Gambling in the USA

Pennsylvania sportsbooks surge in September as FanDuel dominates

Published

5 years ago

October 18, 2019

Pennsylvania’s online and retail sportsbooks nearly doubled the state’s previous record handle in September, as bettors jumped at their first-ever opportunity to legally bet on the NFL, according to analysts for PlayPennsylvania.com.

“A significant jump was expected with the NFL season kicking off in September, and the data did not disappoint,” said Jessica Welman, sports betting analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “Because of the sport’s popularity with bettors, the football season is the most effective time to gauge the health of a market. After a summer of growing pains and one month of football, it is safe to say that Pennsylvania is indeed healthy.”

Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks generated $194.5 million in handle in September, according to official data released Thursday. That is up from 78% from the record $109 million in August. September’s handle yielded $19.3 million in revenue, up from August’s $9.9 million win, generating $5.1 million in state taxes.

By comparison, New Jersey generated a handle of $184 million in September 2018, the first full month Garden State bettors were able to legally wager on NFL games. New Jersey’s handle in September 2019 has grown to $445.6 million, hinting at just how much growth is possible in Pennsylvania.

“After a somewhat slow start, Pennsylvania is beginning to display similar growth patterns as New Jersey,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “New Jersey had the advantage of a more established gaming infrastructure when it launched sports betting. But now that the online sports betting infrastructure is in place, Pennsylvania is beginning to show its potential.”

Pennsylvania’s five online sportsbooks — including Fox Bet at Mount Airy Casino, which launched on Sept. 4 — generated $158.2 million in September, up from $83.2 million in August. Online betting represented 81% of the state’s total handle, up from 76% in August, and nearer to the 85% rate that online sports betting commands in New Jersey.

FanDuel Sportsbook at Valley Forge Casino dominated the online market, accepting a whopping $85.1 million in September bets, up from $35.3 million in August. FanDuel generated $7.1 million in revenue, up from $2.9 million in August.

FanDuel was followed in the online market by:

SugarHouse Casino ($31.2 million in online handle, up from $25 million in August; $2.6 million in revenue, up from $1.7 million in August)
Fox Bet at Mount Airy ($4.5 million handle; $268,844 in revenue)
Rivers Casino ($23.5 million handle, up from $16.9 million; $1.9 million revenue, up from $1 million)
Parx Casino ($13.8 million handle, up from $6 million; $1.8 million revenue, up from $620,573)

Pennsylvania’s online market continues to evolve. More online sportsbooks, including DraftKings, are expected to launch during the football season. And the parent companies that own FanDuel and Fox Bet are planning to merge, creating a potential Goliath in online sports betting.

“The merger of FanDuel and Fox Bet, two very recognizable brands, could be a game-changing development,” Gouker said. “Regardless, the competition in the online vertical will remain fierce as sportsbooks vie for a greater share of a rapidly growing market.”

Stake - Best Online Casino & Sports Betting Platform

Mount Airy also quietly launched a retail sportsbook just days after Fox Bet was unveiled. Still, Rivers edged Parx to lead the retail market, accepting $7.3 million in bets in September, up from $4.9 million in August. That yielded $957,791 in revenue, up from $631,012 in August. Rivers was followed by:

Parx ($7.3 million handle, up from $5 million; $1.1 million revenue, up from $722,945)
SugarHouse ($6.5 million handle, up from $5.4 million in August; $1.1 million revenue, up from $816,768)
Valley Forge Casino ($3.4 million handle, up from $2.5 million; $376,243 revenue, up from $175,330)
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course ($3.3 million handle, up from $2.1 million; $590,006 revenue, up from $309,171)
South Philadelphia Race and Sportsbook ($2.3 million handle, up from $2 million; $490,153 revenue, up from $337,680)
Harrah’s Philadelphia ($2.2 million handle, up from $1.9 million; $347,873 revenue, up/down from $251,296)
Presque Isle ($2.2 million handle, up from $1.2 million; $495,548 revenue, up from $282,384)
Oaks Race and Sportsbook ($1.2 million handle, up from $942,856; $146,041 revenue, up from $48,230)
Mount Airy ($372,418 handle; $45,568 in revenue)

Online casino revenue grows in September

SugarHouse, Parx and Penn National casinos generated $5.3 million in gross revenue in September, up 56% from $3.4 million in August, on $140.8 million in wagers. Betting was up 21% from $111.8 million in August. September’s action produced $1.6 million in state taxes.

