Massachusetts Sets New Sports Betting Record with $658.7 Million Handle in December

Massachusetts is making headlines once again, as the state achieved an incredible milestone in the world of sports betting. In December, players in the Bay State collectively wagered a jaw-dropping $658.7 million, surpassing the previous record set just a month earlier in November when $654.4 million was bet. This achievement underscores the growing popularity of legal sports betting in Massachusetts since its launch in March 2023.

The majority of the betting action took place online, with players betting a remarkable $643.2 million digitally during December, while $15.5 million was wagered at brick-and-mortar sportsbooks.

The financial success of sports betting in Massachusetts was equally impressive. Taxable revenue from sports betting reached $60.6 million in December, marking a substantial 23.9% increase from the $48.9 million recorded in November. This impressive revenue figure was just a hair's breadth away from May's monthly record of $61.0 million, demonstrating the industry's consistent growth.

Among online operators, DraftKings maintained its dominance in the Massachusetts market, generating $29.9 million in revenue from a substantial $316.9 million in online bets during December. FanDuel, owned by Flutter Entertainment, followed closely with $19.3 million in revenue from a $187.4 million handle, while BetMGM ranked third with $3.1 million in revenue from $39.2 million in online wagers.

In addition to sports betting, the casino sector also enjoyed significant success in Massachusetts. Revenue from land-based venues reached $103.0 million, showing a notable 9.6% increase from November's $94.0 million. Encore Boston Harbor led the pack with $65.8 million in total casino revenue, while MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park Casino followed with $23.6 million and $13.6 million, respectively.

Massachusetts collected substantial tax revenues in December, with $12.0 million from sports betting and an additional $29.0 million from the casino industry. The total tax revenue for the month stood at an impressive $41.1 million.

This remarkable achievement cements Massachusetts' position as a thriving hub for both sports betting and casino gaming, with no signs of slowing down in the near future.