President Donald Trump has launched a new meme coin called $TRUMP. In an official X post, Trump announced the new crypto asset, adding that the meme coin was created to celebrate “WINNING.” The announcement came barely two days before his official inauguration.

Trump’s meme coin has performed impressively so far, with a consistent rise in value and an explosive $5.7 billion in market capitalization within hours of its launch. According to the meme coin’s official website, $TRUMP represents a piece of history and symbolizes the president’s strength and courage, especially after he faced an assassination attempt last July. 

The website also contains a few token specifics. For instance, 200 million $TRUMP were made available on day one, and will gradually increase to the asset’s maximum supply of 1 billion over the next three years. Distribution details include 10% for liquidity, another 10% allocated to public distribution, and the rest channeled to creator CIC Digital LLC, a Trump-affiliated company.

Trump’s new token could be considered a potential investment channel for crypto investors, especially considering its quick rise so far. Among other factors, Trump’s upcoming inauguration could further fuel an increase in the token’s price. Crypto investors seeking to diversify their portfolios will likely include $TRUMP as FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) spreads through the industry. 

In addition to individual investment pumping the price of $TRUMP, crypto wallets may also quickly provide support for the new Solana-based token. The easy integration is crucial for investors looking for the best crypto wallet as they consider several factors, including support for a wide array of cryptocurrencies, such as meme coins like $TRUMP.

Interestingly, the official website contains a disclaimer that discourages $TRUMP use as an investment channel. According to the website, $TRUMP is “not intended to be, or to be the subject of, an investment opportunity, investment contract, or security of any type.” 

President Trump is known for his support of the crypto sector. While this is his first-ever meme coin, Trump has previously launched non-fungible token (NFT) collections issued by CIC Digital LLC, the same company responsible for $TRUMP.

Reactions to $TRUMP have been polar, with some praising Trump’s bold push into crypto. Expectedly, others have criticized the token and have wondered whether or not Trump has ulterior motives. Despite these reactions, the market performance of $TRUMP has been impressive. 

Trump has plans for the crypto sector and is reportedly looking to create a strategic crypto reserve using assets like USDC, XRP, and Solana. Interestingly, XRP pumped by more than 400% after Trump’s election win. Reports state that Trump has already met with executives and founders of these major assets who seem open to the idea and are willing to provide him with needed support.

During his campaign, Trump made promises to crypto stakeholders, convincing them to support his efforts. Among several pledges, Trump said he would fire Gary Gensler, the chairman of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Gensler’s tenure as SEC chairman has been marked by continuous legal attacks launched against the crypto sector and its entities. Interestingly, Gensler has already announced his resignation, effective January 20th, the inauguration day. 

Advocates and crypto proponents hope Trump’s second administration will bode well for crypto. In addition to his statements in support of the sector, Trump is already surrounding himself with crypto enthusiasts. For instance, Howard Lutnick, a vocal Bitcoin proponent, is Trump’s selection for Secretary of Commerce. Lutnick serves as the chief executive officer of Cantor Fitzgerald, a brokerage firm that provides services for Tether, which issues the world’s largest cryptocurrency stablecoin. 

Furthermore, Trump has proposed the Department of Government Efficiency, a commission to be led by Tesla head Elon Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Both men are known for supporting crypto, with Musk repeatedly propping Dogecoin (DOGE), and Ramaswamy holding several hundred thousand dollars worth of varying cryptocurrencies as of 2023.

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Maryland’s casinos generated $158.1 million in gaming revenue in November 2024, demonstrating their continued significance as an economic driver for the state. This figure, reported by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Agency, represents a slight increase of 0.3% compared to November 2023, indicating steady growth within the state’s gaming industry.

Maryland’s six casinos—MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino & Hotel, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Hollywood Casino Perryville, Ocean Downs Casino, and Rocky Gap Casino Resort—were responsible for this strong November performance. Each establishment contributes to the state’s gaming landscape, attracting visitors and enhancing the overall revenue. The casinos offer various gaming options, entertainment, dining, and accommodations for guests to enjoy.

While overall revenue is a key metric, many players are also interested in the payout percentages offered by individual casinos. Understanding these percentages, which represent the proportion of wagers returned to players as winnings, can be crucial for making informed decisions about where to play.

