Part 5/9:
The Boom of Sports Betting and Its Economic Impact
The segment highlights the rapid growth of legalized sports betting in the United States. Currently, 38 states have legalized it, with Missouri set to join in December, bringing the total to 39. Despite some states banning betting outright, many offer online platforms accessible nationwide.
The industry is a towering financial enterprise, generating approximately $14 billion in gross revenue in 2024 alone. Major corporations, along with televised advertisements featuring movie stars and sports personalities, have heavily promoted betting, making it a prominent part of American sports culture.