Bally’s Corp. reported a 2 percent revenue increase for its casino division in Q2 2026, with new properties and online growth offsetting higher UK digital gaming taxes and regional competition
Bally’s Corp. posted a modest 2 percent year-over-year revenue increase for its Casinos & Resorts division in the second quarter of 2026, according to the company’s latest earnings release. The growth was driven by new casino openings and continued expansion in online gambling, even as the operator faces higher digital gaming taxes in the United Kingdom and intensified competition in some U.S. markets.
Revenue Drivers and Market Challenges
For the quarter ending June 30, Bally’s Casinos & Resorts division reported $401 million in revenue, up from $393.3 million in the same period last year. The company attributed the increase to strong performance at its temporary Chicago casino and new facilities in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Marquette, Iowa. However, Bally’s acknowledged increased competition in East St. Louis, Illinois, and Atlantic City, New Jersey, noting that improved results in Chicago and Quad Cities helped offset these pressures. Overall rated play rose 4.3 percent year-over-year.
Online Gambling and UK Tax Impact
Bally’s online operations saw significant gains, with North American online gambling revenue reaching $66.1 million—a 16.9 percent increase from the prior year. The integration of Intralot’s business-to-customer operations contributed to a 22.3 percent jump in revenue for the Bally’s Intralot division, totaling $243.5 million. Despite these gains, Bally’s faces a substantial increase in UK digital casino taxes, which nearly doubled from 21 percent to 40 percent. The company estimates the tax hike will reduce its cash flow by $39 million and has signaled upcoming marketing cutbacks in the UK market. Still, Bally’s reported that UK revenue growth accelerated to 11.6 percent year-over-year in Q2, with July showing approximately 13 percent growth, achieved without additional marketing spend.
Development Updates and Future Projects
The company’s update did not address the previously announced construction slowdown at the $1.7 billion Bally’s Chicago project, only stating that the permanent casino is targeted to open in early 2027. In August, Bally’s signed a letter of intent with a potential equity investor for financing the $4 billion Bally’s Bronx development in New York City. For Bally’s Las Vegas, planned for the former Tropicana site next to the new baseball stadium, CEO Robeson Reeves said development of the retail, entertainment, and dining complex is progressing, with advanced negotiations underway for retail and entertainment partnerships. No specific opening dates or regulatory milestones were provided for these projects.
Lottery Contracts and Technology Initiatives
Bally’s also reported new lottery contracts in Australia, Chile, and Greece, and announced that Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corp. selected Bally’s as its new technology-solution provider. The company plans to leverage expertise from its legacy Gamesys business to enhance technology and service for lottery partners. These developments reflect Bally’s ongoing efforts to diversify its revenue streams and expand its international footprint.
Gross gaming revenue (GGR) is a key metric in the gambling industry, representing the total amount wagered by players minus winnings paid out. GGR differs from net revenue or profit, as it does not account for operating expenses, taxes, or promotional deductions. In regulated markets, GGR is often the basis for calculating gaming taxes and assessing market performance. Understanding GGR helps clarify how operator-reported revenue figures relate to actual business performance and regulatory obligations.
