The DSWV, however, insists the total amount wagered in 2021 was €9.4bn, a significant deviation from the figures presented by the DHS.
The DSWV disputed the accuracy of the DHS report, citing incorrect data or miscalculation as the reason for the disparity in the figures.
The trade body claimed the market grew by 21% in 2021 compared to the previous year, and that the yearbook was wrong to suggest that figures for 2022 were not yet available.
The DSWV has published figures for the German sports betting market on its website since 2014.
According to the DSWV, total handle in fact reached €8.2bn last year, representing a decline.Last month, the association attributed that decline to Germany’s restrictive regulations, which it said has prompted customers to turn to unregulated operators.
A market study conducted by the DSWV in February 2023 reported a 65% increase in active offshore gambling and sports betting offers compared to the previous year.
In March, DSWV president Mathias Dahms (pictured) commented: “For most customers, whether a provider has a permit from Germany is secondary.
“They are looking for the most comprehensive offer, the best odds, uncomplicated payment processes and interesting bonuses. That’s where the legal offers have a hard time.”
However, German regulator GGL has disputed the DSWV’s own findings, claiming the sports betting channelisation rate in Germany is over 95%.
This would mean that less than 5% of stakes are placed with unregulated operators, which is at best unlikely and is a figure that has been met with derision from the industry itself.
