Michigan online gambling revenue tops $239.5m in May

According to the latest Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) figures, the state’s revenue total cleared the $185.8m posted in May last year.

It was also 2.0% ahead of the $234.8m generated in Michigan in April this year. 

Gross receipts from online casino activity amounted to $198.6m, up 31.9% year-on-year. As for sports betting, gross receipts here hiked 15.2% to $40.9m, with handle also rising 19.2% to $343.7m.

Adjusted gross receipts up 31.2% 

In terms of adjusted gross receipts, taking into account promotional spending, there was also growth. Total adjusted gross receipts for the igaming market were 31.2% higher at $206.8m.

Adjusted online casinos receipts jumped 31.9% to $178.7m, with adjusted sports betting receipts up 27.7% to $28.1m.

The figures cover igaming activity across both commercial and tribal operators.

In terms of taxes, commercial operators submit $38.8m in tax and payments to the state of Michigan. This includes $37.0m for igaming and $1.8m sports betting.

In addition, tribal operators reported making $4.5m in payments to governing bodies in May.

Detroit casino revenue rises in May

Online growth came on the back of Detroit’s three commercial casinos also posting growth in May. Revenue for the month was 7.2% higher year-on-year at $113.2m.

This included $111.3m in revenue from table games and slots, a 6.3% increase on last year. 

The other $1.9m was attributed to sports betting qualified adjusted gross receipts (QAGR), up 80.1%.

MGM continued to lead in Detroit with 46% market share. MotorCity ranked second with 31%, then Hollywood Casino at Greektown with 23%.

In May the MGCB issued a cease-and-desist order against Curaçao-based Bovada for allowing Michigan residents to access their games.

The board alleged that Bovada operator Harp Media BV has allowed its Bovada.com and Bovada.lv sites to be accessible to Michigan players despite it not having the appropriate licence.