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Earlier this July month, Super Group, the company behind Betway Sportsbook and Casino, publicized a significant strategic shift in its New Jersey operations. While the company's sportsbook will exit the state, the New Jersey online casino will continue to operate. This decision follows an "extensive review," according to Neal Menashe, Super Group's Chief Executive Officer, who emphasized the differing performance outcomes of their offerings in the Garden State.

A monumental decision

Menashe highlighted that the decision to shut down the sportsbook was driven by a thorough evaluation of its performance as well as its future potential. In contrast, the online casino sector has proven to be a substantial revenue generator for Super Group in New Jersey. According to Menashe, "The vast majority of Super Group's revenue is generated in iGaming." He added that In line with this particular strategy, they will continue to offer their leading casino product in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

This announcement aligns with broader market trends in New Jersey, where online casinos have shown robust performance. June 2024, in particular, marked the 4th-best month in the state's online casino history in terms of revenue, with 30 online casinos collectively generating $186.8 million.

Betway Casino New Jersey performance

Betway Casino in New Jersey, while not leading the pack, has shown steady performance. For instance, in June of 2024, it made $396,223 in revenue, placing it 28th among the 30 online casinos that reported good earnings. Despite its lower ranking, Betway Casino's continued operation in New Jersey signals Super Group's confidence in its potential growth.

The revenue figures for Betway Casino since January of 2024, when the NJDGE (New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement) began reporting individual online casino revenues, reflect its incremental progress: in January of 2024, it earned a revenue of $237,329 (0.13% of total online casino revenue), while the following month saw a revenue of $290,930 (0.16%). In March, it gained $199,328 (0.10%) in revenue, while in April, Betway earned a total of $429,175, gaining 0.23% of the total online casino revenue for NJ. May saw a slight dip in revenue at $211,114 (0.10%), but it bounced back in June with a total revenue of $396,223, taking .21% of the NJ casino market.

In total, Betway Casino NJ has generated $1,764,099 in 2024, accounting for 0.16% of the revenue accumulated across all online casinos in New Jersey. These figures emphasize the casino's consistent performance, albeit modest compared to the state's top earners.

Market dynamics and future outlook

The exit of several sportsbooks from New Jersey has reshaped the competitive landscape, prompting operators to reassess their strategies. The impressive performance of the online casino market, as evidenced by the substantial revenues in June 2024, suggests a strong preference among consumers for iGaming over sports betting in the state.

Betway Casino NJ's ability to maintain its presence in such a dynamic market will depend on its ability to attract and retain players. As the company focuses on its casino product, leveraging the broader market trends and consumer preferences will be crucial for its future success.

A focus on changing market needs and growth

Super Group (SGHC) Limited, the parent company of Spin and Betway, says its decision to leave the sportsbook market in the US comes after evaluating the long-term profitability and resource allocation across its global operations.

In a statement, Super Group explained, "As a global business, we constantly evaluate the optimal use of our resources across all markets in which we operate. We have recently concluded an extensive review of our US operations and, at present, we do not see a long-term path to profitability for the sportsbook product."

The company will soon initiate the process of closing its sportsbook operations in the nine states where it is active at the moment. This move will be conducted in collaboration with relevant regulators and partners to ensure a smooth and compliant transition.

Despite this exit, Super Group remains committed to the US market through its iGaming presence. The company plans to continue operating two iGaming brands from its Spin portfolio, which includes Jackpot City, in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. This strategic shift accentuates Super Group's focus on areas with higher potential for sustainable growth and profitability.

A strategic, well-thought-out move

Super Group's decision reflects the challenging landscape of the sports betting market in the US, where intense competition and regulatory complexities can impact long-term viability. But by refocusing on its iGaming operations, Super Group aims to leverage its strengths and maintain a robust presence in the US gaming industry.

The exit plan marks a significant shift in Super Group's US strategy, as the company seeks to optimize its global operations and concentrate resources on more promising ventures. This strategic repositioning is expected to better position Super Group for future growth and success. Moving forward, it will be interesting to observe how Betway Casino NJ adapts and competes in the dynamic landscape of New Jersey's online gaming sector.

