Gambling in the USA
PlayIllinois.com says launch of sports betting first step in what could be $10B-a-year industry
Illinois officially has joined the ever-growing list of legal sports jurisdictions in the U.S. with the launch of BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, and by doing so took the first step in what could be one of the largest markets in the U.S.
If the Illinois market fully matures — which would have to include the widespread launch of online sports betting — the state could generate from $9 billion to $11 billion in wagers annually and $650 million in operator gross revenue, according to projections from PlayIllinois.com, which tracks regulated online and retail gaming in the state.
“Illinois’ potential is enormous, but it has a long way to go to become a major player relative to the largest markets in the U.S.,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst at PlayIllinois.com. “Launching the industry is obviously a momentous first step. But because of regulatory roadblocks to online sports betting, it will be years before Illinois can enjoy the same kind of boom that we’ve seen in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Indiana.”
On Monday, Illinois became the 15th state to allow legal sports betting. Of those, only New York and Pennsylvania have a larger population from which to draw. And Illinois’ retail sportsbook market is expected to ramp up quickly, with five more expected to open soon, including sportsbooks at Argosy Casino Alton, Hollywood Casino Aurora, Hollywood Casino Joliet, Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin, and Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria. Fairmont Park Racetrack in Collinsville, near St. Louis, has also been approved for a temporary operating permit.
Significant hurdles remain, though, particularly for online sports betting, which isn’t expected to launch until later this year. And when it does launch it will require in-person registration for mobile accounts.
The Illinois law, passed in December, allows for three “stand-alone” mobile operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel. But because of the state’s in-person registration requirement, those would-be operators will not be able to accept a bet for at least 18 months. And with a hefty $20 million fee to obtain one of those three licenses, it’s not clear which operators will apply.
“Illinois’ high licensing fees for online operators and its in-person registration requirements will undoubtedly stunt the growth of the industry,” Gouker said. “Even with the high fees, the appeal of the Illinois market will eventually be too much to resist for the country’s largest operators. But neighbor Indiana will be able to continue to cash in on the Chicago market until Illinois gets up to speed.”
Online sports betting is by far the most significant revenue driver in the major U.S. markets. In New Jersey, which has quickly grown to become the country’s largest market, 87% of all sports bets in January were made online. By contrast, Rhode Island, which put in place a similar in-person registration requirement as Illinois, draws just 15% of its bets from online sources.
Illinois’ 10 existing casinos, three racetracks, and as many as seven sports venues are eligible to apply to open retail sportsbooks. Those sportsbooks will also be able to set up mobile sports betting apps.
“The Illinois model isn’t ideal, but for Illinois bettors today is unquestionably a good day,” Gouker said. “Most of the state’s residents should be able to place a bet in relatively close proximity. And that is much better than the alternative.”
For more information and analysis on regulated sports betting in Illinois, visit PlayIllinois.com/news.
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.”
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
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.
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