Bally’s Atlantic City Unprofitable Through First Half of 2025

Bally’s Atlantic City has reported losses in the first half of 2025.
Bally’s is the only casino in Atlantic City that is currently losing money this year.
However, Q3 shows potential for a rebound for the wider New Jersey casino market.

The future outlook for Bally’s Atlantic City is becoming increasingly uncertain after the casino resort disclosed its losses during the first half of 2025. It is now officially the only casino in Atlantic City operating at a loss this year.

Bally's Atlantic City casino profits revenue — The Atlantic City Boardwalk entrance to Bally’s. The casino resort wasn’t profitable during the first six months of 2025. (Image: Shutterstock)

In new data released by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), second-quarter and half-year revenues indicated that while most casinos in the region were profitable during the April to June period, their overall profit margins compared to the previous year have been diminishing.

In the second quarter alone, Bally’s reported a mere $2.3 million in profit, marking a 14.7% decrease from the same period in 2024, although it was a marked improvement from Q1. However, when looking at the first half of the year, Bally’s has struggled with a total operating loss amounting to $896,000. This reflects a staggering decline of 439% in gross operating profit over the same timeframe.

Understanding gross operating profit is vital here, as this metrics excludes considerations of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, affiliate fees, and various miscellaneous charges.

Bally’s Struggles: A Closer Look

According to the New Jersey DGE, Bally’s has seen a significant drop in both guest numbers and revenue per guest room. During 2024, the casino’s 1,121 rooms were occupied 62% of the time at an average rate of $154 per night.

In comparison, in the first half of 2025, occupancy plummeted to 55%, with an average nightly rate dropping to $142. This drop was significant and reflects a broader trend impacting the casino’s revenue streams across all operations. Bally’s total net revenue for the first half of 2025, including all income from gaming, hospitality, food, and beverage operations amounts to $90.6 million, down 7.7% from the prior year. This contrasts sharply with leading competitors like Borgata which reported net revenues of $385.1 million, Hard Rock at $284.7 million, and Ocean Casino at $243.1 million.

With increasing competition emerging from upcoming ventures in downstate New York, Bally’s Atlantic City needs a compelling turnaround strategy; many believe it has fallen behind and is at a risk of being overshadowed.

Positive Developments in the Region

Despite Bally’s struggles, Q2 results show signs of hope for the broader New Jersey casino market. Reports indicate that Borgata achieved a profit increase of 16% while Ocean Casino saw its profit surge by a staggering 67.9%. The data reflects a promising spring season, which has bolstered the neighboring casinos ahead of the summer tourist boom.

Casino gambling within the brick-and-mortar establishments has burgeoned this summer, with year-over-year increases reported in May, June, and July. Notably, even prior to this surge, eight out of nine Atlantic City casinos posted profits, with overall gains contributing to a 1% increase in industry profits when compared to the previous year. Operators have exhibited creativity in minimizing costs while enhancing profit margins, despite a generally flat revenue picture.

According to James Plousis, chair of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, “All operators were profitable, despite the pressures from higher costs associated with goods and services they’ve been purchasing.”

Plousis also noted that the $179.9 million profit in Q2 was the second strongest performance for this period in the last four years. He emphasizes the positive advancements made within casinos, crediting over $1.1 billion reinvested in these properties over the past four years, enhancing the overall experience with first-class gaming, leisure, dining, and entertainment options.

Caesars Stock Rallies on Powell’s Dovish Comments

Key Takeaways:

Fed chairman implies rate cuts are being considered.
Caesars is significantly affected by interest rates due to high debt levels.

Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ: CZR) showcased a notable rise during a recent trading session, influenced by signals from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell regarding potential interest rate cuts on the horizon.

The Las Vegas Strip and Caesars Palace. Shares of Caesars soared today as Fed Chair Jerome Powell indicated potential interest rate reductions. (Image: Shutterstock)

In his address at an economic summit in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Powell addressed ongoing challenges of inflation and unemployment that continue to affect the gaming industry. However, he also suggested that the time could be nearing for the Federal Reserve to shift its policy approach. He highlighted potential obstacles from U.S. tariff policies that could influence economic dynamics.