Penn National led the way with $3 million in revenue, up from $684,452 in September, on $41.1 million in bets, up from $17.8 million. Penn National was followed by:

Sugarhouse ($1.1 million revenue, down from $1.6 million; $57.2 million in wagers, up from $40.9 million).
Parx ($1.3 million in revenue, up from $1.1 million; $42.4 million in wagers, down from $53.1 million)

“Pennsylvania’s three pioneering online casinos are all off to strong starts and should initially have an advantage over any newcomers,” Welman said. “But at least five online casinos are planning to launch before the end of the year, so the market should morph dramatically over the next few months.”

For more information on the revenue generated by Pennsylvania sports betting, visit www.playpennsylvania.com/sports-betting/revenue/.

About the PlayUSA.com Network:

The PlayUSA.com Network is a leading source for news, analysis, and research related to the market for regulated online gaming in the United States. With a presence in over a dozen states, PlayUSA.com and its state-focused branches (including PlayNJ.com and PlayPennsylvania.com) produce daily original reporting, publish in-depth research, and offer player advocacy tools related to the advancement of safe, licensed, and legal online gaming options for consumers. Based in Las Vegas, the PlayUSA Network is independently owned and operated, with no affiliations to any casino — commercial, tribal, online, or otherwise.

Gambling in the USA

NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

Published

4 days ago

April 8, 2025

Peter Tolan

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.

Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.

The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.

On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.

Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”

For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”

Gambling in the USA

Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Published

4 days ago

April 8, 2025

Niji Narayan

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.

“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.

The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.

“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.

Gambling in the USA

BMM INNOVATION GROUP SHOWCASES ITS SUPPORT FOR TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY AT INDIAN GAMING CONFERENCE & EXPO MARCH 31 – APRIL 3 AT SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER

Published

2 weeks ago

March 31, 2025

Peter Tolan

Company to sponsor, attend, and speak at the San Diego, California show.

BMM Innovation Group (“BMM,” “BIG Group,” or “BIG”), a technology conglomerate focused on product compliance testing, cybersecurity solutions, and virtual training for the global gaming industry, today announced its sponsorship and participation in the Indian Gaming Association’s (“IGA”) annual IGA Conference & Expo, March 31-April 3 at the San Diego Convention Center.

With over three decades of experience supporting Tribal gaming, BIG will be on-site as sponsors, speakers, and attendees to reinforce the Company’s steadfast commitment to Tribal sovereignty and self-regulation.

Proud Partners in Tribal Progress

The BIG Group’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Martin Storm said, “BMM proudly partners with Tribal governments, Tribal casinos, and Tribal gaming equipment and technology suppliers to advance Tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and economic development. We are honored to continue supporting the growth and integrity of Tribal gaming through our trusted product compliance services, world-class training and virtual education, and our cybersecurity solutions to protect Tribal enterprises.”

BMM’s long-standing relationships with Tribal gaming suppliers and regulators are at the heart of its mission. As active members of IGA and other key Tribal organizations, BIG is committed to elevating Tribal voices and ensuring Tribal interests remain at the forefront of industry growth.

BIG Group Shares Thought Leadership on Conference Panels and Trainings

In addition to sponsoring and attending, the BIG Group’s expert thought leaders will speak and provide in-person training at the conference:
Tuesday, April 1 at 9 am: Innovation vs. Regulation: Keep Pace with Emerging Gaming Technologies – Sean Mason, Senior Director of Tribal Services
Tuesday, April 1 at 4 pm: Gaming and Cyber Risk Best Practices – Mitigate Risk and Sleep Better at Night – Heather Lee, Senior Director of Sales for BIG Cyber
Wednesday, April 2 at 9 am: Level III Commissioner Certification Training – Peter Nikiper, Director of Technical Compliance

Unmatched Expertise in Product Compliance and Certification

As a trusted testing laboratory for Tribal gaming jurisdictions across North America, BMM’s focus is fairness, integrity, and security in every gaming environment. IGA attendees are invited to connect with BMM experts to learn more about the Company’s comprehensive product compliance programs.

Education & Training for Long-Term Success

BIG continues to empower Tribal gaming employees through exclusive education and training programs, including free access to RG24seven Virtual Training. These knowledge-sharing initiatives are designed to support responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, and the long-term sustainability of Tribal gaming operations.

Cybersecurity Solutions Tailored for Tribal Gaming

The BIG Group is focused on bolstering cybersecurity defenses for Tribal enterprises through its BIG Cyber services, which includes penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, PCI:DSS evaluations, and a host of managed security services featuring CYREBRO’s Security Operations Center, KnowBe4’s security awareness training, and Maxxsure’s risk management platform.