Missouri's gambling market opens: $4 billion new plate activates DraftKings (DKNG.US) and other giant stocks may receive catalysts.

The state of Missouri officially launched legal sports betting statewide on December 1st. Analysts predict that this 19th most populous state in the United States will have a highly competitive online market, dominated by national gambling brands and partnerships with local sports teams. The total amount of bets in the state is expected to reach $3.5 to $4 billion in the first year. The legalization process of sports betting in Missouri was established by Amendment 2, which was approved by voters in November 2024. The framework allows for the issuance of up to 14 online gambling licenses, including two that can operate independently, with the rest being tied to the state's casinos and eligible professional sports teams. The Missouri Gaming Commission will be responsible for issuing licenses, regulating compliance, and ensuring integrity. Operators expected to launch on the first day or in the near future include bet365, BetMGM, Caesars Entertainment Inc., Circa Sports, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel, and theScore Bet (formerly known as ESPN BET). This launch coincides with the busiest period of the year for sports events, with major platforms aggressively competing for early market share with promotional strategies. Industry Outlook Missouri is now the 39th state in the US to legalize sports betting. Looking ahead, legislators in Nebraska are considering legalizing statewide online/mobile betting in addition to the existing in-person betting framework; legislative processes are also progressing in Oklahoma, Georgia, and Minnesota. Industry insiders speculate that Texas may push for constitutional amendments for legalization. New Mexico, North Dakota, Florida, and Washington may consider expanding sports betting beyond tribal casinos. The prospects for legalization in areas such as Alabama, Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, South Carolina, and Utah remain uncertain. Some industry analysts predict that with the rapid rise of prediction market platforms like Polymarket, Kalshi, and the recently launched Robinhood business, all 50 states in the US may legalize sports betting within the next five years. These platforms operating in states where sports betting is not yet legal are forcing local policymakers to adopt more open attitudes.