Iowa’s sports betting handle more than doubles in August

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) reported a month-on-month rise in sports betting revenue for August, while the US state also saw its handle more than double during the month.

Revenue amounted to $3.0m (£2.3m/€2.5m), up 36.4% from $2.2m in July, as the state continued its recovery from the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) shutdown, which caused all casinos to close from mid-March until June 1.

Player spending also improved month-on-month, with Iowa’s handle for August totalling $50.3m, representing a 119.7% increase from $22.9m in July.

Online remained the primary source of income for operators in the state, with revenue here reaching $1.6m after players wagered $35.0m through licensed platforms.

However, retail continued to close the gap, with more consumers returning to land-based facilities following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in Iowa. Retail revenue amounted to $1.4m, while retail handle came in at $15.3m.

Read the full story on iGB North America.