Atlantic City Heater Continues, August Casino Revenue Climbs Six Percent to $311.9 Million

Key Highlights: An in-depth analysis of the factors driving fluctuations in casino revenue, focusing on the primary metrics and operational shifts that impact overall profitability.

• Atlantic City had its best summer in more than a decade
• Casino revenue continues to surge, with the nine properties winning almost $2 billion in 2025 through August

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Atlantic City casinos have achieved remarkable success this summer, marking their strongest performance since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The nine gaming properties in the area collectively earned approximately $855 million from their physical slot machines and table games.

August concluded the unofficial summer season on a high note, with in-person gross gaming revenue (GGR) for the month rising by 6.1% to exceed $311.9 million. This figure not only represents the city’s best monthly revenue since the pandemic but also indicates the closing of the best summer for the Atlantic City gaming market in over ten years.

Notably, the physical casino revenue rose 5.5% compared to the same three-month period in 2024.

All nine casinos reported a positive trend, with increases in either slot or table game wins; five casinos enjoyed growth in both. This combination of competitive gaming options along with premier in-person experiences created a memorable summer, positioning Atlantic City well for the upcoming fall season, said James Plousis, chair of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission.

This year’s year-to-date statistics show that in-person casino revenue is up 2.8% through August, equating to over $53.2 million more than the previous year.

Atlantic City Comeback

It’s evident that Atlantic City is back on the map. The revival has been anticipated by Mark Giannantonio, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey and Resorts Casino Hotel, who cited the decreasing gas prices and the city’s value proposition as key factors attracting visitors up and down the East Coast.

“We’re really perceived as a value,” Giannantonio noted. “Our restaurants provide a high-quality experience for the prices compared to New York or Philadelphia.”

The value offered by the city’s nine casinos is attracting patrons, leading to positive results for most resorts. By the end of August 2025, all but four of the casinos recorded an increase in their in-person gross gaming revenue. The total winnings exceeded $1.97 billion, although Bally’s (-8.7%), Caesars (-3.1%), Golden Nugget (-9%), and Tropicana (-1.8%) were the exceptions with year-over-year declines.

Following Borgata, Harrah’s secured the fourth position with $156.8 million (+3.2%), Tropicana followed closely at $153.1 million, while Caesars obtained sixth at $142.8 million. Resorts’ revenue reached $109.5 million (0.4%). Conversely, Golden Nugget and Bally’s recorded the lowest GGR, at $94.4 million and $91.7 million, respectively.

Sports Betting Dropoff

Online gaming in New Jersey continues to be beneficial for Atlantic City and its interactive partners. iGaming revenue spiked by 25% in August, reaching $248.3 million, with year-to-date online casino revenue surpassing $1.88 billion, showing a climbing trend of 23.5% from the previous year.

FanDuel, in partnership with Golden Nugget, leads the iGaming market in New Jersey, achieving a year-to-date GGR of $415.8 million. DraftKings, partnered with Resorts, follows behind with $371 million.

However, oddsmakers have reported a 1% decline in earnings from sports bettors throughout the year. Betting activity is down, as total handle—the total amount wagered both online and in-person—declines from more than $8.11 billion to $7.52 billion, indicating a 7.3% drop in betting activity, with the cause yet to be determined.

This summer’s surge in casino revenue demonstrates the resilience of Atlantic City’s gaming market and hints at promising prospects as the city gears up for the fall season.

Experience the Thrill of a Blackjack Tournament at the Reform Alliance Charity Gala at Ocean Casino Atlantic City

• The Reform Alliance hosted its Casino Night & Gala, raising around $20 million for criminal justice reform.
• This star-studded event took place at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City on September 13.

The Reform Alliance’s second annual Casino Night & Gala in Atlantic City once again proved to be a resounding success, offering high-stakes excitement for all in attendance. While the evening featured various forms of entertainment, the highly anticipated blackjack tournament became the true centerpiece of the night, drawing intense competition from celebrities, philanthropists, and business leaders. All participants, regardless of their skill at the table, remained united in a shared cause to enhance criminal justice reform.