The baseline outlook and the shifting balance of risks may warrant adjusting our policy stance,” stated Powell. “It will continue to take time for tariff increases to work their way through supply chains and distribution networks. Moreover, tariff rates continue to evolve, potentially prolonging the adjustment process.”

Shares of Caesars closed up by 6.82% on significantly higher trading volume, marking the highest intraday increase the company has seen in over two months.

Why Lower Rates Matter to Caesars Stock

Casino stocks react closely to Federal Reserve decisions because operators typically operate under substantial debt burdens, necessitated by the capital-intensive nature of their industry.

Caesars is particularly linked to Federal Reserve policies due to its considerable debt. As of the end of the second quarter, its net debt stood at $11.29 billion, slightly down from $11.42 billion the previous year. Analysts estimate that for every 100 basis points cut in borrowing costs, Caesars could save approximately $60 million annually.

While a drastic reduction in rates by the Fed at its upcoming meeting seems unlikely, Goldman Sachs has forecast three rate cuts before the year ends and two more in 2026. This could amount to at least a 125 basis point reduction in the Fed funds rate, suggesting significant potential savings on interest costs for Caesars.

Additionally, lower interest rates are crucial for Caesars for another reason. With some investors urging the company to consider asset sales to further reduce debt, high-interest rates have hindered these plans. A reduction in rates could pave the way for potential buyers to secure financing on more favorable terms, thereby increasing interest in Caesars’ assets.

Times Square Casino Update

In other developments, the collaboration between Caesars, SL Green, and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation to establish a casino hotel in New York City’s Times Square received a positive nod today. Jeffrey Banks, proprietor of Alicart Restaurant Group, has endorsed this plan.

“Every restaurateur I know in the area is excited about this project,” Banks mentioned during an interview on WOR 710’s “Mendte in the Morning.”

In addition to his ownership of multiple restaurants in NYC, Banks also manages establishments within Caesars gaming locations in Atlantic City, NJ, and Las Vegas.

Summary

The recent rally in Caesars’ stock is a strong indication of how closely the gaming industry is tied to Federal Reserve policy. Powell’s comments have stirred optimism about potential interest rate cuts, which would be beneficial for heavily indebted companies like Caesars. Understanding these financial dynamics is crucial, as they significantly impact investor sentiment and market performance.

F1 Sues Las Vegas Gift Shop

Formula 1 is suing Bonanza Gift Shop, which promotes itself as “the world’s largest” gift shop, for selling counterfeit Las Vegas Grand Prix merchandise.
The lawsuit seeks $1 million in damages for reputational harm.

Interestingly, the lawsuits involving Formula 1 in Las Vegas aren’t always from small businesses against this global motorsports behemoth. Some of these legal battles see the tables turned.

Bonanza Gift Shop in Las Vegas — Bonanza Gift Shop is the defendant in the latest Formula 1 lawsuit in Las Vegas. (Image: Wikipedia)

The Las Vegas Grand Prix corporation has filed a lawsuit against Bonanza Gift Shop and its sister store, Crazy Ely, alleging that they sold counterfeit F1 merchandise during the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023.

The allegations include trademark counterfeiting, trademark infringement, and unfair competition.

Bonanza Gift Shop, claiming the title of “world’s largest gift shop,” is located just south of the Strat and boasts a vast array of merchandise. (We’re in the process of validating its claim for a potential “Vegas Myths Busted” feature.)

Peddle to the Metal

Formula 1 merchandise — F1 states that these hoodies and T-shirts were part of the 69 counterfeit items taken. (Image: Formula 1)

During the race in 2023, Formula 1 deployed investigators to both stores, resulting in the collection of 69 counterfeit items from Crazy Ely. However, by the time investigators arrived at Bonanza, they found no counterfeits left – only empty shelves where the merchandise was likely displayed.

Formula 1 suggests that Bonanza received a heads-up from Crazy Ely about the impending investigation and consequently cleared its shelves. This incident serves as a critical learning opportunity regarding trademark infringement investigations.

