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  • 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.

  • Ransomware Attack Disrupts Sault Tribe’s Casinos in Michigan, Exposing Critical Data

    Ransomware Attack Disrupts Sault Tribe’s Casinos in Michigan, Exposing Critical Data

    A ransomware attack on February 9 has thrown the operations of casinos, government services, and telecommunications under the control of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians into disarray. The cyberattack, allegedly orchestrated by the notorious hacking group RansomHub, has raised alarm bells across Michigan, as the group claims to have stolen over 119 GB of sensitive data.

    Casino Shutdowns and Data Theft: The Immediate Impact

    In what seems to be a coordinated assault on the tribe’s digital infrastructure, RansomHub’s attack has caused significant disruptions to operations at Kewadin Casinos, tribal government buildings, and related services. Among the stolen files are more than half a million documents, including personal data, which the group claims to have leaked onto the dark web.

    Kewadin Casinos, a vital part of the tribe’s economy, has faced a complete shutdown of its gaming systems. This includes the suspension of slot machines, online gaming, and membership services—resulting in a severe impact on customer experience and revenue generation. But the financial fallout doesn’t stop there. Payment processing failures have left customers unable to make cashless transactions, further compounding the chaos.

    The attack has also affected customer service operations, leading to delays in reservations and membership services. For an institution heavily reliant on smooth customer interactions, this represents both a financial loss and a hit to its reputation.

    Despite the ongoing crisis, Sault Ste. Marie Tribal Chairman Austin Lowes addressed the tribe’s members, acknowledging the attack and expressing shared frustration with the interruption. “We understand and share in our community’s frustration with this attack and the interruptions it has caused,” Lowes said in a statement. The tribe, in collaboration with cybersecurity experts, has been actively working on restoring operations. However, progress has been slower than anticipated, and new phone lines have been set up to communicate with the affected community. It is expected that full recovery may take another week.

    RansomHub’s Allegations: A Critical Response

    The group behind the cyberattack, RansomHub, wasted no time in claiming responsibility. Not only did the group lock critical systems, but they also accused the tribe of negligence and a lack of response to their demands. According to RansomHub, they attempted to contact the tribe for a week before launching their attack, but received no reply. They have since posted a statement on their dark web leak site, which contains a detailed account of their activities.

    The hackers were quick to point out the tribe’s failure to act, specifically calling out their insurers—Corvus Insurance by Travelers, Crum & Forster Specialty Insurance Company, and Cowbell Cyber Risk Insurance—for not taking adequate steps to mitigate the damage. In fact, RansomHub claims that the lack of response only fueled their decision to escalate the attack.

    “Despite multiple attempts to reach out via email and phone, no response was received from the tribe’s Board of Directors,” RansomHub stated. “This is a blatant disregard for the personal data of their residents, customers, and employees.” The group has given the tribe until Wednesday to respond to their demands, threatening to release all stolen data if the tribe fails to comply.

    The Tribe’s Response and Cybersecurity Experts Weigh In

    Despite the ongoing challenges, the Sault Tribe has been proactive in addressing the cybersecurity breach. With the help of expert consultants, the tribe has been working to restore its services. The situation remains fluid, with significant progress still required before full operations can resume.

    The community is understandably upset, as the interruption has led to a temporary halt in business activities, and the stolen data has created concerns about privacy breaches. But cybersecurity experts are already using this incident as an example of how vulnerable even large organizations can be to well-coordinated cyberattacks.

    One major takeaway from the attack is the importance of regular data backups. Experts recommend that all businesses, particularly those with sensitive customer data, invest in secure, redundant backup systems. In addition, strong phishing awareness programs and multi-factor authentication (MFA) could have potentially mitigated the severity of the attack.

    For casinos and other industries dealing with high-volume transactions and sensitive information, downtime is costly—not only in terms of direct financial loss but also in reputational damage. Restoring the trust of customers, employees, and the public will be a long-term challenge.

    Experts also point to the need for comprehensive incident response plans, which can help mitigate the impact of such breaches and facilitate faster recovery.

    The Bigger Picture: A Growing Threat Landscape

    While the attack on the Sault Tribe has garnered attention, it is far from an isolated incident. Ransomware attacks have become a growing concern worldwide, with cybercriminal groups increasingly targeting institutions that provide essential services—like casinos and government buildings. In fact, the gaming industry, particularly, has emerged as a prime target for hackers, thanks to the vast sums of money circulating within these systems.

