The online gambling industry in North America is set to close the year on a high note. Despite a predicted dip in growth for 2025, the sector is expected to bounce back strongly in 2026, according to Wall Street analyst Chad Beynon.
Sports betting in the United States has seen rapid expansion in recent years. Most Americans now have access to various forms of sports wagering, with only a handful of states yet to legalize the activity. Chad Beynon, an analyst with Macquarie Equity Research, recently shared insights with CDC Gaming, highlighting a 34% year-over-year growth in the online gambling market during the second quarter of 2024. Sports betting revenue surged by 39%, while iGaming saw a 27% increase.
Beynon noted that the Q2 2024 results exceeded expectations. He stated, “Despite a flat online betting hold, operators are expected to post strong results for the period. Thus, we think North America segments for DraftKings, Flutter, and RSI are set up nicely to outperform in the second quarter.”
Future Projections
For 2024, online gaming revenue in North America is projected to grow by 30% year-over-year, with iGaming revenue increasing by 24% and online sports betting rising by 34%. However, growth is expected to slow to 11% in 2025. Beynon’s report predicts a robust recovery in 2026, with online gaming revenue forecasted to grow by 27% year-over-year.
Beynon also highlighted a strong start to the second half of 2024, driven by events like Copa America, Wimbledon, and Euro 2024. He said, “Carlos Alcaraz winning Wimbledon was positive for sportsbooks, while Argentina winning Copa America in extra time versus Colombia was neutral.” However, Spain’s 2-1 win against England in Euro 2024 was seen as “a drag.”
Earlier this year, RSI adjusted its revenue guidance from 17% to 24%. Similarly, DraftKings increased its revenue guidance from 31% to 36%, while Flutter maintained its 36% guidance. Beynon commented, “Most operators are on track to meet or exceed revenue guidance,” reflecting optimism for the industry’s performance.
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