1. United States — Total Gambling Loss: $116.9 Billion

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The United States tops the list with a staggering total loss of $116.9 billion in 2024. Approximately 62% of Americans admitted to gambling during the past year. Major gambling activities include:

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• - Lotteries
• - Casinos
• - Sports Betting
• - Slot Machines

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Since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, the industry has exploded. For example, 26% of American adults placed bets on the Super Bowl in 2024, amounting to nearly $23.1 billion in wagers, a jump of $7 billion from the previous year.

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2. China — Total Gambling Loss: $62.4 Billion

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Despite gambling being illegal in mainland China, the country ranks second with $62.4 billion in annual losses. The state allows certain forms of gambling, such as:

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• - Welfare Lottery
• - Sports Lottery

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Additionally, underground gambling, including clandestine casinos and games like mahjong, is prevalent. In Macau, where gambling is legal, the gross gaming revenue reached $22.3 billion in 2023.

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3. Japan — Total Gambling Loss: $24.1 Billion

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Japan's strict gambling laws have not hindered its gambling culture, which results in total losses of $24.1 billion. The government regulates certain activities, such as:

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• - Public Racing (horse, powerboat, bicycle)
• - Pachinko Games

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These regulated forms of gambling contribute to Japan's high ranking in global gambling losses.

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4. Italy — Total Gambling Loss: $19 Billion

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Italy has embraced gambling since loosening restrictions in 2006, leading to $19 billion in total losses. The country’s historical connection to games like Baccarat and its vibrant casino scene in cities like Venice and Milan have fueled this growth.

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5. Australia — Total Gambling Loss: $18.3 Billion

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With $18.3 billion lost, Australia ranks fifth. An estimated 40% of Australians gamble regularly, with a strong concentration in New South Wales, where over 87,000 electronic gambling machines operate. The country also faces significant gambling addiction issues, with 80,000 to 160,000 adults struggling with gambling-related problems.

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6. United Kingdom — Total Gambling Loss: $18 Billion

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The UK reports total gambling losses of $18 billion, with a significant shift towards online betting, which comprises 52% of the market. The online gambling sector is projected to generate $16.39 billion in revenue in 2024, driven by an increase in remote gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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7. Canada — Total Gambling Loss: $12.4 Billion

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Canada experiences $12.4 billion in gambling losses, with licensed facilities being the only legal venues. About two-thirds of Canadians gamble each year, predominantly on lotteries. The online gambling market is also expanding, expected to grow by 6.39% between 2024 and 2029.

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8. Germany — Total Gambling Loss: $11.2 Billion

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Germany’s gambling losses reach $11.2 billion, primarily from slot machines (36%) and state lotteries (30%). With around 1.3 million adults facing gambling disorders, the issue is becoming increasingly concerning.

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9. France — Total Gambling Loss: $10.4 Billion

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France’s gambling industry, with losses of $10.4 billion, boasts a rich history, including the invention of the roulette wheel. Approximately half of the French population participates in gambling activities annually, particularly in horse racing and national lotteries.

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10. Spain — Total Gambling Loss: $8.9 Billion

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Spain rounds out the top ten with $8.9 billion in gambling losses. Although participation is high, most Spaniards prefer low-risk options like national lotteries, with only about 18% engaging in higher-risk activities such as casinos or sports betting.

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Conclusion

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Gambling continues to be a popular form of entertainment in many countries, despite its risks and potential for addiction. As regulations and technologies evolve, gambling behaviors and trends are likely to change, impacting how and where individuals place their bets.