Allegations suggest that between June and November 2023, approximately 2,400 counterfeit items were sold by both shops. Formula 1 has indicated it has suffered “irreparable injury” to its reputation and is pursuing a jury trial with potential damages reaching up to $1 million.

In conjunction with this lawsuit, Formula 1 previously filed a suit against E&B Wholesalers in May, alleging they supplied the counterfeit items to the two gift shops, among others.

Key Facts to Note

Legal action involves counterfeit claims and trademark violations.
Formula 1 seeks a jury trial along with damages of up to $1 million.
Bonanza Gift Shop is asserting its position as the “world’s largest gift shop.”
More than 2,400 counterfeit items are alleged to have been sold between June and November 2023.

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing battle against counterfeit merchandise in the entertainment world, particularly in areas like Las Vegas, where merchandise sales can be lucrative during major events like the Grand Prix.

In summary, Bonanza Gift Shop’s ongoing legal woes not only impact its business but also shed light on the challenges surrounding trademark rights and the enforcement of intellectual property in large-scale events. As such lawsuits evolve, they inevitably shape the future of merchandising in thriving markets like Las Vegas.

SharpLink Gaming Soars on $1.5 Billion Repurchase Plan

Shares of giant Ethereum holder soar on news of buyback plan
Company says it will repurchase up to $1.5 billion of its common stock

Shares of SharpLink Gaming (NASDAQ: SBET) have surged after the betting affiliate, now a significant Ethereum holder, announced a plan to repurchase up to $1.5 billion of its common equity. This decision, made public recently, has seen the market react positively, with shares gaining more than 12% amid heightened trading volume.

Co-CEO Joseph Chalom mentioned that if there are times when SharpLink shares are trading at or below the net asset value of its extensive Ethereum stake, it would not make sense to issue new stock to buy more cryptocurrency. Instead, this could be an ideal moment to buy back stock.

“In this scenario, the accretive course of action may be to repurchase our common stock,” Chalom stated in the press release. “This program provides us with the flexibility to act quickly and decisively if those conditions present themselves.”

Given the company’s current market capitalization of around $3.05 billion, this buyback plan represents nearly half of SharpLink’s market cap, making it a substantial strategic move.

Why SharpLink Repurchase Is Meaningful

SharpLink’s significant buyback programme is meaningful as it may lead to the retirement of shares that were used to finance Ethereum purchases. With the company being one of the largest corporate owners of Ethereum, this position was primarily achieved through stock-funded Ether acquisitions.

In the latest financial report, SharpLink disclosed that it raised an impressive $537 million for the week ending August 15, with $390 million gained through a direct equity offering aimed at professional investors. This funding has increased the firm’s Ethereum holding to 740,760 Ether, nearly doubling its Ether concentration over two months.

SharpLink is employing a strategy similar to Michael Saylor’s approach with Bitcoin, where companies leverage their securities to procure Ethereum assets. Issuing new shares has the potential to dilute existing shareholders, which is why the buyback news has boosted SharpLink’s stock value.

The buyback programme aims to enhance market support, optimize capital allocation, and affirm SharpLink’s long-term dedication to increasing sustainable stockholder value.

SharpLink at a Discount?

Companies heavily involved in cryptocurrency often trade at a premium relative to the value of their digital assets. In the current market, however, SharpLink’s stock appears to be trading at a discount compared to its Ethereum holdings, which are valued at over $3.5 billion.

Furthermore, since the announcement of the corporate treasury strategy on June 2, the company’s staking rewards in Ethereum have surged to nearly 1,400 Ether. This highlights the potential for significant returns on investment as blockchain technologies continue to evolve.

A World of Opportunities

As the digital currency landscape expands, SharpLink’s strategic decisions could position the company for remarkable growth. With a focus on repurchasing shares and bolstering its Ethereum portfolio, the company is poised to navigate the fluctuating crypto market more effectively.

For investors eyeing the burgeoning cryptocurrency space, SharpLink Gaming is indeed a name to watch as it continues to leverage its market strategies for long-term success.