The American Gambling Awards is scheduled in September, with an invitation-only celebration in November – and plenty of industry bigwigs will be there, along with the recipients for different award categories, including Online Casino of the Year, Online Sportsbook of the Year, and so much more. So it comes as no surprise that the trophy, a golden eagle statuette, gets a much-talked-about revamp - and the concept, from design to inception, is as symbolic as they come.

Whenever VP of Sales Larry Maloney gazes upon the Golden Eagle trophy, he sees more than just an award; he sees a beautiful icon of professional excellence. As the VP of Sales of Society Awards, Maloney's admiration for the trophy is deeply personal. Society Awards, a US firm renowned for crafting prestigious awards for events such as the Emmys, the Golden Globes, and MTV's Video Music Awards, is also the creator of the Golden Eagle, the centerpiece of the annual American Gambling Awards ceremony hosted by the Gambling.com Group.

Set to take place on November 21 in New York, this year's American Gambling Awards will once again honor the top performers in the online gambling industry. The Golden Eagle trophy, an 11-inch, gold-plated figure finished with a special polygon treatment, stands for the digital nature of the industry. The base of the trophy features a stack of casino chips, also gold-plated, symbolizing success in the US online gambling sector.

According to Maloney, "The award is a luxury art piece and the ultimate manifestation of accomplishment." He has been with Society Awards since 2010.

Seeking out and rewarding excellence in the field

Since its inception in 2019, the American Gambling Awards have recognized the most outstanding organizations, companies, and executives in the national online gambling industry. The ceremony has actually grown alongside the industry, which has seen significant expansion in recent years. Since 2018, for instance, online sports betting has been legalized in 38 states, and online casino gambling, which includes games like blackjack, slots, and craps, is legal in several states with the potential for further growth in the coming years.

The Gambling.com Group's annual awards ceremony celebrates this innovation and leadership within the regulated US market. Charles Gillespie, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Gambling.com Group, said, "The American Gambling Awards are our love letter to the online gambling industry." He adds that as the focal point of the entire online industry, Gambling.com is proud to highlight these extraordinary successes with an exclusive celebration and a bespoke awards program.

Winners of the awards will receive the Golden Eagle trophy, which will be especially engraved and will serve as a testament to their achievements in the industry.

American Gambling Awards categories and key dates

Nominations for this year's awards are open through August 5 in a total of 12 categories, which include Online Casino of the Year, Gaming Product of the Year, Betting Product of the Year, Online Sportsbook of the Year, Platform Provider of the Year, Data Service Provider of the Year, Payment Service Provider of the Year, Responsible Gaming Award, Dealmaker of the Year, Policymaker of the Year, Regulator of the Year, and C-Suite Gaming Executive of the Year.

Meanwhile, the key dates for the awards are as follows:

August 5, 2024: Nominations due

September 13, 2024: Finalists announced

September 27, 2024: Winners announced

November 21, 2024: Invitation-only celebration

The panel, consisting of 20 judges for the awards, includes prominent leaders such as Adam Greenblatt, BetMGM CEO, Jason Robins, DraftKings CEO, and Amy Howe, FanDuel CEO, all of whom also served as judges in the previous year.

The craftsmanship behind the Golden Eagle

Creating the Golden Eagle trophy involves a meticulous process led by Vicky Fotopoulou, the associate creative director of Society Awards. Fotopoulou, who holds a bachelor's degree in traditional animation along with a Master of Fine Arts degree in computer arts from no less than the School of Visual Arts in New York, uses 3D software and advanced computer design tools to bring the concept to life.

On an episode of "The Edge" at Gambling.com, Fotopoulou described the Golden Eagle as a "very unique piece" with a design that exudes determination. The design process involves ensuring that both the eagle and the gaming chips at the base are realistic yet manufacturable. She went on to say, "Small challenges, but it's all fun."

