Nationwide has published details regarding its customers' spending habits. The building society noted that, in 2025, its customers spent 9% more on gambling, than in the previous year. BonusFinder, an online casino comparison site, reveals all.
The report also highlighted a corresponding 7% increase in the number of gambling transactions made, and said the top 10% of gambling spenders spend an average of £745 per month on the activity.
The world's largest building society has 15 million members, giving it a unique insight into the nation's spending habits.
And, in light of the gambling spend increase, the Swindon-headquartered business also surveyed 2,000 gamblers. 68% of those asked said they expected to spend more on gambling this year.
The World Cup factor
Major sporting events like the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico this summer, account for the projected increase in spending.
Globally, $35bn was bet on the 2022 Qatar World Cup – up 65% from the 2018 Russia World Cup. If this year's spectacle follows a similar trajectory, global spend could reach as high as $50bn across six weeks.
Problem gambling support
Nationwide is concerned that it will attract new bettors, and see an increase in problem gambling rates.
The company's Head of Customer Vulnerability, Kathryn Townsend, said: "With a year of major sporting events ahead, we're concerned that more people could find themselves gambling more than they can afford. That's why early identification and strong safeguards matter.
"At Nationwide, we know gambling can be a very emotionally charged activity, which is why we've deliberately built in a 72-hour cooling-off period for our gambling block – which offers an additional layer of protection and helps people to stay in control. No one should feel they have to face gambling harm alone – help is available, without judgement, whenever they need it."
UK banks offer gamlbing blocks
Most banks and building societies, including Nationwide, offer gambling blocks on their accounts, although one in five survey respondents said they were unaware of this service.
Nationwide also works with the gambling support service, GamCare, to offer additional support. GamCare provides a 24 hour helpline, as well as counselling and other services.
The non-profit charity said its National Gambling Helpline received 105,765 support requests in 2025. In January 2026, it referred 996 callers to support systems, an increase of 48% compared to last year.
GamCare's Senior Partnerships Manager, Raminta Diliso, said: "Gambling harm is often a very hidden issue but the problems it can cause people can be significant. Financial difficulties, mental health struggles and relationship challenges are all common impacts facing those who are struggling with gambling."
"In a year where big sporting events such as the World Cup may be a trigger for those impacted, we want people to know there are things people can do to reduce the impact gambling is having on them. Activating gambling blocks, such as the one offered by Nationwide, and contacting GamCare's National Gambling Helpline for free are great steps if you are struggling."
