Online Casino Doctor

Author: Levi Brooks

  • Novomatic to Acquire French Vikings Casinos Group to Expand European Presence

    Novomatic to Acquire French Vikings Casinos Group to Expand European Presence

  • KPMG Under Investigation for Audit of Entain’s 2022 Financial Statements

    KPMG Under Investigation for Audit of Entain’s 2022 Financial Statements

    The Financial Reporting Council (FRC), Britain’s accounting watchdog, has launched a formal investigation into KPMG’s audit of Entain’s 2022 financials. Entain, the gambling giant behind brands like Ladbrokes and Coral, has been under scrutiny following a series of controversies, with this latest probe raising fresh concerns over the role of auditors in safeguarding corporate accountability.

    The FRC’s Audit Probe

    The investigation, announced on Monday, is part of the FRC’s Audit Enforcement Procedure and will be handled by its enforcement division. The watchdog is examining whether KPMG’s audit adhered to professional standards and regulatory requirements.

    KPMG, one of the “Big Four” accounting firms, has pledged full cooperation with the FRC. A spokesperson for KPMG UK commented, “We will cooperate fully with the FRC to conclude this matter as quickly as possible.”

    Meanwhile, Entain has declined to provide any statements about the probe or its connection to prior issues, including a settlement with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in 2023 over bribery allegations tied to its former Turkish operations.

    Entain’s Past and the Turkish Operations Scandal

    Entain’s troubles are rooted in its previous ownership of a Turkish-facing online betting business, held from 2011 to 2017. In 2023, the company reached a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) after a years-long investigation into corporate bribery.

    The settlement included a staggering £585 million ($711.65 million) liability, recorded in its 2023 accounts, with additional contributions pushing the total payment to £615 million ($759.55 million). These included:

    • £20 million ($24.70 million) donated to charity.
    • £10 million ($12.35 million) for covering costs incurred by HMRC and the CPS.

    Entain’s chairman at the time, Barry Gibson, emphasised that these issues predated the current management team. “This legacy matter concerns a business sold six years ago. The group has changed immeasurably since these events took place,” he stated.

    KPMG’s Reputation in Question

    KPMG’s handling of Entain’s audits is the latest in a series of challenges for the firm. It has faced criticism for its role in several high-profile corporate collapses, most notably Carillion, a British construction giant that went under in 2018.

    In 2023, KPMG was fined £21 million ($26 million) after regulators deemed its Carillion audits a “textbook failure.” This fine added to mounting pressure on the firm to rebuild its reputation.

    For Entain, KPMG has served as its external auditor for six years, according to the company’s latest annual report. The investigation is expected to examine whether the audit firm’s work met expected standards, particularly in light of the £615 million settlement recorded in Entain’s financial statements.

    Impact on Entain and Its Investors

    The FRC’s announcement has rattled Entain’s shareholders. The company’s stock fell nearly 2% on Monday morning, making it the worst-performing stock on the FTSE 100 index. Investor confidence has been further shaken by a £100 million ($123.5 million) compensation claim from shareholders, alleging that Entain failed to disclose its bribery and corruption issues in a timely manner.

    This latest development adds to a growing list of challenges for Entain, as it navigates a path toward rebuilding trust and maintaining market stability.

    What Lies Ahead?

    The investigation underscores the growing accountability expected of auditors and the critical role they play in ensuring corporate transparency. For KPMG, this probe will serve as yet another test of its ability to uphold industry standards, while Entain must contend with the fallout from its historical controversies.

    Both entities face intense scrutiny in the coming months, as the FRC works to determine whether the audit failures contributed to missed red flags in Entain’s financial reporting.

  • ICE Barcelona 2025: Esports Growth and Regulatory Awareness Take Centre Stage

    ICE Barcelona 2025: Esports Growth and Regulatory Awareness Take Centre Stage

    The ICE Esports Arena at ICE Barcelona 2025 is set to become a focal point for esports education and regulatory progress, according to Will Harding, Clarion Gaming’s lead on Emerging Technology and Esports. With its increasing prominence, the arena promises to shape the future of esports integration and regulation while showcasing the potential of this dynamic sector.

