Gambling in the USA

Pennsylvania Sportsbooks Score $316 Million November As Industry Turns 1

Published

5 years ago

December 17, 2019

Image by Anne & Saturnino Miranda from Pixabay

FanDuel dominates, online sports betting expands with two new brands, and Pennsylvania’s lifetime handle hits $1 billion, according to PlayPennsylvania.com

(LAS VEGAS) — Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks celebrated the industry’s first birthday in November by setting a new monthly handle record and surpassing $1 billion in lifetime wagers. The industry continues to gain steam as its online product matures, a process boosted by the recent online launch of DraftKings and Unibet, according to PlayPennsylvania.com analysts.

“Pennsylvania has come a long way in a year,” said Dustin Gouker, analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “Plagued with relatively high gaming taxes and early hurdles to its online launch, Pennsylvania’s future as a legal sport betting jurisdiction was murky at the beginning. But despite the issues in its infancy, the state has proven to be attractive for operators and the market is truly beginning to flourish.”

Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks accepted $316.5 million in wagers in November, up 31.2% from October’s $241.2 million, according to official data released Tuesday. Those bets generated $20.6 million in revenue — up from October’s $19.1 million win — and yielded $3.9 million in state taxes.

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The totals are a far cry from November 2018 when the state’s first and only sportsbook, Hollywood Casino, generated $1.4 million in bets and $508,997 in gross revenue. Since, Pennsylvania has grown into the third-largest legal sports betting jurisdiction in the country and continues to chase neighbor New Jersey, which accepted $562.2 million in bets in November.

The most important factor in Pennsylvania’s growth was the summer 2019 launch of online sports betting. The roster of online brands has grown to seven following the November launches of DraftKings, under The Meadows license, and Unibet, under the Mohegan Sun Pocono umbrella. Those seven online sportsbooks generated 84.3% of the state’s November handle — a total of $266.7 million, up from $198.7 million in October.

“Online sports betting has unquestionably been the key driver of the state’s growth,” Gouker said. “Not only has online betting grown to account for an overwhelming majority of the state’s handle, but it has also helped spur growth among retail sportsbooks. That is a pattern that we saw in New Jersey, too.”

FanDuel Sportsbook at Valley Forge Casino remains dominant in the online market, despite fresh competition from rival DraftKings and Unibet. FanDuel accepted $149.7 million in November bets, up from $113.9 million in October, yielding $9.2 million in revenue, up from $8.1 million. FanDuel was followed by:

Rivers-Philadelphia ($32.4 million in handle, up from $30 million in October; $1.9 million revenue, down from $2.5 million)
Rivers-Pittsburgh ($30.6 million handle, up from $26.6 million; $1.7 million revenue, up from $1.6 million)
Parx Casino ($22.4 million handle, up from $18.4 million; $1.6 million revenue, down from $1.7 million)
DraftKings at The Meadows ($16.2 million handle; $1.6 million revenue)
Fox Bet at Mount Airy ($13.5 million handle, up from $9.8 million; $1.2 million revenue, up from $591,309 in revenue)
Unibet at Mohegan Sun Pocono ($1.9 million handle; $26,440 revenue)

“With the addition of DraftKings, Pennsylvania now has the two largest sports betting brands in the country,” Gouker said. “The question is whether DraftKings can make a dent in FanDuel’s market dominance, or has FanDuel’s early launch baked in its market advantages for the foreseeable future.”

Rivers-Pittsburgh’s $8.88 million handle, up from $7.7 million in October, narrowly led the retail market. That yielded $486,449 in revenue, down from $699,611. Rivers was followed by:

Rivers Philadelphia, formerly SugarHouse ($8.87 million handle in October, up from $7.2 million; $234,951 revenue, down from $813,839)
Parx ($8.1 million handle, up from $7.5 million; $739,281 revenue, down from $1 million)
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course ($3.8 million handle, up from $3 million; $48,520 revenue, down from $350,083)
Presque Isle ($3.7 million handle, down from $3.2 million; $302,458 revenue, up from $194,829)
South Philadelphia Race and Sportsbook ($3.6 million handle, up from $2.8 million; $339,310 revenue, down from $402,272)
Valley Forge Casino ($3.2 million handle, down from $4.1 million; $192,492 revenue, up from $155,730)
Harrah’s Philadelphia ($3 million handle, up from $2.3 million; $234,355 revenue, down from $277,295)
Mohegan ($2.5 million handle, up from $2.1 million; $173,120 revenue, down from $305,697)
Oaks Race and Sportsbook ($1.4 million handle, up from $1.1 million; $149,765 revenue, down from $162,127)
Mount Airy ($868,026 handle, up from $641,087 handle; $43,680 revenue, down from $86,800 in revenue)

Online casino industry expands in November

The launch of poker and two new online casinos in November helped boost Pennsylvania’s gross revenue to a new high-water mark. The state’s fledgling industry, which now boasts five online casinos, generated $9.7 million in November gross revenue, up 98% from $4.9 million in October.