In summary: SharpLink Gaming’s announcement of a $1.5 billion repurchase plan for its common stock reflects a strong confidence in its business strategy, particularly as a significant holder of Ethereum. The market’s positive reception and the strategic benefit of retiring shares speak volumes about the company’s potential as it navigates the shifting tides of the cryptocurrency market.

UK Gambling Commission Fines ProgressPlay £1 Million

UK Gambling Commission Fines B2B iGaming Operator ProgressPlay £1 Million

Key Highlights:

ProgressPlay faces significant penalties from the UKGC.
The UKGC cites violations of anti-money laundering regulations.

Recently, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) announced a fine of £1 million (approximately AUD 2 million or USD 1.35 million) against ProgressPlay due to a string of regulatory mishaps. This penalty underscores the ongoing issues within the online gambling sector concerning compliance and regulatory adherence.

The ProgressPlay convention booth at ICE 2024 in London. (Image: International Casinos Exhibition 2024)

Background on ProgressPlay

ProgressPlay, headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, operates under a license granted by the UK Gambling Commission. This license permits them to engage in various online gaming activities, including online casinos, remote sports betting, and internet bingo. Although primarily a business-to-business software provider in the iGaming sector, ProgressPlay also runs its own online gaming platforms.

Summary of Regulatory Failings

Following a compliance assessment, the UKGC concluded that ProgressPlay had committed serious infractions, notably in anti-money laundering (AML) and social responsibility domains. This fine marks the second instance where the UKGC has found ProgressPlay non-compliant with critical regulations.

“This case marks the second time ProgressPlay Limited has been subject to enforcement action by the Gambling Commission. Its failure to meet AML obligations, along with the gaps identified in its social responsibility processes, are unacceptable,” stated John Pierce, the director of enforcement and intelligence at UKGC.

Operations and Reach

ProgressPlay manages 18 online gaming domains and acts as a third-party operator for more than a hundred others active in the UK. Their brand portfolio includes sites such as Aced Bet, Push Bet, Bet Steve, Lotto Zone, and UK Slots, along with their white-label platforms like Funky Jackpot and Lucky City.

AML Failures and Their Implications

The UKGC’s report highlighted ProgressPlay’s persistent shortcomings in addressing money laundering concerns. Their investigations revealed that the company neglected to perform appropriate Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (MLTF) risk assessments and failed to put adequate safeguards in place to mitigate such risks.

Moreover, the UKGC criticized ProgressPlay for not adopting a sufficiently risk-based approach to AML measures and noted repeated failures to verify customers’ sources of funds and their risk profiles as mandated by UK online gambling laws.

Social Responsibility Deficiencies

On the social responsibility front, ProgressPlay has been urged to enhance their monitoring of customer activities, especially concerning potential gambling harms. Investigators identified inadequate intervention protocols, coupled with insufficient training for customer service representatives in handling potential problem gamblers.

Consequences of the Fine

The UKGC’s £1 million fine also entails a requirement for ProgressPlay to undergo an independent audit to ensure compliance with outlined regulatory commitments moving forward. This audit will be at the company’s expense and is meant to address the shortcomings identified during the investigation.

“Operators should be in no doubt: repeated regulatory breaches will result in increasingly severe enforcement action. We urge all operators to examine the failings identified in this case and take proactive steps to strengthen their own systems and controls,” Pierce added.

Historical Fines and Regulatory Landscape

The recent fine against ProgressPlay is not an isolated incident. Earlier in May 2022, the company settled for £175,718, again for similar regulatory failures. Notably, the largest fine imposed by the UKGC was a staggering £19.2 million against William Hill in 2023, stemming from severe AML and social responsibility failures.

The UK Gambling Commission has continuously emphasized the importance of responsible gambling practices and the necessity for operators to actively engage in protecting consumers from gambling-related harm.

In conclusion, the £1 million fine reflects the stringent regulatory environment facing online gambling operators in the UK and serves as a crucial reminder that compliance is not merely a suggestion but a fundamental requirement for continuing operations within the industry.

