AGA: US Gaming Revenue Sets New High in May
Overview of US Gaming Revenue in May
The American Gaming Association (AGA) has released its latest Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker, offering a comprehensive look at the performance of the US casino sector in May. Although the precise sports betting numbers are yet to be published, overall gaming revenues have shown consistent growth.
Growth Observed in Most States’ Gaming Revenues
According to AGA’s data, combined revenues from casinos, online gaming, and sports betting reached a record $6.73 billion in May. This represents a 10.9% increase compared to the same month last year. Year-to-date figures also indicate a 7.1% boost, totaling $31.89 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR).
Specifically, traditional casinos reported revenues of $4.45 billion, online casinos $899.8 million, and sportsbooks $1.37 billion during May. Online gaming (iGaming) experienced the highest annual growth rate at 33%, despite being available in a limited number of states. Traditional casino revenues and sportsbook income grew by 3.9% and 24.1%, respectively.
Year-to-date, traditional gaming revenue increased by 1.8% to $21.06 billion, sports betting revenues rose 13.1% to $6.5 billion, while iGaming revenue surged 29.5% reaching $4.29 billion. Most states showed positive revenue trends, with only Nevada and South Dakota experiencing declines.
Sector-Specific Performance Highlights
Traditional casino revenue from slot machines and table games totaled $4.45 billion in May, up 3.9% compared to the previous year. Slot machine revenue specifically accounted for $3.24 billion, a 4.4% year-over-year rise, while table games generated $894.07 million, increasing 3.3%. Note that these figures exclude certain states that do not separate slot and table game data.
On an annual basis, combined slot and table game revenue climbed 1.8% to $21.06 billion.
Sports betting activity remained strong, with bettors wagering $12.10 billion in May, marking a 15.5% year-on-year increase. The resulting sports betting GGR of $1.37 billion reflects a hold rate of 11.3%.
iGaming segments demonstrated dramatic growth, with revenue rising in every state where it operates. Notably, Delaware, Rhode Island, and West Virginia saw iGaming revenues more than double compared to the same month last year.
Industry Commentary and Outlook
In related developments, the AGA has recently expressed cautious optimism regarding new federal tax proposals affecting the gaming industry, despite mixed reactions from various sector stakeholders.