A B. Riley analyst said Genius Sports could benefit as prediction markets expand, including through data agreements with sportsbook operators entering event contracts. Josh Nichols reiterated a buy rating and a $14 price target; he also cited potential demand linked to sports contracts in California and Texas.
The analyst’s assessment concerns potential data revenues as sportsbook clients move into prediction markets.
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Stifel analyst Jeffrey Stantial said Churchill Downs could consider selling or spinning off its gaming segment, but Stifel was not aware of any merger or acquisition discussions. He cited a broader potential buyer pool, including financial and tribal entities, and said the company had several alternatives to an outright sale.
Operators plan to pursue online casino legalisation in Illinois, Maryland and New York in 2026, while Deutsche Bank analyst Steven Pizzella said Maryland had the strongest prospects. Pizzella considered approval in more than one state highly unlikely, citing state-specific obstacles; he also reported discussion of prediction markets and regulators’ responses to sports contracts.
Deutsche Bank analyst Steven Pizzella described the gaming industry outlook as balanced over the next 12 months in an investor note dated 14 July. He cited regional casino revenue growth of 4.1% in May and risks including consumer volatility, regulation and economic uncertainty; he favoured Caesars Entertainment and Station Casinos.
Bernstein analysts say Kalshi and Polymarket could become acquisition targets as prediction-market companies seek greater control of distribution and infrastructure. The report says both exchanges have infrastructure but lag some rivals in distribution; it also identifies possible consolidation among sportsbook operators.
Jefferies Equity Research analyst David Katz assessed Virginia’s casino market in an investor note dated 22 May, reportedly, after analysts toured casinos in the state. He cited competition facing Churchill Downs and Rush Street Gaming, while saying igaming remained several years away. Katz lowered his Churchill Downs price target from $139 to $138 per share.