During its State of the Industry webinar on February 19, the American Gaming Association (AGA) discussed significant topics such as the rise of iGaming, the consequences of illegal gambling, and regulatory collaboration with the next U.S. government.
The AGA released its 2024 financial data prior to the webinar, revealing that its gross gaming revenue (GGR) had risen 7.5% to $71.9 billion. Tribal gaming may raise this sum to $115 billion, according to early projections. These results offer “more proof of public support” for the industry, said Bill Miller, president and CEO of the Australian General Association. However, he issued a warning that criminal operators will look for legal gaming if it proves to be successful.
“These illegal operations exploit consumer confusion and threaten to undermine the public trust we have built over many years,” Miller stated.
He pointed out that unregulated gambling businesses, including offshore sportsbooks and sweepstakes casinos, take advantage of legal loopholes, particularly in states with unclear regulations. The AGA estimated that illegal operators handled over $400 billion in bets in 2024, depriving communities of more than $4 billion in tax revenue. Additionally, sweepstakes casinos alone could cost the U.S. nearly $17.3 billion annually in lost earnings.
iGaming’s Expansion and Regulatory Challenges
Miller also addressed concerns about the rapid rise of iGaming, which accounted for 30% of total GGR in 2024—up from 15% in 2021. He acknowledged fears of market “cannibalization,” where online gaming growth may impact brick-and-mortar casinos. While several states have embraced online betting, many remain cautious about expanding iGaming due to concerns over its potential effect on land-based operations.
Discussing the political landscape, Miller noted the shift under President Donald Trump’s second term, expressing optimism about working with the administration. He referenced Trump’s prior support for the industry, including federal relief during the COVID-19 pandemic and his recent visit to Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
AGA SVP of Government Relations Chris Cylke discussed the ongoing expansion of sports betting, highlighting the launch of markets in North Carolina and Vermont in 2024. While he did not confirm upcoming state entries, he expressed confidence in Missouri’s legalization by 2025, stating the state is “ahead of schedule” in its preparations.
Cylke acknowledged that some states remain hesitant about legalizing sports betting, but he believes continued success in existing markets will encourage more states to follow suit. The AGA remains focused on pushing for legal and regulated gaming to ensure consumer protection and industry integrity.
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