Read the following passage and answer the given questions. With the United States recently lifting its ban on online betting, the digital gambling lan...

Read the following passage and answer the given questions. With the United States recently lifting its ban on online betting, the digital gambling landscape has experienced a significant paradigm shift, redefining the intersection between technology and wagering. Once constrained by stringent regulations, platforms facilitating poker, online casinos, and sports betting are now flourishing, attracting an influx of new participants, particularly among the youth. This legislative reversal has catalyzed a global ripple effect, influencing betting dynamics in Europe and beyond. In response to this shift, several companies are launching innovative gambling platforms to capitalize on the growing demand. Unlike traditional casinos, which rely on physical establishments, online betting platforms leverage advanced digital algorithms, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology to ensure seamless transactions and enhanced security. The immediacy of placing wagers from mobile applications, coupled with the gamification of betting interfaces, has rendered the experience far more engaging than conventional casino gambling. Furthermore, the integration of live-streaming services within sports betting platforms has heightened real-time interaction, thereby allowing users to engage with the experience in ways never seen before. One of the most pronounced impacts of this digital transition is the surge in sports engagement. With online betting becoming more accessible, the younger demographic is demonstrating a heightened interest in various athletic competitions, including football, basketball, and eSports. Europe, a longstanding hub for both regulated gambling and sports culture, has particularly benefited from this trend. Increased viewership and participation in sporting events, coupled with a surge in revenue streams for clubs and leagues, have fortified the economic structure of professional athletics. Moreover, the adoption of responsible gambling initiatives across European jurisdictions has helped mitigate some of the potential downsides of digital wagering. However, despite these apparent advantages, the rapid expansion of online betting carries inherent risks. The accessibility and anonymity afforded by digital gambling platforms can foster addictive behaviors, particularly among impressionable youth. A lack of financial literacy among new bettors exacerbates the potential for substantial monetary losses, while the gamified nature of online casinos may obscure the psychological toll of compulsive gambling. If left unchecked, what was once a recreational activity can quickly devolve into a destructive vice, draining financial resources and leading to social isolation. Additionally, concerns surrounding data privacy, fraudulent schemes, and unregulated markets persist, raising ethical questions about the long-term sustainability of online betting. As the online gambling industry continues to evolve, striking a balance between economic benefits and responsible gaming policies will be paramount. Without adequate safeguards, the societal costs of unchecked digital betting could outweigh its economic and recreational merits.

Based on the passage, how has the U.S. decision to legalize online betting impacted global gambling trends?