Gaming, in general, is a massive business around the world. The numbers of the mobile, video game, console, and online casino players are constantly on the rise.
Over 52 million euros was spent globally on online gambling alone last year. This number is expected to double by 2024. Finnish and American players are both active gamblers, but what differences do these two countries have?
The basis is different
Even as a small country, Finland is home to many gamblers. There are only two brick-and-mortar casinos in Finland, and therefore Finns prefer to gamble online, for example, on online casinos with no registration for Finnish players.
In the USA, on the other hand, almost all big cities have several brick-and-mortar casinos, so American players have a lot more choice in this matter. Due to these fundamental differences, the basis of gambling in these two countries is different.
Finns would need to travel hundreds of kilometers to enjoy the authentic casino atmosphere, and usually, it’s not an option for the majority. Finns prefer to play online or on physical slot machines found in markets or cafes.
In the USA, casinos and slot machines are standard and quickly found. Then again, online gambling is more restricted and even banned in some parts of the USA, limiting online options.
Diversity of the gambling laws
Finland’s gambling is under the government-owned monopoly of Veikkaus, but Finns are legally allowed to play in foreign-based online casinos. However, gaming companies can’t legally operate or offer gambling activities inside Finnish borders.
The USA has it different. Each state can make their stand on gambling. So far, about one-fifth of the states have legalized online gambling. Some states allow sports betting but ban playing online poker or casino games. Also, if you get caught playing illegally, you’ll be fined and can be sentenced to a maximum five-year prison sentence.
Finnish vs American gambler
When comparing gamblers from these two countries, you have to take notice of the differences in options. Finns have only two brick-and-mortar casinos as the USA, a country known for its luxurious casino scene faces stricter restrictions on online gambling.
Approximately 64 % of all American adults gamble online at least once a year. In Finland, the number is 74 %. The average player in both countries is a 40 years-old male. Finns prefer slots and scratch cards, but Americans also love blackjack, poker and roulette with slots.
The significant differences can be seen in the way gamblers play and what games they play. Finns prefer to gamble online, but more diverse Americans can enjoy the best of both worlds: online and brick-and-mortar casinos.