Resources like highestpayoutonlinecasino.net provide detailed analyses and comparisons of these payout rates. When evaluating online casinos, this website conducts in-depth reviews, analyzing their entire gaming lobbies and taking into consideration factors such as the variety of games offered and bonus offers to determine which sites offer the highest payouts. These insights can be valuable for players looking to maximize their potential returns in Maryland’s thriving casino scene.

Of the total revenue generated, $49.7 million was allocated to Maryland’s Education Trust Fund, a vital beneficiary of the state’s casino earnings. This contribution underscores the gaming industry’s role in supporting public services and infrastructure, particularly in the realm of education. Over the years, casino revenues have played a crucial role in funding public schools and educational programs throughout Maryland.

Live! Casino & Hotel in Anne Arundel County recorded a notable increase in revenue, solidifying its position as a top performer in the state. MGM National Harbor, while experiencing a slight decrease compared to the previous year, maintained its status as the state’s highest-grossing casino. These two establishments continue to set a high standard for gaming and hospitality, drawing visitors with their premium offerings and world-class amenities.

While facing competition from the leading venues, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore contributed a significant portion of the overall revenue. Its strategic location and targeted marketing efforts have helped it maintain a strong presence in the Baltimore gaming market. Similarly, Hollywood Casino Perryville, Ocean Downs Casino, and Rocky Gap Casino Resort cater to local and regional audiences with their unique gaming experiences and amenities.

Maryland’s casino revenue has positive economic spillovers that extend beyond the gaming sector. These include increased business opportunities for local vendors and suppliers, tourism growth, and job creation. The casinos are significant employers, contributing to the state’s stable economy and high employment rate. The influx of casino visitors also encourages the local economy by attracting customers to nearby restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

The gaming industry in Maryland continues to grow and is beneficial to all parties involved thanks to the state’s regulatory framework and dedication to responsible gaming. A dedication to addressing the social implications of casino activities is evident in the state’s initiatives to promote responsible gambling and offer resources for individuals affected by problem gambling.

It would appear that Maryland’s gaming industry is set up for future success. Continued investments in facilities, innovative marketing strategies, and a focus on the customer experience are expected to support further growth. Online and mobile platforms, along with other forms of technology integration, open up new avenues for growth and income creation.

Maryland’s November revenue performance serves as a testament to the gaming sector’s enduring appeal and economic significance. The gaming industry remains an integral part of Maryland’s economic and social fabric, providing revenue for essential programs and stimulating economic growth. The $158.1 million earned in November is indicative of a vibrant and successful industry that contributes to the state’s overall well-being.

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At the beginning of 2024, Maryland was viewed as being one of the states most likely to pass new laws that would regulate online casinos and online gambling. And, in March of this year, it continued to look promising. Representative Vanessa Atterbeary saw bill HB 1319 passed through the House and on to the Senate. 

In the same month, the house launched a budget that included tax revenue from regulated online betting. The budget included additional funding for education, with the funds coming from online casino gambling. Critics have pointed to the fact that the state had balanced budgets for the next two years, which means there is no urgent need to pass new regulations to bring in more tax revenue.

Online casinos are legal and regulated in just six states, despite more than 20 now regulating online sports betting. Critics often state that online casinos will take away from physical casino revenue and encourage gambling. Proponents point to the additional tax revenue while praising the convenience of online betting, and the speed of casinos with quickest payouts. For example, a crypto-based Telegram casino can pay out in a matter of minutes or less, so it is easy to see why supporters favor the move, and such sites also allow players to gamble directly from the messaging app for the ultimate convenience.

Despite these benefits, online casino regulation remains the exception across the country. But supporters believed Maryland could change that and many commentators believed this year could be the year for change. That didn’t prove to be the case.

Sports betting was legalized in May 2021 in Maryland and while it took until November 2022, online sports betting was also legalized in the state. There are many who hope online casino gambling will be next to gain regulatory approval.

