Casino Cabbie: Letter From America 12
This month, November, marks a decade since Delaware and New Jersey became the first states in The Union to launch legal online casinos, writes Lauren Harrison of our US partner Casino Cabbie, “forever changing US gambling history”.
iBet In The USA
In celebration, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has shared the following data:
Since November 2013, six states have launched online casino gaming, grossing US$16.32 billion in revenue and over US$4 billion in taxes.
Between 2019-2022, the US iGaming market grew by an astonishing 865 percent – compared to revenue across the UK and EU increasing by 48 percent in the same time period.
California Rising: Tribal Sports Betting Proposals Filed
Two ballot proposals have been submitted to the Attorney General in the Sunshine State.
The first is called The Sports Wagering Regulation and Tribal Gaming Protection Act and seeks to amend Article IV, section 19 of the State’s constitution.
If approved, 15 percent of Adjusted Gross Gaming Revenue would go to the tribal sports wagering revenue sharing trust fund; with 10 percent going to the California homelessness and mental health fund. Under this proposal, Tribes would partner with online sports betting operators, which the Tribal Gaming Agency would license.
The second proposal, The Tribal Gaming Protection Act, would limit online sports betting exclusively to California state tribes.
The proposals will now sit for 65 days, after which the submitting party/parties must gather the required signatures for the measures to appear on next year’s ballot.
In 2022 California voters rejected similar sports betting proposals, so it’s uncertain how these new options will progress.
September Revenue Roundups
New Jersey
Gambling revenue in NJ is up 7.5 percent YoY for September, hitting US$521.5 million, slightly down on the previous month’s earnings of $531.6 million. Overall, YoY, land-based gaming was down 2.1 percent but iGaming, led by slots, grew by 21.1 percent. Sports betting was also up by 13.4 percent YoY.
Pennsylvania
In PA, gambling revenue grew by 6.2 percent YoY, with total revenue of US$476.3 million. Online casinos in the state enjoyed the biggest growth, surging 41.5 percent to US$159.5 million – and setting a new record for monthly iGaming revenue. Hollywood Casino was the frontrunner, followed by FanDuel, then BetRivers in third place. Conversely, sports betting revenue fell by 27.1 percent YoY.
Delaware
Somewhat unexpectedly, Delaware also saw monthly gains; with sports betting revenue up an impressive 208.9 percent, compared to August 2023, while iGaming increased by 21.3 percent month-on-month; although, YoY, sports betting was down by 65.5 percent.
Michigan
Lastly, in Michigan, gross internet gaming and sports betting receipts from commercial and tribal operators increased 19.2 percent YoY, hitting US$210.4 million in September. Online casinos in Michigan generated most of this revenue, although sports betting slumped some eight percent.
Walk No Talk
Some 3,700 Detroit casino workers in Motor City have stepped up their dispute over pay and healthcare, which they argue has been severely impacted mid- and post-Covid19.
The strike started on the 17th and featured union workers from the city’s three main casinos.
One union, UNITE HERE Local 24, approved strike action with a 99 percent approval rating.
Workers want better healthcare, job security, retirement packages — and wage increases after suffering major hits from the impact of Covid19 and a 20 percent rise in inflation.
Casino and hospitality workers in Las Vegas are also planning strike action because of similar issues and problems with contract negotiations.
Responsible Gambling Initiative
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is integrating Mindway’s Gamalyze AI on ResponsiblePlay.org, its statewide Responsible Gambling site.
Gamalyze is an innovative new program designed to identify risky gambling behaviour and provide customised interventions on a player-by-player base. It employs gamification to re-design problem gambling diagnostic testing, making it fun.
Industry experts have been citing the need for more frictionless RG tools designed to be attractive to players and fit for the age of modern gaming for some time.
Virtual Slam Dunk
Basketball’s professional association and Inspired Entertainment have partnered to create a unique and exclusive range of virtual games using archival NBA footage.
The games will provide multiple virtual betting opportunities based on the actual footage. The range will cover all 30 NBA teams and the All-Star, Playoffs, and Finals.
“We are thrilled to offer basketball fans worldwide the one-of-a-kind experience of a Virtual Sports NBA game,” thrilled Inspired President and CEO Brooks Pierce.
“This will be complete with fresh gaming experiences providing a unique way for fans to stay connected with the game. Our partnership with the NBA allows us to provide an incredible offering. It will elevate our customers’ brands and expand their reach to millions of basketball enthusiasts worldwide.”
