Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Casino Holds Surge: Players Winning 25% Less Since 2004

1/22/2026

31 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The UNLV Center for Gaming Research reports Nevada casino holds have risen nearly every year since 2004, reaching 7.15% in 2025.
The 2025 hold of 7.15% follows 2004's 5.72%, meaning players win 25% less.
State regulations cap slot machine holds at 25%, a limit that implies a 75% return to players given fixed machine configurations.
Despite the rise, monthly hold percentages fluctuate, leading to significant variation in outcomes.

1 of 1

Story summary

The UNLV Center for Gaming Research reports Nevada casino holds have risen nearly every year since 2004, reaching 7.15% in 2025.
The 2025 hold of 7.15% follows 2004's 5.72%, meaning players win 25% less.
State regulations cap slot machine holds at 25%, a limit that implies a 75% return to players given fixed machine configurations.
Despite the rise, monthly hold percentages fluctuate, leading to significant variation in outcomes.