Gambling in the USA

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – April 26-May 2

Published

5 years ago

May 4, 2021

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Welcome to our weekly roundup of American gambling news again! It was again an eventful week in the USA, despite the still-active virus attack.

Here, we are going through the weekly highlights of the American gambling industry which include the latest news and new partnerships. Read on and get updated.

Latest News

SLING TV, a leading live TV streaming service, has launched a new exclusive sports betting information channel in collaboration with DraftKings. SLING TV subscribers and SLING Free users can now view real-time game scores and betting odds on the DraftKings Basketball channel. SLING TV will also launch DraftKings Baseball and DraftKings Hockey channels in the coming weeks. The expansion of the DraftKings sports betting information channels on SLING TV comes after the two companies announced a strategic agreement across DISH’s portfolio of brands to bring DraftKings’ sportsbook and daily fantasy experiences directly to its customers nationwide. DraftKings is a leader in sports betting and daily fantasy sports space in the US.

Churchill Downs Incorporated has launched TwinSpires Sports mobile app in Indiana and TwinSpires Casino & Sports app in Pennsylvania. The Company also launched its online sports betting operations in Colorado with TwinSpires Sports mobile app and desktop product. TwinSpires players in Indiana, Pennsylvania and Colorado will now be able to bet on professional sports including NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL and PGA, as well as collegiate sports and events from around the world. In Pennsylvania, online casino players will be able to enjoy traditional casino games such as blackjack and roulette, as well as a large selection of online slots and “live dealer” games.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has reached an agreement with the state’s Seminole Tribe that would expand gambling in the state, including the introduction of legalised sports betting. The tribe would be allowed to offer sports gambling at its casinos in South Florida and near Tampa and will be allowed to license horse tracks, jai-alai frontons and former dog tracks to accept such wagers on its behalf for a share of the income, the Republican governor announced. The tribe will also be allowed to introduce craps and roulette at its seven casinos, including the popular Hard Rock near Fort Lauderdale. The state would get at least $2.5 billion from the tribe over the first five years and at least $6 billion by 2030.

Betway’s parent company Super Group is nearing a deal to go public through a merger with blank-check acquisition firm Sports Entertainment Acquisition Corp at a valuation of about $5.1 billion. The deal comes as Betway, which has its roots in Europe, expands in the US. Betway has also agreed to acquire Digital Gaming Corp, tapping the online sports betting and gaming market in 10 U.S. states. Shareholders accounting for more than two-thirds of Super Group’s equity will maintain their stakes under the deal. Sports Entertainment’s executive chairman Eric Grubman will become chairman of Super Group and Sports Entertainment CEO John Collins will join Super Group’s board.

The Brazilian Institute for Legal Gambling (IJL) has called for the Supreme Federal Court (STF) to set a date to discuss the decriminalisation of gambling in Brazil. Although the regulation of gaming in Brazil has been held up, it could see a good resolution with a favorable ruling from the STF. The judicial body has yet to judge resolution 966.177, which could decriminalise gambling. So far there is no official date for this to happen. The court had originally set April 7 as the date to evaluate the appeal but it didn’t have time to do so. Since then it has been delayed indefinitely. The IJL is now pushing for a new date to be set for the dispute to be resolved.

Partnerships

TikTok has partnered with Enthusiast Gaming and e.l.f. Cosmetics to launch “TikTok Gamers Got Talent”. Premiering Sunday, May 9, 2021 at 7:00 PM EST, this content series will mark the inaugural search for the TikTok gaming community’s hidden talents. This exclusive seven-week live series will follow contestants as they show off their diverse talents and compete in front of millions of fans for a chance to win $25,000 and e.l.f. products. From guitar riffs to trick shots to cooking and everything in-between, TikTok Gamers Got Talent is an opportunity for gamers and gaming fans on TikTok to showcase their most impressive skills to a panel of celebrity judges.

Global esports organisation Gen.G and American gas station brand Conoco have joined forces and hosted a first-of-its-kind college esports rivalry week between University of Colorado and University of Montana esports programmes. This marked Conoco’s first-ever activation in the esports space. Rivalry Week was a two-day event pinning the Buffaloes and Grizzlies against each other in Rocket League on April 27 and Minecraft on April 29. The livestream was distributed via Katz LIVE across CTV platforms.