Summary: ProgressPlay has been fined £1 million by the UK Gambling Commission for multiple regulatory shortcomings, particularly in anti-money laundering practices and social responsibility obligations. This situation exemplifies the growing scrutiny of the online gaming sector and emphasizes the critical need for operators to adhere strictly to regulatory standards to ensure consumer safety and compliance.

DraftKings Prediction Markets Entry Could Differ From FanDuel, Says Analyst

DraftKings’ approach to prediction markets could be different from FanDuel’s, according to analysts.
Higher costs may be incurred, yet this could yield greater rewards for DraftKings.

As news circulates about Flutter Entertainment’s (NYSE: FLUT) FanDuel partnering with CME Group (NASDAQ: CME) to introduce financial event contracts, industry experts are speculating how DraftKings – FanDuel’s closest competitor – will respond.

DraftKings potential prediction markets entry — DraftKings’ potential prediction markets entry could differ from FanDuel’s, says an analyst. (Image: Shutterstock/DraftKings/*Casino.org*)

In a new report, Jefferies analyst David Katz discusses how DraftKings may react differently to FanDuel’s strategic manoeuvre. He suggests that like FanDuel, DraftKings is likely to proceed “strategically” when venturing into prediction markets.

Katz notes that operators in the US need designated contract market (DCM) and futures commission merchant (FCM) permits from the Consumer Federal Trade Commission (CFTC). FanDuel avoided a potentially drawn-out regulatory process by teaming up with CME, which already holds these approvals.

“Sources within the industry note that Flutter’s partnership with CME Group appears well-planned, as it avoids the cost of acquiring a DCM, leverages CME’s solid reputation, sidesteps legal issues associated with similar firms, and remains under the radar of state gaming regulators regarding sports contracts,” notes Katz.

DraftKings May Take an Alternative Approach

It is posited that DraftKings might adopt a different methodology for entering the prediction markets, as it has been reported that the company has sought filings with the National Futures Association (NFA). Such filings suggest it could pursue DCM and FCM permits independently, although this approach comes with both perks and drawbacks.

Katz states: “We note that DKNG’s attempt to secure DCM and FCM licenses might be a costlier route compared to Flutter’s choice. Nonetheless, it would enable DraftKings to retain more of the platform’s economic benefits.”

Additionally, DraftKings may consider acquisitions as a pathway into the prediction markets sub-sector. Recent reports indicated that discussions occurred regarding a potential acquisition of Railbird, a privately held prediction market firm holding a DCM license. However, no advancements have emerged from these discussions as of yet.

DraftKings has a track record of leveraging acquisitions to enter new markets, evidenced by its purchases of companies like Jackpocket and Simplebet.

Importance of Prediction Markets and Potential Risks

With companies like Kalshi and Polymarket capitalizing on football season for more sporting event contracts, traditional sportsbooks may find themselves compelled to join the prediction markets fray. Katz remarks that it is a compelling space, yet it does not fundamentally alter the overarching investment outlook for firms such as DraftKings and Flutter.

Key considerations for sportsbook operators:
Potential regulatory scrutiny from states resistant to gaming expansion.
Managing relations with existing state regulators and navigating opportunities in new markets, notably involving tribal gaming in California and Texas political entities.

“Despite the alluring prospects of prediction markets, we have concerns about this sub-market due to the possible implications for relations with both established legal state regulators and prospective new markets,” concludes Katz. “Our impression is that DKNG would also likely exercise caution in any potential predicaments surrounding predictions.”

Bally’s Atlantic City To Explain Why $1.2M Jackpot Wasn’t Paid

A woman claims she won a $1.2 million jackpot at Bally’s Atlantic City, while Bally’s and IGT assert that a slot malfunction invalidated her win. A legal dispute regarding this incident is ongoing.

A woman asserts she hit a $1.2 million jackpot at Bally’s Atlantic City.
Bally’s and IGT argue that a malfunction in the slot machine occurred.
Legal proceedings concerning the matter are now underway.