    Esports Education: Filling the Gaps in Understanding

    One of the critical missions of the ICE Esports Arena and its associated conference is to demystify esports for both enthusiasts and regulators. Harding emphasised the importance of bridging knowledge gaps, saying, “Part of the role of the Esports Arena and The Esports and Games Conference is explaining exactly what esports is.”

    For regulators, the task is even more pressing. Many remain unfamiliar with the nuances of esports and its implications for policy-making. “Showcasing esports here at ICE is so important,” Harding noted, highlighting the role of the event in empowering key decision-makers in shaping effective regulatory frameworks.

    A Growing Spectacle: The Esports Arena

    The ICE Esports Arena has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the rising global interest in esports. At ICE 2025, the arena hosted four world-ranked professional Counter-Strike 2 teams, competing for a $25,000 prize pool. This year’s champions, 500 from Bulgaria, currently hold the 47th spot in global rankings, showcasing the high calibre of talent attracted to the event.

    The appeal of the Esports Arena is as diverse as its audience. “We have everyone here, from those who are amazed that computer games can be linked to sports betting to industry leaders with thriving esports businesses,” Harding explained. For others, the arena serves as an entry point to a lucrative but unfamiliar market. “There are visitors who understand esports’ revenue potential but don’t know how to tap into it. We’re here to help them realise its full potential.”

    Oddin.gg: A Key Player in Esports Evolution

    The success of the Esports Arena owes much to the contributions of Oddin.gg, the event’s headline sponsor and a leader in esports betting. Harding praised Oddin.gg for its role in making the arena a reality, particularly in explaining the commercial significance of esports betting to operators.

    “Holding a professional esports tournament is a big endeavour,” Harding said. “Oddin.gg has been instrumental in showcasing how data and odds work, helping complete the education journey for attendees.”

    Why Barcelona Is the Perfect Host

    This year marks the first ICE event in Barcelona, and the city is proving to be a fitting host. With its deep connection to esports culture and infrastructure, Barcelona offers an ideal setting for the continued growth of the Esports Arena.

    “Barcelona is very established in esports,” Harding observed. “Large-scale internet cafes catering to esports fans are a common sight, providing a strong foundation for our expansion.” The new venue, Fira Barcelona Gran Via, further complements this growth, offering a state-of-the-art facility tailored to esports and gaming conferences.

    What’s Next for Esports and ICE?

    As esports betting cements its place in the gaming industry, events like ICE Barcelona are poised to drive both commercial and regulatory advancements. With strong partnerships and an engaged audience, the future of esports is looking brighter than ever.

  • Frankie C Joins Card Player: The Next Generation of Poker Stars

    Frankie C Joins Card Player: The Next Generation of Poker Stars

    Poker has long captivated audiences, from smoke-filled backrooms to the glittering stages of televised tournaments. But how can the game stay relevant and attract a new generation of players? Enter Frankie Cucchiara, better known as Frankie C—a high-stakes poker pro and content creator who’s shaking up the scene with his innovative approach.

    Frankie C isn’t just playing the game; he’s turning poker into a spectacle. With millions of followers consuming his engaging YouTube content, he’s proving that poker can capture the attention of those who might never have considered the game before.

    Frankie C: The Face of Modern Poker

    Frankie C’s journey into poker stardom isn’t a typical one. A native of Texas, he’s a professional poker player who has transformed his career into a multimedia venture. While excelling at the tables, Frankie also documents his jet-setting lifestyle, taking viewers along for the ride through his popular vlogs. From high-stakes tournaments to candid moments, Frankie’s authenticity has struck a chord with fans.

    Adding to his already impressive plate, Frankie has a new baby at home with his partner, fellow poker pro Kitty Kuo. On top of that, he’s learning Chinese—a testament to his relentless drive to grow both personally and professionally.

    “I want to make poker a spectacle,” he said, summing up his mission to reinvigorate the game for younger audiences. Through relatable storytelling and a focus on entertainment, Frankie is helping to change the perception of poker as a static game into something dynamic and thrilling.

