Spillemyndigheden, the regulator of the gambling market in Denmark, has announced that in the month of February 2024 the industry recorded an 18.3 percent increase in gambling spend compared to the same month last year.

Moreover, all sectors of the industry registered such increases: sports betting, online casinos, gaming machines and land-based casinos. The total gambling spend registered in February 2024 amounted to 587 million Danish Krone or around 83.6 million U.S. dollars.

The most impressive revenue increases were registered by sports betting and online casinos. According to Spillemyndigheden, the revenue increases for these two segments were most likely due to lower return to player (RTP) rates in February 2024 compared to the same month of last year.

The figures included in the report are based on the data submitted by sports betting and casino operators to the Danish Tax Agency. The report also used data related to responsible gambling, taken from the Register of Self-Excluded Gamblers and StopSpillet, the problem gambling helpline that is available to residents of Denmark.

Online Casinos Dominate the Market

Most of the overall gross gaming revenue for the industry came from online casino operators, which accounted for 47.3 percent of the total. Sports betting managed to cover 30.2 percent of the market in terms of gross gaming revenue, while gaming machines accounted for 16.9 percent. The lowest market share in terms of gross gaming revenue was that of land-based casinos, which only managed to take up 5.4 percent of the market.

In terms of increases of gross gaming revenue in February 2024, sports betting registered the largest percentage: 32.5 percent compared to the same month of last year for a total of 134 million Danish Krone. Within the sports betting vertical, mobile betting was the most popular channel, attracting 65.6 percent of all bets in February 2024.

Online casino operators also registered a major increase of 18.53 percent when it comes to gross gaming revenue, with a total amount of 278 million Danish Krone generated in February 2024. Mobile gambling is also preferred by customers in this vertical, with 61.1 percent of bets being placed through this channel.

Gaming machines recorded a less significant increase in gross gaming revenue, just 1.85 percent year-on-year for a total of 100 million Danish Krone. Land-based casinos also registered a modest gross gaming revenue increase of 7 percent over the same month of last year for a total of 32 million Danish Krone.

Source: “Danes’ gambling spend increased in February 2024“. Spillemyndigheden. April 16, 2024.

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John McKeon, a senator in the State of New Jersey, has introduced a new bill which proposes a significant increase in the tax rate for online gambling and sports betting, bringing the figure to 30 percent.

The current tax rate for online gambling in New Jersey is 15 percent of gross gaming revenue, while the tax rate for sports betting is 13 percent of gross gaming revenue. The new bill, which bears the name of “Senate Bill 3064”, was filed two weeks ago and then formally introduced on 8 April. After that the bill was referred to the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee.

The new bill basically amends two sections of the current legislation, Section 7 and Section 17, which stipulate the tax amount for sports wagering and online gambling, respectively. The proposal would take effect on the next 1 January that comes after the day of approval.

Still Lower Than Other States

The 30 percent tax rate would represent a drastic increase from the current rate in New Jersey, but it would still be lower than the tax rates established in other American states for online gambling and sports wagering.

New York for instance has a tax rate of 51 percent for sports betting, the highest in any competitive market in the United States. Pennsylvania comes in second place with a tax rate of 36 percent of gross gaming revenue.

States such as Delaware, New Hampshire and Rhode Island have tax rates above 50 percent of gross gaming revenue, but these states still run monopolies through state lotteries and don’t have competitive markets.

The current tax rate for online gambling in New Jersey is among the lowest in the country, with the state having 30 iGaming websites currently licensed and active on its competitive market. Connecticut has an 18 percent tax rate for online casinos, which is set to rise to 20 percent after five years, Michigan has a tax rate of 20 percent, while West Virginia takes 15 percent of gross gaming revenue from its online casinos.

The highest tax rate in the business remains the 54 percent imposed in Pennsylvania for slots, but that state seems to favor table games which have a tax rate of just 16 percent.

Ohio is an example of an American state that has recently increased its tax rate for online gambling and sports betting. In July 2023 Mike DeWine, the governor of Ohio, increased the tax rate from 10 percent to 20 percent.

Source: “New Jersey senator formally introduces bill to hike online tax to 30%“. iGaming Business. April 11, 2024.

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In a bid to enhance its gaming offerings and entertainment experience, Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, situated off the bustling Las Vegas Strip, has commenced a significant expansion project. The family-owned establishment is set to undergo a transformation, knocking down walls to create more space for its patrons.

