Gambling in the USA
MICHIGAN’S ONLINE SPORTS BETTING VOLUME SLUMPS TO LOWEST LEVEL SINCE LAUNCH

Michigan’s online sportsbooks fell to their lowest volume ever for a full month, dropping to less than $200 million for the first time since online sports betting launched in January. July’s wagering was still enough for sportsbooks to nearly reach $2 billion in lifetime online handle, while casino revenue ticked up and surpassed $500 million lifetime, according to PlayMichigan, which analyzes and researches the state’s regulated online gaming and sports betting market.
“Pursuits other than gaming are priorities for many in July, whether that is a trip to the lake or a backyard barbecue,” said Matt Schoch, analyst for PlayMichigan.com. “The good news for sportsbooks is that with the July dip now out of the way, operators can look forward to Michiganders returning from their summer vacations and for the excitement for the football season to build.”
Michigan’s online sportsbooks generated $188.0 million in bets in July, down 20% from $235.1 million in June, according to official data released Monday by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Combined with $18.3 million in retail wagering in July, which was announced last week, Michigan’s online and retail sportsbooks accounted for $206.3 million in wagering. That total is down 20.5% from $259.4 million in bets in June.
That is the lowest volume recorded in a month since sportsbooks collected $150.8 million in January, when online betting first launched on Jan. 22. Still, Michigan’s online and retail sportsbooks have now accepted $1.99 billion in wagers since retail sportsbooks launched in March 2020.
Gross gaming revenue from online betting fell 21.6% to $19.6 million from $24.9 million in June, pushing the state’s combined win to $20.8 million for the month. After promotional credits, $12.4 million in taxable revenue remained from online bets, down from $16.8 million in June. July’s online revenue produced $1.1 million in state and local taxes.
Volume has remained low since April, part of an expected seasonal slowdown. But sportsbooks have countered the loss in wagering with a gain in hold percentage, which is the money the house keeps after paying out winning bets. The hold in July for online and retail sportsbooks was 10.1%, joining June as the only two full months with a percentage above 10% since online betting launched in Michigan in January.
“Bettors interact with summer sports like golf and even the Olympics differently by placing more futures and novelty bets, which win less frequently than a conventional single-game bet on football,” said Eric Ramsey, data analyst for the PlayUSA.com Network, which includes PlayMichigan.com. “For this reason, sportsbooks can bridge the slower betting months.”
The race for the online market lead drew closer in July. FanDuel led all online operators in July with $54.5 million in wagers, down from $77.3 million in June. FanDuel also topped Michigan operators with $7.8 million in gross sports betting revenue, down from $10.3 million in June.
DraftKings was second in the state with $53.4 million in wagers, down from $56.5 million in June. Gross gaming revenue fell to $3.1 million from $5.0 million in June. BetMGM was third with $41.0 million in wagers, down from $52.1 million in June. That produced $5.0 million in gross receipts, down from $6.1 million in June.
The online market leaders were followed by:
- Barstool ($13.6 million handle, down from $16.7 million in July; $1.4 million gross revenue, down from $1.8 million)
- PointsBet ($7.8 million handle, down from $10.2 million; $849,524 GGR, down from $911,170)
- William Hill/Caesars ($7.5 million handle, down from $7.9 million; $252,708 GGR, down from $598,641)
- Fox Bet ($2.7 million handle, down from $3.7 million; $252,873 GGR, down from $332,639)
- BetRivers ($2.6 million handle, up from $2.4 million; $224,089 GGR, up from $107,480)
- WynnBet ($2.3 million handle, down from $5.5 million; $357,718 GGR, up from -$383,777)
- TwinSpires ($1.0 million handle, down from $1.3 million; $138,911 GGR, down from $143,197)
- Golden Nugget ($623,977 handle, down from $914,393; $98,615 GGR, up from $83,855)
- FireKeepers ($367,354 handle, up from $656; $44,048 GGR, up from $299)
- Four Winds ($318,987 handle, down from $607,100; $35,979 GGR, up from -$18,782)
“The Olympics were never going to drive enough volume for operators to overcome a typically slow summer month, especially with the time-zone difference between Michigan and Tokyo,” Schoch said. “But the Olympics did offer an opportunity for sportsbooks to reach a new segment of customers that they wouldn’t have otherwise. That could pay dividends down the road.”
Online casinos and poker
Michigan’s online casinos and poker rooms combined to produce $92.3 million in gross gaming revenue, up 3.5% from $89.2 million in June. Casinos took in $3.0 million per day in wagers over the 31 days of July, a rate consistent with the $3.0 million per day in June. That revenue was enough to yield $17.1 million in state taxes and $6.4 million in local taxes.
Live dealer online casino games launched July 22 in Michigan, likely driving additional wagering later in the month. Since launching in January, online casinos and poker rooms have generated $575.4 million in revenue and $141.8 million in state and local taxes.
“Many of the same forces that slow sports betting in the summer, including summer vacations, also affect online casinos,” Ramsey said. “Michigan is still a young market that hasn’t yet reached maturity. The addition of live dealer games will make a difference going forward. And as the summer turns to fall, we should once again see the revenue at online casinos grow.”
Other highlights from July:
- BetMGM/MGM Grand Detroit continued to dominate the online casino and poker market with $33.8 million in gross gaming revenue, which yielded $8.9 million in state and local taxes.
- DraftKings/Bay Mills was second in the state with $15.2 million in gross receipts, producing $3.8 million in state and local taxes. FanDuel/Motor City was third with $14.4 million in gross receipts and $3.8 million in state and local taxes.
For more information and analysis on regulated sports betting in Michigan, visit PlayMichigan.com/news
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.
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.
-
Latest News7 days ago
SOFTSWISS Ignites Brazil with ‘Race Like a Legend’ Experience
-
Latest News7 days ago
SOFTSWISS and Rubens Barrichello Extend Strategic Collaboration in Latin America
-
Compliance Updates7 days ago
MGCB Opens Investigations into Unlicensed Sports Prediction Markets
-
Latest News7 days ago
SCCG Becomes Sponsor of SFT Combat
-
Latest News7 days ago
IGSA Welcomes VISA as its New Payments Committee Member
-
Latest News6 days ago
THE VISUALIZE GROUP TO ACQUIRE BMM TESTLABS, PARTNERING WITH CEO MARTIN STORM TO ACCELERATE GROWTH IN REGULATED GAMING
-
Latest News6 days ago
Experienced provider, Strive to provide its award winning player account management system and apps to Delta Bingo & Gaming Online
-
Compliance Updates6 days ago
ESA Gaming gains Brazilian Certification