Following the inaugural event in 2023, this year’s gala on September 13 attracted even more attendees due to its noble cause and the impressive lineup of activities planned for the evening. Designed to gather donations for vital reform initiatives, the gala succeeded in raising approximately $20 million, which will be allocated directly to furthering criminal justice reform efforts.

Founded in 2019 by notable figures including Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Robert Kraft, and Michael Rubin, the Reform Alliance focuses on transforming parole and probation systems. Celebrities and business leaders flew in from various states to participate in the auction, casino games, and other charity activities.

“Our second edition of the Casino Night at Ocean Casino Resort was truly unforgettable. The funds raised will support our Work Matters initiative, connecting previously incarcerated individuals with job opportunities and furthering community stability through our grant programs,” expressed a spokesperson for the organization.

In previous years, the gala had achieved even higher fundraising totals, with the 2023 event raising $24 million. Through the Work Matters initiative, the organization enlightens businesses on the importance of offering second chances to individuals with complex backgrounds.

An Evening Full of Stars

The gala was a star-studded affair, featuring many celebrities and influential business figures, including Beyoncé, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, and many others. Jay-Z, French Montana, and Tyrese Haliburton were also present, participating in the blackjack tournament. Comedian Kevin Hart served as the master of ceremonies.

The event included electrifying performances by The Weeknd, Travis Scott, Ice Spice, Quavo, GloRilla, and Chasie C, who entertained the guests late into the night. One of the most moving moments of the evening came from Jameen Severe, who shared his poignant story of overcoming challenges related to a technical violation of probation. Jameen emphasized how the Reform Alliance had helped him find stability in life and reintegrate into the workforce.

“Jameen’s story resonated deeply with the audience as he illustrated how a technical violation almost derailed his future. Thanks to a law championed by the Reform Alliance, he was able to reclaim his life. Today, he works as a coordinator in film and television at RocNation and is a devoted father to his two-year-old son,” the organization proudly noted.

Exclusive Auction Items

In addition to the funds raised from casino games, the gala also featured a lucrative auction of luxury items. Among the highlights was a round of golf with Tom Brady at Grove XXIII, which fetched an astonishing $1.8 million. Another noteworthy item was a painting by George Condo, purchased for $3.4 million by Michael Rubin. A private concert by Megan Thee Stallion sold for $600,000, and a piece by the artist Rashid Johnson was auctioned for $1.8 million.

The event was not only a celebration of philanthropy but also showcased the power of community and celebrity involvement in facilitating social change. With significant donations raised and compelling stories shared, it was a night of impact and inspiration, reinforcing the need for ongoing reform in the criminal justice system.

In conclusion, the Reform Alliance’s Casino Night & Gala at Ocean Casino was not just an extravagant evening filled with entertainment; it was a crucial platform for raising awareness and funding to reshape the future of criminal justice. With the ongoing support from the community and prominent figures alike, the organization aims to continue driving real change in the systems that govern parole and probation.

The Secret History of Las Vegas Casinos: 5 Design Details You Didnt Notice Are Gone

The landscape of the Las Vegas Strip is in a constant state of metamorphosis, often evolving in ways that go unnoticed by the casual traveler. While many visitors focus on the grand spectacle of the neon lights or the emergence of new digital billboards, the true evolution lies in the subtle design shifts within Las Vegas casinos that change the very fabric of the gaming floor. These quiet alterations to architecture and ambiance can evoke a sense of nostalgia, as beloved aesthetics and once-iconic layouts are phased out to make room for modern profit margins. Here, we explore five design details that have vanished from the landscape of Las Vegas casinos.

1. New York-New York’s Fireboat

When New York-New York first opened in 1997, a faux fireboat graced the moat at the well-known landmark, shooting arcs of water in front of the majestic replicas of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. This installation wasn’t just a fountain; it turned into a poignant memorial for firefighters after 9/11, with thousands of tributes left by visiting tourists.

Despite its sentimental significance, the fireboat was removed in mid-2013 as MGM Mirage executives believed it to be outdated and not profitable enough. The space now houses the entrance to Hershey’s Chocolate World, which opened as part of the expanded pedestrian area.