Despite having gone through numerous changes on its way to the Senate and passing the house vote 92-43, the motion was not passed by the time the Senate adjourned in April. Unfortunately, there proved to be too much opposition to the bill including common complaints from physical casino operators that it would take revenue and jobs away from their businesses. Two of the state’s six casinos raised objections to the bill. Persuading these two casinos to get on board with the plans could greatly help the case for regulation in the future. This may require concessions on the part of lawmakers.

With changes to state legislation requiring voter agreement, that means no changes can now be fully enacted until at least 2026, although that delay does allow lobbyists and lawmakers to shore up their arguments and potentially even get the backing of the two physical casinos that argued against the bill.

A similar bill in Maine was shot down at around the same time, although it is likely that both states will continue to work on proposals to get new regulations in place in the coming years. It is now unclear which state, if any, is the most likely to pass online casino laws, but both Maryland and Maine will likely try again next time around.

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Maryland Terrapins suffered a 39-18 loss to Oregon – the nation’s number 1 team. The Terrapins put up a good fight, even though they weren’t considered a favorite to win among football experts – or bettors. 

Even though there are many people who bet anonymously in 2024, especially during the peak of the season, not many of them would have chosen the Maryland Terrapins over Oregon’s superstar team. However, the Terrapins fought throughout the entire game, which could have resulted in an unforeseen upset, were it not for all the opportunities they missed. 

Even the team’s head coach, Mike Locksley, said in an interview that it’s frustrating to see the team not play well, as they practice hard and have the potential to make it happen. He’s not frustrated with their lack of effort or practice – he’s frustrated with their execution. 

The game featured some memorable moments and yielded interesting results. Billy Edwards Jr. ended the day with one touchdown, two interceptions, and 206 yards passing. As a quarterback for the Terrapins, all eyes are on Edwards during every game. But he wasn’t the only notable player during the game, as Tai Felton also scored seven catches for 72 yards. 

Although young, Felton (who serves as a wide receiver for the Terrapins) has already totaled 23 receptions for 309 yards and two touchdowns. Knowing that Dillon Gabriel—who is leading the number 1 ranked Oregon Ducks—has scored 147 touchdowns in 60 games makes it a lot easier to understand why the Maryland Terrapins weren’t a favorite for winning the game among experts or bettors alike. 

The team did seem like they might have a surprise in store waiting for everyone, as they finished the first half with similar yardage, plays, passing, and rushing splits as the Oregon Ducks. In fact, Maryland even had a better time possession in the first half, leading 18:50 to 11:10. 

However, when you have a team that’s as good as the Oregon Ducks, it’s not enough to be average and open up opportunities to score points – you need touchdowns. That’s what the Maryland Terrapins failed to do, with Oregon’s players scoring a touchdown in the third quarter of the game, ultimately tipping the scales in their favor. The touchdown will be remembered – but so will the Terrapins players’ fight to their last breath. 

The game was a treat for spectators. Maryland Terrapins received nine penalties in total and, since four of them were on special teams, it gave Oregon’s star defensive lineman a chance to go for 36 yards on a fake punt. This was only one of the many tricks the Oregon Ducks played, the other notable one being Gabriel’s three-yard touchdown pass to Gernorris Wilson. 

With Dante Trader Jr. back into the game after missing a few games, things might be looking up. As the team’s defensive back with 38 tackles, his presence can add a lot of value and potential to the game. Trader said there’s no time for licking their wounds, as the team has to keep going and fix the things that went wrong during the game. He also stated they still have breath in their lungs, so they can wake up tomorrow and use that blessing to play football. 

The Maryland Terrapins will have another shot at winning a week after their game with the Oregon Ducks, as they will be taking on Rutgers at home field. 

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A Prince George County, Maryland man has picked up a $200,000 jackpot win on the recently launched Ravens X10 scratch-off lottery ticket. The local man said he had been making his weekly football picks when he noticed the lottery ticket in a vending machine.

Maryland legalized sports betting in May 2021, although it took nearly a year before players could wager their money on sporting events. The new law was passed via a public ballot after being signed by Gov. Larry Hogan. There are now more than ten legal sportsbooks in the state. Casinos are also regulated in the state, with 6 physical casinos in the state.

Although online casinos remain unregulated, keen players can still play. The best Maryland online casinos are registered out of state, typically offshore. These casinos, according to iGaming expert Pride Kazunga, offer anonymous, private access to leading casino games.  