    What Frankie Brings to Card Player

    Frankie C recently joined forces with Card Player Magazine, not only as a brand ambassador but also as a consultant. His goal? To help the long-standing publication pivot towards more video-based, engaging content that resonates with modern audiences.

    “The world is changing,” Frankie remarked. “Our attention spans are absolutely in the toilet. Card Player Magazine and I are teaming up to make some very fun content. It’s going to be more video-based, focusing on what’s happening in poker in the most fun and entertaining ways possible.”

    This partnership is a significant move for Card Player, which has been a staple of the poker community for decades. With Frankie’s innovative vision and Card Player’s established reputation, the collaboration is poised to bridge the gap between traditional poker enthusiasts and new players.

    The Power of Content Creation in Poker

    One of the ways Frankie is reaching younger players is by leveraging his skills as a filmmaker. His YouTube channel doesn’t just highlight poker strategy—it’s a full-fledged narrative that combines the drama of competition with glimpses into his personal life.

    Frankie’s content demonstrates how poker is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. His jet-setting adventures, candid moments, and engaging storytelling showcase the excitement of the poker world in a way that resonates with a tech-savvy audience.

    Some key features of Frankie’s content include:

    • Relatable Narratives: Whether sharing the ups and downs of tournament play or offering a peek into his life as a new father, Frankie’s content feels genuine and personal.
    • Educational Value: His videos provide insights into poker strategy, making them a resource for aspiring players.
    • Entertainment Factor: By combining humour, drama, and high-stakes action, Frankie’s channel keeps viewers hooked.

    This approach has not only earned him a devoted following but also sparked conversations about how poker can adapt to a younger, content-driven audience.

    The Future of Poker’s Growth

    Frankie C’s efforts to “make poker a spectacle” come at a critical time. While the game remains popular, its growth among younger generations has slowed. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube are vital tools for reaching new audiences, and Frankie is at the forefront of using these channels effectively.

    His partnership with Card Player is part of a broader push to modernise poker’s image. By focusing on video content and storytelling, the collaboration seeks to position poker as an exciting, dynamic game for a global audience.

    A recent study highlighted that millennials and Gen Z are more likely to consume video content than any other media form. This trend underscores the importance of Frankie’s work, as he crafts videos that entertain, educate, and inspire a new wave of poker enthusiasts.

    Final Thoughts

    Frankie C is more than just a poker player; he’s a visionary who’s redefining how the game connects with people. His ability to blend high-level play with creative content has already made a significant impact, and his partnership with Card Player is set to amplify that influence.

    As poker continues to evolve, figures like Frankie will play a crucial role in shaping its future. By combining traditional gameplay with modern storytelling, he’s not just bringing poker to new audiences—he’s making it an experience they won’t forget.

  • Borgata Winter Poker Open Ends with a Rare Split as Neiman and Le Share the Spotlight

    Borgata Winter Poker Open Ends with a Rare Split as Neiman and Le Share the Spotlight

    The 2025 Borgata Winter Poker Open wrapped up its $3,500 buy-in no-limit hold’em championship event in dramatic fashion. Joseph Neiman and Nguyen Le made headlines, not just for their remarkable performances but for an uncommon co-championship outcome. In a surprising twist, both players walked away with trophies and big payouts after agreeing to a deal in the final moments.

    A Tale of Two Champions

    Poker tournaments often see deals struck among the final players, but rarely does the winner’s photo include two champions. This was the case when Neiman, a former World Amateur Backgammon Champion, and Le, a rising poker star, decided to split the remaining prize money. The duo negotiated a deal that left Le with the largest payday, $425,000, while Neiman claimed $406,791 and the official title of first-place finisher after winning the final all-in flip.

    Both players left with hardware to mark the occasion, with trophies from the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and presenting sponsor BetMGM Poker.

    A High-Stakes Showdown

    The tournament drew 932 entries across two starting flights, surpassing its $2 million guarantee and creating a prize pool of $2,875,255. The top 119 finishers shared in the spoils, and the event culminated with six skilled contenders battling it out on the final day.

