In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the gambling industry has seen a significant shift in how players choose to place their bets. With traditional brick-and-mortar casinos forced to shut their doors to adhere to social distancing guidelines, many gamblers have turned to online casinos as a safe and convenient alternative. One state that has seen a particularly notable rise in online casino revenues is New Jersey.
According to recent data released by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, online casino revenues in the state have soared in the past few months while in-person casino revenues have plummeted. In August alone, online casino earnings hit a record-breaking $87.8 million, marking a significant increase from the $41.1 million earned in August of last year. In contrast, revenue from in-person casinos dropped by 23.7% year-over-year, totaling just $198.7 million in August.
The shift towards online gambling in New Jersey is likely due to the closure of physical casinos and the uncertainty surrounding when they will be able to reopen at full capacity. With many people still hesitant to venture out into public spaces, online casinos offer a convenient and safe way to enjoy all the thrills of gambling from the comfort of home.
New Jersey has long been a pioneer in the online gambling industry, being one of the first states to legalize and regulate online casinos back in 2013. The state boasts a robust selection of online casino operators, offering a wide variety of games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Players can also take advantage of lucrative bonuses and promotions that are often not available at traditional casinos.
Industry experts believe that the trend of increasing online casino revenues is likely to continue as long as the pandemic persists. With many states still grappling with high infection rates and the possibility of a second wave looming, online gambling is expected to remain a popular choice for players looking to satisfy their gambling cravings.
Despite the rise in online casino revenues, the future of in-person casinos in New Jersey remains uncertain. While some casinos have reopened with limited capacity and strict safety protocols in place, many are struggling to attract customers in the current climate. It remains to be seen whether the traditional gambling industry will bounce back once the pandemic is under control or if online gambling will continue to dominate the market.
In the meantime, online casino operators in New Jersey are poised to reap the benefits of this shift in consumer behavior. With the popularity of online gambling on the rise, the state’s online casino industry is set to thrive in the months to come.
