Vegas Revenue Falls 16 Percent in May

15 July 2008

Gaming revenues in Nevada continued to slump throughout the month of May, according to data released by the state's Gaming Control Board.

Statewide, casinos earned $969.94 million in gaming revenue in May, a 15.2 percent decline compared to the same period a year ago. Gaming revenue from casinos on the Las Vegas Strip felt a 16.4 percent decrease in gaming revenue to $513.45 million.

Andrew Zarnett, an analyst at Deutsche Bank, told NJ.com that the Strip may experience its worst year-on-year decline ever.

"I think that the consumer is tapped out," Zarnett said. "And while they would still like to spend, they understand the reality of the current situation-- higher energy prices, higher food prices, job uncertainty, low consumer confidence."