    Nguyen Le entered the last stretch as the chip leader, while Neiman started in third position. Salvatore Evola, the first to exit, earned a career-best $82,033 for sixth place after his A-Q couldn’t hold against Dorian Rios’ A-10.

    Rios later fell in fifth place for $105,691 when his A-J lost to Clemen Deng’s A-Q suited, despite briefly taking the lead on a jack-high flop. Deng maintained momentum, eliminating Philip Saracino (4th – $153,430) with pocket aces.

    Deng’s Fall Sets the Stage

    As play narrowed to three, Deng’s chip lead dwindled. His tournament ended in third place, earning $233,882, after his A♠7♣ couldn’t overcome Neiman’s A♣J♣. With that, the final duel began.

    Neiman started heads-up play with a significant chip advantage, but the balance shifted as both players traded leads. After intense back-and-forth action, they decided on a deal that would mark the end of the tournament in an extraordinary way.

    The Bigger Picture: POY Points and More

    While Le took the larger payout, Neiman earned 1,368 Player of the Year (POY) points, putting him at the top of the 2025 standings presented by Global Poker. Le sits just behind him with 1,340 points after adding 1,140 points from this event to his tally.

    Notable players also made deep runs, including Kitty Kuo (8th – $51,919), Ryan Depaulo (9th – $41,315), and Darren Elias (18th), among others. Their presence highlighted the calibre of the competition.

    Final Table Payouts and POY Points

    Here’s a breakdown of the final table results:

    Place Player Earnings POY Points
    1 Joseph Neiman $406,791 1,368
    2 Nguyen Le $425,000 1,140
    3 Clemen Deng $233,882 912
    4 Philip Saracino $153,430 684
    5 Dorian Rios $105,691 570
    6 Salvatore Evola $82,033 456
    7 Tom McNicholas $65,053 342
    8 Kitty Kuo $51,919 228
    9 Ryan Depaulo $41,315 114

    A Moment to Remember

    The unusual conclusion to this high-stakes poker tournament will undoubtedly go down in history. Both Neiman and Le showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship, proving that poker is as much about strategy as it is about adaptability. For those in Atlantic City that week, it was a tournament to remember, not just for the payouts but for the way the game brought people together in an unexpected and thrilling way.

  • Win Systems Set to Showcase Cutting-Edge Gaming Innovations at ICE Barcelona

    Win Systems Set to Showcase Cutting-Edge Gaming Innovations at ICE Barcelona

    Next week’s ICE Barcelona event is gearing up to host some of the biggest names in gaming, with Win Systems promising to turn heads with its latest technological advances. The exhibition, running from January 20–22 at Fira Gran Via, will see the company showcasing its pioneering solutions for the gaming sector at stand 3H24. From state-of-the-art roulette systems to exciting new slot games, Win Systems aims to impress operators and players alike.

    Spotlight on Symphony 4 Electronic Roulette

    One of the showstoppers at Win Systems’ booth will undoubtedly be the Gold Club Symphony 4 electronic roulette. This sleek, 4-position roulette has been designed with compact spaces in mind, combining functionality and elegance in one streamlined package.

    The company describes the Symphony 4 as a culmination of years of expertise in roulette development. By integrating advanced technology and intuitive features, it provides players with a highly engaging experience. A standout element is the new Dynamic Paytable functionality, allowing players to choose between three payout tables:

    • Standard Pay: Multipliers up to 36x.
    • Premium Pay: Multipliers up to 72x.
    • Elite Pay: Multipliers up to 120x for inside bets.

    This customization adds an extra layer of excitement, letting players tailor their gameplay based on their risk preference and reward potential.

    New Games to Captivate Audiences

    Win Systems will also introduce several new games that underline its commitment to innovation. At the forefront is Money Grab, a title that incorporates unique features and a bonus structure designed to maximize entertainment and player engagement.

    Alongside Money Grab, the company is set to debut Hot Blitz and Jin Long, both of which offer distinctive game mechanics. These titles aim to provide diverse entertainment options that cater to varying player preferences, enhancing the gaming experience across the board.