A partnership between Mazooma, the gaming industry leader for bank account-based payments, and Fifth Third Bank is bringing real-time withdrawals to sports wagering and iGaming industries through the RTP network from The Clearing House. The offering, now live for all of Mazooma’s operators, enables players to receive payouts immediately into their bank accounts safely and securely. Immediate payouts are a win-win for both players and operators. Players enjoy peace of mind with the option to access their winnings instantly. For the gaming operator, real-time withdrawals offer a better user experience than any other payment method available.

New Appointment

Rush Street Interactive has appointed Lauren Seiler as Associate Vice President of Investor Relations and Development. Ms. Seiler brings to RSI over 17 years of diversified Wall Street experience, with 12 of those years being gaming-centric. As a long-time industry specialist, she brings an in-depth knowledge of iGaming, sports wagering, land-based operations and finance, along with extensive relationships within the buy and sell-side investor communities to the organisation. In this newly created role, Ms. Seiler will lead RSI’s Investor Relations efforts, while also working with the team to drive RSI’s growth, development, and M&A initiatives.

Gambling in the USA

Plaza Hotel & Casino to host downtown’s largest Cinco de Mayo party – now with DJ Exodus

Published

4 days ago

April 28, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

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The Plaza Hotel & Casino will again host downtown Las Vegas’ biggest party to celebrate Cinco de Mayo starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Plaza Hotel & Casino with lights on the outside Description automatically generatedMay 5, in and around its iconic Carousel Bar.

The Plaza’s Cinco de Mayo party is free to attend and will now feature Vegas’ popular DJ Exodus as the party’s entertainment. He will be spinning top radio hits with a mix of Latin music, all under the bright lights of the property’s iconic Main Street dome. DJ Exodus is known as one of the top resident DJs in Las Vegas playing at various venues as well as celebrity events.

The high-energy fiesta will also feature downtown’s largest piñata. Guests will be able to commemorate their fun by taking selfies inside the Plaza’s photo house that will include various festive props.

Fresh churros will be available for purchase from Churros 101 as well as street tacos and Mexican street corn salad (Esquites) from Fresh Mexican Grill.

Carousel Bar will offer holiday drink specials all night long, including Modelo Draft 16 oz ($11), Modelo Michelada ($14), Mi Campo Margarita ($14), Mi Campo Blanco Shot ($10), and Mi Campo Reposado Shot ($12).

Next to Carousel Bar, Pinkbox Doughnuts will feature fun and delicious Cinco de Mayo-themed doughnuts.

For more information visit: plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/cinco-de-mayo/.

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Gambling in the USA

New Research Shows Stark Reality of Tourism Decline in Las Vegas

Published

1 week ago

April 24, 2026

GamingAmericas.com

new-research-shows-stark-reality-of-tourism-decline-in-las-vegas

A new research has revealed the stark reality behind a notable downturn in tourism to the renowned resort city, Las Vegas, with the number of visitors falling sharply compared to previous years.

The study, conducted by leading casino and sports betting community OLBG, shows that Vegas has seen a drop off of around 264,248 tourists on average per month – a decline of approximately 7.6%. It means over a quarter of a million fewer people are heading to the city each month marking one of the most significant slowdowns outside of pandemic years.

Post-Covid recovery stalling

Despite a steady period after the 2020 lockdown, Las Vegas saw consistent growth up until 2024. Recent OLBG data however shows a clear reversal with average monthly visitors falling from 3.47million to 3.21million. The city is now facing renewed pressure to maintain its global appeal.

The drop in tourism is reflected across key hotel metrics. Average room occupancy has declined to 80.4%, down from 84.4% the previous year – the lowest level in four years.

At the same time, the average daily room rate has fallen by nearly 10%, indicating that hotels are reducing prices to attract visitors. Revenue per available room has also dropped by 13% year-on-year, reaching its lowest level in over nine years outside of the pandemic.

Gaming revenue shows some resilience

Gaming revenue has seen a modest increase of 3.8% year-on-year, reaching a monthly average of $1.11 billion (inflation-adjusted). However, this follows a decline the previous year and remains below earlier peak levels.

While the sector is holding relatively steady, it is not enough to offset the wider decline in tourism and hospitality performance.

