Sports Betting Industry News & Market Updates

By: Michael SavioFanDuel Asking Michigan Customers to Help Stop Proposed Tax Hike
FanDuel emailed customers this week to request that they contact their local lawmakers and oppose a bill raising the tax rate on sports betting operators. While the proposed hike is minimal, the operator believes it is meant as a conversation starter for lawmakers.

By: Michael SavioKentucky Approves Ninth Sports Betting License for Prime Sports
The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation has announced it has approved Prime Sports' application to become the state’s ninth online sports betting operator. The sportsbook doesn’t have a firm launch date but hopes to be live ahead of March Madness.
By: Michael SavioMissouri Sports Betting Amendment Officially Survives Recount
The Missouri Board of State Canvassers has formally certified the results of Amendment 2 from November’s election, paving the way for legal sports betting. With opponents not planning to request another recount, the state hopes to have its new market launched this summer.

By: Michael SavioNew York Sees Record High Handle During Week of Thanksgiving
The New York Gaming Commission (NYGC) reported a handle of $592.9 million for the week of Thanksgiving, breaking the previous record of $576.1 million set just weeks ago. The week’s handle was up by more than 14% compared to last year.

By: Michael SavioUpdated Underdog Fantasy Bouncing Back with Updated Platform
Underdog Fantasy has expanded its presence to 35 states after changing its controversial pick ’em games in certain markets. The games previously allowed players to bet against the house, causing regulators to view it as a form of sports betting.

By: Michael SavioAGA Updates Responsible Betting Campaign to Include Harassment
The American Gaming Association has updated its “bet responsibly” campaign to tackle the issue of athlete harassment, which continues to rise across the US. The AGA hopes the campaign will help protect athletes as well as avoid heavy-handed regulations.

By: Michael SavioMassachusetts Regulator Fines FanDuel Over $11 in Improper Wagers
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has fined FanDuel $10,000 for accepting $11 in improper wagers involving in-state men’s college basketball teams. It is the latest example of the MGC punishing even the most minor infractions among sports betting operators.

By: Michael SavioBovada Sportsbook Adds Arizona to Growing Restricted Access List
Bovada placed Arizona on its restricted access list after a cease-and-desist letter, making it the seventeenth US market where the operator is banned. The move continues a trend of Bovada pulling out of markets instead of risking legal action.

By: Michael SavioMaryland Eyes Sports Betting Revenue to Address Growing Deficit
Discussions have begun about raising the tax rate on sports betting operators in Maryland as the state looks for a solution to its $2.7 billion deficit. Tax revenue from the industry goes towards the state’s education system, which is also driving the deficit.

By: Michael SavioArizona Re-Opens Application Process for Sports Betting Operators
Arizona will open the application process for two of the state’s available sports betting licenses, with one reserved for a tribe and the other for a pro sports team. The application window will not officially open until July 8.