Bally’s Atlantic City and slot machine manufacturer IGT have been granted 30 days by a federal court to provide explanations regarding the non-payment of a jackpot totaling $1,277,954.35, which was allegedly won in February 2024.

Bally's Atlantic City jackpot slot malfunction — Bally’s Atlantic City is where a New Jersey woman claims she won a nearly $1.3 million jackpot on a slot machine. Bally’s asserts that the machine malfunctioned, and hence, she did not earn the prize. (Image: Shutterstock)

The plaintiff, Roney Beal, 73, from Shamong Township, NJ, contends that she and her husband, Richard Beal, have been loyal patrons of Bally’s Atlantic City. In her federal complaint filed against the Boardwalk resort, Beal claims she was an invited guest during the weekend of February 25, 2024.

On that Sunday, Beal alleges she was playing a Wheel of Fortune wide-area progressive slot machine when she hit the jackpot. However, upon the arrival of a slot attendant, Beal was informed that the machine had malfunctioned, and she did not win the prize.

The Beals then decided to sue Bally’s and IGT, claiming that IGT, as the manufacturer of the gaming terminal, is responsible for the payout of progressive jackpots.

Updates on the Case

Initially filed in state court, Beal’s complaint was moved to the federal district court in New Jersey in July 2024. This case has experienced delays for over a year, culminating in a recent ruling by Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Pascal.

Judge Pascal granted Bally’s request to ‘administratively terminate’ the plaintiff’s complaint. However, this ruling does not imply a dismissal under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. It provides Bally’s and IGT with an additional 30 days to update the court regarding the investigation by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE).

According to Bally’s, the NJDGE investigation remains active.

Both Bally’s and IGT claim that the Wheel of Fortune machine encountered a “Reel Tilt” during the winning spin. A reel tilt refers to a malfunction when a physical reel fails to display the intended outcome as per the machine’s internal random number generator (RNG).

This type of malfunction typically voids all plays and payouts. Beal contends that the machine was functioning correctly and showed no error message or “Reel Tilt” notification until after she hit the jackpot.

Prior to the spin in question, the machine operated normally and did not exhibit any glitches, nor did it have any issues accepting the player’s money,” Beal’s attorneys stated in her complaint.

Beal and her legal team assert that Bally’s and the DGE have “failed to provide any explanations” regarding the alleged malfunction.

Historical Context: Odds Favoring Casinos

This incident is not an isolated case; numerous casinos have refused to pay out slot winnings under claims of malfunctions. Historically, these lawsuits have generally ruled in favour of the casinos.

The New Jersey Casino Control Act mandates that all slot machines operating in Atlantic City must display clear warnings regarding technical errors that would void plays and payouts.

“Each slot machine should prominently state that a malfunction voids all pays,” states the gaming law.

A notorious case occurred in August 2016 at Resorts World New York City, where a woman mistakenly believed she won a jackpot of nearly $43 million. However, the video lottery terminal had a maximum payout limit of just $6,500 and had malfunctioned, leading to her only receiving a complimentary steak dinner instead.

In conclusion, while Roney Beal’s case against Bally’s and IGT progresses, it serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges within the world of casino gaming and its regulatory framework. The outcome of her legal battle may pave the way for more clarity and accountability within the gaming industry.

Did Former Maryland PTA President Embezzle, Gamble $900,000?

The former head of the Maryland PTA is facing serious allegations of misappropriating approximately $900,000. According to reports, a significant part of these funds was allegedly spent on gambling activities, which raised concerns and led to an investigation by federal prosecutors.

LaTonja Carrera is accused of swindling over $900K
Funds were allegedly used for gambling expenses
Federal authorities are investigating the claims

Federal prosecutors are scrutinising the financial dealings of LaTonja Carrera, the former president of the now-dissolved Maryland PTA (Parent Teacher Association). This investigation comes amid allegations that Carrera diverted large amounts of PTA funds for personal use, including lavish trips and gambling.

Maryland PTA theft crime casino gambling — The investigation into LaTonja Carrera delves deep into her financial activities while leading the Maryland PTA, with suspicions of fraud emerging through audits and legal actions.

