Gaming & Leisure Properties Reports Record Growth Amid Casino Boom
While Gaming & Leisure Properties (GLPI) celebrated record-breaking financial results, Genting Singapore reported a surprising dip in net profit, despite revenue growth, reflecting the industry’s mixed financial landscape. Meanwhile, the U.S. gaming industry continues its record-breaking revenue streak for the fourth consecutive year.
Innovation continues to redefine the gaming experience, as BetMGM and Borgata introduced Dual Play Baccarat, bridging the gap between land-based and online play. At the same time, LexisNexis Risk Solutions strengthened its security infrastructure through the acquisition of IDVerse, signaling an industry-wide push for better fraud prevention and compliance solutions. As for responsible gaming, Svenska Spel launched a location-based lottery game, aiming to merge entertainment with player protection.
A Zoome Casino player turned a $6 bet into a massive $233,806 win, showcasing the increasing appeal of high-stakes online gaming. Meanwhile, major industry events like SiGMA Eurasia 2025 and key tribal gaming conferences are bringing together operators, affiliates, and stakeholders to shape the industry’s future.
Business and Finance: Record Growth, Profit Pressures, and Market Resilience
Financial performance in the iGaming and casino industry remains a mixed bag, with some companies celebrating record earnings while others face profitability challenges. Gaming & Leisure Properties (GLPI) reported an impressive year of financial growth, reaffirming the strength of gaming real estate investments. Meanwhile, Genting Singapore faced a decline in net profits despite rising revenues, highlighting the ongoing pressure of operational costs.
Gaming & Leisure Properties Posts Record-Breaking Financial Results
Gaming & Leisure Properties Inc. (GLPI) reported record revenue and earnings for both Q4 and the full year of 2024, solidifying its position as a dominant force in gaming real estate investment. The company attributed this growth to strategic acquisitions and lease agreements with major casino operators, which have enhanced its long-term stability and profitability. As one of the largest REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) in the gaming sector, GLPI’s continued expansion signals strong investor confidence in the profitability of casino properties.
This financial success reflects a broader trend—gaming real estate is increasingly seen as a lucrative, recession-resistant asset class. As land-based casinos recover from pandemic-era disruptions and capitalize on growing consumer demand, real estate investors are viewing gaming properties as high-yield opportunities. With major casino operators relying on REITs to unlock liquidity, GLPI’s model could pave the way for similar deals across global markets.
Genting Singapore Faces Profit Decline Despite Revenue Growth
In contrast to GLPI’s success, Genting Singapore reported a 34% drop in net profit for the six months ending December 31, 2024, despite an overall 5% increase in full-year revenue. While demand for gaming remains strong, rising operational costs, labor shortages, and increased competition have put pressure on profitability. The company’s flagship property, Resorts World Sentosa, continues to attract visitors, but its margin squeeze underscores the challenges of sustaining long-term growth in an increasingly competitive Asian market.
This financial performance raises important questions about the future of land-based gaming in Asia, where Singapore competes with regional powerhouses like Macau, the Philippines, and Malaysia. As tourism rebounds and governments ease restrictions, can operators like Genting Singapore maintain their market share while controlling rising costs? The answer may lie in diversified revenue streams, such as integrated resorts that blend gaming with entertainment, hospitality, and retail experiences.
Regulation and Legal Updates: Global Shifts Reshaping the Industry
Regulatory changes continue to shape the future of the gaming industry, with governments worldwide reevaluating gambling laws to enhance economic benefits while ensuring responsible gaming practices. This week, the U.S. gaming industry celebrates another record-breaking year, proving that well-regulated markets continue to thrive.
U.S. Gaming Industry Achieves Record Revenue for Fourth Consecutive Year
The American Gaming Association (AGA) reported that the U.S. gaming industry achieved record-breaking revenue for the fourth consecutive year, driven by expanding online gaming, state-level legalization, and strong consumer demand. This surge highlights how stable regulatory frameworks can fuel industry growth while maintaining compliance and responsible gaming initiatives.
With states like New York and Texas exploring further gaming expansions, the industry’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. The sustained revenue increase could influence other countries considering legalization, reinforcing the argument that properly regulated gaming industries can drive economic success without compromising player protection.
