Everyone from lawmakers and business owners to Atlantic City residents has been waiting to find out just how well (or poorly) the city’s casinos have been performing. With the former Revel Casino Hotel leaving town in 2014 and the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort closing its doors in 2016, many of Atlantic City’s stakeholders were concerned that city’s introduction of two new casinos may lead the city down the same road of mistakes that plagued them before. But state regulators have eased some of their concerns by announcing that the city’s casino gaming revenue was up nearly 20 percent in December 2018, and nearly 8 percent for the year overall, making it the third consecutive year of growth for the city’s casino industry.
While the reported $2.86 billion in revenue in 2018 is helping to bring more money into Atlantic City, it is important to discuss how these new developments will affect those recovering from disordered gambling and unhealthy sports betting in New Jersey.2
Internet Gambling Revenue
In 2018, internet gambling in the state of New Jersey saw a revenue increase of 21.6 % and took in about $300 million.1 According to leading online gambling analyst for PlayNJ.com, Steve Ruddock, “Online gambling’s growth has been perpetual since launch, and 2019 offers few reasons that it will slow down.”2
Key Takeaway: While internet gambling may seem hard to pass up due to its accessibility and popularity, disordered gamblers should practice exercising self-control and lean on resources such as the free and confidential 800-GAMBLER hotline, family, friends, coping techniques, and support groups whenever they feel the urge to participate in online or mobile gambling.
Sports Betting Revenue
According to reports, both the racetracks at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park saw substantial earnings in sports betting revenue in 2018 with the Meadowlands earning $31.3 million and Monmouth Park pulling in $12.4 million respectively.1 Since being legalized in June 2018, the state has seen more than $1.24 billion wagered on sports at casinos, sportbooks, and online/mobile platforms alike.2
Key Takeaway: As sports betting continues to remain popular, it is essential that those who struggle with unhealthy sports betting to avoid situations that may trigger their urges. For example, with March Madness just around the corner, disordered gamblers should be prepared to avoid participating in any office bracket pools or placing any bets at the state’s licensed sportsbooks.
Casino Revenue
On June 27, 2018, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Ocean Resort Casino opened to the public and marked a resurgence of casino gambling in Atlantic City as the two casino properties accounted for more than $267.9 million in total gaming revenue after just over six months of operation.2 While the trend of positive growth in gaming revenue shows signs of continuing, only one of the city’s existing properties, the Golden Nugget, reported a year-over-year revenue increase of 0.8%.2
Key Takeaway: While Atlantic City shows signs of trying to position itself to be the east coast’s premier resort and casino destination, disordered gamblers should know that the introduction of new casinos does not have to affect their recovery process negatively. With the help of support groups and coping methods, those on the road to recovery can still make considerable strides in spite of the resurgence of Atlantic City’s popularity as a resort destination.
Gambling in the State of New Jersey does not appear to be going away anytime soon, but neither are the various resources and support programs for people struggling with disordered gambling. If you or a loved one are struggling to find help coping with problem sports betting in Atlantic City or anywhere else in New Jersey, call the 800-GAMBLER helpline today. We offer support, treatment and hope to those struggling with and looking to recover from disordered gambling.