Need to know: Nationwide reports 9% surge in customer gambling spending
- Nationwide Building Society has reported a 9% surge in customer gambling spending in January compared to the same month last year, with transactions rising 7%.
- The building society’s data reveals the top 10% of gambling spenders part with an average of £745 monthly.
- A survey of 2,000 gamblers found two-thirds expect to bet more in 2026 due to major sporting events. However, 19% remain unaware that banks offer gambling blocks on accounts.
- Kathryn Townsend, head of customer vulnerability for Nationwide, said: “With a year of major sporting events ahead, we’re concerned that more people could find themselves gambling more than they can afford.”
- Nationwide has built in a 72-hour cooling-off period for its gambling block feature. GamCare charity warns gambling harm often remains hidden but causes significant financial and mental health problems.
READ THE FULL STORY: New Nationwide message to customers as ‘£745 leaves accounts’
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