Planning Documents Reveal Ellis Island Casino’s 6,415 Square Feet Expansion

According to planning documents submitted to Clark County, the expansion plan outlines the addition of 6,415 square feet to the property, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Among the features of the remodel are a larger casino floor, an audio/visual equipment area, a dedicated sportsbook back-of-house area, and a south service entrance vestibule.

Christina Ellis, vice president of development at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, conveyed her excitement for the project, emphasizing that the renovation presents a chance to elevate the gaming and entertainment experience while also paying tribute to the establishment’s history and heritage.

As part of the expansion, the existing 2,800-square-foot microbrewery on the premises has been demolished to make room for the new structure. Once completed, the revamped establishment will boast closer proximity to the sidewalk and include rooftop access, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the Las Vegas skyline.

Ellis Island Hotel & Casino Eyes Winter 2025 for Completion

Officials at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino anticipate that the project will be finalized within eight to ten months, with an expected completion date in winter 2025. Anamarie Ellis, the vice president of operations, highlighted the significance of the endeavor, especially as the hotel-casino approaches its 56th anniversary. 

The site, nestled on Koval Lane near Flamingo Road, has been operated by the Ellis family since 1967, gradually expanding its operations over the years. Notable milestones include the acquisition of the adjacent hotel and the establishment of the Front Yard, a popular beer garden with on-site brewing facilities, which opened its doors in 2019.

The expansion project marks a strategic move by Ellis Island Hotel & Casino to stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of Las Vegas entertainment and hospitality. 

While some Las Vegas casinos are expanding, others are being demolished. Bally’s Corporation prepares to implode the Tropicana Casino Hotel in Las Vegas by the end of the year, pending necessary permits for implosion, including dust control and asbestos abatement. The iconic property, which opened in 1957 and closed in 2024, faces concerns over Bally’s financial position amidst plans for redevelopment.

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Playtech, a prominent gambling software firm, finds itself embroiled in a financial dispute with its largest client, Mexican gambling platform Caliplay. 

Playtech Battles €122 Million Payment Dispute with Caliplay

According to Playtech, Caliplay has declined to settle its dues, amounting to a staggering €122 million ($131 million) in fees accumulated between 2023 and 2024.

The refusal to pay comes amidst a protracted legal battle between the two entities. Caliplay has sought to terminate its contractual obligations with Playtech, sparking a contentious legal tussle that has yet to reach a resolution. Despite the mounting financial strain, Playtech remains optimistic about recovering the outstanding funds through legal recourse, reported The Evening Standard.

The repercussions of Caliplay’s non-payment have reverberated through Playtech’s financial statements. Notably, the company reported a significant surge in profits for the fiscal year 2023, reaching €235.8 million ($253 million). This substantial increase in profits includes the unreceived fees from Caliplay, reflecting Playtech’s confidence in eventual reimbursement.

The company disclosed a revenue figure of €1.7 billion ($1.84 billion), reflecting a year-on-year growth of 7%. Conversely, EBITDA reached €406.5 million ($440.3 million), marking a 12% increase.

Mor Weizer, the CEO of Playtech, conveyed his unwavering confidence in the company’s resilience amid the ongoing challenges, stating that they remained confident in their ability to execute their strategy and to continue delivering value for their shareholders.

Playtech Faces Uncertain Future Amid Takeover Rumors and Legal Challenges

The situation has also fueled speculations surrounding Playtech’s future, with the company becoming a focal point of takeover discussions. Both its depressed share price relative to earnings and recent acquisition attempts on other industry players have intensified the speculation. 

Weizer hinted at Playtech’s active involvement in potential acquisitions, emphasizing the company’s robust financial position with a substantial cash reserve.

However, industry analysts caution against overlooking the potential ramifications of the Caliplay dispute. Neil Shah, director of research at Edison Group, highlighted the significance of the impending trial in October, suggesting that an unfavorable outcome could inflict substantial financial losses on Playtech.

Despite the looming uncertainty, market sentiments remain somewhat buoyant, with Playtech shares experiencing a marginal uptick in recent trading sessions. Analysts at Jefferies remarked on the market’s apparent pessimism, underscoring the likelihood of a negotiated settlement and the importance of maintaining a constructive relationship with Caliplay.

As Playtech braces for the legal showdown in the coming months, the outcome of the dispute with Caliplay will undoubtedly shape the company’s financial trajectory and market standing in the foreseeable future.

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Representatives from mental health organizations voiced tentative support for proposed Alabama bills that could pave the way for widespread online sports betting, retail sports betting, casinos, and lotteries across the state.

