Casino
October 6, 2026
Rethinking Rules: Chicago Area Sees Video Gambling Spread Across 200 Towns
Wind of change over the Chicago area: video gambling has turned into a full-blown fixture across the metropolitan area. Today, nearly 80% of communities have officially embraced the machines and more than 200 municipalities allow them in one form or another. Big Change from 20 Years Ago The spread marks a dramatic change from less […]
Casino
August 10, 2026
Bally’s Chicago Expansion Faces Sudden Setback
Bally’s highly anticipated casino project has hit a major roadblock as the company recently slowed down construction on critical elements of its $1.7 billion casino development. The decision effectively freezes much of the work on the planned River West casino complex. While the core casino is still expected to open in 2027, the surrounding amenities […]
Industry
June 15, 2026
Chicago Split over Video Gaming as Mayor Pushes Repeal
Tensions over video gaming terminals (VGTs) have exposed sharp divisions within Chicago’s City Council. What started as a budget-driven effort to lift the city’s long-standing ban on such machines has quickly morphed into a broader political fight. Supporters say VGTs are a way to create new revenue for a city under constant fiscal pressure. Critics, […]
Sports
June 2, 2026
Chicago Fights to Keep Bears from Leaving
The idea of a new stadium for the Chicago Bears is not new. However, with little progress in Illinois, the leading NFL team is now running short on patience. Soldier Field has long been part of the franchise’s identity, but it no longer fits the modern NFL business model. It faces capacity constraints, has limited […]
Business
May 19, 2026
DraftKings Shutters Wrigley Field Sportsbook Due to Tax Pressures
DraftKings has pulled the curtain on its Wrigley Field sportsbook in Chicago, Illinois, citing tax pressures as one of the chief reasons for the decision. The sudden announcement revealed May 31 as the sportsbook’s final day. Wrigley Field Sportsbook Closes After Offering Betting for Two Years As its name suggests, the Wrigley Field sportsbook is […]
Industry
April 17, 2026
Former Chicago Mayor Proposes 10% Tax on Online Gambling to Fund Education
Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has proposed a new 10% tax on online gambling and prediction markets to help finance research in areas where the United States is competing with China. Ex-Chicago Mayor Proposes Tax on Online Gambling The former Illinois representative, White House chief of staff, and US ambassador to Japan’s proposal would impose […]
Industry
March 13, 2026
Chicago’s Video Gambling Push Sparks Renewed Concerns
Chicago’s attempts to expand its gambling activities inside city limits are facing new challenges. City Council members have split into opposing factions regarding a plan to introduce video gambling machines into bars, restaurants, and neighborhood venues. Opponents have raised concerns about revenue, public safety, and the long-term future of the city’s casino industry. Video Lottery […]
Business
January 9, 2026
Accel Entertainment Prepares to Launch in Chicago if VGTs Are Regulated
Accel Entertainment is eyeballing Video Gaming Terminal (VGT) opportunities in Chicago after a recent announcement suggesting the possible introduction of such machines in licensed locations. City officials say that the change could generate additional tax revenue, while Accel Entertainment believes this could represent a significant opportunity for its business. Accel Monitors Chicago’s Strides Toward a […]
Casino
January 5, 2026
Bally’s Chicago Pays Slot Winner After Immigration ID Dispute
A disagreement about a slot machine jackpot at Bally’s temporary Chicago casino has ended. The gambler got his winnings after days of public attention and news coverage. Chicago Casino Faces Backlash After Delaying Payment of $1,200 Slot Win The player, an asylum seeker whose name remains secret to keep him safe, won a jackpot in […]
Industry
October 22, 2025
Chicago Mayor Seemingly Supports the Idea of Gambling Machines in O’Hare Airport
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office is reportedly considering installing slot machines at O’Hare and Midway International Airports. This is an unexpected proposal coming as part of a broader effort to address a $1.15 billion budget deficit, with gambling reforms among the potential revenue-generating measures. Chicago Mayor’s Office Goes Out With New Stance Firstly, we should […]
