Global Revenue and Usage Trends
In New Jersey, one of the key markets for legal online gambling in the U.S., revenues reached $1.39 billion in the first half of 2025—a 22.7% increase year-over-year. In June alone, monthly revenue totaled $230.7 million. Although slightly below May’s figure, iGaming remains a strong growth segment. Total annual revenue is expected to approach $2.78 billion for 2025.
In Atlantic City, revenue in June reached $259 million, up 6.1% compared to the previous year. The comparison between online and land-based gambling shows that digital offerings are increasingly competing with or even outperforming traditional casinos.
Across North America, forecasts predict a 12% annual growth rate for the online gambling sector. By 2030, the market could reach $33 billion, fueled by mobile adoption, social gaming features, and technological innovation.
New Market Entrants and Player Trends
In the UK, new operators like talkSPORT BET, BetMGM UK, Bally Casino UK, PUB Casino, and PlanetSport Bet are gaining traction. talkSPORT BET offers unique sports-themed games like Football Roulette and supports modern payment options such as Apple Pay. BetMGM UK features exclusive games and progressive jackpots, while Pink Casino is known for low wagering requirements on bonuses.
In the U.S., top platforms in July include BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics, and BetRivers. They offer thousands of games, generous bonuses, and exclusive content. BetMGM alone has over 2,200 games and has received multiple awards for customer experience and innovation.
Regulation and Legislation
In the UK, a group of Labour MPs is calling for a complete overhaul of the Gambling Act of 2005. Proposals include banning high-risk products, imposing extensive advertising restrictions, and transferring oversight to a public health agency. Over 1 million people in the UK are reportedly affected by or at risk of gambling addiction.
In the U.S., Louisiana and Mississippi are cracking down on sweepstakes casinos—over 50 operators have been ordered to shut down. States like New York and New Jersey are considering new measures to limit advertising and control betting volumes.
At the federal level, platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi are being reviewed by the CFTC as potential prediction markets that sit between financial trading and gambling.
In the EU, Lithuania enacted one of the strictest gambling advertising laws in the region, effective July 1, 2025. Advertising is now only allowed under tight restrictions and with direct links to licensed operators.
In Thailand, the anticipated Entertainment Complex Bill was withdrawn on July 7, following a political scandal involving Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra—a setback for the region’s gambling ambitions.
Technological Developments
The industry is rapidly evolving with a strong push toward mobile-first gaming—focused on short, fast sessions, flexible payments, and NFT-based gamification. Platforms are also delivering personalized user experiences to better target younger audiences.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are gaining momentum. Operators like Betway are working on 3D casino environments featuring live dealers to replicate the in-person experience digitally.
Skill-based games, where strategy is more important than luck, are becoming more popular. Modern casinos are leveraging user profiles to deliver tailored bonuses, game suggestions, and custom interfaces.
Tax and Economic Considerations
In both the UK and U.S., policymakers are discussing new tax models. The goal is to have gambling operators contribute more toward the social costs of addiction prevention and public health. Proposed methods include taxing advertising revenues and in-game turnover.
New Players and Re-launches
Titanplay relaunched in Ontario on July 20, 2025, with improved loading speeds, enhanced live casino features, and stronger safety measures. This rebranding effort shows that even established brands must stay competitive and adapt to innovation cycles.
On the corporate side, Gentoo Media (formerly GiG Media) is expanding aggressively. The company, which owns AskGamblers and others, is preparing for a Nasdaq Stockholm listing—indicating the growing power of iGaming media networks.
Outlook and Challenges
Key challenges remain regulatory and technological. In both the UK and U.S., calls for stronger consumer protections are rising. At the same time, operators are investing heavily in new experiences, features, and infrastructure to stay ahead.
Tax compliance, especially in cross-border situations, is becoming more complex. Meanwhile, emerging markets like Thailand continue to present political risks that can block expansion efforts.
Conclusion
In summary, July 2025 presents a complex and dynamic picture. While revenues are rising and technology is deepening engagement, social and political pressure on the gambling industry is increasing. Operators that combine innovation with social responsibility are best positioned to succeed in this rapidly changing landscape.
