A 2025 survey commissioned by the Belgian Gaming Commission and conducted by DataSynergy has revealed that 84% of young adults aged 18 to 30 use licensed gambling websites, while 28% still access illegal platforms.
The research—based on responses from 1,000 participants—found that legal sites are significantly more recognisable, with 94% of respondents able to name at least one licensed operator, compared to 61% for unlicensed brands. Notably, three of the ten most recognised gambling brands were found to operate without a valid Belgian licence.
Key Findings:
- Online gambling dominates land-based activity: 48% had gambled online, versus 37% who had visited a physical venue.
- Despite advertising restrictions, 53% reported gambling at least once since September 2024.
- 30% play occasionally, 23% gamble weekly or more, and 10% say they gamble nearly every day.
- Peer influence plays a major role: 32% choose platforms based on friends’ recommendations.
- Social media ads (15%) and sports sponsorships (12%) were less influential than word-of-mouth.
These insights come amid growing concern over youth exposure to gambling, with regulators across Europe and beyond introducing tighter restrictions and awareness campaigns. The study’s findings will help shape future policy and public education strategies aimed at curbing illegal gambling access and encouraging responsible gaming among younger demographics. The initiative also mirrors recent moves elsewhere—such as the NFL’s $600,000 research donation—to better understand and address gambling behaviours in younger populations.
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