Spanish online gambling increased in 2014

From the €65.6 million that was generated in the last three months of 2014, 52% of that came from sports betting. Poker came in second with 23% of the generated income and casino games brought in 8%.

The increase in revenue during Q4 can be attributed to the increased amount of money spent on advertising by online operators during that same quarter. According to the regulator, operators invested 59% more in the fourth quarter than in the previous three quarters of 2014.

The Spanish online market is expected to continue its growth in 2015, especially since the regulator re-opened its licensing window and approved the addition of slots to online casinos.

Spain's re-opened licensing window means that new operators will have the chance to receive licensing and operate legally in the country. About twelve new licensees are expected to apply for permits to open up shop in Spain, including some big names such as Eurobet and Everest.

Additionally, gambling websites that currently operate legally in Spain can apply for a permit to add slots and/or exchange betting to their existing websites.

In Italy, when operators were allowed to add slot games to casino sites, the market grew by more than 60% in just a little over a year. Spain is hopeful for the same, or better, results. The Spanish market is relatively new, having allowed online gambling in June 2012. In just three years, they have come a long way, and they hope to continue even further.