The American Gambling Awards trophy is proudly made in the US, beginning with the design and culminating in the final assembly at a facility in Oklahoma. This commitment to domestic craftsmanship serves to highlight the trophy's prestige and the high standards of the American Gambling Awards.

As the industry continues to grow and evolve year by year, the Golden Eagle trophy remains a shining symbol of excellence and achievement, celebrating the very best in American online gambling.

July 25, 2024 – A large portion of that sector fled Massachusetts when Suffolk Downs hosted its final horse race in 2019. An investor group hopes to alter that by constructing a new track in Gardner. Many locals are in favor of stopping the project before it even leaves the gate.

Gardner Racetrack for Horses

An LLC made up of horse racing industry investors is called Bay State Racing. The corporation attempted to proceed with this project on a Gardner property off of Route 140 last year. With a 114-acre plot of land across the street, they are making another attempt this year in the hopes that it would house the state's sole thoroughbred horse racing track.

"It is our hope to be engaged and productive with the community and to be good neighbors," Bay State Racing's John Stefanini said at a presentation at Gardner City Hall Tuesday night.

The corporation anticipates spending $25 million on new facilities, paying the city half a million dollars in taxes annually, and adding scores of new jobs. The majority of Bay State Racing's revenue comes from sports wagering, and the organization hopes to host two races annually.

Residents and Ethical Treatment

The property that the corporation is trying to purchase is presently a ranch where people receiving mental health and drug misuse treatment receive therapy from animals. Residents here are concerned about the concept of converting that into a stadium that can accommodate thousands of spectators in addition to several racing animals

"The ethical treatment of the animals is still a question in my mind," said one resident.

"Seven other communities in this state have turned these people down," another resident added. "So, Gardner, do the same. Tell them to giddy up and go back to Boston."

If you’re ever in the state of Michigan and looking to while away the hours (or if you're a Michigan resident yourself), this might be the perfect chance: Caesars Palace has just announced that its popular progressive mega jackpot slot, Caesars Cleopatra, developed and customized by IGT for the Caesars brand, has gone over $560,000. And it seems that it isn't alone, because another popular slot game, Siberian Storm, has hit the half-million mark as well.

Michigan’s vibrant online gaming community has yet another reason to celebrate. Caesars Palace, a well-known name in the Wolverine State, has announced through its official X page that the progressive jackpot for the Caesars Cleopatra slot game has surged to an impressive $560,000. The slot game, a branded and exclusive twist on an IGT creation, has been capturing the interest and excitement of players across Michigan for more than a year.

A growing collection of six-digit prizes

Caesars Palace isn't just resting on its laurels with Caesars Cleopatra. The online casino is home to numerous slot games that offer substantial six-digit prizes. In fact, just last month, Caesars proudly revealed that another popular slot, Siberian Storm, had reached a progressive jackpot of $509,000. These figures serve to prove Caesars Palace's commitment to providing thrilling gaming experiences with the strong potential for life-changing wins.

A fresh spin on a beloved classic

Caesars Cleopatra is more than just a rebranded and bespoke version of IGT's widely beloved Cleopatra slot; it's a fresh experience that combines familiarity with novelty. The updated slot was introduced in the summer season of 2023, bringing a unique twist to the much-loved game. The most notable changes are visual, featuring the iconic Caesars Palace venue from Las Vegas as the backdrop and transforming the Cleopatra symbol into a 'Caesars Cleopatra' symbol. Despite these aesthetic changes, the core game remains faithful to the original, as it features a 5x3 grid along with 20 paylines, an RTP of 95.02%, and medium volatility. Players can place bets ranging from $0.20 to $200, and the game even includes a free spins bonus feature with a 3x multiplier.

Upon the game's launch, Matt Sunderland, Senior Vice President of Caesars Digital, emphasized that Caesars Cleopatra combines the familiar graphics and gameplay with brand-new visual elements and features, creating an enthralling gaming experience for both new and veteran players alike.

