South Africa Gambling Crisis: 4 in 10 Workers Bet to Cover Debt, Financial Strain Worsens

A staggering 42% of South African workers now turn to gambling to cover living expenses and debt, according to a new report from Old Mutual. The financial services firm’s 2026 Savings and Investments Monitor reveals a growing reliance on betting as a desperate measure to make ends meet, particularly among lower- and middle-income earners.

The survey, which polled individuals aged 18 to 65 earning at least R8,000 (US$484) monthly, highlights a troubling trend: 42% of respondents admitted to gambling frequently in hopes of generating income to cover expenses or debt. The report emphasizes that this behavior is markedly more prevalent among those earning between R8,000 and R15,000 monthly, with 52% of this demographic betting to address financial struggles. Younger adults, aged 18 to 29, are even more affected, with 58% turning to gambling to pay bills.

“Of concern is that 42% of working South Africans acknowledge they gamble frequently hoping to make money that can cover some of their expenses and debt,” the report states.

The financial toll of gambling is severe: 22% of respondents now struggle to cover monthly expenses due to their betting habits, nearly double the 12% reported in 2025. When asked if gambling has led to financial difficulty, 41% answered “Yes,” while 16% said “Yes, often.”

Sports betting remains the dominant form of gambling, with 63% of gamblers wagering on sports. Casino slots follow at 46%, the lottery at 42%, and casino table games at 26%. Horse wagering is less common, with only 11% participation. Frequency of gambling is high, with 10% betting daily, 32% gambling two to three times a week, and 23% playing once a week.

Despite the financial strain, overall gambling participation in South Africa has remained steady at 53%, with higher engagement among those earning between R15,000 and R29,999 (58%) compared to those earning over R60,000 (48%).

South Africa’s gambling industry, which includes land-based casinos, iGaming, sports betting, and the national lottery, has long been a revenue source for the government. However, the rise in problem gambling raises concerns about the social and economic impact on vulnerable populations.