2. Luxor’s Luminosity

Initially, the Luxor’s beam of light at dusk shone with incredible intensity, touted as the world’s brightest light source, thanks to 39 xenon lights generating an astounding 42.3 billion candela. However, since 2008, the light has been dimmed by half as part of an energy-saving initiative by MGM Resorts. Although the intention was to save money discreetly, many locals and tourists have remarked they barely noticed the dimming. Even now, the light remains an iconic feature of Las Vegas nightlife.

3. Forum Shops’ Dawn-to-Dusk Lighting

When the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace first opened their doors, patrons were treated to an enchanting ceiling that simulated the transition from dawn to dusk every hour. This spectacular lighting system relied on a complex network of color-changing fixtures. By the late 2000s, however, many of its components became obsolete and costly to maintain.

Many retailers within the Forum Shops lobbied for the light display’s removal, claiming it made their stores less visible. Consequently, the sunset-at-noon effect was discontinued, leaving the Forum Shops trapped in an endless afternoon ambiance.

4. Bellagio Conservatory’s Animatronics

The enchanting Bellagio Conservatory was once known for its whimsical animatronic characters, including butterflies, owls, and ladybugs that added to its floral displays’ charm. However, as the motors failed over time, repairs became costly and inconvenient, leading to their gradual removal from the environment.

Despite being freely accessible, maintenance for these delicate creatures fell under the marketing budget. Consequently, from 2010 to 2018, efforts shifted to cutting back on such expenditures instead of cuts to marketing roles, leading to a more static but economically efficient display.

5. Public Seating

Until the 1990s, visitors to the Strip could rest on benches, shaded alcoves, and planter edges as they wandered. However, a shift in policy by many casino operators began featuring outdoor cafés, which led to the removal of most public seating, all in the quest to drive customers inside where they can spend money.

This gradual decline also served a dual purpose – reducing the potential for public disturbances from the homeless and ensuring that the Strip encourages patrons to quickly enter the establishments rather than linger outside.

In conclusion, while Las Vegas continually captivates tourists with its glitzy attractions and vibrant casinos, the quiet disappearance of these subtle design elements enhances the reality that not everything remains as it seems. As ‘Lost Vegas’ unfolds, the focus shines on the forgotten elements of the city’s landscape, prompting us to appreciate the intricate details that often go unnoticed amid this vibrant playground.

VEGAS DINING NEWS: As Local Eateries Shift, Big Wins Await on the Latest Slot Machines

Carlos’n Charlie’s is getting evicted from the Flamingo, where its space will be replaced by slot machines in early 2026.

This vibrant Mexican restaurant attracts about 1,000 guests daily and generates close to $14 million in revenue annually. However, Caesars Entertainment believes that slot machines can yield better financial returns than restaurant leases.

Opened in April 2012, C’nC quickly became a hotspot for bachelorette parties, wedding receptions, and casual dining.

An internal message revealed by Vital Vegas indicates that the restaurant’s owners have a valid lease until 2027, with a five-year renewal option. The message noted, “Unfortunately, the hotel appears to have decided to terminate the lease early. We are actively exploring every possible avenue to remain at the Flamingo, as we believe Carlos’n Charlie’s is the heart and soul of the resort.”

Dining Updates and Changes

James Beard Award-nominated chef Bruce Kalman’s SoulBelly BBQ is expanding. Alongside its existing location downtown, it is slated to open at the Miracle Eats food hall at Miracle Mile Shops next to Planet Hollywood in Spring 2026. This food hall will feature seven other concepts, enhancing the dining experience in the area.

Chef James Trees is also making moves, relocating Ada’s Food + Wine from Tivoli Village to a new location at 1130 S. Casino Blvd. downtown, where he will merge it with two other storefronts for a larger dining space.

The restaurant Leoncito will close its doors for good on September 28, after a brief tenure at the Red Rock Resort. The closure was chalked up to an “ongoing culinary refresh” by its operator, Wish You Were Here Group.

