Category: Betting

In a stunning turnaround, prediction market giant Kalshi has scrapped its bold plan to let people bet on college athletes jumping into the transfer portal. This move comes just days after the NCAA slammed the idea as a threat to young players’ well-being. What sparked this quick retreat, and what does it mean for the future of sports gambling?

Kalshi, a rising star in the prediction market world, filed paperwork with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission on December 17, 2025. The company aimed to self-certify event contracts tied to NCAA athletes’ transfer decisions. Users could have wagered on whether specific players would enter or exit the transfer portal, a system that lets college athletes switch schools.

This wasn’t just any betting setup. It targeted individual student-athletes, turning their personal career choices into tradable events. Kalshi planned to launch these markets soon after filing, betting on the growing appetite for sports predictions. But the idea hit a wall almost instantly.

The proposal raised alarms about integrity in college sports, with critics fearing it could lead to manipulation or harassment of young athletes.

Sports experts pointed out how the transfer portal, already a hotbed of drama with over 2,000 football players entering it last season according to NCAA data from 2024, would become even more chaotic. Imagine fans betting big on a star quarterback’s next move, then pressuring him online.

Kalshi argued these markets could provide real insights into player movements, much like stock trading predicts company futures. Yet, the filing didn’t include safeguards against insider trading, a big red flag for regulators.

NCAA’s Fiery Pushback

The NCAA didn’t hold back. President Charlie Baker blasted the plan on social media, calling it “absolutely unacceptable.” He warned that betting on transfers would pile more stress on student-athletes, who already deal with abuse from angry gamblers over game outcomes.

Baker’s statement, posted just hours after Kalshi’s filing, highlighted the risks. “Student-athletes face harassment and abuse for lost bets on game performance,” he wrote. “Their decisions and future should not be gambled with, especially in an unregulated marketplace.”

This isn’t the first clash between the NCAA and gambling firms. In recent years, the organization has fought against prop bets on college games, pushing states to ban them. A 2023 NCAA survey found that 67% of college athletes reported facing threats or harassment linked to sports betting, up from previous years.

Under Baker’s leadership since 2023, the NCAA has ramped up efforts to protect players. The group lobbied the CFTC directly, urging them to block Kalshi’s certification. Industry insiders say this pressure worked fast, forcing Kalshi to rethink its strategy.

One key concern? The transfer portal’s role in Name, Image, and Likeness deals, where athletes earn money from endorsements. Betting could twist these decisions, making them about market odds rather than personal growth.

Industry Outcry and Ethical Concerns

Criticism poured in from all sides. Sports media outlets like ESPN and The Athletic called out the risks, noting how prediction markets might invite scams or unfair advantages for those with inside info, such as coaches or agents.

Gambling watchdogs echoed these fears. A report from the American Gaming Association in 2025 showed that unregulated betting markets have led to a 15% rise in fraud cases over the past two years. Kalshi, while regulated by the CFTC, operates in a gray area for sports-related contracts.

• Harassment Risks: Athletes could face targeted abuse from bettors upset over lost wagers.
• Integrity Threats: Insiders might manipulate transfers to sway markets.
• Youth Impact: Many college players are under 21, raising questions about exploiting minors’ decisions.

Even some betting enthusiasts turned against it. Posts on social media platforms showed fans worried about turning college sports into a casino sideshow. One analyst compared it to the scandals of the early 2000s, when point-shaving rocked basketball.

Kalshi isn’t new to controversy. Earlier in 2025, the company faced a class-action lawsuit accusing it of misleading users about its betting model. That case, filed in New York, claimed Kalshi acts more like a house than a fair market, leading to big losses for bettors.

Kalshi’s Swift Retreat

Faced with the uproar, Kalshi hit pause. By December 20, 2025, the company confirmed it had no plans to list the transfer portal markets. A spokesperson said they were “reassessing” after feedback from stakeholders.

This backpedal marks a rare defeat for Kalshi, which has pushed boundaries since its founding in 2018. The firm has successfully launched markets on everything from election outcomes to weather events, boasting millions in trading volume.

Why the quick fold? Experts say the CFTC’s review process played a role. While self-certification allows fast launches, the agency can step in if markets threaten public interest. With NCAA pressure mounting, Kalshi likely saw the writing on the wall.

In a statement, Kalshi emphasized its commitment to responsible innovation. But insiders whisper that legal risks, including potential lawsuits from affected athletes, tipped the scales.

