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Investment in eSports is accelerating rapidly, with growing sponsorships, the entry of major brands, and an increasing number of fans. Discover all the current trends in eSports with Sofia Torchio, an investment expert with extensive experience in the sector.
The Explosive Growth of eSports in 2025
eSports in Italy are booming, and investments in this field promise interesting returns. According to the analysis by Sofia Torchio, a digital sector expert, global figures clearly illustrate the economic significance of this phenomenon:
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The global industry will grow from $3.7 billion in 2025 to $25.4 billion in 2035, with an annual growth rate of 21.1%, according to Future Market Insights. Essentially, it will multiply sevenfold in ten years.
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In-game advertising and merchandising are already generating over $310 million in 2025 globally, as reported by SQ Magazine.
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The audience is growing rapidly: from 215.2 million enthusiasts in 2020 to an expected 318.1 million in 2025. Almost 100 million more people in just five years.
The data show that eSports are transitioning from a niche sector to an economic force. According to Sofia, Italy is well-positioned to benefit from the annual 21% growth.
Key Factors Driving Investments in eSports
There are many reasons why investment in eSports is so popular in Italy. Here are some advantages that might encourage you to consider this sector:
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Staggering Numbers. The eSports audience continues to grow relentlessly. By 2025, Demandsage predicts over 322.5 million casual viewers and 318.1 million dedicated fans. We’re talking about hundreds of millions of people, primarily young, who traditional advertising can no longer reach.
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Global Market Presence. eSports tournaments take place worldwide, allowing businesses to reach diverse international audiences and expand brand visibility across various markets and regions.
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A Fanbase That Really Spends. Nielsen found that eSports fans are much more likely to open their wallets when it comes to gaming. They purchase hardware, subscriptions, merchandise, and everything related to their favorite games.
Financial Prospects for eSports Companies
Sponsorships and advertising in eSports are expected to grow in the coming years. According to eSports marketing statistics for 2025, revenues are projected to reach $1.06 billion (data from Statista Market Insights).
The following year, they may rise to $1.11 billion, reaching $1.16 billion in 2027, and growing further to $1.21 billion in 2028. By 2029, the total revenue from sponsorships, advertising, and brand activations in eSports could reach $1.26 billion.
This would signify nearly four consecutive years of billion-dollar growth. For brands investing in eSports marketing, this is a clear signal of strength, demonstrating long-term confidence in the sector and its potential to generate value.
This growth also highlights how eSports continue to capture the attention of new generations. Gen Z and Gen Alpha make up a significant portion of the fanbase, and they don’t just watch—they participate, share, and buy.
Risks and Challenges in eSports Investments
While investing in an eSports academy offers numerous advantages, there are also risks to consider. Here are a few:
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An Ever-Changing Landscape. New games are constantly emerging and gaining popularity, while older ones quickly lose their fanbase and become obsolete. This makes it difficult to plan long-term investments in eSports: companies must continually adapt to changing trends and player preferences.
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High Initial Costs. Building a competitive team requires significant financial resources to recruit talented players, experienced coaches, and support staff. Additionally, investment in expensive gaming equipment and necessary sponsorships is required to gain visibility in the industry.
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Risk of Controversies and Bad Publicity. The world of eSports has already faced scandals related to cheating, match-fixing, harassment, and abuse. All of this can pose reputational risks for companies that become associated with these negative aspects of the industry.
Strategic Recommendations for Investors by Sofia Torchio
Those who want to start investing in eSports gaming must understand some basic strategies to reduce risks and successfully build a profitable investment portfolio. Here are a few:
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Diversify the portfolio. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Buy stocks, ETFs, sponsor teams, or invest in tech companies that provide infrastructure to the industry. If one stock crashes, you don’t lose everything you’ve invested.
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Think big. eSports will grow for decades, not months. Those who invest today need to think long-term and focus on companies that can last, not on quick bets that promise immediate gains. Look for companies with solid foundations and realistic prospects for future expansion.
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Do your homework before jumping in. The sector is full of startups and new companies promising the moon. Many will fail or remain.
Keep an eye on the news and trends. Staying informed is essential. The first to spot a new trend is often the one who makes the biggest profits.
It’s crucial to approach investment with caution, especially in a new sector like eSports. Consulting with financial professionals can help you make more informed decisions.
