Recent statistics released by the American Gaming Association (AGA) have shown a significant boost in the U.S. gaming industry’s investment in responsible gaming initiatives, with a total expenditure of $471.8 million for the year. This marks a substantial 72% increase compared to the $275 million spent in 2017, indicating a stronger commitment to fostering a safe gambling environment.
Strategic Allocation of Resources for Responsible Gaming
The detailed report by the AGA, verified by a globally recognized accounting firm, breaks down the investment across various critical sectors:
- Customer Service Interactions: $135.4 million
- Responsible Gaming Programs Development and Maintenance: $122.4 million
- Consumer Education on Responsible Gaming: $107.7 million
- Research and Support for Non-Profit Organizations: $31.8 million
- Support Services for Problem Gambling: $26.1 million
Joe Maloney, AGA’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications, highlighted the proactive measures of the industry, stating, “The remarkable increase in RG spending underscores our commitment to promoting a secure and informed gaming environment. Besides the substantial taxes levied to support responsible gaming and problem gambling resources, we voluntarily invest significantly more to ensure our patrons are equipped with the necessary tools and information for responsible play.”
Responsible Gaming Education Month: Introducing New Tools
Coinciding with the 2024 Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM), the AGA introduced the new Responsible Gaming Intervention Effectiveness Scale, a tool aimed at helping industry stakeholders and academics assess the impact of responsible gaming initiatives. Maloney applauded the success of RGEM, asserting, “Our dedication to responsible gaming was evident during this year’s RGEM, which we believe will act as a catalyst for ongoing enhancements in our industry.”
Survey Insights and Legislative Developments
The AGA’s findings are based on data gathered from a broad spectrum of its members, including casino operators and online gaming entities, collected between July and September 2024. The industry’s revenue reports for the fiscal year 2023 helped produce these comprehensive insights.
As the landscape of legal gambling continues to expand in the U.S., responsible gaming remains a critical priority. With state-specific regulatory practices and ongoing federal discussions aimed at establishing a national framework for responsible gaming, legislation like the SAFE Bet Act and the GRIT Act are paving the way for more unified and robust regulatory measures.
Continued Growth and Industry Commitment
The gaming industry’s investment in responsible gaming, up by 72% since 2017, highlights not only its growth but also its evolving focus on consumer protection and ethical practices. As the U.S. moves towards more regulated gambling frameworks, the industry’s forward-thinking approach to responsible gaming sets a standard for others to follow, ensuring that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable activity for all participants.
According to Citigroup’s latest report, Macau’s high roller segment, particularly within the premium mass gaming category, has experienced a sharp rise in 2024. Known as “whales,” these affluent gamblers have significantly increased their spending, outpacing previous records set in 2023. Citigroup’s monthly survey reveals that both the number of whales and the total wagers placed this year have already surpassed last year’s figures.
Whale Activity Soars in 2024
In the first nine months of 2024, Citigroup identified 228 whales—players betting HKD100,000 (approximately US$12,842) or more—placing a combined total of HKD43.3 million. This marks an increase from the HKD39.7 million wagered by 224 whales in 2023. Analyst George Choi, in a report shared by GGRAsia, stated, “As of this year, 228 whales have wagered HKD43.3 million, surpassing last year’s total of HKD39.7 million from 224 whales.”
Moreover, these high-rollers’ average wager per session has also risen. In 2024, their bets averaged HKD655,000, a notable 43% jump from the HKD457,000 recorded in 2023. Choi added that the trend has been accelerating, with the last five months showing an even higher average bet of HKD728,000. Despite economic uncertainties in mainland China, wealthy gamblers in Macau continue to display confidence in their spending habits.
Growth in Premium Mass Players
The Citigroup report also highlights a boost in the number of premium mass players. In September 2024, the survey recorded 613 premium mass players, a 42% increase compared to the same period in 2023. However, the average wager per player saw a slight 5% decline. Despite this dip, the overall market remains strong, as evidenced by a 36% year-on-year rise in total wagers.
Sands China Ltd emerged as the leader in September 2024, commanding a 26% share of total wagers, up from 22% in August. Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd also saw gains, increasing its share to 17%, up from an average of 13.5% in the first eight months of the year. Melco’s recent rebranding of its premium mass products appears to drive this success, with early indications of strong performance at Studio City.