Broader Implications for Sports and Betting

This saga spotlights the uneasy marriage between college sports and gambling. Since the Supreme Court struck down a federal betting ban in 2018, legal sports wagering has exploded to over $100 billion annually, per 2024 industry estimates from the American Gaming Association.

Yet, college athletics remain a sensitive spot. Unlike pro leagues, the NCAA oversees amateurs, many navigating life-changing choices amid financial pressures. Betting on transfers could erode trust, especially as NIL deals hit $1 billion in value last year, according to a 2025 Opendorse report.

Looking ahead, this could set precedents. Regulators might tighten rules on event contracts involving individuals, protecting vulnerable groups. For fans, it raises questions about where to draw the line in monetizing sports drama.

The Kalshi pullback feels like a win for athlete welfare, pulling back the curtain on how gambling’s reach can harm real lives. It reminds us that behind every bet is a human story, often of young people chasing dreams under bright lights.

In a bold move that underscores its dominance, FIRST – Best in Sports just snagged the Sportsbook Supplier of the Year title at the EGR LatAm Awards 2025. This win spotlights the company’s rapid growth and smart tech plays across Latin America’s booming betting scene. But what does this mean for the future of sports wagering in the region? Stick around to find out.

The EGR LatAm Awards 2025 celebrated FIRST for its standout role in regulated markets. This marks the company’s fourth big industry victory this year, cementing its spot as a top sportsbook provider in Latin America. Judges praised FIRST’s work in powering more than 35 brands in Brazil alone.

The award shines a light on how FIRST has pushed boundaries in a fast-changing market. With sports betting exploding in popularity, this recognition comes at a perfect time.

It also highlights expansions into Peru, Mexico, and Argentina. These moves show FIRST’s knack for adapting to local needs.

Powering Growth with Localized Tech

FIRST’s success stems from its tailored sportsbook engine, built for Latin America’s unique demands. The platform includes proprietary odds and real-time automation that keep things running smooth.

Operators love the payment integrations that match local habits, like quick mobile transactions. A team of over 500 experts spread across three continents backs this up, ensuring top-notch support.

This setup helps brands compete in crowded markets. For instance, in Brazil, where betting regulations are tightening, FIRST’s tools give operators an edge.

The focus on mobile-first play fits how people in the region bet on the go. It’s all about making the experience feel right at home.

Key Features That Set FIRST Apart

What makes FIRST stand out? Its product stack is designed for real-world use in Latin America.

• Proprietary odds that adjust to local sports events.
• Real-time automation for seamless operations.
• User experience shaped by regional behaviors.
• Strong payment options that speed up deposits and withdrawals.

These elements drive better performance for partners. According to recent industry reports, such innovations have helped boost user engagement by up to 30% in key markets.

In places like Mexico and Argentina, where soccer rules, FIRST tunes its engine to highlight popular leagues. This keeps bettors coming back.

The company’s approach avoids one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, it builds tools that scale with market growth.

CEO’s Take on the Win and Road Ahead

Tom Light, CEO of FIRST – Best in Sports, kept it real in his response. He said awards validate their hard work but stressed that product quality truly drives markets.

Light pointed to engineering speed, localization, and scalability as core strengths. These help partners deliver what bettors want.

Looking forward, FIRST plans to keep innovating amid rising regulations. The company aims to turn tech advances into real business wins.

This mindset could shape the next wave of sports betting in Latin America. As more countries open up, FIRST’s strategy positions it for even bigger plays.

With the Latin American sports betting market projected to hit $10 billion by 2028, according to a 2024 study by market analysts at Statista, companies like FIRST are leading the charge. Their expansions reflect broader trends, where localized tech meets growing demand for safe, fun wagering options.

This award isn’t just a pat on the back. It signals how FIRST is tackling challenges like regulatory changes head-on.

In Brazil, for example, new laws from 2024 have pushed operators to upgrade their systems. FIRST’s engine has helped many navigate this shift without missing a beat.

Partners in Peru and Mexico report smoother operations thanks to these tools. It’s a win-win that boosts both tech providers and local economies.

The broader impact? More jobs in tech and support roles across the region. FIRST’s 500-plus team shows how global expertise can fuel local growth.

As competition heats up, FIRST’s focus on performance over hype sets a new standard. Operators now prioritize tools that deliver measurable results, like higher retention rates.