    Expanded Lineup of Gold Club Roulettes

    Beyond the Symphony 4, Win Systems will showcase additional versions of its renowned Gold Club electronic roulettes, including the Ventura Plus and Lumina 25 models. These products emphasize exceptional gameplay reliability, ensuring a seamless experience for both operators and players. The company’s focus on performance and durability continues to solidify its reputation in the market.

    Rhapsody XL Slots Take the Stage

    Another highlight of the stand will be the Rhapsody XL slot series, tailored for key international markets such as South Africa, Poland, Puerto Rico, and the Netherlands. These slots are designed to cater to specific regional preferences while maintaining the high standards of quality and innovation that Win Systems is known for.

    Industry Leadership and Innovation

    Michael Lamers, Corporate Product Director of Win Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s participation in ICE Barcelona. He stated:

    “We are excited to present our latest innovations to the ICE audience. Our mission remains to lead the industry with products that not only meet operators’ expectations but also elevate the player experience.”

    This statement reflects the company’s ongoing dedication to pushing boundaries in gaming technology, ensuring both operators and players benefit from its forward-thinking solutions.

  • Skilrock CEO Sujit Lahiry to Highlight African Gaming Growth at ICE Barcelona

    Skilrock CEO Sujit Lahiry to Highlight African Gaming Growth at ICE Barcelona

  • FBMDS Gains Certification to Operate in Brazil’s Thriving iGaming Sector

    FBMDS Gains Certification to Operate in Brazil’s Thriving iGaming Sector

    FBMDS, a renowned supplier of iGaming content, has reached a significant milestone by obtaining certification to operate in Brazil’s burgeoning online gaming market. This achievement marks a crucial step in the company’s global expansion strategy, reinforcing its leadership in video bingo and its commitment to innovation, quality, and regulatory compliance.

    A New Chapter for FBMDS in Brazil

    With this certification, FBMDS joins a select group of iGaming providers authorized to deliver certified games tailored to the Brazilian audience. The company’s cultural ties to Brazil make this achievement particularly noteworthy, as it positions FBMDS to offer a personalized gaming experience that resonates with local players.

    Renato Almeida, Director at FBMDS, celebrated this milestone, stating, “This certification represents a pivotal moment in our journey. It demonstrates our commitment to the Brazilian market, ensuring a safe, exciting, and fully compliant gaming experience for players while empowering operators with premium certified content that drives engagement and growth.”

    The company’s ability to combine cutting-edge technology, cultural relevance, and rigorous security standards positions it as a key player in Brazil’s online gaming market.

    Benefits for Operators and Players Alike

    The certification doesn’t just solidify FBMDS’s presence in Brazil—it also brings tangible benefits to operators and players:

    • Operators: FBMDS’s certified games assure compliance with Brazil’s regulatory framework, enabling operators to confidently offer games that meet local standards.
    • Players: Online gaming enthusiasts can look forward to a portfolio of games reflecting their cultural preferences and expectations, underpinned by world-class security and quality.

    Brazil’s iGaming market is expanding rapidly, creating ample opportunities for providers like FBMDS to introduce innovative gaming experiences. The company’s expertise in video bingo—a category in which it has long been a pioneer—makes it uniquely positioned to succeed in the region.

    Strategic Initiatives on the Horizon

    To capitalize on its certification, FBMDS has unveiled plans for a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening its foothold in Brazil. These include targeted marketing campaigns, participating in high-profile events like the SBC Summit Rio this February, and forging strategic partnerships with operators.

    In the first quarter of the year, FBMDS intends to deepen its relationships with operators while expanding its reach through localized offerings. These efforts will ensure that its games not only meet regulatory requirements but also align with the unique demands of Brazilian players.

    A Milestone in FBMDS’s Global Growth

    This achievement aligns seamlessly with FBMDS’s broader 2025 narrative, which focuses on market expansion, innovation, and leadership in key iGaming segments. Brazil’s growing market offers fertile ground for the company to showcase its renowned expertise in video bingo and other gaming verticals.

    FBMDS stated, “Certification in Brazil is simply the recognition of our expertise and dedication to raising the bar in iGaming. By aligning our operations with local regulatory requirements, we ensure that our games offer a seamless, enjoyable experience while meeting the market’s unique demands.”

    Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for iGaming in Brazil

    With its certification secured, FBMDS is poised to make a lasting impact in Brazil’s iGaming sector. The company’s focus on cultural relevance, security, and innovation positions it as a leader in the region. As the Brazilian market continues to grow, FBMDS is well-prepared to provide an unmatched gaming experience for players while supporting operators in achieving business success.

  • CT Interactive to Showcase Latest Gaming Innovations at ICE Barcelona 2025

    CT Interactive to Showcase Latest Gaming Innovations at ICE Barcelona 2025

    Online gaming provider CT Interactive is gearing up to present its cutting-edge products and features at ICE Barcelona 2025. From January 20 to 22, industry professionals can visit stand 2E24 at the Fira Gran Via in Barcelona to experience the company’s latest slot gaming content and game mechanics. This event promises to be a pivotal moment for the brand, showcasing its forward-thinking approach and commitment to player-centric design.

    Highlights of the Showcase

    One of the most talked-about features at this year’s event will be CT Interactive’s new game interface. The sleek, modern design prioritizes usability, aiming to make gameplay not just smoother but also more immersive. The company stated that this update underscores their dedication to placing players at the core of their creative processes.

    Another innovation attendees can expect is the introduction of updated game mechanics, including the “Buy Bonus” feature. This function is designed with flexibility in mind, offering players the option to purchase partial bonuses rather than the full feature. It’s an industry-first that aims to make premium features accessible to a wider range of players, including those new to the platform.

    • New game interface: Combining aesthetics with functionality for an elevated gaming experience.
    • Buy Bonus flexibility: Allows players to purchase only portions of the bonus, breaking traditional constraints.
    • Progressive jackpot system: Featuring a bonus spin mechanism for multiple winning opportunities.

    Looking Ahead to 2025: Progressive Jackpots and Beyond

    CT Interactive is not stopping with ICE Barcelona. One of the company’s most anticipated developments for the year ahead is its progressive jackpot system. The system boasts a bonus spin feature, creating multiple chances for players to win both progressive prizes and additional rewards in a single session.

    Martin Ivanov, Chief Operating Officer at CT Interactive, expressed the company’s vision succinctly:
    “We’re pushing the boundaries of what players can expect from slot games. Our goal is to create a dynamic and rewarding experience that resonates with a diverse audience. We’ve put a great deal of effort into designing innovative game mechanics and features that not only entertain but also engage players on a deeper level.”

    Social Casinos Made Simple with Gameworkz

    Beyond individual game innovations, CT Interactive is introducing Gameworkz, a turnkey solution for businesses looking to enter the social casino market. With Gameworkz, operators can launch their own platforms within months rather than years of development.

    The platform comes packed with over 300 high-quality games and a host of features that ensure an engaging user experience. Moreover, it supports integration with over 250 payment gateways, making it adaptable to a wide variety of markets.

    Why Gameworkz is a Game-Changer:

    • Time-saving: Fully operational HUD within months.
    • Content-rich: Access to over 300 games.
    • Market-ready: Seamless integration with more than 250 payment solutions.

    CT Interactive’s Commitment to Innovation

    The company’s participation in ICE Barcelona reaffirms its reputation as a leader in the gaming industry. By unveiling these advancements, CT Interactive aims to cement its position as a pioneer in creating innovative and rewarding gaming experiences.

    Visitors can expect a hands-on introduction to the company’s latest offerings and the opportunity to connect directly with the creative minds behind these innovations. With their sights set firmly on the future, CT Interactive is poised to make 2025 a year of transformation for the gaming industry.

  • New Jersey Gaming Revenue Hits Record $6.3 Billion in 2024 as Online Gaming Surges

    New Jersey Gaming Revenue Hits Record $6.3 Billion in 2024 as Online Gaming Surges

    New Jersey’s gaming industry shattered previous records in 2024, with gaming revenues reaching an all-time high of $6.3 billion. This milestone represents a 9% increase from 2023 and highlights the explosive growth in the online gaming sector, which continues to reshape the state’s gambling landscape.

