Nearly 40% of employed South Africans now gamble regularly to bridge monthly financial gaps, boost their income, and cope with increasing household financial strain. This is according to new data from Old Mutual Corporate, which finds that gambling is increasingly being used by some employees as a way to cope with growing financial strain.

“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.” Keri-Lee Edmond, Head of Business Intelligence at Old Mutual Corporate

Edmond added that the issue is no longer limited to individuals but is becoming a broader workplace concern: “This is no longer an individual challenge. It is a workforce-wide issue that employers need to factor into how they support their people.” The report also notes that Stats SA estimates that up to 55% of what is classified as recreational spending at a national level is directed toward gambling activities.

“Our research shows that for many South Africans, this is no longer just about recreation or entertainment,” Edmond said. “Individuals are gambling to meet daily needs and expenses, pay off debt, or in an attempt to secure higher incomes. Statistically, we know this is not a sustainable way to improve financial outcomes.”

Last year, IOL reported that South Africans wagered R1.1 trillion on betting activities during the 2024/25 financial year, largely driven by the growth of mobile betting apps, which have made gambling a daily habit for millions. According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), gambling in the country is continuing to rise, with more than R1.5 trillion spent across all gambling activities, an increase of R400 billion from the previous year alone.

“Employees need support that helps them manage immediate financial pressure while also building long-term stability,” Edmond said. “Employers can make a meaningful difference by offering responsible benefit flexibility, alongside timely and targeted financial guidance that helps employees make confident decisions at key moments.”