igaming

Michigan Reports Record iGaming Revenue for November, Highlights 2024 Impact

iGaming,-sports-betting-operators-report-$284.3M-in-November-revenue,-set-record-with-$650.2M-in-online-sports-betting-handle (1) Michigan’s gaming industry reached unprecedented heights in November 2024, with a record $284.3 million in combined internet gaming (iGaming) and sports betting gross receipts. This figure, reflecting a 12.1% increase from October, was announced by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). The strong performance highlights the continued growth of Michigan’s regulated gaming sector.

iGaming gross receipts for November totaled $226.0 million, surpassing the previous high of $220.7 million recorded in October. Internet sports betting gross receipts also saw a significant jump to $58.3 million, compared to $33.0 million in the prior month. The total sports betting handle for November reached $650.2 million, the highest reported to date, reflecting a 16% increase over October.

Adjusted gross receipts (AGR) for November show the sector’s momentum, with $240.4 million reported across iGaming and sports betting activities. iGaming AGR rose to $203.3 million, marking a 2.4% month-over-month increase, while internet sports betting AGR climbed to $37.1 million, up $27.2 million from October. Compared to the same period last year, iGaming AGR grew by 28.9%, with internet sports betting receipts rising by $36.8 million.

Contributions to State and Local Economies

The gaming industry’s success continues to bolster Michigan’s economy. In November, operators paid $44.4 million in taxes and fees to the state, with $42.5 million stemming from iGaming and $1.9 million from internet sports betting. The three Detroit casinos contributed an additional $11.2 million to the City of Detroit in wagering taxes and municipal fees, with tribal operators making $5.2 million in payments to local governing bodies.

For the entire year, the MGCB reported over $501.4 million in contributions to Michigan’s School Aid Fund, supporting K-12 public education. Of this total, $388.5 million came from iGaming, $12.9 million from internet sports betting, and $100.5 million from casino wagering taxes. Other contributions included $4 million to the First Responder Presumed Coverage Fund and $3 million to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund. The “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming campaign also received $3.75 million in funding.

Detroit’s casinos collectively paid $264.8 million in wagering taxes in 2024, adding to the $3.91 billion in total payments made to the city since 1999. Charitable gaming also thrived, with Millionaire Parties raising $5.35 million for Michigan charities from November 2023 to November 2024.

Enforcement and National Recognition

The MGCB reinforced its commitment to regulatory integrity by removing 206 illegal gambling machines in 2024 and issuing six cease-and-desist letters. These actions, supported by tips from Michigan residents, highlighted the agency’s proactive stance against illegal gaming operations. The MGCB’s efforts earned national recognition, including being the first regulator to secure compliance from Bovada through a cease-and-desist order.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams was named 2024 American Gambling Awards Regulator of the Year for his leadership. Reflecting on the year’s achievements, Williams said, “Our success this year reflects the dedication and hard work of our team, as well as the trust and collaboration of the communities we serve. We are committed to ensuring that Michigan’s gaming industry continues to thrive in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

Outlook for 2025

With a strong foundation of 15 authorized operators offering iGaming and 12 providing internet sports betting, Michigan’s gaming industry is well-positioned for sustained growth in 2025. The MGCB remains focused on ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting community initiatives, and maintaining Michigan’s status as a leader in the gaming sector.

Source:

”Michigan Gaming Control Board announces significant impact, revenue contributions to state funds in 2024”, michigan.gov, December 17, 2024.

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University of Alberta Launches Innovative Gambling and iGaming Microcredential Course

University-of-Alberta-offering-course-to-help-Albertans-navigate-new-gambling-environment The University of Alberta has introduced an exciting new microcredential course aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly changing gambling and iGaming landscape. The course, developed by Dr. Fiona Nicoll, is designed to address the needs of professionals across several fields—from regulators and addiction counselors to educators and journalists—by providing critical insights into the intersection of gambling, gaming, and modern technology.

This four-day intensive course will be offered from November 12-15, 2024, both in-person at the U of A campus and online, making it accessible to a wider range of participants across Alberta and beyond. The course stems from years of research conducted by Nicoll and the Alberta Gaming Research Institute (AGRI) and offers timely insights into the evolution of gambling, including sports betting, iGaming, and the use of cryptocurrency in gambling.

