The acquisition of Resorts Casino’s New Jersey online gaming operations by Boyd Gaming marks a significant shift in the casino industry, signaling the growing dominance of online platforms over traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. This “passing of the guard” highlights the increasing profitability of online casinos, which benefit from significantly smaller operational costs and offer a much broader array of gaming options.
Boyd Gaming’s acquisition of Resorts Digital Gaming, announced in September 2023, is part of this broader shift. As online casinos have grown, particularly in the United States, Boyd has strategically expanded its digital presence, acquiring full control of Resorts’ iGaming assets. This move highlights not only the changing dynamics in the casino industry but also how companies like Boyd are positioning themselves for the future of gambling, one that increasingly leans towards online platforms.
The Appeal of Online Casinos
One of the key drivers behind the growing success of online casinos is their low operational costs compared to traditional land-based establishments. Unlike physical casinos, which require significant investments in real estate, staffing, and overhead, online casinos operate with minimal physical infrastructure. This enables them to offer a wider range of gaming options, better bonuses, and more competitive odds, attracting a global audience.
Online casinos also appeal to a more diverse demographic. Players who may not have easy access to a physical casino can gamble from the comfort of their own homes or on the go. In particular, non-Gamstop sites cater to international players who may be restricted by local gambling laws or self-exclusion programs like Gamstop in the UK. These platforms offer a more flexible and unrestricted gaming experience, drawing in players who prefer fewer limitations and more diverse gaming options. For example, non Gamstop poker sites operate under more relaxed regulations and allow players to access a greater variety of tournaments with higher stakes and more international players than they can locally. Therefore, these platforms are gaining traction in regions where restrictions are tighter, proving that the online casino sector continues to hold enormous growth potential.
In New Jersey, online gambling has surged since it was legalized in 2013, contributing significantly to the state’s revenue. Boyd Gaming, recognizing this trend, has made strategic moves to strengthen its digital presence, not only in New Jersey but across the United States.
Boyd Gaming’s Strategic Acquisition
Boyd Gaming’s acquisition of Resorts Digital Gaming is a pivotal moment in its strategy to expand its online gaming footprint. Resorts Digital, which operates popular online casino brands such as ResortsCasino.com and MoheganSunCasino.com, is a leading player in New Jersey’s competitive iGaming market. By acquiring these assets, Boyd gains immediate access to a well-established customer base and an already profitable business model.
The deal is expected to significantly bolster Boyd’s presence in New Jersey, which is one of the largest online gambling markets in the U.S. According to reports, online gaming revenue in New Jersey hit nearly $1.66 billion in 2022, with projections for 2023 showing continued growth. Boyd’s acquisition ensures that the company is well-positioned to capitalize on this booming market, particularly as online gaming, propelled by technology and innovation, continues to outpace traditional casinos.
Resorts Digital’s iGaming operations have been successful due to their extensive selection of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer experiences. These offerings, coupled with strategic partnerships with prominent game developers, have made Resorts Digital a formidable player in the online casino world. Boyd’s acquisition allows it to leverage this strong foundation while integrating its own digital assets to create a more expansive and competitive online casino experience.
The Future of Online Gaming
This acquisition also reflects a larger trend in the online gaming industry. The pandemic accelerated the shift towards online gaming as physical casinos faced closures and restrictions. Players turned to digital platforms, and many have remained loyal to the convenience and flexibility that online casinos provide. With enhanced technologies like live dealer games and virtual reality experiences, online casinos are now capable of replicating the immersive experience of a physical casino without the associated costs and limitations.
Boyd Gaming, which has historically been more focused on its brick-and-mortar operations, is now fully embracing the digital age. The company’s expansion into online gaming through this acquisition mirrors similar moves by other major casino operators. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more companies following Boyd’s lead, focusing on digital gaming as a primary source of revenue.
Conclusion
Boyd Gaming’s acquisition of Resorts Digital Gaming marks a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the casino industry. As online casinos continue to grow in popularity due to their lower operational costs, expansive game offerings, and appeal to a global audience, companies like Boyd are positioning themselves to thrive in this new era of gaming. The acquisition not only solidifies Boyd’s presence in the lucrative New Jersey iGaming market but also reflects the broader shift toward digital platforms in the gambling world. With non-Gamstop sites gaining momentum and online casinos continuing to attract players from around the world, the future of gambling is undoubtedly digital, and Boyd Gaming is well-positioned to lead the charge.