The launch of PokerStars Casino, Nov. 4, and Unibet/Mohegan Sun Pocono, Nov. 12, combined with the addition of poker, spurred wagers to $316.8 million, up 58% from $200.2 million in October. Poker alone accounted for $2 million in revenue in its first month, an impressive total considering the bit part it plays in neighboring New Jersey. In all, online casinos generated $2.4 million in state taxes in November.

Rivers-Philadelphia held on to the market lead with $3.2 million in revenue on $148.7 million in bets. That was up from $2.5 million in October revenue on $85.6 million in wagers. Rivers-Philadelphia was followed by:

Penn National ($1.9 million in revenue, up from $1.8 million in October; $57.1 million in bets, up from $56.6 million)
Parx ($1.5 million in revenue, up from $610,187; $55.5 million in wagers, down from $58 million)
Mount Airy/PokerStars ($3 million in revenue; $48 million in bets)
Unibet/Mohegan Sun Pocono ($131,415 in revenue; $7.4 million in bets)

“The online casino industry is finally gaining momentum, but Pennsylvania’s tax structure has definitely slowed its development,” Gouker said. “Still, with poker showing promise, especially compared to New Jersey, and new operators coming online, Pennsylvania’s market should really begin to take off.”

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

Snoqualmie Casino Announces Exciting Rebranding to Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel Ahead of Major Expansion

Published

2 days ago

November 12, 2024

Niji Narayan

Snoqualmie Casino has announced its rebranding to Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel, reflecting an exciting new chapter in the venue’s history as it embarks on a much-anticipated expansion. Set for completion in mid-2025, this project promises to elevate the guest experience, making Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel a premier destination for entertainment, relaxation, and culinary excellence.

The cornerstone of the expansion is the construction of a luxurious hotel, which will offer guests unparalleled comfort and stunning views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Mount Si. With a focus on sustainability and modern design, the hotel will feature upscale accommodations, a full-service destination spa, and amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Plus, there are architectural details inspired by Snoqualmie culture from a modern slant roof hotel design representing the original longhouses of the Snoqualmie Tribe’s ancestors to carefully chosen artwork placed throughout for guests to enjoy.

Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel’s destination spa will offer an immersive escape that blends relaxation with the healing power of nature. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the spa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments. Experience the perfect blend of wellness and nature where luxury, tradition and innovation come together for an incredibly transformative experience.

“It is my honor and privilege to announce that Snoqualmie Casino has now become Snoqualmie Casino and Hotel. Over the past three years, the Snoqualmie Tribe and Casino have been diligently working to bring a one-of-a-kind, world-class hotel to the Snoqualmie Valley,” said Interim CEO Mary Lou Patterson.

In addition, Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel will expand its gaming floor, introducing an array of new options to enhance the entertainment experience for guests. This expansion will include the latest slots, electronic and traditional table games, as well as a dedicated high-limit gaming area for discerning players seeking a more exclusive gaming experience.

One of the highlights of the expansion is the development of a state-of-the-art 2000-seat entertainment and convention center. This versatile venue will host a variety of events, from concerts to conferences, positioning Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel as a key player in the region’s entertainment landscape. With cutting-edge technology and a focus on guest comfort, the center will attract top-tier talent and events, making it a must-visit destination.

In addition to the award-winning Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood, 12 Moons, and Falls Buffet, a new sports bar and grill will be introduced to provide patrons with the ultimate game day experience. Other new dining options, set to open later, will showcase local ingredients and flavors, ensuring a memorable culinary experience for guests.

Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel recently launched a brand-new valet garage. The dual level indoor and outdoor structure, with 600 additional spaces, doubles the previous capacity for valet parking creating easier access into the casino. This is the first piece of new development at Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel that has opened for immediate use. The entire project anticipates creating numerous job opportunities for local residents, contributing to the economic growth of the Snoqualmie area.

