The Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has reported that the state’s sports betting handle reached $17.3m in May, representing a 23.5 per cent decline year-over-year. The figure also marks a decrease from the $18.8m recorded in April 2024. The Coastal region accounted for $10.9m in bets, which is more than 60 per cent of the state’s total sports wagering activity for the month.
The year-over-year drop in handle suggests a cooling off period for Mississippi’s sports betting market, which has seen fluctuating performance since the launch of legal sports wagering in the state. The MGC’s monthly report highlights the ongoing challenges in sustaining growth, particularly as competition from neighboring states and online operators intensifies. Mississippi’s sports betting is limited to in-person wagering at licensed casinos, which may be a factor in the handle decline compared to states with more expansive mobile betting options.
The Coastal region’s dominance in the state’s sports betting market is consistent with historical trends, as the area is home to several major casino resorts that attract both tourists and local bettors. The $10.9m in bets from the Coastal region underscores its importance to the overall market, while other regions contribute smaller shares. The MGC’s data does not break down handle by operator or sport, but the overall figures provide a snapshot of the market’s health.
Industry observers will be watching to see if the downward trend continues in the coming months, especially as the summer months typically see lower sports betting activity due to the lack of major sporting events. The NFL season, which begins in September, usually drives a significant uptick in handle. However, the year-over-year decline in May could be a sign of market saturation or increased competition from other states that have legalized sports betting since Mississippi launched its market in 2018.
The MGC’s report also serves as a reminder of the regulatory environment in Mississippi, where sports betting is tightly controlled and limited to physical locations. Any future changes to the state’s laws regarding mobile betting could have a substantial impact on handle figures. For now, the May numbers indicate a market that is experiencing some headwinds, but remains a significant contributor to the state’s gaming revenue.
As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders in Mississippi will be closely monitoring the performance of the sports betting sector. The MGC’s monthly reports provide valuable data for operators, regulators, and investors alike, offering insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics. The May handle decline, while notable, does not necessarily signal a long-term downturn, but it does highlight the need for continued adaptation and innovation in the state’s gaming landscape.