Resilience of Macau’s Gaming Sector
Citigroup’s September survey shows Macau’s gaming sector remains resilient despite broader economic challenges. Total premium mass wagers reached HKD11.9 million in September 2024, a 36% increase from the HKD8.8 million recorded the previous year. The survey also documented 21 active whales in September, compared to 17 a year earlier. One notable bet at Galaxy’s StarWorld Horizon room reached HKD640,000, while several other whales placed bets between HKD100,000 and HKD250,000.
These figures reflect Macau’s enduring appeal as a global gaming hub, attracting affluent players despite economic headwinds. The continued growth in whale activity and premium mass participation highlights the region’s strong market performance.
Armenia-based TotoGaming, which launched its operations in Romania earlier this year, has struck a significant deal with one of the country’s top football clubs. The betting company announced a two-year partnership with CFR Cluj, a powerhouse in Romanian soccer known for its multiple championship titles.
This collaboration, set to run through the 2025/26 season, represents TotoGaming’s inaugural sports partnership in Romania, signaling the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the country’s sports and betting landscape.
Merging of Expertise
While TotoGaming is new to Romania, it brings two decades of experience from its operations in Armenia, where it has backed several football clubs. CFR Cluj, with its rich history spanning a century and impressive track record of success, offers a perfect platform for TotoGaming to connect with Romanian sports enthusiasts.
The CEO of TotoGaming expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the alignment of values between the two entities. He emphasized their shared commitment to sports development and the promotion of an active lifestyle, praising CFR Cluj’s championship pedigree.
Strategic Market Expansion
This football partnership is just one piece of TotoGaming’s broader strategy to gain a foothold in Romania. The company has been actively expanding its offerings since its entry into the market. Recently, it broadened its online casino portfolio through a collaboration with a well-known game developer, introducing new slot games to Romanian players.
Enhancing the Betting Experience
For Romanian sports betting fans, this partnership could herald exciting developments. Such collaborations typically lead to enhanced betting options, potentially including exclusive promotions tied to CFR Cluj’s performances. It may also spark increased interest in the Romanian football league among bettors, as they gain more insights into one of its top teams.
A Measured Approach to Growth
While this deal may not grab headlines like some larger international sponsorships, it represents a calculated move by TotoGaming to embed itself in the Romanian sports culture. For sports bettors, it promises a more engaging experience with local football.
As sports and betting continue to intertwine, partnerships like this one between TotoGaming and CFR Cluj aim to strike a balance between promoting the sport and encouraging responsible betting practices. Fans and bettors alike can anticipate a more immersive football experience, with the potential for unique betting opportunities tied to one of Romania’s most successful clubs.
New York City is at the heart of a fierce competition as two of the city’s most influential figures, Steve Cohen and Jay-Z, propose multi-billion-dollar casino projects. Both developments promise to inject substantial investments into the local economy, but they also face challenges as community concerns and political hurdles stand in their way.
Steve Cohen’s Vision for a Queens Entertainment Hub
Mets owner Steve Cohen has set his sights on transforming a 50-acre area near Citi Field in Queens into a massive entertainment hub. His ambitious Metropolitan Park project, which includes a new casino, aims to turn underutilized parking space into a bustling destination with parks, restaurants, shopping areas, and more. At the heart of the development lies a proposed casino to be managed by Hard Rock Entertainment as Cohen looks to secure one of New York’s limited casino licenses.
The project, estimated to pump $8 billion into the local economy, promises to bring over 23,000 jobs and revitalize the Willets Point area, long known for its autobody shops and scrapyards. Beyond gaming, Cohen’s plans include 20 acres of public parks, five acres of sports fields, and significant infrastructure improvements, such as enhancements to the Mets-Willets Point 7 train station, roads, and bike paths. Additionally, a “Taste of Queens” food hall and a live music venue are planned to showcase local culture.
However, the development is not without its challenges. A key issue lies in the site’s designation as parkland, requiring a state bill to “alienate” the land for commercial use. While Cohen has garnered significant support from local politicians, unions, and community groups, he faces opposition from figures like state Sen. Jessica Ramos, who has voiced her constituents’ concerns about introducing a casino to the area. Despite this, Cohen’s team remains optimistic, asserting they have ample time and support to push the project forward.