Technology and Innovation: The Future of Gaming is Now
As the gaming industry pushes forward, technology continues to transform the way players engage with casino entertainment. BetMGM and Borgata’s hybrid gaming launch and LexisNexis’ acquisition of AI-driven identity verification firm IDVerse underscore the industry’s drive toward seamless digital experiences and enhanced security. These advancements signal a future where technology not only enhances player interaction but also fortifies trust and compliance in gaming operations.
BetMGM and Borgata Introduce Dual Play Baccarat
BetMGM, in collaboration with Borgata, has launched Evolution’s Dual Play Baccarat, an innovative hybrid gaming experience that bridges the gap between land-based and online casinos. This cutting-edge platform allows online players to place bets at real baccarat tables in Borgata’s physical casino, bringing an immersive live-dealer experience to remote users. The move highlights the growing demand for integrated gaming experiences, where players can enjoy the thrill of a casino floor without leaving their homes.
The Dual Play concept is a game-changer for traditional casinos looking to expand into the digital market. By leveraging their existing infrastructure and incorporating online players into physical game sessions, operators maximize engagement and revenue. This also blurs the line between live and digital gaming, reinforcing a trend where casino operators must blend physical and virtual experiences to stay competitive.
LexisNexis Risk Solutions Acquires IDVerse to Strengthen Security
While gaming operators focus on enhancing player experiences, security remains a top priority—especially as online gaming continues to grow. In response to rising concerns over fraud, identity theft, and regulatory compliance, LexisNexis Risk Solutions has acquired IDVerse, a leading firm specializing in AI-driven identity verification.
This acquisition bolsters LexisNexis’ ability to provide advanced fraud prevention and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance solutions to gaming operators. With regulators worldwide tightening compliance requirements, casino operators must adopt robust security technologies to protect players and maintain licensing standards. The integration of AI-powered verification not only streamlines the onboarding process for players but also significantly reduces risks related to fraudulent accounts and financial crimes.
The Tech-Driven Future of Gaming
Both immersive gaming experiences and AI-powered security advancements are shaping the industry’s trajectory. While player demand for convenience and realism fuels innovation, regulators and operators must balance engagement with security and compliance. As we move forward, expect to see more hybrid gaming models, enhanced AI-driven fraud detection, and tighter integration between land-based and digital gambling.
Responsible Gambling and Sustainability: Balancing Innovation and Player Protection
Svenska Spel Introduces Location-Based Lottery Game
Swedish gaming operator Svenska Spel has unveiled an innovative location-based lottery game, integrating responsible gambling features into an engaging format. The game ties lottery participation to a player’s geographic location, offering a personalized yet controlled gaming experience. This approach not only enhances player interaction but also allows operators to monitor and manage gambling behaviors more effectively. By leveraging location-based technology, Svenska Spel is setting a precedent for how gaming companies can merge innovation with player protection—a crucial balance as digital gambling continues to expand.
This initiative aligns with a broader industry trend of operators introducing responsible gaming tools to ensure gambling remains a form of entertainment rather than a risk. As governments and regulators tighten their oversight on online gambling, implementing built-in player safety measures will likely become a competitive advantage rather than just a compliance requirement. More companies may follow Svenska Spel’s lead, using geolocation, AI-driven monitoring, and self-exclusion tools to offer safer gambling environments.
The Growing Role of AI in Responsible Gambling
Beyond geolocation-based games, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a powerful tool in responsible gambling initiatives. Operators are increasingly turning to AI-driven solutions to analyze player behavior, detect problematic gambling patterns, and trigger intervention strategies when needed. Some online casinos and sportsbooks now use real-time AI monitoring to flag excessive betting behavior, allowing operators to take proactive measures such as self-exclusion prompts, spending limits, or customer support outreach.
The integration of machine learning models and behavioral analytics means that responsible gambling measures can now be personalized, adapting to individual risk levels. This shift reflects the industry’s move toward a more data-driven approach to player safety, where technology does more than just enforce compliance—it actively prevents gambling-related harm before it escalates.
Market Trends and Emerging Markets: The Digital Surge and Player Behavior Shifts
A surge in online gaming engagement and shifting player behaviors are reshaping the global gambling landscape. As digital platforms continue to dominate, traditional casino operators are looking for ways to remain competitive.
Online Jackpots Fuel Player Excitement and Growth
A lucky Australian player at Zoome Casino turned a $6 bet into a $233,806 jackpot, showcasing the increasing appeal of online casino platforms. Such wins not only create viral marketing moments but also reinforce the narrative that digital gambling offers high-reward potential with low entry barriers. This trend is fueling player acquisition and retention strategies, as operators continue to enhance their game offerings, promotions, and user experiences to attract wider audiences.
