Michigan’s Legal Sportsbooks May Face Offshore Challenge To Sway Young Gamblers

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Written By Derek Helling on February 25, 2020
Michigan Legal Sportsbook

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Michigan’s hope in legalizing sports betting is to persuade bettors who currently use illegal methods to switch to legal channels. However, it seems that convincing student gamblers to change their habits could prove to be a challenging task, at least initially.

According to a recent report from the student newspaper at Michigan State University, sports betting is highly popular among students in that demographic. The report emphasizes that online betting’s convenience is incredibly significant in this regard.

What the report says about student gamblers

According to the article, an economics professor, who has extensively researched the matter, reveals that more than 75% of college students engaged in some form of gambling within the last year. Although this statistic encompasses various types of gambling, it undoubtedly encompasses wagering on sports events as well.

According to conversations with students in East Lansing, it appears that there is evidence supporting the popularity of sports betting among this group. A Spartan freshman, referred to as “Matt,” provides a quote that explains the reason behind this phenomenon.

The obsession with money and sports is prevalent among our generation. It’s not particularly surprising considering our proficiency with the internet and the convenience it brings, making online engagement effortless.

There are two concerns regarding the state’s legal gambling system. Firstly, if “Matt” represents an average college freshman, it is highly probable that he is underage as per Michigan’s sports betting regulations. These regulations stipulate that bettors must be at least 21 years old.

Fortunately, Michigan’s legal sportsbooks will have a solution to the problem presented by “Nick,” another freshman gambler.

Location, location and location are important

In regards to the imminent launch of legal sportsbooks in the state, Nick’s comment highlights an initial flaw that could potentially hinder their success. Initially, there is a significant reason why they might struggle to compete for these funds.

Although going to the casino and watching the game sounds enjoyable, betting online offers much more convenience. I can simply open my computer, access a website, and easily look at betting odds and read articles. Unlike the casino, where I’d have to make a trip, consider grabbing a meal, and only visit occasionally for a unique experience.

Once legal sportsbooks are introduced in the Wolverine State, they are expected to initially limit their offerings to in-person betting for approximately a year. This is primarily due to the uncertain regulations surrounding online wagering, which will require additional time for authorization of the corresponding platforms.

Encouraging students like “Nick” to abandon their computers and visit the casinos would necessitate strategic and appealing marketing techniques. However, a major obstacle in doing this consistently is that it diminishes potential modest profits.

Even when online sportsbooks are introduced, the fact remains that humans are creatures of habit.

Legal sportsbooks face a challenge in every state

The issue of persuading long-time users of black market sportsbooks to switch their habits is not limited to Michigan alone; it is a common challenge across all states where legal wagering is permitted.

Just like any other business, success in this industry relies on building awareness, providing convenience, and ensuring positive customer experiences. The top operators in the country excel at marketing their services and offering a superior product. However, they face a significant challenge in trying to compete with the convenience offered by illegal online gambling platforms. As long as these platforms continue to offer a more convenient experience, Matt and Nick are unlikely to place their wagers with legal operators.

Student gamblers will not be interested in the advantages of legal sportsbooks if they are unable to place bets conveniently and at their own convenience. Unless Michigan’s operators provide this flexibility, these bettors will continue with their current habits.

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