This disturbing situation came to light in an exposé by The Baltimore Sun, revealing that Carrera, now 51, is believed to have siphoned over $900,000 from the PTA during her tenure from November 2020 to October 2022.

Attorney Seth Waxman, a former federal prosecutor, highlighted that he conducted an audit of Carrera after being appointed receiver for the PTA. This audit found evidence of extravagant spending, including two trips to Las Vegas costing $13,000 and approximately $27,000 spent on supposed “magic spells” to luckier gambling outcomes.

Waxman also stated that Carrera made 76 ATM withdrawals worth more than $50,000 using the Maryland PTA’s debit cards across various casinos such as MGM National Harbor and Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland.

Major Findings from the Investigation

The findings of Waxman’s audits point towards a lavish lifestyle funded by PTA resources. Notable expenses included:

$4,400 on hotel rooms in Las Vegas
$375 for a premium dinner during one of her trips
$375 for tickets to the Michael Jackson “One” show

In a significant turn of events, Carrera was sentenced to 12 months in prison for a felony related to financial exploitation. After analysing the evidence further, Waxman determined that expecting repayment from Carrera was unrealistic, prompting him to drop his case against her.

Understanding PTAs

Parent-teacher associations play a vital role in integrating parental involvement in educational settings. These bodies enable parents, teachers, and school staff to collaborate and work for the benefit of student welfare. Regulations stipulate that PTAs must adhere to the frameworks established by the National PTA, which includes paying dues:

National PTA fees: $3.25 per member per month
State PTA fees: Varies; for example, Free State PTA charges $2.25 per member per month

This unfortunate saga sheds light on the serious implications of unchecked power within non-profits and emphasizes the need for transparency and fiscal responsibility in managing educational funds.

In conclusion, the investigation into LaTonja Carrera’s fraudulent activities serves as a wake-up call for organizations like PTAs, as they must ensure accountability to their members and beneficiaries alike. The fallout from such incidents can rip through communities, and the importance of governance in charitable organizations cannot be overstated.

DraftKings Bans Credit Cards, Decision Comes After $450K Fine in Massachusetts

DraftKings will soon bar the use of credit cards
The decision follows the online sportsbook being fined $450K
Some states prohibit the use of credit cards for online gaming deposits

DraftKings has made the pivotal decision to prohibit its online sportsbook and iGaming customers from making deposits via credit cards, regardless of whether such transactions are allowed in their states. This change aims to enhance the deposit experience for users and mitigate the financial burdens associated with credit card usage.

DraftKings credit card deposit — A silhouette of a man using a smartphone with a DraftKings logo.

On August 25, DraftKings will officially ban credit card use for deposits on its platform. This strategic move came in light of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission fining DraftKings $450,000 for allowing improper credit card transactions, highlighting a broader regulatory concern.

DraftKings aims to shield customers from cash advance fees and high interest rates typically associated with credit card transactions, according to the company.

All stored credit card information linked to customer accounts will be disabled, requiring users to switch to alternative payment methods, including:

Debit cards
Wire and bank transfers
Apple Pay
PayPal
Venmo with eligible accounts
Gift cards
Cash deposits at DraftKings retail sportsbooks

Massachusetts Fine

While online casinos are legal in only seven states, the regulation of online sports betting expands to 36 states and Washington, DC. Many of the largest markets, including New York, New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania, permit credit card deposits in their sports betting environments. However, Massachusetts, home to DraftKings, does not allow this practice.

Earlier in August, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission disclosed that DraftKings was fined due to allowing over 218 accounts to make credit card deposits totaling nearly $84,000, underlining the regulatory environment’s complexities in the gaming industry.

Additional states like Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Vermont also bar credit card usage for sportsbooks.

Understanding Cash Advances

When it comes to gambling transactions, credit card companies treat such actions as cash advances. Users may face hefty cash advance fees, which typically range from 3% to 5%. Unlike traditional purchases, cash advances often incur interest costs immediately, raising their overall financial impact significantly.