Alabama Mental Health Advocates Call for Increased Funding Amid Gambling Expansion Debate

During a hearing before the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee, Holly McCorkle of the Alabama Council for Behavioral Health and John Kilpatrick of Alabama Veterans Recovery Resources refrained from outright opposition to the bills. Instead, they emphasized the need for increased funding for mental health services in the state.

McCorkle emphasized the necessity of a new revenue stream for mental health, stating that they supported the proposal because mental health desperately needed it. 

Kilpatrick echoed her sentiments, highlighting the plight of veterans and emphasizing the importance of ensuring that a significant portion of the generated funds is allocated to mental health and veterans’ services.

The proposed bills, HB 151 and 152, mark a significant potential expansion of gambling in Alabama, a state currently without a lottery but home to Indian gaming operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians at three casinos.

If passed, the legislation would permit up to 10 brick-and-mortar casinos, including existing tribal locations, along with additional tribal and non-tribal gaming facilities. 

Advocates Highlight Consumer Protections, Critics Raise Societal Concerns

However, concerns have been raised regarding the current wording of the bills, particularly by Robbie McGhee, representing the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. McGhee expressed reservations about certain aspects of the legislation but affirmed the tribe’s overall support for expanding gaming.

FanDuel president Christian Genetski, an Alabama native, testified in favor of the proposals, highlighting the demand for legal wagering among Alabamians. Genetski emphasized the importance of consumer protections provided by the legal market, including robust responsible gambling measures.

Despite some vocal support, opposition to the bills also emerged during the hearing. Individuals with a history of compulsive gambling, as well as organizations such as the Public Policy Institute and the Alabama Farmers Federation (AFF), raised concerns about the potential societal impacts of expanded gambling.

Tim Richie, a former compulsive gambler, cautioned against the negative consequences of gambling addiction, while Preston Roberts of the AFF argued that the bills would primarily benefit gambling operators and weaken communities.

Previously, Gov. Kay Ivey of Alabama addressed the 2024 legislative session, particularly supporting the current proposal for gambling expansion in the state. With the hearing concluded, the Economic Development and Tourism Committee is now poised to vote on the bills. The committee is scheduled to reconvene on February 14 to further deliberate on the issue.

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Light & Wonder Incorporated and Everi Digital expand their long-term partnership and take it to the next level through a new deal. The partnership with Everi Digital, Everi Holdings Incorporated’s online gaming business, will allow Light & Wonder to expand across new markets in the UK, Europe, and Latin America.

Global expansion

Light & Wonder’s fans in the UK will be happy to hear that new games from Everi Digital’s impressive portfolio will be available to them through an advanced Light & Wonder online ecosystem.

When it comes to European expansion, the Italian players will get a chance to try some of Everi Digital’s games in the summer of 2024, while other countries will follow the lead and get access by the end of 2024.

Besides the European market, the companies will expand to South America, where the players will be able to enjoy thrilling Everi Digital’s titles from the first quarter of 2024.

Everi Holdings Incorporated became a leader in the industry when it came to providing both land-based and online casinos with fantastic content and advanced products such as financial technology services, player loyalty solutions, and bingo. The company is famous for following the newest trends, including launching fantastic video instant-win style games and perceived skill games that are about to be launched soon.

The partnership between Everi and Light & Wonder was established four years ago, and since then the companies have strengthened their positions in the North American market, offering a range of captivating content to the players in the continent.

Thanks to the success of the previous deals, they decided to expand it further. It means a lot to Light & Wonder since the deal is the latest phase of its long-term iGaming strategy, which includes establishing new partnerships with successful game developers and strengthening its position as one of the leading content providers in the world.

Light & Wonder’s portfolio currently consists of more than 3.500 games developed in-house and obtained from third-party studios. All of them provide a safe and secure gaming experience since they’re enriched with various responsible gaming tools.

Mutually beneficial partnership

Jordan Brent, the Digital Commercialization Vice-President at Everi, said: “This exciting collaboration with Light & Wonder allows Everi Digital to deliver our award-winning engaging gaming entertainment experiences to new players and markets. We are looking forward to providing our innovative content to a new segment of online players, driving the continued growth trajectory of our collective iGaming business.”

Steve Mayes, the Digital Partnerships Senior Director at Light & Wonder added: “Everi Digital’s content has proven hugely popular with players in North America and we look forward to sharing its games across more of our global network. We are always looking to expand the scope of our online content and stepper and skill games on Everi’s product roadmap will help achieve that goal.”

Source: Campbell, Alan, “Light & Wonder Signs Expanded Deal Allowing Everi Digital to Further Global Reach”. European Gaming. 2/6/2023.

