More South Africans are turning to gambling as a way of coping with rising living costs and financial pressures, with a new survey highlighting growing concerns over the use of betting to cover everyday expenses and debt.

The findings are contained in the Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor 2026, which found that 53% of working South Africans gamble, while 42% said they often gamble in the hope of generating money to help cover expenses or repay debt.

The trend is particularly pronounced among lower-income earners, raising concerns about gambling increasingly being viewed as a financial coping mechanism rather than solely a form of entertainment.

Sports Betting Leads Gambling Activity

Sports betting emerged as the most popular form of gambling among respondents, with 63% saying they participate.

It was followed by slots at 46% and lottery at 42%. Meanwhile, 26% reported participating in casino table games, while 11% bet on horse racing.

The figures highlight the continued popularity of betting and gaming products among working South Africans, while also pointing to the financial pressures influencing gambling behaviour.

More Gamblers Reporting Financial Difficulties

One of the most concerning findings from the report is the sharp increase in the number of working South Africans who say gambling has contributed to financial difficulties.

The proportion rose to 22% in 2026, up from 12% in 2025.

The report also found that gambling specifically to generate money for expenses or debt was more common among lower-income respondents. Among those earning between R8,000 and R14,999 per month, 52% said they often gamble for this reason.

The findings suggest that financial vulnerability may be influencing gambling behaviour, particularly among households already facing difficulties meeting their financial obligations.

Cost-of-Living Pressures Add to Concerns

The findings come against the backdrop of continued pressure on South African household budgets.

Inflation reached 5% in June, with higher transport costs, housing and utilities contributing to the increase. As everyday expenses rise, some consumers appear to be looking towards gambling as a potential source of additional income.

However, the growing number of people reporting gambling-related financial difficulties highlights the risks associated with relying on betting as a way to manage household finances.

The findings are likely to add to ongoing conversations around responsible gambling, consumer protection and financial literacy, particularly as sports betting and other forms of gambling become increasingly accessible through digital platforms.

For the South African gaming industry, the report also reinforces the importance of ensuring that gambling remains positioned as entertainment rather than a solution to financial hardship.