Gambling in the USA
PlayMichigan.com: Online sportsbooks take in $115 million in 10 days while online casinos flourish

Michigan’s online sportsbooks and casinos are off to a historic debut with more than $115 million in sports bets in the final 10 days of January, while online casinos generated $29.4 million in gross receipts. Combined with the state’s retail handle, Michigan’s sportsbooks are off to the best start of any state that offers both online and retail sportsbooks, but offers just a narrow window into the future for one of the most promising legal markets in the U.S., according to PlayMichigan analysts.
“The circumstances for Michigan’s online launch could not have been better ahead of two of the biggest sports betting holidays of the year,” said Dustin Gouker, analyst for PlayMichigan.com. “Ultimately, it’s a small sample size, and the results of which are less important than sportsbooks launching and engaging sports bettors and setting the groundwork to flourish for years. By that metric, Michigan’s launch was a success.”
Michigan’s online sportsbooks generated $115.2 million in bets in the 10-day period in January, according to official data released Wednesday by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. That produced $13.3 million in total gross sports betting receipts. With a typically promotion-heavy debut that whittled taxable revenue down to a combined loss of $5.2 million, January’s bets yielded $111,696 in state tax revenue.
Combined with January’s retail sportsbook handle, which reached $35.7 million in January, Michigan’s total sports betting handle hit $150.8 million. That makes Michigan the highest total monthly handle for a state debuting online sports betting in U.S. history, snapping Tennessee’s mark of $131.4 million set in November.
In all, online sports betting accounted for 76.3% of the state’s handle. In fact, 10 days of online sports betting was almost as much as Michigan’s entire $130.8 million retail handle during 2020, a total hampered by pandemic-related restrictions on brick-and-mortar casinos.
“There is no questioning the power of online sports betting at this point,” said Matt Schoch, analyst for PlayMichigan.com. “January was just a snapshot, but online betting will eventually account for 90% or more of the state’s total handle, which would put it much more in line with other legal jurisdictions that offer both online and retail betting.”
Michigan got off to a quick start in large part because it launched on Jan. 22 with 10 online sportsbooks, more than any other state in U.S. history. That list includes the nation’s two largest operators FanDuel and DraftKings, as well as its main challengers, including Penn National’s Barstool-branded app, BetRivers, and BetMGM.
Of those, FanDuel, which partners with the MotorCity Casino, topped the market in the first month with $32.6 million in wagers. That produced just $622,372 in gross sports betting receipts. DraftKings/Bay Mills Indian Community was second with a $28.2 million handle, yielding $3.4 million in gross receipts. BetMGM/MGM Grand Detroit’s $22.8 million handle led to market-topping $5.1 million in gross receipts.
The market leaders were followed by:
- Barstool/Greektown Casino ($27.5 million handle; $3.3 million gross receipts)
- PointsBet/Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians ($1.5 million handle; $388,381 gross receipts)
- BetRivers/Little River Band of the Ottawa Indians ($1.1 million handle; $191,261 gross receipts)
- William Hill/Grand Traverse Bay Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians ($692,319 handle; $125,659 gross receipts)
- Twin Spires/Hannahville Indian Community (327,661 handle; 39,792 gross receipts)
- FOX Bet/Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians ($160,052 handle; $70,737 gross receipts)
- Golden Nugget/Keweenaw Bay Indian Community ($106,904 handle; $21,698 gross receipts)
- Wynn/Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians ($248,879 handle; 60,232 gross receipts)
“Launching with nine operators ready to go from the beginning is unlike anything else we’ve seen before,” Gouker said. “Having FanDuel and DraftKings, in addition to BetMGM, BetRivers, and Barstool, accepting bets on the first day of operation makes Michigan instantly one of the most competitive markets in the U.S. The vastness of choices is great for consumers, obviously. But it shows just how much confidence operators have in the future of the Michigan market.”
Online casinos and poker
Online casinos and poker enjoyed an impressive debut themselves, hitting $29.4 million in gross receipts, more than any other in U.S. history in online casino gaming’s first month. That yielded $4.3 million in tax revenue in its 10-day debut in January.
Online casinos and poker racked up $2.9 million per day in gross receipts, a per-day tally that has only been topped by New Jersey, the nation’s largest online gaming market.
The BetMGM/MGM Grand Detroit easily topped the market with $11.1 million in gross receipts, which generated $1.7 million in taxes.
“Online sportsbooks draw more attention, but online casinos are typically a far more consistent revenue generator for state governments,” Schoch said. “With nearly $30 million in 10 days, Michigan is well on its way to becoming one of the giants in online gaming.
For more information and analysis on regulated sports betting in Michigan, visit PlayMichigan.com/news.
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
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500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
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Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
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Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
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Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
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Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
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HCAL, LLC
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JCM Global
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Konami Gaming, Inc.
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PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

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

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.
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