    Online Gaming Drives Revenue Boom

    The most significant factor behind New Jersey’s revenue surge was iGaming. Online slots, table games, and other virtual offerings brought in a staggering $2.38 billion, a 24% leap compared to the previous year. That’s an additional $463.4 million flowing into the industry, according to the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE).

    The convenience and accessibility of online platforms have played a crucial role in this growth. Players can log in from the comfort of their homes, bypassing the need to visit physical casinos. Additionally, partnerships with major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel have bolstered the online gaming market, despite the revenue-sharing agreements that cut into profits for local casinos.

    Sports Betting: Another Billion-Dollar Year

    New Jersey’s sports wagering industry also delivered impressive results. For the second year in a row, sports betting revenues topped the $1 billion mark, reaching $1.094 billion—a solid 8.7% increase from 2023.

    Football, as usual, was a key driver, with the Philadelphia Eagles’ standout season drawing significant betting interest. However, December wasn’t as kind to sportsbooks. Monthly revenues dropped by 43% year-over-year to $62.8 million as successful bets on the Eagles’ three wins and two spread covers ate into profits.

    • Total Gaming Revenue (2024): $6.3 billion (+9% YoY)
    • iGaming Revenue: $2.38 billion (+24% YoY)
    • Sports Betting Revenue: $1.094 billion (+8.7% YoY)
    • December Sports Betting Revenue: $62.8 million (-43% YoY)

    Mixed Results for Atlantic City Casinos

    While online gaming and sports betting thrived, Atlantic City’s brick-and-mortar casinos faced challenges in 2024. The nine casinos collectively generated $2.81 billion in revenue from physical slots and table games, marking a slight decline of 1.1% or $30.4 million compared to the previous year.

    Slot revenue dropped 0.7% to $2.1 billion, while table game revenue saw a 2% decrease, settling at $731.4 million. Borgata, however, bucked the trend, posting a 1.2% increase in in-person revenue to $738.1 million. Hard Rock followed with $544.9 million, up 6%, but Ocean Casino Resort reported a slight dip of 1.3%, earning $409.7 million.

    Casino Winners and Losers

    • Borgata: $738.1 million (+1.2% YoY)
    • Hard Rock: $544.9 million (+6% YoY)
    • Ocean: $409.7 million (-1.3% YoY)
    • Harrah’s: $223.8 million (-12% YoY)
    • Bally’s: $145.4 million (-6% YoY)

    Harrah’s experienced the steepest decline, with revenues tumbling 12% to $223.8 million. Bally’s, Caesars, and Tropicana also saw decreases, highlighting the ongoing struggles of some Atlantic City properties to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

    December’s Mixed Bag for Casinos

    The final month of 2024 painted a nuanced picture. Total gaming revenue for December was $522.6 million, just a fraction higher than the $522.2 million reported in December 2023. Table games were a bright spot, with revenue rising nearly 12% to $63.8 million, driven by strong performances in blackjack, roulette, and craps. Conversely, slot revenue fell by 4%, settling at $168 million.

    Online gaming closed the year on a high note, raking in $228 million in December—a 26.5% jump compared to December 2023. This reinforces the sustained demand for virtual gambling, even as the industry debates its long-term impact on Atlantic City’s traditional casino market.

    Tax Revenue and Industry Concerns

    The gaming sector’s contributions to state coffers remain a critical benefit. In 2024, New Jersey casinos generated $602.6 million in taxes, with much of this funding programmes for seniors and disabled residents.

    Still, concerns linger. Some casino operators argue that the rise of online gaming comes at the expense of physical casinos, which offer a broader economic impact through dining, entertainment, and hotel stays. Additionally, revenue-sharing arrangements with third-party operators mean that local casino owners don’t see the full financial benefit of iGaming growth.

    Future Outlook: Can the Momentum Last?

    New Jersey’s gaming industry finds itself at a crossroads. The record-breaking revenues of 2024 underscore the success of digital transformation within the sector. However, the ongoing challenges for Atlantic City casinos raise questions about the industry’s ability to balance online and in-person experiences. As operators adapt and innovate, the state’s gaming landscape will continue to evolve—potentially reshaping its economic footprint for years to come.