This shift could redefine how sportsbooks operate in emerging markets. It’s exciting to watch.

This victory for FIRST – Best in Sports wraps up a year of triumphs, proving that smart, localized innovation wins in Latin America’s dynamic sports betting world. It sparks hope for more accessible and exciting wagering options that respect local cultures while embracing global tech.

College sports giant NCAA just fired off a stern letter to prediction market upstart Kalshi, demanding clarity on their non-existent partnership and tough action on betting risks. This move spotlights growing fears over gambling’s grip on amateur athletics, leaving fans wondering if student-athletes will stay protected amid the betting boom.

The NCAA took a bold step last week, sending a letter to Kalshi on October 30, 2025. Scott Bearby, the group’s senior vice president and chief legal officer, led the charge. He urged Kalshi to stop any wording that hints at an official link with the NCAA, like claims of “verified from NCAA” data in their markets.

This false implication could damage the NCAA’s brand, especially given its firm stance against sports betting. Bearby stressed that no real partnership exists, and Kalshi must update its website to reflect that truth.

Kalshi, a federally licensed platform for trading predictions on events including college football and basketball games, has grown quickly. It lets users bet on outcomes like game winners or point totals, but the NCAA worries this blurs lines and invites trouble.

In response, Kalshi started tweaking its site. A spokesperson said they are reviewing the requests and have strong integrity rules in place as a licensed exchange.

Integrity Risks in the Spotlight

At the heart of the letter are deep concerns about keeping college sports clean. The NCAA asked Kalshi how it spots and handles shady activity in its markets. They want details on banning coaches, athletes, and officials from betting, plus plans to report odd patterns that might signal fixes or harassment.

Proposition bets, which Kalshi rolled out this fall, raise the biggest red flags. These wagers on specific player stats or in-game events could tempt misconduct and pile pressure on young athletes, Bearby noted.

Recent data from sports integrity groups shows a spike in gambling-related issues in college sports. A 2024 report by the International Betting Integrity Association highlighted over 200 suspicious alerts in U.S. college events last year alone, up 15% from 2023. The NCAA fears unregulated platforms like Kalshi could fuel this trend without proper checks.

Kalshi insists it has robust monitoring. But the NCAA pushed for more, including cooperation on investigations and a full ban on prop-style markets to shield student-athletes.

This isn’t just about rules. Real lives hang in the balance. Student-athletes already face intense scrutiny, and betting pressures could lead to mental health struggles or worse.

How Kalshi Fits into the Bigger Picture

Kalshi stands out as a prediction market, not a traditional sportsbook, but the lines are blurring. Users trade contracts on yes/no questions about events, with payouts based on real outcomes. Since gaining federal approval in 2021, it has expanded into sports, drawing millions in trades.

The NCAA’s letter also questions Kalshi’s self-description. Bearby asked the company to admit it operates as a sports betting platform, which could change how it’s regulated. This comes amid a wider crackdown on gambling in college sports.

For context, legalized sports betting exploded after a 2018 Supreme Court ruling, with the industry hitting $10 billion in revenue by 2024, per American Gaming Association stats from their annual report last spring. College games make up a big chunk, but the NCAA bans athletes from betting and limits props in many states.

Kalshi’s model sidesteps some rules, operating under commodity exchange laws. That freedom worries the NCAA, which has lobbied for stricter federal oversight.

Here are key differences between Kalshi and traditional betting:

• Kalshi uses event contracts, traded like stocks, with fees on trades.
• Payouts come from market resolutions, not house odds.
• It covers politics, weather, and now sports, unlike casino-focused apps.

This setup appeals to savvy users but raises integrity questions without the same safeguards as licensed sportsbooks.

Broader Impacts on College Sports

The clash highlights tensions in an era of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, where athletes can earn from endorsements but not betting. A 2025 survey by the NCAA found 58% of Division I athletes worry about gambling influences, up from 42% in 2022.

Schools and conferences are stepping up education. The Big Ten, for example, partners with integrity firms to monitor bets and train teams.

If Kalshi ignores the NCAA’s asks, it could spark lawsuits or regulatory scrutiny. Bearby hinted at potential harm to the NCAA’s reputation, opening doors for legal action.

Fans feel the ripple effects too. Betting scandals erode trust in games, potentially driving away viewers who cherish college sports’ purity.

One thing is clear. As betting grows, protecting young athletes must come first.