For instance, a $1,000 cash advance can come with a $50 fee, and if paid back over six months at a 29.99% interest rate, the total repayment can escalate to over $1,143.72.

This recent policy shift by DraftKings reflects larger trends within the gambling industry aimed at consumer protection and regulatory compliance.

In Summary: DraftKings has moved to eliminate credit card deposits entirely for its online platforms following a significant fine from Massachusetts regulators. This decision underlines a growing emphasis on using safer financial practices, ultimately protecting customers from potential high costs associated with credit card cash advances.

Casino Revenue Reaches $19.44 Billion in Q2 as Industry Growth Continues

Casino revenue in the United States continues to grow as new verticals and states join the thriving market. The American Gaming Association (AGA) reported that players lost $19.44 billion in the second quarter of 2025, marking the highest commercial gaming revenue recorded in U.S. history.

casino revenue GGR American Gaming Association — A slots player reacts to a spin. Commercial gaming revenue reached a record $19.44 billion in the second quarter of 2025. It marked the eighth consecutive quarter of commercial gaming revenue growth. (Image: Shutterstock)

The combined revenue encompasses gaming from traditional land-based casinos, riverboat casinos, racinos, sports betting, and online gaming. Notably, this figure excludes revenue from tribal casinos, lotteries, unregulated gaming, offshore betting websites, or sweepstakes platforms.

Comparatively, the $19.44 billion gross gaming revenue (GGR) reported represents a significant 9.8% year-over-year increase. This period spanned April through June, reflecting sustained growth that has now reached eight consecutive quarters. The robust performance underscores the resilience and expansion of the commercial gambling landscape in the U.S.

All Verticals See Gains

The AGA report indicates that traditional in-person gambling, including slot machines and live table games, reported a 2.8% uptick, yielding a retail revenue of $12.82 billion, thereby constituting almost two-thirds of the total commercial gaming market. Furthermore, sportsbooks experienced remarkable success, raking in $3.92 billion from both online and physical locations—a 20.6% increase year-on-year.

Additionally, online casinos, which operate legally in seven states, generated $2.6 billion, showcasing a notable 32.3% surge from previous years.

“U.S. commercial gaming revenue growth accelerated in the second quarter with continued growth across all verticals,” stated the AGA.

Data compiled from state regulatory disclosures reveal that nearly all 38 states with commercial gaming reported revenue growth during this period, with North Carolina being an exception, as it only offers sports betting.

Q2 Richest Commercial Gaming States (GGR/Yr Growth)

Nevada – $3.85 billion – 0.3%
Pennsylvania – $1.91 billion – 16.1%
New Jersey – $1.73 billion – 14.6%
New York – $1.45 billion – 11.1%
Michigan – $1.2 billion – 18.3%

Industry Growth and Potential Concerns

The gaming market in 2025 promises unparalleled growth. The AGA noted that total commercial GGR in 2024 surpassed $72 billion—a record for the industry and a third consecutive year of achieving new highs. With GGR rising another 8% in the first half of 2025, it is noteworthy that while concerns persist about Las Vegas, most key markets throughout the country continue thriving.

The revenue from traditional gaming is up 2% from January to June, while sports betting revenue surged 16.5%, and online gaming revenues skyrocketed by 29.7%. However, the emergence of wagering exchanges such as Kalshi and Polymarket poses a potential challenge. These platforms aim to enter the sports betting sphere by offering contracts on game outcomes and player performances that are marketed as investment instruments. Since these contracts are federally regulated, proponents believe they possess the legal right to operate across the country.

As the industry evolves, keeping an eye on regulations and competition is essential for stakeholders. The expansion of legal frameworks alongside increased investments in technology will undoubtedly shape the future of gambling in the U.S.

In summary, the U.S. casino industry is riding a wave of growth, exemplified by the record revenue of $19.44 billion in Q2 2025. As all verticals see gains, the sector adapts to new challenges, particularly from emerging platforms, while solidifying its standing as a cornerstone of entertainment and revenue-generation in the nation.