The onslaught of full football action in September brings with it a prominent boost in betting activity each year, and last month the mobile sportsbook operators in Pennsylvania did all they could to encourage it.
The statewide $726.3 million in September sports betting handle reported Wednesday by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board was buoyed by a record $29.5 million in promotional credits awarded to new and existing customers in the form of bonuses, odds boosts, or other enticements.
The betting volume was 12.6% above the September 2022 level and a whopping 84.8% more than what was wagered in August, before much football was being played.
The resulting revenue was $66.1 million overall among the online and retail operators, with just $36.6 million of it taxable after allowed deductions for the promo credits given by mobile sites. The gross revenue equated to a 9.1% hold rate by the sportsbooks representing what they retained from losing bets.