RSI CEO Discusses Growth Strategy and Market Challenges

Rush Street Interactive (RSI) used its recent earnings call to demonstrate its confidence about the future of online gaming. During Tuesday’s discussion with Macquarie analyst Chad Beynon, CEO Richard Schwartz discussed the company’s advantages, noting that its scale gave it a competitive edge over competitors still focused on expansion.

Online Casino Remains the Core of RSI’s Strategy

The discussions followed RSI’s impressive Q1 2026 financial results, where the company posted revenue of $370.4 million, up 41% year-on-year. This figure also set a new quarterly record for the operator. The discussion mainly focused on new growth opportunities and competition across North America and Latin America. Schwartz was clear that opportunity remains plentiful, though rarely straightforward.

Online casino remains RSI’s leading vertical, with less emphasis on sports wagering. Schwartz was confident that this strategy reflects evolving player preferences and fully uses the sector’s advantages. He noted that casino users tend to log in more often, spend more time playing, and stick around longer.

The combination of record new player acquisition with improving marketing efficiency creates a powerful dynamic that will drive our business to new heights.

Richard Schwartz, RSI CEO

North American expansion is proceeding as planned. July’s launch in Alberta, Canada, represents controlled growth. According to executives, the market will mirror the early dynamics seen in Ontario. RSI will have to stand out amidst competitors, battle entrenched gray-market operators, and carve out a market niche. Schwartz was confident that prior experience would be invaluable, with long-term profitability as a leading priority.

RSI Is Well-Positioned to Solve Rising Challenges

Schwartz also discussed potential US legalization. Virginia remains a potential opportunity, as momentum for legalized iGaming in the state continues to build. RSI sees the state as a prime target for expansion due to its sizable population, an existing land-based partner, and the chance to enter with established brand awareness.

Latin America remained the company’s most dynamic region. While Mexico presents lucrative opportunities due to its size and the relative lack of competitive casino-focused operators, Colombia poses some complications. Regulatory shifts, tax changes, and court rulings directly affected profitability. However, Schwartz was confident that absorbing these costs and focusing on player loyalty would pay off in the long term.

I think this is a chance for us to really capture a large amount of interest from bettors in these markets.

Richard Schwartz, RSI CEO

RSI also faces certain challenges in the USA. Prediction market platforms are on the rise, causing concerns that this new form of competition could siphon existing users. RSI CFO Kyle Sauers largely dismissed this threat, noting that acquisition costs are actually trending lower. He added that RSI was targeting a different type of player and finding them efficiently.