Key points:
- Total gaming revenue for October 2024 was $496.6m, a 2.81% increase year-on-year
- Retail slot revenue grew 4.21% to $200.6m, but table games revenue fell 9.28% to $73.9m
- iGaming continued its upward trajectory with a 22.1% increase in revenue to $189m
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has reported total gaming revenue of $496.6m for October 2024, reflecting a modest 2.81% growth year-on-year.
While digital gaming formats such as iGaming and online sports betting showed strength, traditional retail segments experienced varied performances.
Retail slot machine revenue rose 4.21% to $200.6m, making it the largest contributor to October’s total gaming revenue.
Leading performers included Parx Casino, with $31.3m (+3.38%) and Wind Creek Bethlehem, which reported $23.4m (+7.65%). However, Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course saw an 8.61% decline, bringing in $10.4m.
Casino games offered online drove significant growth, with total revenue reaching $189m, up 22.10%. iGaming slots accounted for $140.9m (+28.26%), while table games revenue increased 7.76% to $45.9m.
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course led the category with $69.4m (+11.63%), followed by Valley Forge Casino Resort at $51.9m (+46.63%).
Revenue from table games fell 9.28% to $73.9m. Wind Creek Bethlehem ($18.1m, -11.1%) and Parx Casino ($14.7m, -13.85%) remained the top contributors, despite significant declines.
Sports wagering taxable revenue dropped sharply by 43.15% to $27.4m. Total handle grew slightly to $858.1m (+3.52%), but declining win margins led to revenue contractions.
Valley Forge Casino Resort retained its leading position with $17.3m, a 4.78% decrease.
Compliance and enforcement actions
The PGCB imposed $70,000 in fines on two Video Gaming Terminal (VGT) operators for regulatory violations. Both TA Operating and Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores failed to ensure credentialed employees were present during VGT operations at their respective establishments.
Additionally, 17 individuals were placed on the PGCB’s Involuntary Exclusion Lists, including five patrons who left minors unattended in vehicles while engaging in gambling activities.
Highlighted cases involved children left in cars for periods ranging from five minutes to over seven hours, emphasising the dangers and legal repercussions of such actions.
Past news
October’s performance aligns with trends observed earlier in 2024. In July, Pennsylvania reported a 7.22% revenue increase, driven by iGaming and sports wagering, while retail slots and table games experienced declines.
These shifts mirror national trends, with digital platforms increasingly becoming key revenue drivers.
Operators like Valley Forge Casino Resort have benefited from this digital pivot, reporting substantial revenue growth (+25.61%) to $80.9m in October. Conversely, Hollywood Casino at the Meadows saw its revenue plummet by 37.05%, highlighting the varying fortunes across the state’s gaming landscape.
Looking ahead
The continued growth of Pennsylvania’s iGaming sector, alongside the PGCB’s focus on compliance, positions the state for steady long-term performance. However, challenges remain in traditional gaming formats, which may require innovative strategies to stabilise revenues.
The PGCB’s next meeting on 18 December 2024 will provide further insights into regulatory measures and industry trends as the state plans to close out another record-setting year in gaming revenue.