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Virginia lawmakers find themselves at the center of a heated debate surrounding the potential legalization of what are known as “gray machines” – arcade-style games that bear a striking resemblance to traditional slot machines but incorporate an element of skill. 

Virginia Lawmakers Clash Over Introduction of Slot-Like Machines into Local Businesses

Endorsed by various gambling companies, competing legislative proposals seek to introduce these machines into a myriad of establishments, ranging from truck stops to convenience stores, across the Commonwealth, reported the Associated Press.

The discussion has intensified as stakeholders grapple with the regulatory framework for these devices, which have proliferated in recent years despite being prohibited under a ban enacted in 2020. 

Manufacturers argue that these games, while resembling slots, require a degree of skill from players. However, their operation exists in a legal grey area, prompting debates on oversight and taxation.

One proposal, championed by Sen. Aaron Rouse and co-sponsored by Sen. L. Louise Lucas, aims to establish a regulatory structure overseen by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority. Under this plan, establishments with ABC licenses could host a limited number of terminals, with revenue taxed at 15%. 

Proponents argue that such a move would not only generate significant revenue for the state but also benefit small businesses, particularly those owned by first-generation Americans.

McPike’s Proposal Takes a Different Path for Slot-Like Gaming Regulation in Virginia

Conversely, another bill put forth by Democratic Sen. Jeremy McPike offers a different approach. This proposal seeks to regulate both skill games and slot-like video terminals under the regulation of the Virginia Lottery Board, with a higher tax rate of 34%. McPike’s bill affords local governments the discretion to prohibit these machines if desired and mandates player identification requirements.

Amidst these legislative maneuvers, concerns have been raised by opponents, including casino interests, regarding the potential societal impacts of expanded gambling. Critics fear a surge in gambling addiction and associated social problems, citing reports of crime linked to similar devices in other jurisdictions. 

Additionally, questions linger about the adequacy of oversight mechanisms, with some advocating for stricter monitoring and reporting standards to prevent potential abuse.

Notably, in October the Supreme Court of Virginia reinstated the state’s ban on slots-like skill machines, reversing a lower court decision and signaling ongoing enforcement efforts despite pending lawsuits. The decision underscored the state’s authority to regulate gambling and protect the public, while also highlighting challenges faced by skilled game operators like Pace-O-Matic in Virginia and beyond.

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• One of the leading game aggregators in the world, the famous SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator, partnered with the popular game provider Ready Play to strengthen its position and further expand across the global iGaming market.

Industry giants partner up to improve the player experience

SOFTSWISS operates one of the most popular aggregation platforms in the whole industry. The new partnership will help in its further development since a range of new slot games will be added to it.

On the other hand, Ready Play is a company with a long history in the industry. It’s been present on the market for 20 years, and it is present in many key regulated markets across the globe. The company got a certification from Channel Islands’ Alderney Gaming Control Commission, which allows SOFTSWISS to expand in that market as well.

This partnership means a lot for both companies, allowing them to offer their customers an advanced customer experience and improve the player experience as well.

Unique products

Ready Play is popular for its unique features such as its gamified slot releases Reel Bingo and Snakes & Ladders, which became a huge hit among the players. The games became even more popular because of their statistical data and analysis, which is unique in the market. Both companies can use this data to improve the player experience, which will without doubt lead to a successful partnership.

Ready Play is also known for unusual testing of its games – while the content production stage lasts, the real players are invited to test out the games, and that allows the company to create the content that really fulfills all the wishes of its fans and players, thanks to the feedback they get from the players. SOFTSWISS also invites their clients to try their products before the official launch and give their feedback, so the values of the two companies completely align when it comes to this matter.

SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator recently announced the cross-product integration with the famous SOFTSWISS Jackpot Aggregator, which will upgrade its offering, along with a range of advanced sports betting products.

Gregory Penkov, Head of Sales at SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator, said: “The excellence of our Game Aggregator in iGaming is attributed to the robustness and variety of its offerings. Collaborating with providers like Ready Play allows us to sustain our leading positions. Ready Play’s games deliver distinctive, unparalleled experiences, and we are eager to observe their reception across our network.”

Grant Benson, Commercial Officer of Ready Play, added: “We are delighted to make our top-quality games accessible through a content hub that reaches diverse audiences across various locations. Our goal is to provide our games to the most discerning players possible, and partnering with SOFTSWISS allows us to achieve precisely that. The integration with the Game Aggregator not only showcases the incredible potential of our brand but also opens up avenues for new business opportunities.”

Source: Miller, George, “SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator Partners with Ready Play”. European Gaming. January 16, 2024.

