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Category: Betting

  • Pennsylvania Shatters Super Bowl Betting Record with $101.5 Million in Wagers

    Pennsylvania Shatters Super Bowl Betting Record with $101.5 Million in Wagers

    Pennsylvania bettors made history during Super Bowl LIX, placing a record-breaking $101.5 million in wagers, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The staggering number represents a 20.4% increase from last year’s Super Bowl, reaffirming the state’s growing appetite for sports betting.

    A New High for Pennsylvania’s Sportsbooks

    The 2024 Super Bowl between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs saw an unprecedented level of betting activity in Pennsylvania. The previous record, set in 2023 when the same two teams squared off, was shattered by over $17 million.

    But while the betting volume surged, sportsbooks in Pennsylvania didn’t come out on top. In fact, they took a collective hit, reporting a loss of $6.53 million. The reason? Most bets were placed in favor of the Eagles, who convincingly defeated the Chiefs 40-22.

    One thing is clear: Pennsylvania bettors weren’t just placing wagers—they were winning.

    Online Betting Dominates the Market

    Pennsylvania offers both retail and online sports betting options, but the overwhelming majority of gamblers preferred digital platforms.

    • 91.2% of all bets were placed online, showing the continued shift away from brick-and-mortar sportsbooks.
    • 18 retail sportsbook locations were open for wagers, but they saw just a fraction of the total bets.
    • 11 online platforms handled the lion’s share of the action, reinforcing the convenience and accessibility of mobile betting.

    With more bettors choosing digital platforms, the future of sports gambling in Pennsylvania seems firmly tied to online services.

    Nationwide Trends Show Explosive Growth

    Pennsylvania’s record-setting numbers are part of a larger trend sweeping across the U.S. The American Gaming Association (AGA) projected that Americans would legally wager a record $1.39 billion on Super Bowl LIX, underscoring just how mainstream sports betting has become.

    A recent AGA survey revealed:

    • 75% of Americans support legal sports betting in their home state.
    • 90% view sports wagering as a normal form of entertainment.

    These numbers highlight the shift in public perception. What was once a niche activity is now widely accepted and even celebrated.

    What’s Driving the Betting Boom?

    Several factors have contributed to the rise in sports betting, particularly in Pennsylvania:

    1. Easier access to online platforms – With 11 online sportsbooks in the state, betting is more convenient than ever.
    2. More aggressive marketing by sportsbooks – Bonuses, promotions, and advertising campaigns continue to attract new users.
    3. Favorable regulations – Pennsylvania has embraced legal sports betting, creating an environment where gamblers feel safe placing wagers.
    4. Increased fan engagement – More bettors means more people tuning in to games, making sports even more exciting.

    This combination of accessibility, legality, and enthusiasm is fueling record numbers—not just in Pennsylvania, but nationwide.

  • New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand’s lawmakers are locked in debate over a bill that could reshape the country’s online betting landscape. If passed, the legislation would grant TAB New Zealand a monopoly over online racing and sports betting. Proponents argue it’s a way to keep gambling revenue within the country, while critics fear it could backfire, pushing bettors toward offshore platforms.

    Government Aims for Control Over Betting Revenue

    The proposed changes to the Racing Industry Act 2020 would effectively shut out private online bookmakers, making TAB NZ the sole legal option. Supporters say this is a necessary move to safeguard responsible gambling and ensure revenue stays in New Zealand’s economy.

    One key argument from lawmakers backing the bill is that a state-controlled system can better enforce gambling regulations. Unlike offshore platforms, TAB NZ would be required to reinvest its earnings into local racing and sports organizations.

    Gambling Minister Kieran McAnulty has stressed that betting revenue plays a crucial role in funding New Zealand’s racing industry, which employs thousands of people. “This is about making sure that profits from betting are directed where they should be—into supporting New Zealand’s racing and sporting communities,” he said.

    Critics Warn of Reduced Competition and Black Market Risks

    Not everyone is convinced. Some industry experts believe shutting out competition could reduce innovation and lead to worse odds for bettors. Without private operators in the mix, they argue, TAB NZ would have little incentive to offer competitive payouts or improve its platform.

