Gambling sector predictions: what’s next for global iGaming in 2026

As the industry enters 2026, iGamingBusiness has brought together leading CEOs, advisors and industry voices to reflect on what lies ahead after one of the most turbulent years the sector has experienced.

A strong theme emerging from the discussion is that regulation and compliance will continue to define strategic outcomes, not just market access. Fragmented enforcement, supplier licensing, and the persistent challenge of illegal market channelisation are increasingly shaping how sustainable markets are built and protected.

Commenting on these trends, Peter Emolemo Kesitilwe , CEO of the African iGaming Alliance, highlighted the growing importance of practical, enforceable regulation that aligns taxation, compliance costs and player protection, particularly in emerging and fast-growing markets. The focus, he notes, must shift from reactive “whack-a-mole” approaches to systems that incentivise channelisation, compliance and long-term investment.

On consolidation, contributors agreed that M&A activity is becoming more selective. Scale alone is no longer the goal. Instead, CEOs are prioritising resilience, strong local positioning and disciplined capital allocation, especially as regulatory and tax pressures intensify globally.

The message for 2026 is clear:
✔️ Compliance expectations are rising
✔️ Strategic clarity is a competitive advantage
✔️ Sustainable growth will favour operators and markets built for the long term

At AiA, we remain committed to advancing constructive regulatory dialogue, Africa-relevant policy solutions and collaboration between regulators, operators and governments to support healthy, sustainable iGaming ecosystems.