Push for Accountability and Future Safeguards

Experts see this as part of a larger battle. Gambling revenue funds scholarships and programs, but unchecked expansion invites abuse. The NCAA wants Kalshi to align with its standards, like banning props and sharing data on threats.

This table shows the main friction points. Resolving them could set a precedent for other platforms.

In the end, the NCAA’s push against Kalshi underscores a critical fight to preserve the heart of college sports amid betting’s rapid rise. It reminds us that while innovation brings excitement, it can’t come at the cost of fairness and safety for student-athletes who pour their passion into the game.

Brazil’s sports betting scene exploded in Q3 2025, with tiny bets flooding the market while hefty wagers raked in the real money. A fresh report uncovers how everyday punters shape trends, yet high rollers keep the industry booming. Dive in to see why this shift matters for millions.

Brazil has rocketed to the fifth-largest online betting market worldwide, with projections hitting $4.1 billion in revenue for 2025. This surge comes amid rapid digital growth and new regulations that kicked in earlier this year. The Paag Q3 2025 Market Insights Report, based on transactions from July to September, paints a clear picture of who’s betting and how.

Most bets stay small, showing how accessible the market has become for average folks. Around 71% of all wagers fell under R$50, or about $9.50. This points to a wave of casual bettors jumping in, drawn by easy apps and low entry points.

Wagers up to R$20 made up 44.2% of total bets but only 7.3% of the money moved. That’s a huge chunk of activity from people testing the waters without big risks. Analysts say this trend ties into Brazil’s economic ups and downs, where many prefer safe, fun plays over high-stakes gambles.

In one standout month, betting sites saw a 24.45% jump in visitors compared to last year, hitting nearly 4 billion visits. It’s no wonder regulators are watching closely.

Revenue Power Lies in Bigger Bets

While small bets dominate the count, the cash flow tells a different story. The report highlights that 80% of total revenue stemmed from bets over R$100, proving that a smaller group of serious players drives the profits.

Bets between R$100andR$1,000 grabbed 11.7% of transactions but fueled 42.3% of the value. Even rarer, those over R$1,000 were just 0.5% of bets yet delivered 20.2% of the financial punch.

This split affects everyone from app developers to tax collectors. For instance, the government pulled in R$6.8 billion from betting taxes in 2025 so far, a massive 17,000% increase from prior years. It’s funding public projects, but it also sparks debates on addiction risks.

Picture a typical evening: bets peak after work hours, with mid-month surges when salaries hit bank accounts. These patterns show betting weaving into daily life, much like grabbing a coffee or scrolling social media.

Geographic and Timing Trends Emerge

Across Brazil, betting heats up in urban hotspots like São Paulo and Rio, but smaller cities are catching on fast. The report notes evening peaks, as people unwind with live sports on their phones.

Mid-month wagering spikes align with payday, boosting activity by up to 30% in some weeks. This cycle reveals how economic factors play in, with folks splurging right after getting paid.

Here’s a quick breakdown of key bet sizes from the Paag data:

• Up to R$20: 44.2% of volume, 7.3% of value
• R$21toR$50: 26.8% of volume, 12.4% of value
• Over R$100: 12.2% of volume, 62.5% of value

These numbers underscore a market where volume comes from the masses, but value from the committed.

Demographics add flavor too. Younger bettors under 30 lean toward esports and quick games, while older groups stick to traditional sports like football. Women are joining in more, making up 25% of new users this quarter.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Regulators face tough calls as the market balloons. With 17.7 million bettors in the first half of 2025 alone, concerns over problem gambling rise. Strict oversight aims to promote transparency, but enforcement lags in some areas.

On the flip side, the industry creates jobs and tech innovations. Companies are pushing real-time streaming and group betting features to keep users hooked.

Growth isn’t slowing. From 2020 to 2022, the sector jumped 360%, and 2025 forecasts show no letup. Global trends, like esports betting doubling in some reports, suggest Brazil could lead in Latin America.

One worry: much of the money flows abroad, pressuring the real’s value. Experts urge more local investment to capture those billions.

This table from the report illustrates the revenue imbalance clearly.

Brazil’s betting landscape in Q3 2025 reveals a vibrant, uneven world where small bets bring the buzz and big ones bring the bucks, transforming leisure into a economic force that touches taxes, tech, and daily routines. As the market matures, it promises excitement but demands careful watch to protect vulnerable players.

Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is set to confront the head of state-owned bank Caixa Economica Federal this week, amid growing backlash over plans to launch an online betting site. The move has sparked outrage, clashing with the government’s tough stance on gambling, and could lead to a swift cancellation. What sparked this firestorm, and will it reshape Brazil’s betting landscape?

President Lula has voiced strong irritation over Caixa’s announcement to roll out its own betting platform, dubbed the “Bet da Caixa.” The bank revealed the plan recently, projecting billions in revenue, but it runs counter to Lula’s public criticism of online betting sites that exploit vulnerable people. Sources close to the government say Lula learned of the initiative through media reports and immediately demanded answers.

This decision could undermine the administration’s efforts to regulate and curb excessive gambling in Brazil. Caixa’s president, Carlos Vieira, announced the platform would launch by the end of November, aiming to capture market share from unauthorized foreign sites. Yet, critics argue a state bank entering the betting arena sends mixed signals, especially as the government has blocked over 2,000 illegal betting operations this year.

The uproar highlights tensions within Lula’s team. Allies point out that while the bank has planned this since 2024, it contradicts speeches where Lula called betting a “grave problem” worse than traditional lotteries. One paragraph here to note: The meeting is slated for after Lula’s return from Asia.

Data from Brazil’s Finance Ministry shows the betting industry could generate up to R$8 billion in authorization fees alone from 261 licensed companies over five years. This revenue tempts state involvement, but at what cost to public trust?

Key Players and Their Arguments

At the center stands Carlos Vieira, Caixa’s president, who will defend the plan directly to Lula. Vieira argues that many bets flow to foreign platforms without proper oversight, draining potential taxes from Brazil. By stepping in, Caixa could redirect funds to public coffers, supporting social programs.

Lula, however, sees it differently. He has pushed for stricter rules on betting to protect families from financial ruin. In a 2024 statement, he highlighted how workers lose entire salaries to these sites, fueling addiction and debt.

Supporters of the platform say it’s legally sound, as betting is recognized as a form of lottery under Brazilian law. They project the site could add billions to Caixa’s earnings, much like its existing lottery operations.

Opposition comes from various quarters, including lawmakers who worry about moral hazards. One key concern: How does a public bank justify promoting gambling while the government warns against it?

Broader Impact on Brazil’s Economy

The betting sector in Brazil has exploded since legalization efforts ramped up in 2018, with millions now wagering online. A recent study by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, conducted in 2023, found that over 10% of low-income households reported gambling-related debts, worsening inequality.

If Caixa proceeds, it could set a precedent for state involvement in high-risk industries. Experts predict this might boost tax revenues but also increase addiction rates, straining social services.

Here’s a quick look at potential outcomes:

• Revenue Boost: Caixa estimates billions in annual income, funding infrastructure.
• Regulatory Risks: More oversight needed to prevent money laundering.
• Public Backlash: Polls show 60% of Brazilians oppose state-run betting, per a 2024 Datafolha survey.

This debate affects everyday Brazilians, from sports fans tempted by easy bets to families hit by gambling losses. The government’s mixed messages could erode confidence in economic policies.

On the flip side, blocking the plan might push more activity underground, hurting legal operators who paid hefty R$30 million licenses for five-year operations.

Global Context and Future Outlook

Brazil’s situation mirrors global trends where governments grapple with online gambling’s rise. Countries like the UK have imposed strict ad limits, while others like the US expand state lotteries. Lula’s Asia tour, wrapping up soon, included talks on economic regulations that might influence his view.

Analysts from firms like Bloomberg note that Brazil’s betting market could reach $10 billion by 2030 if regulated well. But without clear guidelines, scandals loom.

Vieira’s meeting with Lula could pivot the plan. If canceled, it reinforces anti-gambling rhetoric; if approved, it signals pragmatic revenue chasing.

One thing is clear: This isn’t just about bets; it’s about balancing ethics with economics in a nation facing fiscal pressures.

The clash between President Lula and Caixa over the state bank’s betting platform underscores deeper questions about government consistency and public welfare in Brazil’s booming gambling scene. As Lula demands explanations and weighs cancellation, many wonder if this will curb or fuel the industry’s growth, potentially saving families from ruin or opening new revenue streams for the nation. It’s a high-stakes gamble that touches on addiction, economy, and trust—leaving Brazilians to ponder where the line should be drawn.

