The US gaming industry keeps growing hitting new highs in growth and groundbreaking ideas. Bill Miller, who heads the American Gaming Association (AGA), says 2024 was the fourth year in a row where gross gaming revenue (GGR) broke records. With profits up 7% through October and likely to top the $67 billion mark set in 2023, the industry is pushing its limits.
Miller Highlights Online Gaming and Sports Betting as Key Drivers of Industry Growth
Miller credits this success to the strong growth of online gaming and sports betting, which has had a big impact on drawing in new demographics. Physical casinos have also shown they can tough it out even when the economy is shaky, which helps keep the whole industry steady. These trends have made gaming a key part of the US economy bringing in lots of tax money, creating jobs, and giving tourism a boost.
The addition of sports betting has changed the game since the Supreme Court let states make it legal in 2018. Now allowed in almost 40 states and Washington DC, sports betting has pulled in younger people dropping the average age of casino visitors from 50 to 42. The mix of sports, gaming, and fun has sparked new ideas leading to smooth and deep experiences for players.
Miller sees good things ahead pointing out what the industry could do in 2025. He thinks sports and gaming will keep working well together driving growth across many areas. Also, the AGA wants to stop illegal offshore gambling making sure the market is fair and follows rules for everyone involved.
Bipartisan Backing Strengthens Gaming Industry’s Expansion and Economic Impact
A crucial part of the industry’s ongoing success is how it appeals to both sides of the political aisle. Recent AGA studies show voters from all political backgrounds back legal gambling. This widespread support highlights how gaming has a positive effect on communities, including its economic boost and more entertainment opportunities.
Miller said he is keen to work with federal and state governments, including Trump’s incoming administration and new members of Congress, to push the industry’s agenda forward.
The AGA’s forecasts for football season betting show the sector is still on the rise. US gamblers are likely to bet $35 billion beating last year’s $26.7 billion.
These numbers show not just that sports betting is getting more popular, but also that the industry can come up with new ideas and change with the times.
As the gaming scene changes, the AGA stays committed to keeping up good gaming practices seeing them as key to growth over time. With money coming in at record levels and new chances opening up, the gaming world is set to hit even bigger goals in the next year.