Exploring the Digital Shift in Gambling

The gambling landscape in Alberta has undergone a major shift in recent years. Traditional brick-and-mortar casinos are no longer the sole venues for gambling, as iGaming platforms now allow users to gamble from the comfort of their own homes. Major sporting events, such as the Edmonton Oilers’ playoff run, have contributed to record usage of the Play Alberta app, an online gambling platform that has made gambling more accessible than ever.

However, with this increase in digital gambling come new challenges. The U of A course tackles issues like addiction, player responsibility, and regulatory oversight in the iGaming era. According to Dr. Nicoll, iGaming shifts the burden of tracking gambling behaviors from regulated casinos to individual players, who must now manage their consumption across multiple platforms. This dynamic creates risks for problem gambling, which the course aims to address by educating participants on the latest tools and strategies to mitigate these risks.

A Unique Learning Experience for Diverse Fields

The course is specifically designed to cater to a broad audience. Professionals in fields such as regulation, addiction treatment, K-12 education, and journalism will find the course particularly valuable. Through lectures, quizzes, and interactive activities, participants will explore topics like the role of loot boxes in video games, the rise of esports in schools, and how online sports betting is attracting younger, more diverse gamblers.

Attendees will also delve into broader societal issues, such as the stigmas surrounding gambling addiction and how these impact access to treatment. The course will provide actionable insights into how different sectors can respond to the challenges posed by modern gambling, and each graduate will receive a microcredential to add to their CV or academic transcripts.

Addressing iGaming Regulation and Social Responsibility

One of the core topics in the course is how gambling regulation has shifted in the iGaming space. Unlike alcohol or tobacco, where government regulation plays a dominant role, much of the regulatory responsibility for online gambling has been transferred to gaming companies themselves. This raises concerns about how well these companies are incentivized to promote responsible gambling.

The course also explores the concept of “Positive Play,” which shifts the focus from merely responsible gambling to creating a more enjoyable and sustainable gambling environment. Participants will engage with questions about corporate social responsibility and how positive engagement strategies can be developed to promote healthier gambling behaviors.

What to Expect from the Course

Running from November 12-15, 2024, the four-day intensive course will feature exclusive interviews with experts in the gambling industry from across Canada and worldwide. Participants will be guided through lectures, quizzes, and discussions, focusing on topics like cryptocurrency in gambling, illegal grey-market sites, and the challenges of educating older adults about safer gambling practices.

Nicoll emphasized the importance of this course, stating, “People need this information now, more than ever, as the gambling industry evolves at an unprecedented pace.” The course aims to provide a 360-degree understanding of the industry’s risks and opportunities while offering participants practical tools to address these challenges in their respective fields

Source:

University of Alberta Gambling and Gaming Microcredential, ualberta.ca, October 2024.

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Franco Digital Partners with Amusnet to Expand Global iGaming Content

Franco Digital, a prominent Spanish iGaming provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Bulgarian supplier Amusnet to broaden the gaming content offered through its IRIS Platform. This collaboration aims to deliver a greater range of high-quality casino games to operators and players across key regulated markets, further establishing R. Franco Digital’s IRIS platform as a comprehensive and versatile iGaming solution.

Expanding Content Across Regulated Markets

Through this partnership, R. Franco Digital integrates Amusnet’s diverse catalog of over 300 casino games, featuring well-known titles such as40 Super Hot, Burning Hot, Shining Crown, and Phoenix Star. The collaboration boosts R. Franco Digital’s reach, bringing Amusnet’s content to its extensive network of operators. Amusnet, recognized for its player-centric and innovative games, is already a leader in the European market, with its offerings live on more than 2,000 platforms across 35 jurisdictions worldwide.

With this addition, R. Franco Digital strengthens its standing in the iGaming sector, offering operators a larger library of games that appeal to a broad player base. The seamless integration of Amusnet’s games onto the IRIS platform exemplifies R. Franco Digital’s ongoing efforts to expand its content lineup and offer a competitive edge to operators in the fast-evolving iGaming landscape.