Moreover, the rising frequency of big online wins highlights the effectiveness of digital engagement tactics, such as progressive jackpots and gamification features. With the expansion of crypto casinos and blockchain-based gaming, operators are experimenting with decentralized gambling models that promise faster payouts, lower fees, and increased transparency.
Emerging Markets Continue to Attract Global Investors
Beyond digital expansion, emerging markets are quickly becoming key areas of interest for international operators. Following Thailand’s move toward casino legalization, industry experts predict a wave of investment in Southeast Asia. If approved, Thailand could join regional gaming giants like Macau, Singapore, and the Philippines, significantly altering the competitive landscape. Global operators looking to enter this market will need to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and tailor their offerings to local player preferences.
At the same time, Latin America continues to emerge as a high-growth region, with countries like Brazil and Argentina expanding their online betting regulations. The success of the U.S. gaming industry’s record revenue streak provides a compelling case for Latin American regulators to accelerate their efforts in legalizing and structuring their own gaming sectors.
Events and Community Highlights: Strengthening Industry Ties and Exploring New Frontiers
Industry events continue to play a crucial role in fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships, and exploring new growth opportunities in the iGaming sector. These events provide a platform for industry leaders to discuss regulatory challenges, emerging technologies, and player engagement strategies, ensuring that gaming remains competitive and responsible in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Interblock Expands Tribal Gaming Presence with Key Event Participation
Interblock, a leading electronic table game manufacturer, is set to participate in multiple tribal gaming events, including the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) membership meeting and the Western Indian Gaming Conference (WIGC). With tribal casinos playing a significant role in the U.S. gaming industry—contributing billions in annual revenue—this engagement highlights the importance of technology-driven solutions in these gaming communities.
By attending these events, Interblock aims to showcase its latest innovations in automated and hybrid gaming tables, designed to enhance player experience while maintaining efficiency for operators. Tribal gaming has unique regulatory and economic considerations, and companies that invest in tailored solutions for these markets stand to gain long-term partnerships.
1xAffiliates to Showcase Strategies at SiGMA Eurasia 2025
1xAffiliates has confirmed its attendance at SiGMA Eurasia 2025, one of the largest affiliate marketing events in the iGaming sector. This event gathers industry leaders, digital marketers, and casino operators to discuss innovative acquisition strategies, responsible marketing, and the future of player engagement. With affiliate programs becoming an essential part of casino growth, networking events like SiGMA Eurasia help stakeholders stay ahead of emerging trends in digital marketing and user acquisition.
Affiliate marketing in iGaming is evolving rapidly, with stricter regulations on responsible advertising and a growing focus on personalization and data-driven strategies. As markets expand into Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, affiliates are adapting to regional trends and cultural nuances. SiGMA Eurasia will likely highlight these shifts, offering key insights into how brands can optimize their reach and retention strategies in emerging markets.
Final Thoughts: iGaming’s Rapid Evolution—Growth, Innovation, and Responsibility
Regulatory shifts, groundbreaking innovations, and financial highs and lows defined this week in the iGaming industry. The U.S. continues to set revenue records, proving the sustained success of its legal framework.
On the business front, Gaming & Leisure Properties’ record-breaking financial results demonstrate investor confidence in gaming real estate, while Genting Singapore’s profit decline reminds operators that revenue growth alone isn’t enough – cost efficiency and market positioning remain critical.
Meanwhile, technological advancements are transforming player experiences and security measures. BetMGM and Borgata’s Dual Play Baccarat launch bridges online and land-based gaming, offering a seamless hybrid model, while LexisNexis Risk Solutions’ acquisition of IDVerse reinforces the industry’s commitment to combating fraud and enhancing trust through AI-powered security.
The growing focus on responsible gaming and sustainability was also evident, with Svenska Spel’s location-based lottery game leading the way in combining player engagement with ethical gaming practices. Additionally, the increasing popularity of online gaming platforms was highlighted by an Australian player’s incredible $6 bet-turned-$233,806 jackpot at Zoome Casino, a testament to the industry’s ability to create thrilling and rewarding digital experiences.
Finally, industry events continue to foster collaboration and strategic partnerships, with Interblock’s presence at major tribal gaming conferences and 1xAffiliates attending SiGMA Eurasia 2025—both emphasizing the importance of networking and knowledge-sharing in driving industry growth.
