News Summary
Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue hit a record $6.39 billion for the fiscal year 2024-25, reflecting a $502 million increase from the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by a 27% rise in iGaming revenue, which surpassed revenue from traditional slot machines for the first time. Traditional table games revenue saw a slight decline. Major virtual casinos contributed nearly $2 billion to iGaming revenue, showcasing a shift in consumer preferences towards online gaming and continuing growth in Pennsylvania’s gaming sector.
Pennsylvania has reported a record-breaking gaming revenue of $6.39 billion for the fiscal year 2024-25, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). This figure represents an increase of $502 million from the previous year, when total gaming revenue was $5.89 billion.
The surge in revenue is largely due to a significant rise in iGaming, which has seen a remarkable 27% growth year-over-year. For the fiscal year, iGaming revenue reached $2.48 billion, making it the first time in history that revenue from online gaming has surpassed that generated from slot machines, which brought in $2.44 billion. The difference in revenue between iGaming and slot machines amounted to about $36.5 million.
Revenue Breakdown
Alongside the impressive figures from iGaming and slot machines, overall gaming revenue included $928.9 million from traditional table games, although this category experienced a 3% decline compared to last fiscal year. In addition, tax revenue from all forms of gaming approached $2.86 billion, breaking the previous year’s record of approximately $2.54 billion.
Casinos in the state reported $487.6 million from sports wagering, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.22% from the previous year. Revenue from video gaming terminals (VGTs) at truck stops showed a modest increase, reaching $41.4 million, a rise of 0.70%. Conversely, revenue from fantasy sports contests fell by 0.66%, totaling $19.1 million.
Top Contributors and Future Projections
Major virtual casino operators, including Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, Valley Forge Casino Resort, and Rivers Casino Philadelphia, collectively contributed nearly $2 billion of the total iGaming revenue. The state’s overall revenue figures are still preliminary and may be revised by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue as new data becomes available.
This fiscal year also saw the addition of more VGT facilities, which increased from 74 to 75, providing more opportunities for gaming across the state.
Historical Context
The gaming industry in Pennsylvania has undergone significant transformation over the past decade. Initiated in 2006 with the legalization of slot machines, the market steadily expanded to include table games, online gambling, and sports betting, culminating in the current surge attributed to iGaming. As consumer preferences shift towards online gaming platforms, the decline in traditional gaming revenues, such as table games, highlights the dynamic nature of the gaming landscape.
With continuous growth in iGaming and a robust regulatory framework, Pennsylvania’s gaming sector illustrates not only the popularity of gambling in the state but also its importance to the state’s economy. As stakeholders evaluate the evolving trends, the PGCB remains steadfast in its oversight to ensure responsible gaming practices and to further enhance the sector’s contribution to state revenues.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox43: Pennsylvania Gaming Revenue Sets Record
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- MSN: PA Reports Record Casino Revenue
- Gaming America: Pennsylvania Gaming Revenue Climbs 15.4%
- Wikipedia: Gambling in Pennsylvania
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- Google News: Pennsylvania gaming revenue