Industry Leaders Highlight Partnership Benefits

Javier Sacristán, International Business Director at R. Franco Digital, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Amusnet is a very highly regarded name in our industry, having developed a deserved reputation for creating highly engaging products that resonate with players. Adding more premium third-party content to IRIS is a key goal as we continue to further our standing as a leading partner to operators all over the world.” Sacristán emphasized that incorporating premium content like Amusnet’s into the IRIS platform aligns with R. Franco Digital’s mission to provide operators with exceptional gaming options that drive player engagement and satisfaction.

Echoing this sentiment, Edwin Cruz, Managing Director at Amusnet Spain, described the partnership as a pivotal step in Amusnet’s global strategy. “This collaboration represents another important step in Amusnet’s global expansion. This strategic partnership allows us to unlock new audiences by sharing our engaging content with R. Franco Digital’s wide network, solidifying our position as a major player in the global gaming industry,” said Cruz. The partnership not only expands Amusnet’s reach but also reinforces its reputation as a trusted supplier within the competitive global market.

A Strategic Step in Global iGaming

The alliance between R. Franco Digital and Amusnet highlights a mutual commitment to innovation, quality, and regulatory compliance in iGaming. By joining forces, both companies aim to set new standards in content variety and accessibility, providing players worldwide with a richer selection of engaging games. With iGaming platforms seeking fresh and appealing content to capture players’ interest, the integration of Amusnet’s games into the IRIS platform underscores a strategic move that supports R. Franco Digital’s ambition to enhance its value to operators on a global scale.

As this partnership unfolds, players can anticipate an enhanced gaming experience with access to a wide array of high-quality games that emphasize both entertainment and engagement. Meanwhile, operators utilizing the IRIS platform gain a competitive advantage with a richer game selection, which can help increase player retention and attract new audiences within regulated markets.

The collaboration between R. Franco Digital and Amusnet is a noteworthy development in the iGaming industry, showcasing how strategic partnerships continue to drive innovation and broaden market reach. By integrating Amusnet’s well-regarded content, R. Franco Digital solidifies its role as a versatile and comprehensive platform in the iGaming sector, dedicated to delivering value to both operators and players alike.

Sources:

R. Franco Digital joins forces with Amusnet to enhance global iGaming excellence, amusnet.com, October 30, 2024.

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Surge in Ontario’s iGaming Market in Early 2024

iGaming-Ontarios-FY-2024-25-Q1-Market-Performance-Report The first quarter of the fiscal year 2024-25 has been stellar for Ontario’s iGaming industry, as reported by iGaming Ontario. The period spanning April to June 2024 witnessed substantial activities across the province’s regulated online gaming platforms, involving 50 operators.

Martha Otton, Executive Director at iGaming Ontario, commented on the sector’s growth: “Our regulated iGaming market, with its expanded operator base and increased wagering, offers a myriad of enjoyable gaming options. This growth not only enhances the gaming experience but also substantially contributes to provincial funds aimed at infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”

Performance Metrics and User Participation

The market experienced a total wagering sum of $18.4 billion, showing a growth of 3.4% from the previous quarter and a 31% increase from the first quarter of the previous year. Gaming revenues were equally strong, with a total of $726 million recorded, marking a 5.2% increase quarter-over-quarter and a 34% increase year-over-year. These revenues are calculated from total cash bets, inclusive of various game-related fees, and are net of payouts to players, excluding operational expenditures.

The user engagement was robust, with nearly 1.9 million player accounts active during the quarter. These accounts include both cash and promotional betting activities, and the figure does not represent unique individual players as some hold accounts across multiple platforms. The average monthly spend by these players was approximately $284.

Gaming Categories Detailed

In terms of wager distribution, casino games led the pack. These games, which include slot machines, digital and live table games, as well as peer-to-peer bingo, commanded nearly $15.5 billion or 84% of the total wagers. They generated $529 million in gaming revenue, accounting for 73% of the total.

The sports betting segment also performed well, with a total of $2.5 billion wagered, constituting 14% of the overall betting amount and generating $181 million in revenue. Highlight events such as the Stanley Cup Final, where the Edmonton Oilers competed, significantly contributed to the wagering volume.

Peer-to-peer poker contributed $402 million to the total wagering, about 2.2% of the overall, and generated $16 million in revenue. This shows a slight seasonal dip, possibly influenced by major poker events like the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, which typically draws players away from local platforms.

