In the last few decades, the world has moved into an era of national lotteries and sports betting. Countries around the globe have joined the race to become the next most popular resort casino destination. In fact, there are few countries untouched by the trends. Those that have tried to disregard the obvious international flux are typically caught in the throes of illegal activity or have economies still in deep disrepair.

Asian Gambling

One of the most fertile areas on the globe is the Asian countries which are innately competitive and have ancient roots to gambling games. While China is the most outstandingly opposed to gambling, nearly all the rest of the Asian market is designing the next biggest thing to Las Vegas. Furthermore, though the Chinese government is staunchly opposed to gambling, it seems as though the Chinese themselves are quite the opposite.

European Gambling

Europeans invented modern gambling. The history of dice and decks of cards teeters far back into the European cultures, especially the Italians, French and English. Most sources agree that the first modern lotteries emerged from European society as well as the popular card games of Blackjack and Baccarat. The European version of the Roulette wheel was invented by a Frenchman.

Russia and the Baltic Region

If Russia and the Baltic countries are able to stabilize their economies and woo the affections of big gambling investors, their countries stand to reap big benefits, according to many sources. However, there are already suggestions that the region has become rife with problem gamblers whose local economies are so poor they gamble in hopes of a way out from beneath their poverty.

Mexico and Canada

While both Mexico and Canada exist as part of the North American continent, the two countries could not be further apart on gambling position. Not only this, but their attendant economies are at polar opposites.

Gambling Teams and Tournaments

The gambling landscape was turned on its ear when the world began tuning into cable network for poker tournaments. In the last few years, the tournament circuit also includes Blackjack and team poker play. Teams like the Hendon Mob and the Hyland Team have created the exciting opportunity for sports-like team competition.