The US online poker has gone through drastic changes this year, with BetMGM coming out as a dominant force in the regulated market. Recent data from GameIntel shared exclusively on the PRO Data platform, reveals that nearly half of all tracked cash game hands on regulated US poker sites are currently being played on BetMGM. This surge in activity comes hot on the heels of BetMGM combining its Michigan and New Jersey player pools earlier this month.

While BetMGM is giving all they have to thrive in the borders of US regulations, it’s worth mentioning that local legal casinos and poker rooms in states like West Virginia-where online gambling is legal-operate under strict verification requirements. These Know Your Customer (KYC) processes are designed to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, safeguard against fraud, and promote responsible gaming. But not all players like to hassle with these restrictions as they feel like they require too many personal details. To preserve their privacy, gamblers often explore offshore poker platforms. Many of these offshore no KYC casinos are also legal. They operate without KYC policies and cater to users looking for a more streamlined, anonymous gaming experience.

BetMGM’s recent success is thanks to its expanded player pool. By uniting Michigan and New Jersey, the site offers players larger tournaments, increased liquidity, and more attractive prize pools. This strategy, known as interstate compacts, has proven to be a game-changer for poker operators in the US. PokerStars also benefit from a similar arrangement between Michigan and New Jersey, but BetMGM’s aggressive marketing and player retention strategies appear to have given it the edge.

BetMGM’s recent performance signals a growing appetite for online poker in the United States. With states like West Virginia offering legal online casinos, the potential for even more interstate poker compacts remains on the horizon. Such agreements could pave the way for larger national networks, increasing the attractiveness of US-based platforms to players who might otherwise consider offshore options.

The rise of BetMGM serves as a testament to the power of strategic player pool combinations and a focus on providing a high-quality poker experience. As the US online poker market continues to enjoy innovations, operators will undoubtedly look to replicate BetMGM’s success by fostering larger player communities and refining their offerings. However, the competition from offshore markets will likely remain a significant factor, as these platforms cater to a niche audience seeking privacy and flexibility that regulated sites sometimes lack.

For now, BetMGM’s dominance paints a promising picture for the future of regulated online poker in the United States. Its ability to capture nearly half of the market share and outpace competitors like PokerStars and WSOP Online is a clear indicator of the industry’s potential when player bases are unified and opportunities for growth are fully embraced. With continued innovation and expansion, BetMGM has set a new standard for what US online poker can achieve.