Strong March Close for USA’s iGaming Market

The push for gambling expansion in Texas encountered a significant obstacle following the 2024 elections. A new wave of conservative lawmakers has taken control, shifting the legislative stance against gambling. According to The Texas Tribune, Republican leaders who once showed support for legalized gambling now stand in firm opposition.

Texas has long been a focal point for gambling advocacy, with major operators like Las Vegas Sands investing in lobbying efforts to introduce casinos and sports betting. However, the influence of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a staunch opponent, and the growing resistance from Republican legislators have all but crushed hopes for gambling legalization in 2025.

A key proposal, Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 65, sought to place sports betting legalization on the ballot for voters to decide. Despite strong public backing—60% support according to a University of Houston poll—the bill faces an uphill battle due to legislative resistance. The ongoing struggle in Texas highlights the delicate balance between public sentiment, political ideology, and corporate influence in shaping gambling laws.

Alberta Gears Up for Online Sports Betting Expansion

Ontario remains Canada’s only fully regulated iGaming and online sports betting market, but Alberta is preparing to follow suit. Industry experts, including Paul Burns of the Canadian Gaming Association, predict the province will launch its regulated online betting market as early as 2026.

The move represents a growing trend across Canada, where interest in expanding iGaming is increasing. Ontario’s success in implementing a regulated framework has demonstrated the economic potential of a legal sports betting industry, prompting Alberta to pursue similar avenues.

If Alberta proceeds as planned, the province could pave the way for further regulatory changes across Canada. With a rising demand for digital betting platforms and the evident financial benefits observed in Ontario, more provinces may soon move toward a fully legal iGaming landscape.

Missouri Prepares for Sports Betting Launch

Missouri is actively advancing its sports betting agenda, with the Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) confirming that applications will open on April 15, 2025. While the approval process and implementation timeline remain uncertain, state officials are targeting a full launch by December 1, 2025.

Leading sports betting platforms such as BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel are expected to enter the Missouri market. The regulatory framework also permits land-based casinos and professional sports teams to apply for licenses, setting the stage for a competitive betting ecosystem.

Missouri’s structured approach ensures a broad and regulated market, fostering both business opportunities and consumer protection. The upcoming rollout will be closely watched, as Missouri’s model could influence future legislation in neighboring states.

DraftKings Eyes Expansion into Prediction Markets

DraftKings is looking to broaden its betting offerings beyond traditional sports wagering. The company recently registered DraftKings Predict with the National Futures Association, signaling a move into prediction markets.

Prediction markets allow users to bet on a range of non-sports-related events, from political outcomes to economic trends. CEO Jason Robins has previously hinted at exploring these opportunities, seeing them as a key growth avenue.

Though prediction markets are still in their infancy, the interest from major operators like DraftKings suggests the sector could expand significantly in the coming years. This diversification could enhance engagement and introduce new revenue streams in the evolving gambling industry.

March Madness Sets New Betting Records

The American Gaming Association (AGA) has projected that bettors will wager a record-breaking $3.1 billion on the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, surpassing last year’s $2.7 billion. With March Madness beginning on March 18, this surge underscores the increasing popularity of sports betting in the U.S.

The AGA continues promoting responsible gambling through its Have a Game Plan. Bet Responsibly. campaign, emphasizing safe betting practices. As sports betting becomes more mainstream, initiatives like these aim to ensure consumer protection while supporting industry growth.

The Road Ahead for U.S. iGaming

The future of sports betting in North America presents both opportunities and challenges. While states like Missouri and Alberta embrace regulatory expansion, others, like Texas, face staunch political resistance.

Meanwhile, industry giants such as DraftKings are exploring innovative betting markets, demonstrating the industry’s dynamic nature. As public demand for legal betting options grows, regulatory landscapes will continue to evolve. However, the speed of change will depend on legislative climates, market pressures, and political dynamics.

The next year will be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of North America’s sports betting market.