The poker industry is changing constantly, as it is affected by different global trends, life-changing events, and much more. Trying to predict how the poker world might change is not an easy task, as a multitude of complex factors must be taken into account.
Many experts try to perform a global poker market analysis to see where the wind is blowing, and we are here to provide you with a summary of what the data says. Are you ready to find out what you might expect of the poker industry in upcoming years?
The Future of Poker: What 2024 Has in Store for Us
Here are some of the things we need to look at before making any assumptions about the future of poker:
Online Gambling Revenues
According to Statista, the global online gambling market is projected to reach $100 billion in 2024, while Europe will account for $46 billion out of the total generated revenue.
That's after 2023 was predicted to yield worldwide revenues of $89 billion, which is a major jump. By 2030, experts believe the market is expected to reach approximately $193 billion in revenue - if no major catastrophes take place.
And if we look at the US, online poker revenues remained constant throughout 2023. For example, Delaware reported an iGaming revenue of $14 million in 2023, out of which $421,579 was contributed by online poker.
Regional Analysis: Where Will Online Poker be the Most Popular?
Not surprisingly, since Europe is going to be one of the continents to generate the most revenue, it is also expected that more and more European players will join the poker community.
The growth in the expected number of players is attributed to multiple factors, one of which is changes in legislation in countries like Italy, the UK, Poland, Malta, and more. Combined with the high disposable income and high spending on leisure activities, Europe is set to become one of the biggest poker centers in the world.
On the other hand, experts have conflicting opinions about where Asia is heading. Some believe that relaxation in government rules across several Asian countries will give the online gambling market a boost. However, not all Asian countries allow citizens to enjoy online poker. In addition to that, the possible negative mental impact of gambling on players can deter them from playing too often.
Most Popular Poker Variations
If you look at the most popular poker tournaments (like the WSOP or WPT) and online gambling platforms, you will notice that the most popular poker variant is Texas Hold'em. Sometimes, players will diversify a bit by playing Omaha or Seven-Card Stud, but not as frequently.
From time to time, you will see events featuring H.O.R.S.E or Five-Card Stud and other less-popular variants, but that's even less common than the poker games we've mentioned previously.
The popularity of Texas Hold'em seems to be constantly rising, and unless a new poker variant suddenly explodes, it seems as if this trend is here to stay.
Poker Analysis: Most Popular Gambling Options
It seems like live poker games and events are still as loved as they always were, but digital poker options are becoming more popular by the minute. Fans enjoy watching televised poker matches, recreational players follow different poker pros on Discord, and so on.
Moreover, it is expected that the mobile gambling sector will keep evolving and attracting more attention from players in upcoming years. Increasing access to online poker at any time and from anywhere in the world, advanced technology, cutting-edge features, and special mobile bonuses are bound to make this gambling option a favorite amongst players.