DraftKings Leads Bank Sports Betting Survey, ESPN Bet Surprises

In the ever-evolving world of iGaming and online sports betting, a recent survey conducted by Truist Securities has brought some interesting insights to the forefront. Among the revelations, DraftKings (NASDAQ: DKNG) emerges as a favorite among bettors, while ESPN Bet, a newcomer in the field, is already turning heads with its potential. Let's dive into the key takeaways from this survey and what it means for the future of online betting.

Key Takeaways:

• DraftKings Dominates: DraftKings has carved out a significant lead in consumer preference for iGaming and online sports betting, outpacing rivals like FanDuel.
• ESPN Bet's Promising Start: Despite being in the market for less than six months, ESPN Bet is making a strong impression, hinting at a bright future ahead.
• Parlays Are King: Parlays continue to be a major draw for bettors, with 75% of survey respondents indicating a preference for these types of wagers.

In the bustling Times Square of New York City, a DraftKings billboard stands tall, echoing the company's strong position in the hearts and minds of sports bettors and internet casino users. According to the Truist Securities survey, DraftKings and Flutter Entertainment’s (NYSE: FLUT) FanDuel are leading the charge in the US sports wagering market, with an estimated control of 70% between them. However, DraftKings is not just a leader in sports wagering but has also established a formidable presence in iGaming, with 29% of those polled showing a preference for it over FanDuel's 22%.

Barry Jonas, a Truist analyst, observed that while preferences were mixed, there's a general consensus that DraftKings and FanDuel are viewed as largely equal by consumers today. Despite this, DraftKings seems poised to win a marketing war, suggesting a future where these two giants could coexist harmoniously in the iGaming and sports wagering landscape.

Good News for ESPN Bet

Penn Entertainment’s (NASDAQ: PENN) ESPN Bet, though a relative newcomer, is already making waves. Jonas remarked, “(That) reinforces our belief in its potential to succeed longer term,” highlighting the app's quick adoption by users. Despite challenges like a more expensive cost of living affecting betting frequency, ESPN Bet's unique offerings, such as enhanced integration for betting beyond currently available lines, have resonated well with users. An impressive 52% of respondents envision ESPN Bet becoming their go-to mobile betting app in the future.

The Pivot to Parlays

The survey also shed light on the importance of parlays in the betting ecosystem. Parlays, known for their profitability and positive impact on margins, are a preferred betting format for 75% of respondents. However, the landscape is shifting, with 39% of bettors indicating they're reducing their engagement with parlays, while 20% are upping their stakes. This mixed response highlights the evolving strategies of bettors in response to market conditions.

On the iGaming front, DraftKings continues to lead, followed closely by FanDuel and BetMGM. A noteworthy mention is Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ: CZR), which has gained significant customer preference for its dual iGaming and sports wagering apps strategy. This strategy aligns with the preferences of a majority of players who favor using a single platform for both iCasino and sports betting, underscoring the importance of cross-selling and retention in the industry.

As the landscape of online sports betting and iGaming continues to evolve, surveys like these offer valuable insights into consumer preferences and market dynamics. With companies like DraftKings and ESPN Bet at the forefront, the future of online betting looks both competitive and exciting.