Louisiana: New Orleans' casino revenues drop 21.4% in Sept. amid increases statewide

The Louisiana Gaming Control Board released a report showing September’s revenues for New Orleans-area casinos were 21.4% lower in a year-over-year comparison due to Hurricane Ida and the closings it forced. 

The three riverboat casinos, Harrah’s and the slots at the Fair Grounds accounted for $26.5 million in September revenues, which represents a significant drop compared to the $33.7 million in revenue during the same month in 2020. Harrah’s saw the biggest drop in revenue, as it was closed for an entire week causing its number to drop by 42.1%.

The overall Louisiana casino market, on the other hand, had significantly higher revenues this September. Winnings at the 13 riverboats, four racinos and Harrah’s were $159.7 million, compared to $126 million in the same period in 2020, a 27.7% increase.

On September 2020, the aftermath of Hurricane Laura also affected the area's numbers as Lake Charles gambling market was still recovering, and the two casinos and Delta Downs were closed for about a fortnight.

Louisiana is currently awaiting on the confirmation of the launch of sports betting, which is said to have its kickoff day on November 1, as the state's Gaming Control Board's head hinted that they are in the final stages of the approval process, which has been delayed due to Hurricane Ida.

He also added that the other 7 Louisiana casinos are expected to apply before January 1, when online sports betting is forecasted to launch. 13 of the 20 state licensed riverboats, racinos, and Harrah’s land-based casino have applied for licenses to handle sports betting.