Exciting new openings are also on the horizon. Sourdough & Co. plans to debut its first Las Vegas Strip location at the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian this fall. This chain, known for its artisanal sandwiches, operates 80 locations nationwide and already has two spots in the Vegas area.

Health Concerns in Local Restaurants

Several eateries have recently faced closures due to health violations. Notably:

• The Court Café was temporarily shut down by the Southern Nevada Health Department after scoring 20 demerits, with violations including pest infestations and improper food handling.
• Bangkok Street Food received 27 demerits and was closed for issues like spoiled food and inadequate cooling.
• Sabor Latino was closed with 12 demerits for various infractions, while Laos Thai Street Food faced closure with 33 demerits related to similar concerns.

These incidents highlight the importance of maintaining health standards in the competitive restaurant scene of Las Vegas.

It’s clear that the Vegas dining landscape is continually evolving, with closures and openings shaping the city’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, keeping an eye on these developments will ensure you don’t miss out on the best food experiences Las Vegas has to offer!

For more exciting updates on dining in Las Vegas and beyond, stay tuned as we share the latest news and insights!

Revolutionizing Online Gaming Payments: Rush Street and Sightline Launch Integrated Debit Solution

• RSI and fintech provider Sightline launch new industry debit card solution
• Product debuts on BetRivers igaming platform
• Customers gain greater control over their money

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In a major leap forward for the industry, Rush Street Interactive (RSI) has introduced a groundbreaking way to streamline online gaming payments on its BetRivers platform. Developed in collaboration with fintech provider Sightline Payments, this integrated debit solution represents an industry first, ensuring that players experience faster and more seamless transactions when managing their funds.

Industry First

This solution enhances user interaction by providing a seamless way for players to access account balances and manage their funds, significantly improving the overall experience.

According to RSI, this innovation aims to minimise churn caused by the need to frequently withdraw and re-deposit funds, as well as to alleviate high payment costs and the delays typically associated with them. The new product, named BetRivers Debit, is essentially a white labelled version of Sightline Debit.

Sightline Debit is a comprehensive payment ecosystem tailored specifically for sports betting and gaming, both online and in physical locations. Users will receive a Visa-branded debit card accompanied by an FDIC-insured bank account designated for gaming activities. This setup allows for immediate access to funds for expenditures both within online platforms and beyond.

High Costs of Payments

By segregating funds intended for gaming, patrons can maintain stricter adherence to their gaming budgets, which promotes responsible gambling practices.

Omer Sattar, Co-Founder and CEO of Sightline Payments, states that the product is backed by Cross River Bank. “The cost associated with digital gaming transactions is extraordinarily high, averaging 4.5 times more than other industries. After nearly three years and over 200,000 hours of collaboration with seven of America’s largest gaming operators, we meticulously deconstructed the payment ecosystem and reassembled it, crafting a bespoke framework where gaming transactions are now cheaper for operators and more convenient, secure, and responsible for players,” remarked Sattar during the launch of Sightline Debit in August.

Reducing Churn

“Our commitment to putting players first is unwavering. This launch represents a major advancement in the BetRivers experience,” said Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI.

“We are proud of the role our team played in developing this innovative payment solution in close collaboration with Sightline. This reinforces RSI’s leadership role in delivering pioneering technologies that enhance player experiences,” he said. “Our partnership with Sightline Debit showcases our commitment to integrity, innovation, and providing exceptional player experiences. Being the first to introduce revolutionary technologies is beneficial for everyone involved with RSI, from our team to our players and our stakeholders.”

The BetRiver product has thus far been launched in New York, marking the initial phase of an upcoming expansion.

Key Highlights

• Enhanced transaction speed and user convenience.
• Improved adherence to gaming budgets among players.
• Collaborative innovation benefitting the broader gaming industry.
• Future expansions planned across various regions.

In summary, the launch of the integrated debit payments solution by Rush Street Interactive and Sightline Payments signifies a significant leap forward in the online gaming landscape, providing players with enhanced control and ease of use, while also promoting responsible gaming practices.