Optimove Insights: US sports bonuses 2.4x higher than global average
In this month's column, Optimove notes US sports bettor growth of 189% in January as demand for the vertical stateside outpaces global trends
Optimove Insights’ analysis, based on aggregated data from its iGaming Pulse, reveals that US sportsbooks consistently offer significantly higher monthly bonus amounts per bettor, surpassing the global benchmark by 2.4 times on average. This sustained trend highlights a key distinction in promotional strategies between the US and other markets.
The sizable gap suggests that US operators are deploying more aggressive promotions, offering larger incentives, or catering to a more bonus-oriented player base compared to global standards. Understanding these dynamics is essential for operators looking to optimize their bonus structures, player acquisition, and retention strategies in an increasingly competitive market.
US sees 233% surge in first-time depositors with NFL kick-off
The number of first-time depositors, or new players, in the US spiked to 233% in September 2024, compared to the August baseline, coinciding with the start of the NFL season. While it dipped to 181% in December, it bounced back to 204% by January, consistently outpacing the global benchmark (which ranged from 97% to 112%).
This sustained growth highlights a prime opportunity for player acquisition during this period, as US operators see strong momentum in first-time deposits compared to more moderate trends worldwide.
US sports bettor growth peaks at 193%, far outpacing global trends
US sports bettor growth surged to 177% in September, peaked at 193% in November, and remained strong at 189% in January, using August as a baseline. In contrast, the global market stayed stable, fluctuating between 95%-106%.
This sustained US growth highlights a key opportunity for operators to capitalize on rising engagement, as the demand for sports betting continues to outpace global trends.
US casino bettor growth hits 130%, driven by sports betting momentum
The US market is experiencing rapid growth, not only in sports betting but also in casino engagement, consistently surpassing global benchmarks.
Using August 2024 as the benchmark, US casino bettor growth surged to 110% in September, climbed to 116% in October, and peaked at 130% in January, far exceeding the global market’s stable 100%-111% range. This growth reflects the impact of major sports events like the NFL season, as well as sustained engagement in casino betting.
With the US market consistently outpacing global trends, operators have a key opportunity to drive player acquisition and retention across both sports and casino verticals.
Stay tuned for Optimove’s iGaming Pulse report to be published next month.