Efforts to legalize online casinos failed in 2024. State laws mean that any change to legislation would require voter approval, and voters won’t be heading to the ballots before 2026. 

This does give lawmakers and proponents a chance to formulate their arguments and put forward an appropriate bill, but it also means that regulated online casinos are at least two years away. Considering it took nearly a year from legalizing sports betting to the first sportsbook becoming available, punters are likely to have to wait until 2027 before they can use a state-regulated online betting site. Currently, the state’s 6 casinos make an annual gross gaming revenue of $2.50 billion. 

Having made his weekly football picks, the Maryland man saw a lottery ticket for a relatively new game that he hadn’t yet played. Being a loyal lottery player, he bought the ticket. Several days later, on taking his scratch-off cards to a local gas station to check them, he found he had won the jackpot, saying it left him mind-blown and ready to shed a tear. The man has said he will use the winnings to help his daughter pay her college tuition fees.

The Maryland lottery is regulated and operated by The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, founded in 1973. Revenue from lottery games is used to fund local initiatives including improved educational facilities and a better transport system.

Since its inception, the Lottery has handed nearly $20 billion to the State while also handing out more than $30 billion in prizes. Terminal-based games include Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5 as well as Keno, Mega Millions, Powerball, and Race Trax. Players can also buy scratch-off cards, with prizes and game types changing regularly.

The $200,000 prize comes just a couple of days after another official press release detailing a player, who calls himself Mr. Money Monk, winning a $68,281 jackpot prize on a Fast Play Slingo card. Mr. Money Monk wore a black robe and adopted the unusual moniker to help remain anonymous but also said that they represented his “monk-like focus and dedication to overcoming adversity.” Mr. Money Monk plans to invest his winnings.

The Maryland Slingo is a $3 lottery game with rules similar to that of bingo. Players who create a winning pattern pick up one of the prizes on offer, which includes a progressive jackpot. Mr. Money Monk picked up the progressive jackpot prize and collected nearly $70,000 for his $3 ticket.

One day earlier, the Maryland Lottery announced another big winner. This time, a retired truck driver picked up a Gold Rush 7 Multiplier scratch-off card. He paid $10 for the ticket and, on scratching it off, found he had won a $100,000 prize. He said he just “stood there in the store staring at the ticket.”

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The iGaming industry is rapidly transforming, with much of its evolution driven by the adoption of social media features. As online gaming grows, it increasingly mirrors the interactive, personalized experiences seen on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram. This shift is reshaping how players engage with games, moving from solitary experiences to more connected, community-driven ones.

One of the clearest examples of this change is gamification, a trend that has spread across social media. Gamification now goes beyond traditional gameplay; it includes completing challenges, earning rewards, and competing for leaderboard rankings. These elements, which drive engagement on social platforms, are now core features of iGaming. A notable example is TG casino, which operates via Telegram and taps into this trend by offering instant rewards and bonuses. Through Telegram’s real-time messaging, the platform creates a social, interactive environment where players are continuously engaged through gamified experiences. This mix of instant gratification and social interaction keeps users active, driving loyalty and participation.

The rise of live interaction in iGaming, inspired by platforms like Twitch, is another way social media features are being incorporated. Many iGaming platforms now offer live streaming for real-time casino games, often including live chat options. Players can share tips, strategies, and even reactions as they play, turning solitary games into communal experiences. This social dynamic closely mirrors how people engage with live streams on social media, making the gaming experience more engaging and interactive.

Social media’s influence on iGaming is not limited to gameplay—it also extends to marketing and user engagement. From influencer partnerships to targeted ads, social media allows iGaming platforms to reach wider audiences more effectively. Just as social platforms offer personalized ads, iGaming sites use data to tailor promotions to players. What makes this strategy successful is its ability to build communities and encourage peer-driven and word-of-mouth marketing, much like on Instagram or Twitter, from trusted players, significantly drives user retention and growth.

In parallel, social networking features are being integrated into iGaming platforms. Players now have the ability to follow others, send messages, and form groups, creating a sense of connection similar to that found on social networks. These features help foster a sense of community within gaming, encouraging players to return to the platform, engage with one another, and form lasting connections. This sense of belonging strengthens player loyalty and adds to the overall appeal of the gaming experience.