Continued Commitment and Prospects

iGaming Ontario is dedicated to maintaining transparency and accountability by regularly publishing market performance reports. These reports provide valuable insights into the market dynamics and help monitor the impact of regulatory measures on the economic benefits to the province.

Looking forward, the Ontario iGaming market is poised for continued growth, surpassing initial expectations and contributing significantly to the province’s economic and social objectives. This sector’s continued success reflects a robust regulatory environment and a diverse range of gaming options available to residents.

Source:

iGaming Ontario’s FY 2024-25 Q1 Market Performance Report, igamingontario.ca, July 24, 2024.

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Interview with Erik King on Ontario’s Second Year of Regulated iGaming

Great news for the online gambling business as the Ontario regulated iGaming market has processed $63 billion in bets in its second year, leaving Canadian platforms like the ones found on Zamsino thriving. To shed more light on this development and what it means in the industry we talked to Erik King, an iGaming specialist and a writer.

Interviewer: Erik, it is great to have you with us today. It is interesting to know that within its second year of operation, Ontario’s iGaming market processed wagers worth $63 billion. What do you think about this accomplishment at the beginning?

Erik King: I am grateful to be here. It is positive news for Ontario’s iGaming industry for sure. This achievement marks that the popularity of regulated web-based gambling is increasing. It reveals the possibility of a significant economic effect and serves as a reference point for other regions that are planning to implement the same legal mechanisms.

Interviewer: The iGaming market in Ontario that is regulated has expanded at a fast pace. In your opinion what are the causes of this tremendous growth you have experienced?

Erik King: Ontario has created a stable and reliable environment in the sphere of regulation which benefits both operators and players. This has boosted confidence in the market.

Interviewer: How has the regulation affected the market?

Erik King: Ontario has the best regulatory approach since the operators are required to follow certain guidelines that make sure that the player is protected, the gambling is not reckless and the gameplay is fair. This has in turn reduced the risks involved in online gambling and has gone a long way in protecting the players. In addition, the framework has brought order and predictability that is crucial in the market development. It has also been able to attract other companies, especially the international ones, which have come with better skills and products that have continued to enhance the competition.

Interviewer: This is a huge amount of money, the $63bn in wagers. This implies what for local economy and the iGaming sector as a whole?

Erik King: This figure generates a lot of revenue for the local economy in terms of taxes and fees. It also implies employment in different fields like tech support, software development, and sales and marketing. For the iGaming industry, it shows that the market is healthy and growing, which could encourage other areas to consider regulation. It is proof that regulated online gambling markets are viable and profitable.

Interviewer: Owing to such growth, what do you think could be the potential problems with Ontario’s iGaming industry?

Erik King: The biggest issue will be the control of growth while at the same time ensuring the aspect of responsible gambling. In the future when the market grows, it will focus on how operators address issues associated with problem gambling. Other issues that will likely persist include managing changes in technology and the threats posed by criminals to the company’s systems.

Interviewer: What do you suppose the other regions will do when they see the positive results in Ontario? Are you expecting other regions to follow the same approach in regulation?

Erik King: It will be expected that the experience of Ontario will be followed by other areas.

Interviewer: What do you think are the major strategies that operators should consider to survive the competition in such a market?

Erik King: Thus, to be successful, operators should concentrate on the following strategies. First and foremost, they should focus on customer satisfaction by providing quality, entertaining, and diverse game selections. Through the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning customer experience in gaming can be improved and enhanced.

Interviewer: Last but not least, what do you think will be the future tendencies in the iGaming industry, especially in the regulated ones like Ontario?

Erik King: I expect the following to be quite promising and interesting. First of all, the use of advanced technologies like the blockchain and virtual reality will change the face of the gaming industry and make the gaming experience even better and more secure. Mobile gaming will continue to expand as a result of improvements in mobile devices and their accessibility.

Interviewer: It was an interesting time here today, Erik, thank you for the input. I hope that you enjoyed our conversation on the subject of the iGaming market development and trends.

Erik King: It was nice of you to have me. It is great to be here during the growth of the iGaming sector and I am eager to find out what the future has in store.

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