Gambling in the USA

Wind Creek Chicago Southland to Open to the Public on November 11

Published

3 days ago

November 11, 2024

Niji Narayan

Wind Creek Chicago Southland has announced that it will open to the public on November 11. The state-of-the-art casino represents the first step toward delivering a full-scale integrated resort experience, scheduled for completion in spring 2025.

Spanning an impressive 70,000 square feet, Wind Creek Chicago Southland features over 1400 slot machines, 56 table games, high-limit slot areas, a high-limit table games salon, a poker room, a dynamic sportsbook, and 4 “Hidden Gems” throughout the casino floor–offering visitors a unique and customizable private gaming and event microenvironment. Designed with an emphasis on curated entertainment spaces, this new offering aims to redefine leisure and hospitality for the entire region.

“The opening of Wind Creek Chicago Southland underscores our dedication to making a positive economic impact in the communities we serve. We’re committed to create opportunities that support the region, offer competitive benefits for Team Members, and further strengthen the vibrant Southland community,” said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of Wind Creek Hospitality.

Wind Creek Chicago Southland is expected to create more than 1000 full-time jobs in fields ranging from hospitality to technology. Roles will include security, gaming attendants, food service, IT technicians, and environmental services, reinforcing Wind Creek’s commitment to strengthening the local economy. Additionally, Homewood and East Hazel Crest will benefit from gambling revenue, along with 42 other south suburban communities—funding essential local services within the immediate and surrounding communities.

“Wind Creek Chicago Southland is more than a casino—it’s a community-driven destination. The Tribe and Wind Creek will continue to prioritize the Villages of Homewood and East Hazel Crest as we are committed to uplifting our neighbors,” said Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO, Poarch Creek Indians.

On Nov. 6th and Nov. 7th, the Illinois Gaming Board visited the casino for two mandatory test days, which also included an extended invitation to family friends and local dignitaries. Wind Creek Hospitality received notice of approval on Nov. 8th to operate on Monday, Nov. 11th at approximately 11:00 a.m.

The Nov. 11th opening marks only the beginning of what will become a flagship destination. High-limit gaming rooms, a hotel, spa, poker room, a sportsbook and more will be available for Guests seeking diverse experiences. Wind Creek’s partnership with Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group will also introduce an exceptional range of signature restaurants and food & beverage offerings to the highly anticipated property.

“Whether you’re looking for elevated dining, quick-service eateries, or something in between—you won’t be disappointed as we’re creating something truly unforgettable,” said Fabio Viviani.

“From the start, our mission has been to create jobs, spur economic growth, and offer the ultimate entertainment escape. We’re thrilled to welcome our Guests on Nov. 11th to experience the excitement firsthand,” said Roger Kuehn, EVP and General Manager of Wind Creek Chicago Southland.

Gambling in the USA

Spin Your Way to Political Fun in Slotland and WinADay’s Race for Office MegaMatrix Slot

Published

1 week ago

November 4, 2024

Peter Tolan

The drama of the 2024 U.S. elections is here, and players can take advantage of extra bonuses to play Race for Office, Game of the Month.

Slotland and WinADay are bringing the excitement of the U.S. presidential election to life this month with the fan-favourite, Race for Office, packed with a wealth of bonuses.

Launched in 2020, Race for Office features a lively American theme with familiar political figures set against the U.S. Capitol. Updated for 2024, revamped to include Kamala Harris and Donald Trump with their running mates in a light-hearted style. With a 5-reel MegaMatrix setup and 15 paylines, players can bet anywhere from $0.60 to $30.

As the Game of the Month on Slotland and WinADay, Race for Office will be featured with special Match bonuses—55% at Slotland and 44% at WinADay. Players using cryptocurrency can enjoy a 75% Match on Slotland deposits of $5 to $500, and a 66% Match on WinADay deposits of $40 to $200!

Keep spinning to unlock a lucky PICK ME round and boost your balance with some extra campaign cash! Players who hit three PICK ME scatters, the handshake, can enter a bonus game. By clicking on tiles in a 5×5 grid, players can level up to higher prizes, creating a race to collect winnings until they hit the coveted ‘COLLECT’ sign.

Players can also enter a random draw for a chance to win up to $300. Every 100 spins earns a ticket for the Monthly Contest, with winners announced by December 17, 2024. It’s the perfect incentive to keep spinning as the political season unfolds!

Michael Hilary, Casino Manager, says: “This November, join Slotland and WinADay in the Race for Office and experience the fun of politics like never before. Spin the reels, claim your bonuses, and who knows—you might just land a jackpot that’ll have you celebrating like it’s election night!”

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