Another significant trend is the growing acceptance of cryptocurrency in iGaming, which was initially popularized by social media platforms like Twitter. Many iGaming sites now accept cryptocurrencies, offering players a more secure and decentralized way to engage. This shift not only appeals to tech-savvy gamers but also provides greater privacy and control over transactions. The rise of blockchain technology in gaming is yet another example of how social media has helped drive technological innovation within the industry.

Finally, user-generated content is playing a growing role in iGaming, much like it does on social media. Players are encouraged to share their wins, strategies, and even suggestions for improving games. This sharing of content fosters a stronger sense of community and encourages more active participation. Players become contributors, not just consumers, which deepens engagement and strengthens connections within the platform.

The integration of social media features is transforming the iGaming industry, making it more interactive, connected, and community-focused. Gamification, live interaction, social networking, and user-generated content are just a few examples of how iGaming is evolving. This shift reflects the broader trends in digital interaction, where the lines between gaming, socializing, and online engagement are increasingly blurred.

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Maryland casinos generated $159.5 million in gaming revenue in September, marking a strong increase compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights the continued expansion and success of the state’s casino industry, which has seen a steady rise in revenue over recent months. Several factors have contributed to this increase, reflecting broader trends in consumer behavior and the expanding appeal of gaming in the state.

One of the primary reasons for the surge in revenue is the increasing popularity of online gambling. The convenience and accessibility of online platforms have attracted a growing number of players who prefer gaming from the comfort of their homes. 

No KYC (Know Your Customer) casinos have also grown in popularity across the US among gamblers who like to stay anonymous. The ability to access a wide variety of casino games, like the ones listed here, through mobile devices and computers without the hassle of lengthy verification processes has significantly expanded the player base. 

This shift toward online gambling has been a major driver of revenue growth, as more people are engaging in gaming activities more frequently and easily.

The evolution of technology within the casino industry has also played a key role in boosting revenue. Casinos in Maryland have introduced a range of digital enhancements and gaming options designed to meet the changing preferences of modern players. These newer forms of gaming, which blend traditional casino experiences with cutting-edge technology, have attracted a wider range of players and contributed to increased gaming spending.

Moreover, the introduction of sports betting has been a significant factor in driving revenue growth. Sports betting, which has been fully integrated into Maryland’s gaming landscape, saw a substantial increase in activity in September. With major sports seasons in full swing, such as the NFL and college football, bettors flocked to place their wagers, adding another layer of excitement to the casino experience. The legalization and growth of sports betting have provided an additional stream of income for Maryland’s casinos, with players not only placing bets on sporting events but also spending time and money on other gaming activities while at the casinos.

Seasonal trends also played a role in the September revenue increase. As the summer season came to a close, many people took advantage of the opportunity to enjoy entertainment before the cooler months set in. The end-of-summer period has traditionally been a time when people seek out leisure activities, including visits to casinos, contributing to a rise in gaming activity during this time of year. This seasonal bump, combined with other factors, helped push September’s revenue to $159.5 million, with some of this revenue earmarked for Maryland’s Education Fund, which received a contribution, according to Maryland Lottery and Gaming. 

The continued growth of Maryland’s gaming industry can also be attributed to the ongoing investment in new gaming options and improved facilities. Many casinos in the state have made significant upgrades to their gaming floors, adding new slot machines, table games, and entertainment spaces that offer players a fresh and exciting experience. These investments not only attract new visitors but also encourage repeat business from loyal patrons. The upgraded amenities and enhanced gaming experiences have proven successful in keeping Maryland’s casinos competitive in the regional gaming market.

Maryland is home to a total of 6 commercial casinos which make a combined economic impact of $5.78 billion. 

The economic environment in Maryland has been another contributor to the revenue increase. As consumer confidence remains stable, individuals are more willing to spend on entertainment and leisure activities. This willingness to spend has been reflected in the rise in gaming activity, with more people visiting casinos and participating in gaming, both in-person and online. The broader economic stability has had a positive effect on Maryland’s gaming sector, leading to higher revenues across the board.

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