The Stars Group has secured access to Michigan’s online gambling market. This came after the company signed a deal with the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (LTBB Odawa).
Through this partnership, both its PokerStars and Fox Bet brands can offer real-money betting, poker and casino here. This is subject to obtaining a licence, state law and regulatory approvals.
Sharing the money
The Stars Group will give the tribe, which has two land-based outlets in Michigan, a share of its online gambling revenue. These are under the Odawa Casino brand and located in Petoskey and Mackinaw.
Robin Chhabra, Fox Bet Chief Executive, said: “We’re excited to announce this agreement with the Odawa Tribe. This strengthens our market access as we continue building our Fox Bet business into one of the emerging US online market’s leaders.”
The LTTB Odawa tribe have also commented on the deal. Tribal Council Representative Fred Harrington Jr. said that the partnership “places the thrill of world-class sports betting and online gaming under every finger-tip sliding across a touch screen in the State of Michigan”.
Online gambling in Michigan
Online gambling was legalised in Michigan in December 2019. Just before Christmas, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a range of bills to approve this. As part of it, tribal and commercial casinos will be viewed as equals.
The regulation of iGaming in the state will also bring more revenue for schools here, as well as other causes.
