SPENDING BEHAVIOUR AND USER ENGAGEMENT FACTORS IN FANTASY GAMING APPS AMONG DELHI/NCR URBAN YOUTH

Abstract

This study examined how urban youth in the Delhi National Capital Region engage with fantasy sports gaming apps (e.g., Dream11). Its objective was to analyse usage patterns, spending behaviours, and psychological engagement factors (loss-chasing, budgeting, and beliefs about skill vs. chance) among this demographic. A structured online survey was administered to approximately 90 respondents – predominantly male college students (ages 18–21). Data were analysed using chi-square tests, ANOVA, and correlation methods to test ten hypotheses concerning app usage, spending patterns, and user beliefs. Key Findings • Demographic focus: Nearly all respondents were aware of fantasy sports apps, and a large share were active users. The majority were male students (18–21) reporting at least occasional play, indicating high interest in fantasy gaming among urban college youth. • Modest spending levels: Most respondents spent very little on the apps. The bulk of users reported monthly expenditures under ₹500 or none at all; only a small minority spent above ₹1000. Many participants engaged primarily through free play. • Loss-chasing behaviour: About one-quarter of participants admitted attempting to recover losses by increasing their bets. Those who reported chasing losses tended to have higher average monthly spending, suggesting a relationship between loss- chasing and elevated expenditure. • Limited budgeting and safeguards: Fewer than 15% of respondents maintained a personal budget for gaming spending. Awareness and use of in-app spending/time- limit features were low, and most users had not read the app terms or policies. In other words, responsible-gaming practices were generally underused. • Mixed beliefs on skill vs. chance: Views varied among participants. Nearly half perceived fantasy outcomes as mostly chance (or were unsure), while the remainder believed skill played a role. This ambiguity may influence how players approach risk. • Motivational factors: Respondents commonly cited the thrill of winning cash and social influences (peer recommendations and promotional bonuses) as reasons to play. Traditional advertising had little reported effect on most users’ decisions to play or spend. Implications • For Users: The data suggest a risk of impulsive or regretful spending among young fantasy players. Players should be encouraged to set personal spending limits and practice financial self-control. Awareness campaigns and personal budgeting tools could help mitigate spending risks. • For Platforms: Fantasy gaming providers should adopt ethical engagement features. For example, in-app spend trackers, optional deposit caps, and warning prompts after rapid losses could help curb reckless behaviour. Clear information about odds and simpler user agreements (instead of dense terms) would support more informed and responsible play. • For Policymakers: There is a need for targeted financial and digital literacy initiatives. Policymakers could enforce consumer-protection measures (such as mandatory spending limits or cool-off periods) and require clearer disclosures. Clarifying the legal classification of fantasy gaming (skill vs. chance) and regulating promotional practices could also protect vulnerable youth. In summary, Delhi/NCR college-age youth are enthusiastic participants in fantasy sports apps but generally play with modest budgets and few safeguards. These patterns suggest risks of impulsive spending and highlight areas for intervention. This study contributes to behavioral research on digital leisure and gaming by providing empirical insight into how young players’ financial behaviours and beliefs influence their engagement with online fantasy sports platforms.