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Finshots Daily

The economics of the world's largest lottery

Dec 24, 2024
Discover how the Spanish Christmas Lottery, El Gordo, revitalizes the economy and impacts job creation. The discussion delves into the intriguing dynamics of lottery systems and their potential benefits, while considering the risks associated with their implementation in other countries. It’s a fascinating look at how a game of chance can spark economic growth and provoke a wider conversation about similar models globally.
08:05

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Quick takeaways

  • The El Gordo lottery significantly boosts Spain's economy by raising 0.3% of government income and stimulating local GDP through increased spending.
  • While the lottery supports economic growth, it also raises concerns about potential money laundering due to tax-free winnings attracting illicit activities.

Deep dives

The Role of El Gordo in Spain's Economy

The El Gordo lottery serves as a significant tool for economic support in Spain, having been established to fund military efforts during the Napoleonic Wars. This lottery not only raises a substantial amount of revenue—about 0.3% of the government's total income each year—but it also directly stimulates local economies, particularly in areas where most prizes are won. For example, regions experiencing a winning ticket can see economic impacts reaching nearly 3% of their local GDP, as initial lottery winnings encourage increased spending in the community. This influx of cash leads to a temporary decrease in unemployment, as businesses respond to heightened demand and new opportunities arise, creating jobs and further economic activity.

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