Spanish Gamers Credit Card Expenditure Doubles the European Median, According to Visa
New data from Visa, a global leader in digital payments, reveals that Spanish gamers spend nearly twice as much as the average Visa card user in Europe. Additionally, they make more than double the number of transactions annually, establishing themselves as one of the most active and engaged audiences on the continent.
Gaming-related spending in Europe has seen a significant 16.7% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year. This growth far outpaces other sectors such as travel (60% less), fashion (75% less), and theater and cinema (85% less), positioning gaming as one of the fastest-growing industries in Europe.
Joao Seabra, Marketing Director for Visa in Spain and Portugal, highlights: “Gamers in Europe are a digital audience, and gaming is a key space for collaboration and creativity, especially among younger audiences. In this context, the role of gaming-related content creators is becoming increasingly relevant, and at Visa, we are driving the growth of this sector through partnerships like DUX Gaming in Spain.”
The Emerging Economy of Gaming Content Creators
Visa’s European study also emphasizes the growing influence of content creators on gamers’ purchasing decisions. Over a quarter (28%) of players say influencers significantly impact their gaming-related spending decisions, and more than half (53%) interact with them at least once a week. This figure rises to 70% among gamers aged 18 to 24, underscoring the importance of content creators for younger generations.
Additionally, the supply of gaming-related content continues to grow. According to Visa, three out of ten players share content on social media (19%) or stream (11%). Of these, one in five (21%) considers themselves a gaming content creator, while more than half (52%) are interested in becoming one in the future.
Monetization and challenges for content creators
Visa’s study reveals that 91% of European gamers view being a gaming influencer as an attractive career path. Among content creators who already generate income, 41% earn money, while 56% aspire to do so.
The main sources of income include streaming (41%), subscriptions (40%), and consumer purchases made through their content (38%). Three out of ten creators who earn income make more than €1,000 per month, and nearly all (96%) believe their earnings will increase significantly next year.
However, creators face significant challenges in monetizing their communities. For those already earning income, the main obstacles include growing their audience (34%), accepting payments (35%), and understanding platform rules (34%). Meanwhile, those who are not yet earning face difficulties such as attracting and retaining an audience (46%), securing sponsorships (35%), and managing creative stress (34%).
Skills and support for creators
The impact of gaming extends beyond entertainment. Four out of five gamers (81%) believe that playing or watching streams improves their problem-solving and quick-thinking skills. Content creators also highlight that gaming helps them develop skills in design, web development, and digital competencies (71%).
Visa, recognizing content creators as small businesses, is committed to supporting them with financial tools designed to facilitate fast and secure payments. With Visa’s resources, creators can efficiently manage their earnings, driving the growth of this emerging economy.
Gaming is not only a booming industry but also a driver of innovation and creativity in Europe. Spanish gamers, with their high spending and engagement, are leading this transformation, while content creators are emerging as key figures in this digital economy. Visa, as a leader in digital payments, continues to support this ecosystem, fostering the growth and professionalization of content creators across Europe.
