Sigma Central talks about the global gambling boom

Global gambling is a giant in the entertainment industry, combining thrills, technology and commerce at an unprecedented scale. The overall market revenue, which includes online platforms, casinos, lotteries, and sports betting, is expected to reach $700 billion by 2025.

While “market cap” isn’t typically applied to the entire sector like a single stock, the aggregate valuation of publicly traded gambling firms—such as MGM Resorts, Flutter Entertainment, and DraftKings—surpasses $200 billion (169 billion euros) on global exchanges. Custom estimates that the online gambling segment alone will reach $88 billion in 2025 (74 billion euro). Market InsightsMobile accessibility and regulatory liberalism are the driving forces for this.

Gambling is also a huge part of the world’s population: 2.5 billion people participate in gambling worldwide every year, from casual lotto players to online gamblers. Statista predicts that 200.3 million online users will be active by 2030. Even more positive are the growth projections. The total industry is projected to reach $1 trillion (854 million euros) by 2030. It will be growing at a CAGR of 3.7 percent, with emerging markets from Asia and Latin America driving the growth.

Leading the charge

Grand View Research predicts that online gambling will reach $153.57 billion ($129 billion) by 2030, with a CAGR of 11.9 percent. Market Research Future expects it to be $152.7 billion ($128 billion) by 2035 at a CAGR of 6.75 percent. User numbers Smartphone penetration will reach 7 billion users worldwide by 2030, which will attract younger, tech savvy demographics. This growth is not just financial; it’s also reshaping the economy, creating jobs and sparking discussions on responsible gaming and regulation.

SiGMA Central Europe, the world’s biggest iGaming event, is the event that stands out in this flurry of activity. The inaugural Rome edition, powered by REDCORE and taking place from November 3-6 in 2025 at the cutting edge Fiera Roma venue promises to combine high stakes business with allure of the Eternal City. 

With over 1,000 sponsors and exhibitors from gaming and tech sectors, and 30,000 delegates anticipated, it dwarfs predecessors—SiGMA’s attendee count has ballooned from 1,500 in 2014 to this milestone. SiGMA spokeswoman says “Rome will redefine global gambling summits. It will fuse innovation with Italy’s untouched potential.”

There are high expectations for breakthrough innovations. The four stages of the conference will include AI-driven personalised experiences, blockchain-secured transactions, VR enhanced casinos, and sustainable practice amid regulatory shifts. Sessions on crypto gambling and esports betting will spotlight Europe’s digital frontier, with Italy’s 16 billion euros market—where online revenue is just 25 per cent but growing 5.52 per cent annually to €3.78 billion by 2029 (Statista)—as a focal point. A series of networking galas will be held to honour B2B and C2C pioneers. A highlight: an exclusive concert by Plácido Domingo on November 5 at the Auditorium della Conciliazione, blending culture with commerce.

The size of the event is indicative

It is clear that this event will be newsworthy. The industry is on a collision course with trillion-dollar status. SiGMA Central Europe The largest online market in Europe is located in Italy. This attracts global operators looking to expand. Rome’s centrality—bolstered by Fiumicino and Ciampino airports, efficient metros, and buses—makes it an accessible hub for 60,000-capacity Fiera Roma, already 75,000 square metres sold out. Beyond business, delegates can indulge in “La Dolce Vita”: Michelin-starred dining at spots like Imàgo (Colosseum views) or Pipero Roma’s innovative carbonara, fashion hauls on Via dei Condotti amid Fendi and Bulgari, and cultural gems from the Colosseum to the Capuchin Crypt’s eerie artistry.

Six reasons underscore Rome’s perfection: its connected transport; massive market potential; heritage-meets-modernity vibe (Sistine Chapel to street art in Trastevere); vibrant nightlife with aperitifs and Tiber cruises; “Made in Italy” luxury from bespoke tailoring to bohemian workshops; and Fiera Roma’s expansive, pillar-free pavilions for creative exhibits. As SiGMA evolves into a global leader, this Rome launch signals the industry’s maturation—transparent, innovative, and irresistibly pleasurable. SiGMA.World tickets are on sale now before the prices increase. The Eternal City is waiting.