Strategic timing and market impact

The introduction of Caesars Cleopatra in August of 2023 was strategically timed to coincide with the launch of the standalone Caesars Palace casino app in Michigan. Unlike its forerunner, Caesars Sportsbook and Casino, which continues to operate in the state, the new platform focuses exclusively on iGaming. This shift has allowed Caesars Palace to carve out a niche in Michigan's increasingly competitive online gaming market.

In less than a year, Caesars Palace online casino has managed to capture nearly 5% of the iGaming sector in MI, securing its position as the fifth best-performing casino brand based on revenue. While it still trails behind market giants like BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, which collectively hold over 70% of the market share, Caesars Palace is steadily building its presence.

Exclusive content and competitive edge

A significant part of Caesars Palace's strategy to differentiate itself from its competitors lies in its exclusive content. The casino regularly introduces new games and expands its network of suppliers through partnerships with popular developers. These efforts are complemented by attractive no-deposit bonus deals tailored for the Michigan market.

Branded games like Caesars Cleopatra and substantial progressive jackpots are the key elements that give Caesars Palace an edge in the crowded iGaming landscape. By offering unique and appealing gaming experiences that players can't find anywhere else, Caesars Palace is not only attracting a growing number of players but also fostering a loyal customer base.

The MGCB has announced that its casino sector is booming, with operators taking in $183 million in June revenue. Despite taking a dip from May, the MI iGaming revenue is growing and things are looking up, as it is the first time since its inception in 2021 that it has hit the 1 billion mark - it reached $1.16 billion in revenue during the first six months of 2024, and BetMGM leads the charge.

In June, the MGCB, or the Michigan Gaming Control Board, released the latest iGaming revenue info, revealing that the state’s 15 fully-regulated operators collectively took in $183 million in betting revenue. Although this marks a slight dip from May's $198.6 million, Michigan's iGaming market has surpassed the billion-dollar threshold all within the first six months of 2024, establishing it as one of the most profitable markets in the nation and proving that it’s still an ever-growing sector.

For the first time since its launch in the year 2021, the iGaming market in Michigan is projected to generate $1.16 billion in revenue within the first half of the year alone. This milestone proves the rapid expansion and robust performance of the market, which continues to attract both seasoned players and newcomers.

BetMGM dominates and retains the top spot

June's revenue data revealed little change at the top of Michigan's iGaming operators. It's hardly a surprise that BetMGM remains the most visited online casino in the state, pulling in $47.9 million. FanDuel Casino, its closest competitor, brought in $45.6 million, leaving a narrow gap of $2.3 million between the two. This tight margin suggests a continued fierce competition as FanDuel managed to overtake BetMGM in March and April of this year.

Meanwhile, DraftKings Casino maintains a strong third position, generating $32.5 million last June. With this, DraftKings became the third operator in Michigan to attain the revenue of a lifetime that exceeds a billion dollars, joining the ranks of BetMGM and FanDuel.

But despite attractive promotions and significant investments, Caesars Palace struggled to move from its fifth-place position, bringing in a modest $11.5 million for the month. BetRivers Casino held steady in the fourth spot, with $12.2 million in wagers. On the other hand, Golden Nugget Online Casino, a brand on the rise, generated $8.66 million in June. This performance is just shy of its record $8.7 million, elevating it to the sixth spot from the 11th position in April.

New iGaming records in the near future

Projections for Michigan's iGaming market remain optimistic, with statistics indicating an average monthly revenue of $193.3 million for 2024. If this trend persists, the state could see a yearly revenue of $2 billion, setting yet another milestone for the Great Lakes state. In the last 42 months, the iGaming market in Michigan has generated an impressive $5.8 billion in casino revenue, further solidifying its status as a major player in the national market.

Based on national figures, Pennsylvania is currently the only state surpassing Michigan. But the introduction of a new brand by Caesars Entertainment later this year is expected to drive more growth and potentially narrow the gap.

The growth of MI’s online casino market is not only beneficial for operators but also for the state. In June alone, the state collected $34.4 million in fees and taxes, contributing to public funds and showcasing the positive economic impact of the industry.

