Gambling in the USA
Pennsylvania Sportsbooks Take In Just $46 Million In Bets While Online Casinos Surge
April’s handle $300 million short of what would have been expected, according to PlayPennsylvania
LAS VEGAS — Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks generated just a fraction of the bets that they would have expected during a normal April, while online casinos and poker rooms smashed their revenue record with $43.1 million. That divergent path—which includes an estimated loss of more than $300 million in sports bets, according to PlayPennsylvania estimates—will continue as long as most major sports and the state’s land-based casinos remain closed.
“The growth in online gambling as well as betting on non-traditional sports are industry bright spots,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “But there just isn’t any way for Pennsylvania operators to compensate for such a dramatic loss of revenue, including at retail sportsbooks and land-based casinos, which can’t generate a single dollar right now.”
During a month in which PlayPennsylvania.com would have estimated a handle of nearly $350 million, Pennsylvania sportsbooks generated just $46 million in wagers, according to official data released Monday. That is down from $131.3 million in March, though up slightly from $36.8 million in April 2019, before online sports betting launched.
Sportsbooks yielded $3.2 million in gross revenue, up from $8.6 million in March. The win resulted in $988,255 in state taxes.
Before the COVID-19 shutdowns, Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks had grown from a 2019 low handle of $31.5 million to a record of $348.4 million in January 2020.
“The momentum that brought records month after month for Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks has been reversed almost instantly,” said Valerie Cross, an analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com. “Until sports leagues figure out a way to reopen, these dreary results will continue.”
With retail sportsbooks shuttered in April—potentially losing out on some $35 million of in-person bets—online sportsbooks generated Pennsylvania’s entire handle. FanDuel Sportsbook at Valley Forge Casino led the market in April with $19 million in April wagers, down from $53.7 million in March. That yielded $1.3 million in taxable revenue, down from $2.8 million in March. FanDuel was followed by:
- DraftKings at The Meadows ($12.6 million handle, down from $28.6 million; $706,589 taxable revenue, down from $1.5 million)
- Rivers-Philadelphia ($5.9 million handle, down from $12 million; $309,551 revenue, down from $601,984)
- Fox Bet at Mount Airy ($3.7 million handle, down from $6.1 million; $229,469 revenue, up from $159,013)
- Rivers-Pittsburgh ($2.4 million handle, down from $8.2 million; $190,013 revenue, down from $535,860)
- Parx Casino ($2.2 million handle, down from $7.9 million; $193,662 revenue, down from $618,159)
- Unibet at Mohegan Sun Pocono ($92,521 handle, down from $1.2 million; $14,362 revenue, down from $19,750)
- Presque Isle Downs ($97,107 handle, down from $483,429; -$4,066 revenue, down from $23,905)
- Harrah’s ($28,155 handle, down from $139,790; -$557 revenue, up from -$18,075)
Limited to futures betting and action on nontraditional sports, Pennsylvania’s online sportsbooks are arguably faring better than might have been predicted. And sportsbooks could be getting some help from more mainstream sports soon, with auto racing restarting, golf planning on teeing off in the coming weeks, and Major League Baseball inching closer.
“A $46 million handle with such limited options in terms of sports is a surprise,” Gouker said. “April could potentially be the statistical low point, but there is so much that can happen that the immediate future is impossible to predict. That is a bit disconcerting for operators.”
Online casinos and poker boom
Online casinos and poker rooms brought good news for the industry, combining to generate a whopping $43.1 million in April revenue. That was up 77.4% from the record $24.3 million in March and 121% over February’s $19.5 million. As many of Pennsylvania’s gamblers stayed home and land-based casinos remained closed, casinos and poker revenue hit $1.4 million per day in the 30 days of April, up from $782,768 per day in March.
Online table games and slots generated $1.4 billion in wagers, up from $871.6 million, producing $37.8 million in revenue. Mount Airy/PokerStars—the Keystone State’s only online poker room—generated a record $5.3 million in revenue, beating March’s $3.1 million and edging New Jersey for the online poker revenue record for any state.
As welcome as the rise in online gambling revenue has been, it can’t nearly make up for the lost revenue from land-based casinos. The $23.6 million revenue difference between April and February, represents just 8.5% of the $277.8 million on slot machines and table games revenue generated by land-based casinos in April 2019.
“There will likely be long-term implications from this surge in online gambling interest. A behavioral shift that makes online gambling permanently more popular is likely to continue even after casinos reopen,” Cross said. “But the reality is that despite the gains made at online casinos, the closing of land-based casinos left a revenue hole that can’t be made up.”
Rivers-Philadelphia led the online casino market with $13.7 million in revenue on $477 million in wagers, up from $6.8 million in revenue on $293.2 million in wagers in March. FanDuel/Valley Forge Casino was second with $7.9 million in online revenue on $320.8 million in wagers, up from $5 million in revenue on $250.6 million in wagers in March.
In addition, the number of online casinos in Pennsylvania grew to 10 with the launch of Caesars in April and DraftKings in early May, expanding the FanDuel-DraftKings rivalry beyond sports betting.
“The competition between FanDuel and DraftKings has been a force for innovation in sports betting markets across the country, and we expect that will transfer well to their online gambling products,” Gouker said.
For more information on the revenue generated by Pennsylvania, visit www.playpennsylvania.com/revenue.
Gambling in the USA
Snoqualmie Casino Announces Exciting Rebranding to Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel Ahead of Major Expansion
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.
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
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View a video version of this story
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