Sports betting revenue in Illinois increased year-on-year in August despite the impact of new tax laws in the state. Monthly handle was also higher than in 2023.
For August, total ‘completed events’ adjusted gross revenue hit $59.2m (£45.5m/€54.6m) in Illinois. This is 26.2% more than last year but 17.0% lower than July. State-wide hold was 6.74%, down from 9.22% in July.
Figures from the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) show some $57.8m of all revenue came from online betting. The remaining $1.3m was attributed to wagering through retail sportsbooks across the state.
As for spending, total handle for the month amounted to $877.8m. This surpasses last year by 29.8% and also beats July this year by 13.5%.
August is widely regarded as one of the quieter of the summer months due to fewer major league events, although this year benefited from the Olympic Games in Paris, France. College football also starts in late August, as do NFL pre-season games. Players bet $852.9m online during August ..