As Michigan's iGaming market continues to evolve, the battle for dominance among operators is expected to intensify. BetMGM's current leadership, while solid, faces ongoing challenges from competitors like FanDuel and DraftKings. And with new entrants and brands set to enter the market, the landscape of Michigan's iGaming sector is likely to see dynamic shifts, keeping the market vibrant and competitive.

We were not alone: amidst the huge Microsoft outage last Friday where so many businesses and industries were affected, it turns out that casinos in Asia were also greatly impacted. Macau and Manila were dealt with heavy blows as the cybersecurity meltdown went on.

Last Friday's disastrous cyberspace outage sent shockwaves through various industries worldwide, grounding travel and bringing many businesses to an unexpected halt. The significant cybersecurity meltdown also dealt a losing hand to several integrated resort casinos in Asia, including major gaming hubs like Macau, China, and Manila, Philippines.

Widespread casino impacts

Gaming venues in Macau and Manila reported severe issues linked to a recent CrowdStrike software update. The outage, which disrupted operations not only in the United States but also in Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia, also led to operational deficiencies among a minimum of three of Macau's six casino operators. The Judiciary Police in Macau confirmed on Monday that the Information Technology systems of three casino enterprises were affected, although they did not disclose the names of the companies involved.

Officials in Macau were quick to state that its Cybersecurity Incident Alert and Response Center is continuously monitoring the situation, even now. "Based on the information collected so far, the impact of this global cybersecurity incident on Macau is relatively limited and controlled," read a police statement.

But unlike the United States, where numerous casino resorts, especially those on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, described issues with the check-ins of guests and some operations malfunctioning, Macau's problems were confined to operations at the back-of-the-house. Consequently, casino guests in Macau did not notice any significant disruptions from the glitch.

The global ripple effect

The three affected casino firms in Macau said to local law enforcement that their internal computer systems malfunctioned due to the Microsoft outage. There was, however, no visible impact to casino operations. These companies operate a significant number of resorts and gaming venues across the region.

Meanwhile, the Solaire Resort & Casino in Manila's Entertainment City related extensive impacts to the casino floor. According to local reports, many of the casino's slot machines showed blue error screens (the so-called Blue Screen of Death) throughout the weekend. Solaire, owned and managed by Bloomberry Resorts, recently opened Solaire North, a $1 billion integrated resort casino about an hour's drive from Entertainment City. Notably, there were no reports that the Microsoft situation also affected Solaire North.

Blame the updates

The root cause of the widespread issues was a cybersecurity update released by CrowdStrike on July 18. This update caused the global Microsoft outage, impacting millions of networks and computers running on the Microsoft Windows OS. CrowdStrike, responsible for the security of numerous business network services and Windows PCs worldwide, said that it quickly "identified and isolated" the glitch, subsequently deploying a fix. While most affected systems and operations have since returned to normal, there are said to be still ongoing problems with Delta Airlines.

The Microsoft outage didn't just disrupt casino and resort operations, as we all know - it also took down websites, interrupted television broadcasts, and resulted in the grounding of thousands of flights. Microsoft commented on the incident, highlighting the interconnected nature of the tech ecosystem. "This incident demonstrates the interconnected nature of our broad ecosystem - global cloud providers, software platforms, security vendors and other software vendors, and customers." It noted that the incident is also a reminder of how important it is for all tech ecosystem providers to prioritize operating with safe deployment and disaster recovery using all the mechanisms that exist.

Moving forward from the outage

The incident has accentuated the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures and disaster recovery plans. Businesses globally are being reminded of the importance of prioritizing safe deployments and having contingencies in place for such widespread technical failures. But the rapid response by CrowdStrike and the subsequent restoration of most systems serve to showcase the industry's ability to address and mitigate cybersecurity threats as swiftly as possible.

As global travel and various business operations gradually return to the way it was, the incident serves as a crucial lesson for companies and governments worldwide. The reliance on interconnected systems and networks necessitates constant vigilance and preparedness to ensure such disruptions are minimized and managed effectively in the future.