Jay-Z’s Bid for a Times Square Casino
Meanwhile, Jay-Z, through his entertainment company Roc Nation, is leading the charge to bring a casino to Times Square. Partnering with Caesars Entertainment and SL Green, Jay-Z’s proposed Caesars Palace casino aims to become a central attraction in one of the world’s most iconic districts. To win over skeptics and secure a coveted gaming license, Jay-Z has pledged a whopping $250 million in community grants to Hell’s Kitchen and the surrounding neighborhoods.
This community-driven approach begins with an immediate $15 million investment and ongoing contributions tied to 0.5% of the casino’s revenue. The funds will be managed by a community trust, ensuring that the money supports local improvements, such as childcare programs, job training, and after-school activities. Jay-Z emphasized the long-term vision of his proposal, stating, “Our vision is to give back to New York and ensure that Broadway, Hell’s Kitchen, and surrounding businesses all benefit—not just for a minute, but for the long term.”
Despite the financial promises, the Times Square casino project has encountered resistance. Local groups, including the Broadway League and the No Times Square Casino Coalition, argue that introducing a casino in such a densely populated area could negatively impact residents and the theater community. A poll conducted by the coalition found that 71% of Midtown residents oppose the casino.
In response, Roc Nation has engaged directly with the community, holding meetings with residents of nearby Manhattan Plaza, a well-known affordable housing complex for artists. To ease concerns, Roc Nation’s CEO Desiree Perez and former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton outlined security plans and the long-term benefits of the casino, offering $15 million in funding for the tenants’ association and an ongoing share of casino profits to support local initiatives.
The Race for New York’s Casino Licenses
Both Steve Cohen’s Queens project and Jay-Z’s Times Square proposal are competing for one of only three downstate casino licenses being issued by New York State. The competition is fierce, with other bids coming from high-profile entities, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Wynn Resorts, and Mohegan Sun. Each proposal must navigate a minefield of community concerns, political negotiations, and stiff competition, all while promising to bring substantial economic benefits to New York City.
As these casino giants battle for the state’s approval, only time will tell which project—if any—will come to life. One thing is certain: whichever project succeeds will dramatically reshape its respective corner of New York City, for better or worse.
Illinois Racing Board Greenlights Major Acquisition
Accel Entertainment is making waves in the Illinois gaming scene with its recent acquisition of FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, formerly known as Fairmount Park. The Illinois Racing Board approved the purchase, marking Accel’s first step into the Thoroughbred racing industry. Along with the acquisition, Accel plans to open a temporary casino by the time of the 2025 Kentucky Derby.
Major Investment at Collinsville Facility
Accel’s entry into the Thoroughbred sector involves more than just buying the Collinsville, Illinois-based track for $35 million. The gaming company is set to invest an additional $85-$95 million in constructing a temporary casino, as well as a permanent gaming facility. This development will include upgrades to the racetrack’s infrastructure, with improvements to security, maintenance, and general operations.
According to Accel’s president of U.S. Gaming, Mark Phelan, the firm is dedicated to elevating the track’s standards. “We are very humble about what we’re going to do here,” he stated during a presentation to the Illinois Racing Board.
The temporary casino, pending further approvals, will likely occupy the current facility, featuring around 200 slot machines and several table games. Long-term, Accel plans to build a more extensive permanent casino, offering expanded gaming options.
Commitment to Racing Industry and Community
In addition to the casino project, Accel has pledged a $5 million purse guarantee for the 2025 racing season, aimed at boosting the quality of the races. “We are seeking to improve the overall quality of racing for owners, trainers, and fans in support of the Illinois horse industry,” Phelan said.
The acquisition also brings economic promise to southern Illinois and nearby St. Louis. Collinsville Mayor Jeff Stehman has expressed optimism about the development’s potential to drive local growth, providing jobs and revitalizing the area.
Hawthorne Race Course Lags Behind
While Accel makes swift progress in Collinsville, the situation at Hawthorne Race Course appears stalled. The track, which began demolition in 2019 following the state’s racino approval, has faced delays in securing financing for its casino. Tim Carey, president of Hawthorne, reassured the public that negotiations are in the final stages, though he couldn’t provide further details.
“We remain committed to redeveloping Hawthorne and revitalizing Illinois horse racing,” Carey stated, though construction timelines remain uncertain.
With the racing calendar for 2025 now approved, Illinois continues to maintain its position as a hub for Thoroughbred and harness racing. Both facilities will have to navigate the pressures and expectations of fans and stakeholders as they work toward completing their respective casino projects.
