New York’s online sports betting market achieved a historic milestone in November, recording its highest-ever monthly gross gaming revenue (GGR).
According to data released by the New York State Gaming Commission, operators generated a staggering $280.56 million, surpassing the previous record of $248.9 million set in May 2025. This performance represents a robust 17.5% increase from October and a significant 21.2% jump compared to the same period last year.
Mobile betting continues to be the primary driver of this growth, with the total handle reaching $2.60 billion for the month. Although this volume was slightly down by 1.4% compared to October, it still marked a 15.1% year-on-year increase, underscoring the sustained appetite for sports wagering in the Empire State.
The record-breaking financial performance coincided with a major legislative shift. On December 5, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill 5935 into law, effectively banning sweepstakes casinos that utilize dual-currency systems. The new statute empowers regulators to impose civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 on violators.
Furthermore, the law allows the state to revoke existing licenses or deny future applications for any entities tied to these prohibited operations.
Enforcement will be a coordinated effort led by the New York State Gaming Commission, with support from the State Police and the Attorney General. The legislation also prohibits regulated gaming operators from promoting or managing sweepstakes-style platforms, closing a loophole that some had sought to exploit.
Amidst these developments, the state is moving forward with its physical casino expansion. Regulators have recommended three major downstate projects for licensure: Hard Rock and Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park in Queens, Resorts World’s $5.5 billion expansion in New York City, and Bally’s $4 billion project in the Bronx.
All three are expected to secure licenses for slots, table games, and sports betting before the end of the year, further cementing New York’s status as a premier gaming hub.