    • The Commerce Commission, New Zealand’s watchdog for fair competition, has not yet taken a stance on the bill. Some expect that it may raise concerns, as the organization has pushed for more competition in other industries, including banking and supermarkets.
    • Critics also warn that bettors frustrated by limited options might turn to black market gambling sites. These platforms often operate outside of New Zealand’s regulatory framework, making it harder to enforce responsible gambling measures.

    Industry analyst Gregor Thompson highlighted this risk, saying: “That is clearly a risk and the minister has acknowledged that will likely happen, that very committed sports bettors will find a way around the law using things like cryptocurrencies.”

    Entain’s Legal Troubles Raise Red Flags

    Adding another layer of complexity to the debate is the controversy surrounding TAB NZ’s operating partner, Entain. The British-based gambling giant, which signed a 25-year partnership with TAB NZ in 2023, is currently facing legal scrutiny in multiple countries.

    Regulators in Australia, the UK, and Turkey have all investigated Entain over alleged financial misconduct:

    Jurisdiction Allegations Regulatory Body
    Australia Anti-money laundering violations AUSTRAC
    United Kingdom Financial reporting irregularities Financial Reporting Council
    Turkey Bribery linked to former operations Settled in 2023

    With such ongoing legal battles, some lawmakers question whether Entain is the right long-term partner for TAB NZ. Racing Minister Winston Peters has been briefed on the situation, but his office has declined to comment publicly.

    What’s Next for the Bill?

    The bill is still in its early stages, and much depends on how lawmakers respond to concerns from both supporters and critics.

    • If passed, New Zealand would become one of the few countries to enforce a state-run online betting monopoly.
    • If rejected, the government may need to explore alternative ways to tax offshore bookmakers or regulate them more effectively.

    For now, the debate continues, with plenty of questions still unanswered. Will limiting competition really protect New Zealand bettors, or will it drive them underground? And with Entain’s legal troubles making headlines, is TAB NZ’s monopoly already on shaky ground?

  • Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

    Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

  • Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    A Texas lawmaker has taken a significant step toward legalizing sports betting in the state, introducing a proposed constitutional amendment that could put the decision directly in the hands of voters. If approved, Texans will have the chance to determine whether sports wagering should be legalized and regulated under state law.

    A Step Toward Legalized Sports Betting

    State Representative Sam Harless filed House Joint Resolution 134 on Wednesday, officially setting the stage for lawmakers to consider adding the measure to the ballot in the next election cycle. The proposed amendment aims to modify the Texas Constitution, clearing the way for a regulated sports betting framework.

    If the legislature gives it the green light, Texans will vote on the issue on November 4, 2025. The amendment would authorize sports wagering through licensed partnerships with professional sports teams, Class 1 racetracks, and other state-approved operators.

    Texas is one of the few large states that still bans sports betting, but pressure has been mounting from various corners to change that. The growing momentum behind legalization reflects shifting public attitudes, industry interests, and a desire to capitalize on potential tax revenue.

    Strong Support from Texas Sports Industry

    Major professional sports teams across Texas have thrown their weight behind the initiative, making it clear that they see sports betting as an opportunity rather than a threat. The Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA), a coalition that includes teams, leagues, racetracks, and sportsbooks, has come out strongly in favor of Harless’ resolution.

    “We appreciate Rep. Harless introducing this constitutional amendment,” said TSBA spokesperson Karina Kling. “Right now, unregulated sports betting is happening across the state, putting consumers at risk and costing Texas millions in lost tax revenue every year. It’s time to let Texans take control and decide if they want a strong, regulatory framework for sports betting—just like the 39 states that have already moved forward.”

    The argument is straightforward: people in Texas are already betting on sports through unregulated channels, which means the state is missing out on tax revenue that could be used for public services. Legalizing sports betting would provide oversight, consumer protections, and a financial boost for Texas.

    What Texans Think About Sports Betting

    Public opinion appears to favor legalization. A University of Houston poll found that:

    • 60% of Texans support online sports betting.
    • 74% favor allowing destination resort casinos, which would further expand gambling options in the state.

    These numbers suggest that a public vote on the issue could lead to sports betting becoming a reality in Texas. However, political challenges remain, and public opinion alone may not be enough to push the amendment through.

    Political Roadblocks in the Texas Senate

    Despite strong support from voters and sports industry stakeholders, the legislative path for sports betting remains uncertain. The Texas House has historically been more receptive to gambling expansion, but the Texas Senate presents a tougher challenge.

