymix-3 investigation may reignite interest among Turkish players, while the Spanish market stabilizes as players adapt by accessing blocked Polymarket and Kalshi via VPN. Warnings from Tanzanian authorities to unlicensed bookmakers risk escalating into blockages and fines.