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EGT Digital keeps expanding across the European continent. The most recent expansion is on the Italian market, thanks to the deal with Microgame, one of the leading companies in the online gaming industry.

A huge milestone for both companies

EGT Digital is one of the leading providers based in Bulgaria. Its vast portfolio of games is currently available on 35 betting sites on Microgame’s platform. Among the games included in the offering is a popular jackpot Bell Link, as well as its top-performing titles such as Shining Crown Bell Link, Flaming Hot Bell Link, and Burning Hot Bell Link.

Zornitsa Boncheva, Regional Manager at EGT in Italy, commented on the recent expansion: “We are honored to start a partnership with a well-established company as Microgame, as it allows us to present our gaming content to numerous operators. Bell Link is already widely popular in many countries around the world and has demonstrated excellent results so far. That is why I am confident that it will fully satisfy the preferences of local players as well and will quickly rank among their favorites, which will pave the way for our next highly potential gaming proposals.”

The COO of Microgame, Marco Bedendo, is also satisfied with the recently signed deal and has huge expectations of it. He said: “Being the first in Italy to offer EGT Digital’s titles in our portfolio is an expression of our constant strive to always be at the forefront of the market and reflects our constant commitment to providing the Italian operators and players with a wide and continuously updated portfolio of games.”

Industry leaders

Microgame is one of the leading service providers in Italy. The company offers its customers a range of services, including access to advanced gaming platforms, various gaming products that captivate the attention of players, as well as various solutions that help in improving overall players’ experience.

On the other hand, EGT Digital is a Euro Gaming Technology subsidiary and established its position as one of the leading names in the Bulgarian market. It offers various services and modern products, including the X-Nave platform, CRM services, as well as impressive sports and gaming offerings, and many more unique and advanced services.

This newly established partnership sets a huge milestone for both included parties. This partnership follows other significant deals EGT recently made, such as the ones with VBet, Admiralbet, Player.ro, and other big industry names.

Source: Miller, George, “EGT Digital’s gaming content enters the Italian market with Microgame”. European Gaming. January 9, 2024.

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Relax Gaming, the iGaming aggregator and developer, has worked hard to become what it is today, aka one of the flagship companies globally, by entering into a continuous expansion of its footprint in regulated markets around the world, and Italian regulated market is no exception. Additionally, the aforementioned Italian market has a lot of potential for the firm, and after the official debut of Money Train 4, Relax has become even more popular among Italian players.

In this regard, European Gaming spoke with Relax’s latest Director of Italy, Gianluca Crimaldi, about what the aggregator’s future plans are in Italy and how it will continue to improve itself when it comes to player satisfaction.

Strong reputation

During the interview, Gianluca noted what his main role will be now, since he’s now in charge of Relax’s reputation in Italy. In this regard, the company entered Italy in April of last year and was immediately presented with various opportunities when it comes to making a profit. There is also a strategy that the firm will follow, specifically created for the period until the end of the third quarter of the following year. Furthermore, Gianluca was kind enough to share the developer’s mission when it comes to Italy, which is to “provide a platform for engagement that not only drives differentiation but also entices land-based players to give the world of online a try for the first time,” which is very much important for this specific market because the retail space is the main branch for gaming here and most of the players are retail players.

With the official debut of the Dream Drop Jackpots and Money Train series, Relax has officially become well-known as a strong player here, as Italian gamblers are very responsive to what Relax has presented to them so far. All this led to the great success of Relax Gaming in Italy as mentioned above.

The launch of the final installment of the Money Train series with Betsson’s StarCasino brand

With Money Train 4 being the “key” slot game this year, according to Gianluca, its official debut with Betsson’s StarCasino brand in Italy just ahead of the game’s global debut, showcases Relax’s particular devotion when it comes to Italian players and partners.

Furthermore, the company is doing exceptionally well in Italy, and this is due to knowing when to push and when to pull back when it comes to opportunities and challenges, especially since the Italian regulated market is very complex thanks to country’s regulatory process and skepticism towards online casino. However, that is slowly and steadily changing, and Relax is a prime example of that.

However, what makes the aggregator truly unique in its success in converting players accustomed to land-based casinos and retail market to the online world of gambling is that it provides unique online slots with exciting stories, themes and features. In addition, since players were initially more attracted to classic slot titles, and now prefer modern ones such as the aforementioned Money Train 4, this in itself proves that Relax has become a very valuable asset in the Italian gaming industry.

Source: “Relax Gaming boosts team with key promotion amid plans to boost Italian footprint”, European Gaming, October 23

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