    In this context, the Sault Tribe’s experience is not just a cautionary tale—it’s a glimpse into the larger cyber threat landscape. Every industry, from healthcare to finance, is vulnerable. This attack serves as a reminder that no organization is immune from a well-organized ransomware campaign.

    The ongoing recovery efforts in Michigan will undoubtedly be scrutinized by both cybersecurity professionals and the general public. If there’s any silver lining to this unfortunate event, it’s that it will prompt many businesses and organizations to reassess their own cybersecurity measures before it’s too late.

  • Atlantic City to Review Casino PILOT Program Amid Financial Uncertainty

    Atlantic City to Review Casino PILOT Program Amid Financial Uncertainty

    A newly formed commission is set to examine the effectiveness of Atlantic City’s casino payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) program, a system that allows casinos to pay a fixed industry-wide assessment instead of traditional property taxes. With the program nearing its expiration, state officials and local leaders are debating its future impact on the city’s economy and financial stability.

    Commission to Finally Take Shape After Years of Delay

    The commission was originally mandated in the 2016 PILOT legislation but was removed in the 2021 revisions. Now, state officials are moving forward with its formation to review whether the program should continue beyond next year.

    Under the original law, the commission was supposed to start work on January 1, 2025, and issue a final report by July 1. However, questions remain about whether the timeline will hold. Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson and State Sen. Vince Polistina, R-2nd, recently said they have yet to hear from the governor’s office about its formation or any progress.

    Financial Impact of PILOT Payments in Atlantic City

    Since its introduction in 2016, the PILOT program has provided Atlantic City with a level of financial stability by preventing costly and repeated casino property tax appeals. The program has contributed significantly to local revenues:

    • In 2023, the city received $51.6 million in PILOT payments.
    • In 2024, the total PILOT revenue dropped slightly to $48.5 million.

    Despite this financial support, critics argue that recent changes to the program have shifted the tax burden away from casinos and onto other taxpayers.

    2021 Revisions Reduced Casino Tax Burden

    A key factor in the upcoming review is the 2021 changes to the PILOT program. These revisions removed online gaming and sports betting revenue from the calculation of gross gaming revenue, which significantly reduced casino tax obligations.

    The impact of these changes is significant:

    Year Estimated Tax Reduction for Casinos
    2022 $55 million
    2023 $55 million
    2024 $55 million

    State officials justified these revisions by citing increased competition from neighboring states and financial setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The adjustments were aimed at keeping Atlantic City’s casino industry competitive and avoiding potential closures.

    Legal Battle Over the PILOT Program

    Not everyone agrees with the state’s rationale. Atlantic County has taken legal action, arguing that the 2021 amendments violate a 2018 consent agreement between the state and the county. County officials say that by reducing casinos’ financial obligations, the revised PILOT program unfairly cuts into local government funding.

    The lawsuit underscores broader concerns about the program’s fairness and sustainability. If the commission finds that the PILOT structure disproportionately benefits casinos at the expense of local services, lawmakers may face pressure to either revise or scrap the program altogether.

    Long-Term Consequences for Atlantic City

    Mike Chait, president of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber, stressed the importance of a thorough, data-driven review. He emphasized that the commission’s work will have lasting consequences for the city’s economic future.

    “The decisions made here will shape Atlantic City’s economic foundation for years to come,” Chait said.

    Local businesses, casino operators, and residents will all have a stake in the commission’s findings. The final report will likely influence future financial policies, particularly concerning Atlantic City’s reliance on PILOT payments versus traditional tax structures.

    With major financial and legal questions still unresolved, the commission’s work could set the stage for a contentious debate over Atlantic City’s long-term economic strategy

  • 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?

  • Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    A battle over the future of gambling in the U.S. is heating up. As more states consider legalizing online gaming and poker, a coalition of casino operators is pushing back hard. The newly formed National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) argues that digital gambling threatens local economies, jobs, and tax revenues. Their latest study paints a bleak picture, warning of massive financial losses if iGaming continues to spread.

