South Africans are spending money meant for groceries to try their luck on online gambling.
Trade Intelligence, a Durban-based market research firm, revealed this as one of the study’s biggest findings.
The previous surge in online gambling popularity has revealed its dark side. An online survey reflecting this trend attracted 700 respondents in December.
Trade Intelligence reveals that money meant for groceries is bearing the brunt as South Africans divert funds into online gambling.
The firm said respondents were asked to choose from 10 categories where online gambling money could have been spent. On average, each respondent picked 2.2 categories. Groceries and household essentials topped the list, while fast food and takeaways came in a distant second.
Data from the National Gambling Board shows that South Africans wagered around R1.5 trillion in 2024–2025. This is nearly one-third higher than the previous financial year. The bulk of it and the growth impetus appears to be coming from online gambling.
Trade Intelligence notes that people visit online gambling sites mainly to win money. Excitement, entertainment, or escapism come second.
The research found that almost two out of three players said winning money was definitely a reason they gamble.
Trade Intelligence states that most of the remaining players admit they lose more than they win. About 25% don’t track what they spend, win, or lose, while half of these players say it depends when asked if they generally win or lose.
It says that the combination of these two findings underscores the desperation ineherent in online gambling. Players are trying to make money to buy things such as groceries, yet they are simultaneously jeopardizing the ability of their household to afford these basic essentials through gambling with grocery money.
