Maine is one of the smaller sports betting states, but in the face of increasing criticism, at least operators can point to a larger tax bill to help the legislature stay on their side. The Maine Gambling Control Unit (MGCU) reported sportsbooks took in $50.7 million in bets in January. From those wagers, the state enjoyed a substantial tax revenue increase from $417,000 in December to $698,000 last month.
| Operator | Betting Handle | Gross Revenue |
| Caesars Retail Sportsbooks | $449,000 | $10,000 |
| DraftKings Mobile Sportsbook | $43.8 million | $6.3 million |
| Caesars Mobile Sportsbook | $6.5 million | $636,000 |
| Total | $50.7 million | $6.9 million |
DraftKings' dominance
Since the state's legalized betting launch, DraftKings has been the main engine of Maine’s sports wagering market. DraftKings' handle was seven times higher than Caesars last month and revenue-wise, 10 times greater. Its true all operators saw their action decline month-over-month, yet still it’s a one man race.
One year ago, things were slightly more competitive. DraftKings’ action was only five times higher, while its revenue was seven times better. Compared to last January, DK grew its handle by 36% while Caesars was just 8%. After paying out winners (and other adjustments), DraftKings’ year-over-year net receipts came out 34% better. But Caesars actually fell in the same time frame.
New England losing options
When sports betting launched in the Pine Tree State, bettors didn’t have a ton of choices. But its not just them, the entire area, except Massachusetts, is the opposite of a competitive market.
New Hampshire sports betting revolves around DraftKings, the only choice to sports bet. If you keep going, the current Vermont sports betting markets entails three sportsbook options, but things may be changing, for the worse. Lawmakers introduced a bill that would repeal sports betting entirely.
If you stay in the Pine Tree State, you have either DraftKings or Caesars in the Maine sports betting landscape. For those looking to wager in person, Oddfellahs Sportsbook and Bar (with Caesars) opened in September, but just recently the state pulled its operating license with no specific reason given, except for a technical issue. Only after appealing did Oddfellahs reopen while a formal hearing is set. All in all, bettors appear to be in a long-term squeeze.