    Casino Operators Sound the Alarm

    Brick-and-mortar casinos have long been economic pillars in many states, providing jobs and contributing heavily to tax revenue. But according to NAAiG, legalizing iGaming threatens that balance. The group, which includes regional casino operators, claims online gambling cuts deeply into casino revenues.

    Their newly released study suggests that land-based casinos suffer an average 16% revenue drop when iGaming is introduced. This, they say, results in:

    • Widespread job losses
    • Reduced economic activity in local communities
    • Significant cuts in tax contributions that fund essential services

    Mark Stewart, Executive Vice President and general counsel for The Cordish Companies and a board member of NAAiG, is blunt about the risks. “iGaming’s unchecked access to gambling on cell phones is bad public policy that threatens local jobs and businesses and will cost states,” he said.

    The Numbers: Jobs, GDP, and Tax Revenue at Risk

    The NAAiG study delivers stark projections for several states currently considering iGaming expansion. By 2029, thousands of jobs could be lost across key markets:

    State Projected Job Losses Estimated GDP Reduction
    New York 4,921 Not specified
    Illinois 4,733 Not specified
    Ohio 2,818 $602 million
    Indiana Not specified $428 million
    Maryland Not specified $372 million
    Colorado Not specified $313 million

    Beyond job cuts, the report highlights that iGaming’s tax revenue gains are not as lucrative as they seem. Factoring in social costs—such as addiction treatment and increased problem gambling—the study claims that states could see net negative tax impacts rather than the expected windfall.

    The Divide: Online Gaming Advocates Fire Back

    Not everyone in the industry agrees with NAAiG’s conclusions. Major casino operators with a foothold in online gaming, including Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Rush Street Interactive, argue that iGaming can boost overall gambling revenues.

    A separate study released in 2024 by iDEA Growth (iDevelopment and Economic Association) tells a different story. Conducted by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), the research found that states with regulated iGaming saw an average quarterly revenue increase of 2.4% across six states.

    Jeff Ifrah, founder and general counsel of iDEA, strongly disputes NAAiG’s claims. “This study offers compelling evidence that online gambling is a catalyst for growth, not a competitor to land-based casinos,” he said.

    What’s Next? States Weigh Their Options

    With dueling studies and strong opinions on both sides, state lawmakers are left to decide which argument holds more weight. The debate over iGaming expansion is far from settled, and with billions of dollars at stake, both casino operators and policymakers will be watching closely.

    Some states, like Maryland, are in particularly tricky positions. While companies like Cordish oppose iGaming on principle, they have acknowledged they would seek a license if legalization happens. As Stewart put it, “We will do very well, but we think Maryland won’t do very well, and we know our employees won’t do very well, and that’s why we’re opposed to it.”

    Other major casino operators, like Monarch Casino and Churchill Downs Incorporated, have joined NAAiG in resisting online gambling expansion.

    The battle over iGaming is far from over, and with new legislative sessions underway across multiple states, the coming months could shape the industry’s future for years to come.

  • Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

    Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

  • Wynn Reports $1.8 Billion in Q4 Revenue, Highlights UAE Focus in Investor Call

    Wynn Reports $1.8 Billion in Q4 Revenue, Highlights UAE Focus in Investor Call

  • Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

    Minnesota Sports Betting Bill Hits Roadblock in Senate Committee

  • Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii lawmakers have once again put a firm stop to any plans for casino gambling, shelving a proposal that would have introduced regulated casinos in the state. The bill, which sought to bring gaming to the upcoming Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, faced strong opposition and was ultimately scrapped.

    Senate Bill 893 Fails to Gain Support

    Senate Bill 893, which would have created a Hawaii Gaming Control Commission, was indefinitely deferred on Thursday. The move effectively ends any discussion of legalizing casino gambling in Hawaii—at least for now.

    The bill outlined plans to regulate gaming operations and impose a 15% wagering tax on gross receipts. However, it never gained serious traction among lawmakers.

    State Senator Lynn DeCoite, who announced the decision, made it clear that there was little appetite for casino gambling in Hawaii. “Casino gambling has not always been a favorite subject,” DeCoite said. “Regardless of if we flying to Vegas or flying to any other place, we’ve always had our challenges here in Hawaii.”

    Strong Opposition from Government Agencies

    The proposal faced stiff resistance from multiple agencies and organizations, further dooming its chances.

