The latest data released by the American Gaming Association (AGA) shows that the US casino industry enjoyed its best second quarter in history as commercial casinos across 25 states took in $13.6B. The latest figures show an increase of nearly 500% on Q2 2020 when casino revenue was severely impacted by the global pandemic.
The $13.6B includes gaming revenue from table games, sports betting, and iGaming and broke the previous quarterly record set in Q3 2019 by 22.5%.
As commercial casinos reopen without restrictions, US gamblers have returned to the industry in such great numbers that if revenues continue to grow at their current rate, the US casino industry could be set for its best year ever. The previous record was set in 2019 when commercial casinos across 25 states generated $43.6B in revenue. The first six months of 2021 has already seen casinos hit the $25B mark.
The report also reveals that at the start of the quarter, 15 of 25 states still had restrictions in place that limited the capacity of three quarters of the country’s commercial casinos. At that time 345 of 463 casino had restricted capacity to 50% or lower, but by the end of the quarter all had been permitted to operate at full capacity.
In a press release issued alongside the report, AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said:
“These first half results are truly remarkable. It is even more impressive when you consider commercial gaming revenue was at its lowest point ever just a year ago. This is a testament to our resilience and commitment to providing customers safe environments and world-class entertainment experiences.”
According to the report, sports betting revenue declined 8% from the previous quarter to $889M. This was expected as the second quarter is usually a quieter period for sportsbooks due to a limited sporting calendar. However, the sports betting industry has already generated more revenue in the first six months of 2021 (1.8B) than all of 2020 (1.5B).
The iGaming industry also enjoyed a strong second quarter setting a new quarterly revenue record as operators hit $901M in revenue, a 15% increase on the previous quarter.
Speaking of the industry’s recovery, Miller went on to add:
“The past 18 months have proven that this industry can persevere through hard times while remaining dedicated to our customers and communities. COVID-19 is not yet in the rearview mirror, but I’m confident the record first half of 2021 has laid a strong foundation for the industry’s full recovery.”
Ciaran has been working within the Gambling Industry as a deep analyst since 2019. His deep knowledge and understanding of all the gambling regulations, and processes makes him a true asset, and an always valuable point of view for Gambling Industry News, allowing us to cover every topics from a brand new perspective.