    Governor Greg Abbott has expressed openness to letting voters decide, but Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate’s agenda, has been less enthusiastic. Patrick has repeatedly stated that he won’t bring gambling legislation to the Senate floor unless it has strong backing from Republican lawmakers.

    For sports betting to appear on the 2025 ballot, it must clear the legislature with a two-thirds majority in both chambers—a high bar that will require significant Republican support.

    The Economic Argument for Sports Betting

    While moral and political debates continue, the economic case for legalization is hard to ignore. Texas is already losing out on millions in potential tax revenue as residents turn to illegal betting markets or travel to neighboring states where sports gambling is allowed.

    A report from GeoComply, a company specializing in geolocation security, revealed that:

    • Nearly 1.5 million geolocation checks were recorded in Texas in November 2024.
    • These checks indicate a high level of interest in online sports betting, despite current prohibitions.

    Other states that have embraced sports betting, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, have generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue from the industry. Texas, with its massive population and strong sports culture, could become one of the most lucrative sports betting markets in the country.

    What Happens Next?

    With House Joint Resolution 134 now in play, lawmakers will have to decide whether to let voters weigh in on the issue. The debate will likely intensify in the coming months as supporters and opponents of legalized sports betting make their cases.

    If Texas lawmakers give the go-ahead, the decision will ultimately rest with the people. Given the strong public support and growing industry backing, the odds of sports betting becoming legal in Texas are better than ever—but the final outcome is still uncertain.

  • New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    A New York Senate committee has unanimously approved a bill that could significantly widen the state’s sports betting options, opening the door for a broader range of wagers, including proposition bets and bets on major sports awards. The move signals a push to further capitalize on the booming betting market, but it also comes amid growing national concerns over sports integrity.

    Expanded Betting Options on the Table

    Senate Bill 2616, spearheaded by Senator Joseph Addabbo, would introduce new betting opportunities for gamblers across the state. If passed, it would allow:

    • In-game and season-long proposition bets
    • Wagers on coin tosses
    • Betting on future team and individual honors, such as the Heisman Trophy and NFL MVP

    Currently, New York prohibits betting on sports awards, placing it alongside states like Colorado, Massachusetts, and Virginia, which have similar restrictions. Addabbo believes this expansion will boost “an already successful” online sports betting market, which has been a massive revenue generator for the state.

    The bill must now pass through the full Senate and the House before landing on Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval.

    National Concerns Over Proposition Bets

    While New York considers expansion, the issue of proposition bets—especially on individual college athletes—has been under increasing scrutiny. NCAA President Charlie Baker has been vocal in his opposition, calling for a nationwide ban.

    “Prop bets continue to threaten the integrity of competition and lead to student-athletes and professional athletes getting harassed,” Baker said in a recent statement.

    Several states, including Louisiana, Ohio, and Maryland, have already banned proposition bets on college athletes in response to concerns about match-fixing and potential threats to players. New York’s bill does not directly address college prop bets, but the broader conversation is likely to influence future discussions.

    New York’s Sports Betting Boom Continues

    Despite these concerns, New York’s sports betting industry is thriving. The state reported an all-time high of $22.6 billion in total wagers in 2024, the largest betting handle in U.S. history. That translated into $2 billion in operator revenue and more than $1 billion in tax revenue for the state.

    The momentum carried into January 2025, which set a new monthly record with $2.5 billion in total handle and $247 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR)—the biggest single-month performance since the state launched online sports betting in 2022.

    With numbers like these, it’s no surprise that lawmakers are eager to expand the industry further.

    Online Casino Push Gains Momentum

    Alongside sports betting expansion, Senator Addabbo is also leading the charge to legalize online casinos in New York through Senate Bill 2614. The bill proposes a regulated online gaming market with key provisions, including:

    • Licensing eligibility for casinos, video lottery terminal (VLT) parlors, sportsbooks, and tribal operators
    • A $2 million license fee for land-based casino operators
    • A $10 million fee for independent contractors running online platforms

    A previous attempt to legalize online casinos failed last year, but Addabbo remains optimistic about this latest effort. Supporters argue that legalizing online casinos could further boost state revenue, though opponents cite regulatory challenges and concerns over problem gambling.

