The impact of Donald Trump's inauguration on the gaming and betting sector

February 3, 2025

The impact of Donald Trump's inauguration on the gaming and betting sector

With Donald Trump taking office for a new term in 2025, the gaming and betting sector in the United States may undergo unexpected transformations. Having previously owned casinos and shown interest in the gaming industry throughout his career, Trump may implement measures that encourage market expansion, particularly in the digital sector. However, regulatory challenges and political uncertainties continue to raise doubts about the concrete effects of his administration on operators and investors.

Trump’s history with the gaming industry

Donald Trump has a long-standing relationship with the casino and gambling sector. During the 1980s and 1990s, he owned several casinos in Atlantic City, including the famous Trump Taj Mahal. Despite his exit from the gaming industry following financial struggles, his stance on gambling has always favoured deregulation and industry growth.

During his first term (2017-2021), the Trump administration did not impose restrictions on the online betting and gaming sector. On the contrary, he upheld the approach that each state should have the autonomy to decide its own rules regarding the legalisation and regulation of sports betting and online casinos. It was during this period that the US Supreme Court overturned the federal ban on sports betting, allowing various states to regulate their own industries, which led to the rapid expansion of the betting market in the US.

Expectations for the gaming and betting sector in 2025

Although President Trump has not yet presented a specific plan for the gaming and betting industry in his new term, some trends can be anticipated based on his track record:

Expansion of the sports betting and online gaming market

It is expected that the administration will continue to favour a more open environment for state-level regulation of the sector. Since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision, several states have legalised sports betting, and this trend is likely to continue. States that have yet to legalise it may feel more encouraged under a pro-business Trump administration.

Fewer regulatory restrictions

During his first administration, Trump took a pro-business approach, opposing excessive federal regulations. This could translate into a more flexible stance towards the betting sector, reducing regulatory barriers that hinder the operation of online gaming companies and physical casinos.

Impact of cryptocurrencies and blockchain on the sector

In recent years, the adoption of cryptocurrencies in casinos and online betting platforms has grown significantly. If Trump maintains a favourable stance towards cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, these solutions could become more widely integrated into the gaming sector, facilitating payments, reducing fraud, and increasing transaction transparency.

Possible relaxation of the Wire Act

The Wire Act of 1961 has been one of the main obstacles to the expansion of iGaming in the US, particularly for online poker and other forms of interstate gambling. During his first administration, Trump adopted a more restrictive interpretation of this law, but industry pressure could lead to a relaxation or a new review under his new government.

Challenges and uncertainties

Despite the optimistic expectations for the sector, several challenges and areas of concern remain:

Potential Congressional Resistance: Depending on the composition of Congress, Trump may face difficulties in passing measures that favour the gaming industry.

Pressure from Conservative Groups: Some conservative sectors in the US still view the growth of gambling as a social threat, which could lead to debates over stricter regulation.

Risk of Restrictions on Foreign Operators: Trump has a history of protectionist policies and may favour American companies over international operators active in the US market.

Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2025 brings mixed expectations for the gaming and betting sector. On the one hand, his pro-business approach and experience with casinos suggest a more favourable environment for industry growth, with fewer regulations and more incentives for innovation. On the other hand, regulatory challenges and possible political resistance may limit the advancement of some initiatives.

Among the possible scenarios, a more optimistic one foresees the consolidation of the sports betting and iGaming industry in the US, with fewer restrictions and greater integration of technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Conversely, a more conservative scenario could involve increased regulatory pressure, resulting in limitations for foreign operators and greater oversight of industry practices. If Congress and conservative groups exert significant influence, protectionist measures could restrict the activities of international companies, limiting market competitiveness.

For industry operators and investors, the current moment requires close attention to the new government’s policies, as well as preparation for potential changes that may affect regulation, competition, and growth opportunities.

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