The data also reflects broader changes in consumer behaviour. The continued growth of online gambling, combined with more value-driven travel decisions, is reshaping the global gambling landscape.

Shift toward lower-cost destinations

Rising travel costs and changing consumer priorities appear to be driving a shift toward more affordable gambling destinations. Travellers are increasingly seeking locations that offer similar entertainment experiences at a lower overall cost.

Destinations such as Atlantic City and Biloxi in the US, alongside European cities like Prague and Budapest, are gaining traction due to cheaper accommodation, lower travel costs, and competitive casino offerings. International resort destinations, including Sun City in South Africa, are also emerging as cost-effective alternatives.

This growing competition is putting pressure on Las Vegas, particularly among price-sensitive travellers.

An OLBG spokesperson said: “Las Vegas has been the benchmark for global gambling tourism, but latest figures suggest its dominance is being tested. Continued rising costs in terms of travel and accommodation, plus spending in the city, means many players are more selective on destinations.

“Destinations that offer similar casino experiences but at lower prices are becoming more popular – whether that’s still in the US in Atlantic City and Biloxi or across Europe in cities such as Prague and Budapest. Value is becoming the key driver for tourists’ decision-making.

“However, continued growth of online gambling is giving players more flexibility than they’ve ever had. In some cases, this reduces the need to travel altogether whilst others choose short, cost-effective trips with digital play.

“Sin City isn’t going anywhere, though. It remains a world class destination but it’s operating in a much more competitive global market compared to previous years.”

The post New Research Shows Stark Reality of Tourism Decline in Las Vegas appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Aristocrat Gaming

MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks by Aristocrat Gaming Makes its Official Debut at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino

Published

2 weeks ago

April 17, 2026

Wladimir P.

monopoly-big-board-bucks-by-aristocrat-gaming-makes-its-official-debut-at-yaamava’-resort-&-casino

Aristocrat Gaming has officially launched its new MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks slot game in the US, with Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel becoming the first casino in the world to debut the game.

Ushering in a new era, MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks is the first game title released by Aristocrat Gaming, under its newly awarded multiyear licensing partnership with Hasbro. Powered by the company’s industry-leading innovation, this first title brings nostalgia, iconic iconography and dynamic gameplay to the forefront.

“We are incredibly proud to see our introductory MONOPOLY title, Big Board Bucks, make its debut on casino floors. The journey to this moment has been filled with energy, excitement, and a deep appreciation for the opportunity to innovate with one of the world’s most iconic brands. Yaamava’ Resort & Casino truly embraced the significance of being the first to launch, and we’re kicking things off with tremendous momentum. We look forward to the continued excitement from players as the game rolls out nationwide,” said Craig Toner, CEO of Aristocrat Gaming.

With this historic game launch, Yaamava’ is hosting its largest promotion to date, culminating on May 29 when one Club Serrano member will receive the biggest single prize in the property’s history — the “Own It All” package valued at more than $1.6 million, including $500,000 towards a mortgage, $500,000 in travel credit and a Ferrari 296GTS worth over $640,000.

“Launching the World Premiere for MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks gives us the opportunity to do what we do best—deliver next-level entertainment paired with meaningful rewards for our players. From the immersive reveal to our largest promotion ever, this launch reflects our commitment to creating moments that feel big, celebratory, and uniquely Yaamava’,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.

MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks infuses nostalgia into gameplay with the player experience feeling like playing the actual board game, including player-selectable game tokens, Mr. Monopoly, Free Parking, houses and hotels and even the famous game board itself. Players are presented with triple metamorphic gameplay with Extra Spins, Extra Properties and Extra Houses. These metamorphic features lead to the Big Board Bucks Bonus, and may be awarded individually, in pairs, or all together to enhance the bonus. Any of these triggers will lead to the Big Board Bucks Bonus. In the Big Board Bucks Bonus, players have the chance to trigger rewards around the game board and land money bags, properties, houses and hotels, Free Parking and even the GO Jackpot Wheel. There’s also an exciting fourth metamorphic with Free Games that will trigger once the meter bar has been filled.

MONOPOLY Big Board Bucks is available on The Baron Portrait cabinet and is available in a never-before-seen signage package, the Skyline, featuring LED-lit themed panel dividers and dual-tier LED toppers adorned with lit Monopoly signature property game pieces crowning the top.

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