A growing number of working South Africans are turning to frequent Sports Betting in an effort to ease monthly financial pressure and supplement their income, as household budgets continue to tighten. According to new data from Old Mutual Corporate, at least 40% of working South Africans are now gambling frequently as a way to cope with financial shortfalls, reflecting increasing strain on household finances.
The findings suggest that gambling is being used by some employees as a response to rising living costs and ongoing financial pressure rather than purely as a form of entertainment. “What we are seeing is a society under strain. Short-term relief is consistently winning over long-term security because many employees simply do not have the financial reserves they need to cope,” said Keri-Lee Edmond, Head of Business Intelligence at Old Mutual Corporate.
She said the issue extends beyond individuals, describing it as a broader workforce challenge that employers need to take into account when supporting staff. The report also references Stats SA data indicating that up to 55% of recreational spending is directed toward gambling activities. “For many, gambling is no longer just entertainment. It is being used to cover daily expenses, manage debt, or attempt to generate income. Statistically, it is not a sustainable financial strategy,” Edmond added.
Recent industry figures highlight the scale of gambling activity in South Africa. In the 2024/25 financial year, South Africans reportedly wagered about R1.1 trillion on betting activities, driven largely by the rapid growth of mobile betting platforms, which have made gambling more accessible and frequent. According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), total gambling expenditure is estimated at around R1.5 trillion, reflecting a significant year-on-year increase.
The findings point to growing financial strain among households, with some workers increasingly relying on high-risk behaviors to manage short-term cash flow challenges. Edmond said employers have an important role to play in addressing the pressure driving these behaviors.
“Support should focus on helping employees manage immediate financial strain while also building longer-term stability,” she said. She added that workplace interventions such as flexible benefits and timely financial guidance could help employees make more informed decisions during periods of financial stress.
