KEY INSIGHTS FROM THE TGM GLOBAL GAMBLING & BETTING REPORT 2024

How Brands Engage First-Time and Occasional Bettors in APAC

Learn how brands can capture the growing segment of occasional and first-time bettors in APAC’s dynamic sports betting market. The TGM Global Gambling & Sports Betting Report 2024 reveals actionable strategies to boost appeal and loyalty among these new audiences.

Written by

Fion

Fion Lau was the voice behind TGM’s data stories, where raw numbers turn into vivid insights. With an approachable style, she brought consumer behavior to life, making trends are understandable and memorable.

The Asia Pacific sports betting market has seen significant growth, valued at USD 28.09 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2024 to 2030, according to Grand View Research. This rapid expansion, largely fueled by increased mobile accessibility and user-friendly platforms, has drawn in a range of new audiences. For this article, we define “occasional bettors” as those who place bets less than once a year, once a year, or only a few times annually—often treating betting as an entertainment-based activity rather than a habitual pursuit.

Despite the low frequency of betting, the combined spending of occasional bettors represents a substantial opportunity for brands. Findings from the TGM Global Gambling & Sports Betting Report 2024 reveal that many casual bettors in the APAC region are drawn to casino-style games or sports betting as a form of relaxation and entertainment. Here, we’ll explore key strategies to attract these bettors, foster brand loyalty, and highlight the appeal of simplicity, low-risk options, and the social enjoyment of betting.

Offer Attractive Rewards and Promotions

For brands, enticing occasional bettors can start with value-driven bonuses, rewards, and promotions tailored to this demographic’s preferences. Offering free bets, deposit matches, or cashback can encourage these users to engage without feeling pressured into higher-stakes gambling. Personalized rewards based on individual betting history make these offers even more attractive, aligning with users’ interests and previous betting activities.

For example, 59% of APAC respondents in our survey indicated that they would be more likely to engage in betting if they could earn rewards for participation, such as sign-up bonuses or contest entries. For occasional bettors, such perks act as invitations to re-engage in a low-risk, enjoyable way, sparking interest without a strong financial commitment.

59% of APAC respondents in our survey indicated that they would be more likely to engage in betting if they could earn rewards for participation

Simplify the Betting Experience with User-Friendly Features

lottery, online slots/card games are common betting activities

Occasional bettors tend to gravitate towards straightforward, low-risk betting options due to time constraints or lack of experience navigating complex betting systems. Simplifying the betting experience with intuitive, easy-to-navigate platforms can be essential in appealing to this audience. A significant portion of this demographic, for instance, engages in lottery-style games (39%) and online slots (18%), with others opting for online card games (12%) and gaming machines (11%).

Creating accessible interfaces that feature “Quick Bet” or “One-Click Bet” options can allow these bettors to place small, predefined bets with minimal effort.

Adding tutorials or beginner-friendly guides also helps ease new users into the experience without feeling overwhelmed, giving them confidence to explore more options. By emphasizing clear, low-complexity betting opportunities, brands can create a welcoming environment that accommodates users at various comfort levels.

Highlight the Fun and Social Aspects of Betting

While high-stakes bettors may be motivated by potential winnings, occasional bettors often value the entertainment factor. Many find that placing small bets can make watching sports more engaging, adding excitement without financial stress. In fact, 30% of occasional bettors in the APAC region cite the thrill of the experience as primary motivator, while 25% say betting enhances the enjoyment of following a game.

Brands can emphasize the fun, camaraderie, and social engagement aspects of betting by framing it as an activity that enriches sports events. Offering options for small-stake betting pools among friends or hosting interactive challenges can resonate well with casual bettors, positioning betting as a way to elevate the sports-watching experience rather than a serious financial endeavor.

betting for thrill of experience and makes game interesting

>> Explore gamification techniques tailored for first-time bettors in APAC.

Use Personalized Notifications to Drive Engagement

bets prompted by targeted ads and real time betting

Since occasional bettors may not follow a set betting schedule, well-timed and personalized notifications can help brands stay top-of-mind. Delivering reminders about upcoming events, matches, or games tied to users' interests—such as their favorite teams or players—can encourage spontaneous participation. Striking a balance between engaging and non-intrusive notifications is crucial; brands should focus on enhancing users' natural interests rather than overwhelming them with constant alerts.

Insights show that 35% of bettors in the APAC region have been prompted to place a bet due to targeted advertisements or promotional offers, and 56% have shown an interest in real-time betting.

By offering live betting options and timely reminders during games, brands can engage bettors in the moment, making betting feel more spontaneous and connected to the excitement of the event. This immediate, real-time aspect caters to occasional bettors' desire for entertainment and may encourage them to engage more regularly.

>> Discover ethical marketing practices for engaging new bettors in the APAC market.

Capturing and Retaining the First-Time and Occasional Bettor Segment

The APAC betting market is expanding rapidly, presenting brands with a unique chance to connect with occasional bettors. By prioritizing user-friendly platforms, offering enticing rewards, and fostering a sense of social enjoyment, brands can build meaningful engagement with this emerging audience.

Unlock the FULL latest insights into gambling and sports betting in your desired country. Buy the APAC Gambling & Sports Betting Report 2024 to gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping these industries.

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