Sports betting fans in Missouri just got big news. Fanatics and ESPN BET plan to launch retail sportsbooks at the state’s top casinos, riding the wave of legal betting set to start on December 1, 2025. This move could change how locals place bets on games, but what partnerships make it happen, and how will it shake up the scene?

Key Casinos Getting the Upgrade

Missouri’s highest-earning casinos are about to add sports betting spots. Ameristar St. Charles, River City Casino, Hollywood Casino, and Ameristar Kansas City top the list for revenue from the last fiscal year. These spots pulled in the most cash, making them prime locations for new sportsbooks.

Fanatics will team up with Boyd Gaming to open at Ameristar properties in St. Charles and Kansas City. ESPN BET, run by Penn Entertainment, plans spots at Hollywood Casino and River City Casino near St. Louis. This setup covers both sides of the state, from east to west.

The launch ties into Missouri’s new sports betting rules. Lawmakers approved betting earlier this year, with retail and online options starting soon. Bettors have waited years for this, and now it’s real.

Expect lines at these casinos come December. The state could see up to eight retail sportsbooks and nine mobile ones, based on recent approvals.

Partnerships Fueling the Expansion

Big names in betting are linking arms with local casinos to grab a piece of Missouri’s market. Fanatics struck a multi-year deal with Boyd Gaming, which owns the Ameristar spots. This lets Fanatics run mobile betting too, under Boyd’s license.

On the other side, Penn Entertainment owns Hollywood and River City. They posted jobs for sportsbook managers back in August 2025, signaling plans for ESPN BET locations. Penn also runs Argosy Casino near Kansas City, but details on that one are still unfolding.

These ties matter because Missouri requires betting operators to partner with casinos or pro teams for licenses. It’s not a free-for-all; you need a local hook.

Fanatics applied for a license in August 2025 but missed out on an “untethered” spot, which went to DraftKings and Circa. So, they pivoted to Boyd for access.

ESPN BET’s parent, Penn, already has a strong foothold with its casinos. This could give them an edge in drawing crowds.

• Fanatics-Boyd deal: Covers Ameristar Kansas City and St. Charles, with retail spots and mobile betting.
• ESPN BET-Penn setup: Targets Hollywood and River City, plus possibly Argosy, focusing on east and west Missouri.

What This Means for Bettors

Picture walking into a casino and placing bets on your favorite teams right there. These new sportsbooks will offer that thrill, with features like betting windows, kiosks, and big screens for watching games.

Missouri bettors might get promo codes and bonuses to start. For example, Fanatics often gives new users bonus bets, while ESPN BET has deals tied to deposits. Stay tuned for specifics as launch day nears.

The state expects a rush. Last year, nearby states like Kansas saw betting handle soar after legalization. Missouri could follow, with estimates from gaming experts predicting millions in monthly wagers.

One key fact: Retail spots open first, with mobile betting rolling out around the same time. That means you can bet in person at these casinos starting December 1, 2025.

Safety and rules come first. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversees it all, ensuring fair play and age checks. Bettors must be 21 or older.

Broader Impact on Missouri’s Gaming World

This isn’t just about betting; it’s a boost for local economies. Casinos like Ameristar and Hollywood already draw crowds. Adding sportsbooks could mean more jobs, from managers to staff running the spots.

A 2024 study by the American Gaming Association showed that legal sports betting created over 20,000 jobs nationwide since 2018. Missouri might see a slice of that, with Penn’s job postings as an early sign.

Taxes from betting will fund schools and problem gambling programs. State officials project up to $30 million in annual revenue, based on models from similar markets.

But not everyone’s cheering. Some worry about addiction risks. Groups like the National Council on Problem Gambling push for awareness, noting that easy access can lead to issues for a small but vulnerable group.

On the flip side, fans see it as fun and convenient. No more driving across state lines to bet legally.

Here’s a quick look at the top casinos involved:

This table shows how the setups spread across the state.

Competition heats up too. Other operators like BetMGM and bet365 have partnerships lined up, but Fanatics and ESPN BET are front-runners at the biggest spots.

As Missouri joins 38 other states with legal sports betting, this launch marks a turning point. It started with voter approval in November 2024, after years of debate. Now, it’s game on.

The arrival of Fanatics and ESPN BET in Missouri’s top casinos promises excitement for sports fans and a fresh revenue stream for the state, but it also calls for smart play to keep things fun and safe.