    • The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs opposed the bill, citing regulatory concerns.
    • The Department of the Attorney General raised legal and enforcement issues.
    • The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney’s Office warned of potential crime and social issues tied to gambling.

    With such a broad coalition of opponents, the bill had little hope of moving forward.

    Applause Signals Relief from Opponents

    When the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism made the decision to defer the bill indefinitely, the reaction in the room was telling. The announcement was met with applause, a clear sign of relief from those who had spoken out against the proposal.

    The move keeps Hawaii as one of only two states—alongside Utah—that do not permit any form of commercial gambling.

    A Long History of Gambling Rejections

    Hawaii has consistently resisted efforts to legalize gambling, despite frequent proposals over the years. The reasons for opposition vary:

    • Concerns over addiction and social harm.
    • The state’s tourism-based economy already thriving without gambling revenue.
    • Fear that casinos could bring organized crime.

    Yet, despite the state’s hardline stance, gambling remains a popular pastime for many residents. Hawaii has some of the highest per capita spending on Las Vegas trips in the nation, with thousands of locals flocking to Nevada casinos every year.

    What’s Next for Gambling in Hawaii?

    With this bill dead in the water, the question remains—will Hawaii ever legalize gambling?

    For now, the answer seems to be no. Lawmakers have consistently shown little interest in the idea, and the latest rejection reinforces that position. However, as financial pressures grow and the debate continues, future proposals are almost inevitable.

    For now, though, Hawaii’s strict stance on gambling remains unchanged.

  • Churchill Downs Opens $100 Million Owensboro Racing & Gaming Venue in Kentucky

    Churchill Downs Opens $100 Million Owensboro Racing & Gaming Venue in Kentucky

    Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has officially unveiled Owensboro Racing & Gaming, a $100 million entertainment complex in Owensboro, Kentucky. The facility, packed with gaming options and dining experiences, is expected to energize the local economy while strengthening the state’s horse racing industry.

    A Major Bet on Kentucky’s Gaming Future

    CDI has been steadily expanding its presence in Kentucky, and this latest venue cements its commitment to the region. The 600-machine gaming hall, featuring historical racing machines (HRMs), a retail sportsbook, and simulcast wagering, offers a fresh entertainment option for residents and visitors alike.

    But it’s not just about gaming. CDI envisions this venue as an economic catalyst, funneling revenues into Kentucky’s purse funding system to support live horse racing. The funds will directly benefit Ellis Park Racing & Gaming in Henderson, ensuring more competitive summer meets in the future.

    Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI, highlighted the company’s broader ambitions. “Owensboro’s newest entertainment destination will drive new tourism, entertainment, and economic opportunities in eastern Daviess County,” he said.

    Crowds Brave the Rain for Grand Opening

    The enthusiasm for Owensboro Racing & Gaming was evident from the start. Despite gloomy weather, eager patrons lined up well before sunrise for the grand opening. Angeline Jacobs, the very first in line, arrived at 5:30 AM—almost six hours before the doors opened.

    “I think it’s a great thing because you don’t have to go very far for gaming—it’s just so fun and it’s right here in your backyard,” Jacobs told local media.

    By the time the ribbon was cut, the crowd had swelled to hundreds, proving that interest in the venue was anything but lukewarm.

    Boosting Local Jobs and the Economy

    Beyond the flashing lights of the gaming floor, the project has already made an economic impact. The construction phase generated 200 jobs, while the operational side has created 224 permanent positions.

    Steve Roof, General Manager of Owensboro Racing & Gaming, acknowledged the strong turnout and the local workforce’s role in the project’s success. “The turnout is awesome, especially with the rain and the drizzle—I thought it might be down a little bit, but it is incredible,” he said.

    CDI officials expect the venue, which will operate around the clock, to be a long-term economic driver for the region.

    What’s Next for Owensboro Racing & Gaming?

    CDI isn’t stopping here. The company has hinted at future enhancements to the venue, promising new attractions and entertainment options over time.

    A company spokesperson emphasized the long-term vision in a statement: “We’re thrilled to finally open our doors to the public and to continuously introduce exciting reasons to come back again and again.”

    With CDI’s track record of expanding and refining its gaming properties, it’s likely that Owensboro Racing & Gaming will continue evolving, drawing even larger crowds in the years to come.