This marked a 25.4% increase from December and surpassed the previous $244 million igaming record.
Michigan’s online gambling market soared to a record-breaking $331.2 million (£262.5m/€316.4m) in January, driven by all-time high igaming receipts of $248.2 million and sports betting revenue of $83 million. This marked a 25.4% increase from December and surpassed the previous $244 million igaming record.
Igaming Growth Continues
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) recently reported that igaming revenue hit $2.9 billion in 2024, and the momentum has carried into the new year. Michigan’s top three online casino operators all saw strong growth:
- BetMGM and MGM Grand Detroit led the market with $66.5 million in January, up 37% year-on-year.
- FanDuel and MotorCity Casino followed closely with $62.9 million, a 47% annual increase.
- DraftKings and the Bay Mills Indian Community remained in third, generating $42.2 million, up 16% from last year.
- Sports Betting Surge
January’s $83 million in gross sports betting receipts was a huge jump from $20.2 million in December, despite a 7.1% decline in betting handle from $597.7 million to $555.2 million.
- FanDuel and MotorCity Casino led with a $218.3 million handle, driving a 52% rise in receipts to $40.6 million.
- DraftKings and Bay Mills Indian Community doubled receipts to $22.1 million, despite a slight handle drop.
- BetMGM and MGM Grand Detroit saw a sharp increase in receipts to $10.3 million, despite only a small handle rise.
Meanwhile, Detroit casinos recorded $102.3 million in adjusted gross receipts, a 9% year-on-year increase.
Crackdown on Unlicensed Operators
In regulatory news, the MGCB issued a cease-and-desist order against BetNow, an offshore operator accused of violating Michigan’s Internet Gaming Act, Gaming Control Act, and Penal Code.
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams warned:
“This unlicensed operator not only violates Michigan law but also exposes consumers to significant risks. Our job is to protect Michigan residents by ensuring all online gambling is conducted legally and responsibly.”
Currently, 12 operators offer online sports betting, while 15 provide igaming services in Michigan’s regulated market.