Missouri’s sports betting market came out swinging in its first full month, with bettors placing more than $540 million in wagers during December, according to a new report from the Missouri Gaming Commission. The figures mark the state’s official debut into legalized sports wagering after betting launched on Dec. 1, 2025.
Despite the massive handle, sportsbooks ended the month in the red. Operators collectively reported nearly $21 million in losses, largely driven by aggressive promotional spending, including sign up bonuses and free play incentives designed to attract new users. As a result, the state collected little tax revenue during the opening month.
The report showed that about $437 million was paid out to winning bettors, while sportsbooks spent roughly $125 million on promotional bets. Mobile wagering dominated the activity, accounting for nearly 99% of all bets placed statewide.
FanDuel led all platforms with roughly $212 million in wagers, followed closely by DraftKings. Retail sportsbooks saw far less action, though Ameristar Casino in St. Charles topped in-person betting totals.
Sports betting was approved by Missouri voters in November 2024 and is regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Industry experts note that early losses are common in new markets, with profitability often coming later once promotional spending slows.