A recent economic analysis released by the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) reveals that the introduction of online casinos not only increases overall revenue in a region but also positively impacts the revenue of traditional brick-and-mortar casinos.
Researchers found that in states where online gambling is permitted, such as Connecticut and Michigan, the income of physical casinos experienced a notable 1.9% increase following the introduction of online casinos. Moreover, the total gaming revenue in these states surged by a remarkable 46% compared to pre-online casino launch figures.
Pennsylvania, in particular, stands out with the largest revenue increase since the legalization of gambling in 2018. The state witnessed a substantial 58.9% growth in total gaming revenue from 2018 to 2023, showcasing the significant impact of online casinos on the state's gambling industry.
Sociologists emphasize that online casinos can open up new revenue streams and help recapture tax revenues lost to illegal gambling platforms. By providing a legal and regulated alternative, online casinos contribute to the state's coffers while offering consumers a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.
In a survey conducted as part of the analysis, experts interviewed 200 individuals from each of the six states where online gambling is legal. The findings revealed that all respondents had engaged in gambling activities at least once in the past year, underscoring the widespread appeal of online gambling among consumers.
