While the results also show a strong growth rate for the first six months of 2022 (H1), rising 18% annually, and setting the pace for a second consecutive record year in the US; the Q2 results also demonstrated a stabilisation of customer demand, as the growth rate slowed in April, May, and June – something the AGA puts down to the post-Covid demand after the reopening of society in 2021.

AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said of the financial report: “Q2’s results mark a 16-month period of gains for commercial gaming. With increasingly difficult year-over-year comparisons, our strength through the first half of 2022 reflects sustained consumer demand for legal options as well as gaming’s record popularity.”

With more states legalising gambling, after the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018, the revenue generated in the country is likely to see another record year in 2023 – with Massachusetts the most recent state to join the sports betting fold.

The AGA’s financial report came after the National Indian Gaming Commission announced a record high gaming revenue of $39bn for 2021.

“Tribal gaming demonstrated its responsible leadership throughout the pandemic and these record results reflect that commitment,” concluded Miller.

“The full recovery and ongoing success of tribal casinos goes well beyond the casino floor to support vibrant communities across the country.”