Sportsbook chiefs project record NFL betting season
Sports betting companies DraftKings and BetMGM have reported record activity heading into the NFL kickoff, forecasting it could be the busiest betting season.
Jason Robins, DraftKings’ Chief Executive Officer, told CNBC at the Bank of America Gaming and Lodging Conference that the company was seeing “big numbers, record numbers” as customer acquisition accelerated before the opening games.
He mentioned that the NFL season was second only to the Super Bowl in importance for attracting bettors.
The American Gaming Association estimated that legal betting in the United States would increase 8.5% this NFL season to US$30 billion. Robins said DraftKings observed no slowdown in customer activity despite broader economic concerns.
BetMGM, jointly owned by MGM Resorts and Entain, also revealed strong results. Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer, said last week was the operator’s best in terms of revenue, with pre-season betting volume up 30%.
He also highlighted consistent engagement levels and stable average bet sizes.
Prediction markets also are on the rise. DraftKings has explored opportunities in this space, while FanDuel partnered with the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in August.
However, MGM Chief Executive Officer Bill Hornbuckle said he opposed prediction markets, warning they could draw unwanted federal oversight into the sector.
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Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
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