    Next Steps for SB 2616

    The sports betting bill now moves to the full Senate for a vote, followed by consideration in the House. If both chambers approve, it will head to Governor Hochul’s desk for final ratification.

    At the same time, lawmakers are weighing the potential benefits and risks of online casino expansion. The debate over gambling regulations in New York is far from over, and the coming months could shape the future of the industry.

  • Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

    Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

  • UK Online Gambling Revenue Surges 21% in Q3 to $1.91 Billion

    UK Online Gambling Revenue Surges 21% in Q3 to $1.91 Billion

  • China Shuts Down 4,500 Illegal Online Gambling Platforms in Sweeping 2024 Crackdown

    China Shuts Down 4,500 Illegal Online Gambling Platforms in Sweeping 2024 Crackdown

    China has ramped up its war on illegal online gambling, dismantling more than 4,500 platforms and investigating 73,000 cross-border gambling cases in 2024 alone. The crackdown, led by the Ministry of Public Security, also saw the dismantling of 45 major syndicates and the arrest of over 11,000 suspects.

    Thousands of Platforms Shut Down, Major Syndicates Dismantled

    Authorities are making it clear—there’s no room for illegal betting operations. Over the past year, Beijing has doubled down on its efforts, targeting not just online platforms but also the networks that support them. The numbers speak for themselves:

    • 4,500+ illegal online gambling platforms shut down
    • 73,000 cross-border gambling cases investigated
    • 45 major gambling syndicates dismantled
    • 11,000+ suspects arrested

    These figures highlight the scale of China’s anti-gambling push, one of the largest in recent years. The Ministry of Public Security emphasized that illegal gambling not only drains economic resources but also fuels financial crimes, fraud, and money laundering.

    The DC Group: A Multi-Year Investigation Exposes a Gambling Giant

    One of the biggest busts came from Chongqing, where a three-year investigation led authorities to a massive gambling syndicate known as the DC Group. Operating out of the Philippines, the group specifically targeted Chinese players, luring them into illicit betting schemes.

    Authorities revealed that the syndicate had a well-organized network, including:

    • Chinese nationals recruited for marketing and operations
    • Underground banking channels to facilitate illegal transactions
    • Offshore gambling websites designed to evade Chinese regulations

    By dismantling solicitation networks and seizing financial records, Chinese law enforcement took down a key player in the illegal gambling industry.

    Payment Networks and Underground Banking Under Fire

    Stopping illegal gambling isn’t just about shutting down websites—it’s about cutting off the financial lifelines that keep them running. Beijing has been aggressively disrupting payment channels, targeting operations that facilitate transactions for gambling syndicates.

    Some of the main areas of focus include:

    • Livestream-based betting: Platforms where users bet on live games, often disguised as entertainment
    • Illegal lotteries: Unlicensed lotteries that operate outside government control
    • Gambling-related investments: Schemes promising high returns through betting-related ventures

    Authorities have also reinforced the blacklist system for foreign gambling destinations, making it harder for Chinese nationals to access these illicit services.

    International Cooperation: Repatriations and Crackdowns Abroad

    China isn’t just going after criminals within its borders—it’s working with other countries to bring offenders back. In 2024, Beijing conducted two major repatriation operations, bringing home more than 1,200 Chinese nationals from Cambodia who were allegedly involved in fraud and gambling-related crimes.

    Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stressed that China will strengthen law enforcement cooperation with neighboring countries to combat illegal gambling and telecom fraud. Southeast Asia, in particular, has been a hotspot for Chinese gambling syndicates, and Beijing is ramping up efforts to dismantle these operations abroad.

    Educating the Public: A Key Part of the Crackdown

    Beyond arrests and shutdowns, China is focusing on public awareness. Officials have rolled out nationwide education campaigns, warning citizens about the dangers of illegal gambling.

    A statement from the Ministry of Public Security outlined their approach:

    “Various departments across the country will strengthen publicity and education, conduct in-depth publicity through various means to reveal the harmful nature of gambling, and follow up and expose the latest means of cross-boundary gambling crimes in a timely manner, so as to vigorously enhance the public’s awareness and ability to recognize, reject, and oppose gambling.”

    From social media to community outreach programs, authorities are using every tool at their disposal to discourage gambling participation and highlight its risks.

  • SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator Expands to 27,800+ Games, Strengthens Global Footprint

    SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator Expands to 27,800+ Games, Strengthens Global Footprint

  • Oklahoma Lawmakers Renew Push for Sports Betting with Two Competing Bills

    Oklahoma Lawmakers Renew Push for Sports Betting with Two Competing Bills

    Oklahoma legislators are once again taking a swing at legalizing sports betting, introducing two separate proposals aimed at bringing the industry into the state. But as familiar debates over tribal exclusivity and financial viability resurface, the road ahead remains uncertain. With Native gaming interests split and Governor Kevin Stitt’s stance unclear, the battle for sports betting legalization is far from settled.

    Two Bills, Two Visions

    State Senator Dave Rader (R-Tulsa) and State Senator Casey Murdock (R-Felt) have each put forward a plan to legalize sports betting in Oklahoma. While both bills seek to regulate and tax sports wagers, they take very different approaches to the issue.

    Rader’s Senate Bill 125 (SB 125) proposes that all sports betting activity remain under existing tribal gaming compacts, ensuring that Native American tribes maintain control over the market. On the other hand, Murdock’s Senate Bill 164 (SB 164) adopts a more open-ended approach, allowing non-tribal entities to enter the space—a stance that aligns with Governor Stitt’s past preferences for a broader, less tribal-restricted gaming industry.

    The key differences between the bills raise big questions:

    • Should Oklahoma keep sports betting under tribal control, or should commercial operators be allowed in?
    • How would either approach impact state revenues and gaming compacts?
    • Will lawmakers finally push a bill through, or will the effort stall once again?

    The Demand is Clear—But So Are the Hurdles

    Sports betting is already happening in Oklahoma—just not legally. Senator Murdock pointed out that residents frequently travel to Kansas to place bets, a fact underscored by geolocation data.

    “I went to a conference last summer on sports betting, and a company that does geo-fencing showed me a map of Oklahoma. You could see people on I-35 headed to Kansas trying to place bets. As soon as they got into Kansas, you saw massive amounts of green dots,” Murdock said.

    Despite the clear demand, legalizing sports betting in Oklahoma has been an uphill battle. Past attempts never made it to a full legislative vote, often getting stuck in committees or withdrawn before gaining traction. The question isn’t just whether Oklahoma wants sports betting—it’s about how it should be implemented.

    Tribal Nations Hold the Cards

    The Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association (OIGA) hasn’t taken an official stance on the bills, but tribal leaders have been cautious. Their position is clear: any change to gaming laws must benefit the tribes, who currently hold exclusive gaming rights under compacts with the state.

    Matthew L. Morgan, chairman of OIGA, stressed that sports betting must make financial sense for all involved. The issue? Sports betting isn’t a major moneymaker compared to casino staples like slot machines.

    “Any proposed new or modified gaming offering must make sound economic sense for everyone involved,” Morgan stated.

    That’s a big deal. While sports betting gets a lot of attention, its profit margins are thin. Casinos make far more money on slot machines, which require fewer operational costs and offer higher returns. If sportsbooks aren’t a major revenue driver, tribes may not see much incentive to fight for them—especially if the state tries to cut them out of the deal.

    Governor Stitt’s Role in the Debate

    Governor Kevin Stitt’s stance on sports betting has been inconsistent. He previously advocated for opening the market beyond tribal gaming, a position that strained his relationship with many Native nations.

    His past clashes with tribes over gaming compacts could create a roadblock for any sports betting proposal. The Cherokee Nation and other tribes may be unwilling to renegotiate gaming agreements while Stitt remains in office.

    “Talking with some people who are very involved in Indian Country in Oklahoma, they’re almost just kind of glad to wait out his term when [Stitt] leaves office,” said gaming analyst Ryan Butler.

    This political tension means that even if a bill makes it through the legislature, getting tribal support—or avoiding a legal fight—could be another challenge.

    What’s Next?

    The battle over sports betting in Oklahoma isn’t just about passing a law. It’s about who controls the industry, how profits are shared, and whether the state and tribes can find common ground.

    The fate of SB 125 and SB 164 will play out in the coming months, but one thing is certain: legal or not, sports betting is already a part of Oklahoma’s economy. The question is whether lawmakers, tribes, and the governor can finally agree on how to regulate it.