Results Are In: '19 Esports Survey Looks At Hot Topics Within Space

SBJ’s sister publication The Esports Observer teamed up with law firm Foley & Lardner for the '19 Esports Survey, and results were revealed to the audience at the Lagardere Sports Esports Rising conference. Foley & Lardner's Bobby Sharma, who is a Special Advisor for the firm's Sports & Entertainment Group, presented the data. Here are some of the key takeaways:

• There has been a rise in esports investments expected from private equity and venture capital firms over the next year.

• Respondents believe the growth of esports has affected traditional sports.

• Advertising and sponsorships are expected to be esports' primary revenue driver.

• In-game purchases have moved past media rights as the second-largest expected revenue source.

• Increased M&A activity across several categories, including streaming and broadcasting, events and tournaments and franchised teams.

• Many respondents believe cheating and match fixing pose a significant threat to the legitimacy and growth of esports.

• Respondents are also concerned about the control that game developers exert over esports, and its potential to constrain the industry’s growth.

• Staying current with legal issues and prioritizing compliance with regulations is a top priority for respondents.

• The U.S. and China are considered to be the most promising esports investment opportunities over the next five years.

Check out the full report at Esportsobserver.com.