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Times are tough for casinos all over, but things are a little better for online casinos.  Las Vegas is feeling the pinch as out of control gas prices and a looming recession is causing gamblers avoid spending money at casinos.

MGM Mirage Inc reported an earnings drop this quarter from $168.2 to $118.3.  Tropicana Entertainment, owners of an empire of casinos, including 13 casinos in Atlantic City and Las Vegas, has recently filed for bankruptcy.  Tough times in the economy have dissuaded people from travel by both air and road.

Gary Stoller of USA Today recently interviewed Carlos Bueno and his wife Myra.  The couple is a perfect example of how rising gas prices are causing the Vegas economy and other regions dependent on gambling revenue to suffer. To think, gambling was once thought to be recession proof.

Three times last year the couple commuted from their home in Houston to visit casinos in Lake Charles, Louisiana.  That will not be the case this year.  Perhaps they will pick up gambling at more convenient online casinos.

“Gas prices are the main reason,” says Carlos, a 32-year-old father of three children.  Carlos works for a utility company.  Economic conditions have also led to him canceling his family’s annual vacation to the Dominican Republic.

“The economy is harsh right now, and the little money saved for vacation will have to be spent on fuel for our vehicle.”

Stollers report indicates how weak economic conditions, fears of job security, and the climbing cost of living are causing most gamblers to reduce, if not complete cancel, trips to casinos.  For the few gamblers that still make the trip, they gamble significantly less money.  Gambling revenues are down in all regions and casino employees are being laid off. 

This maybe the opportunity needed by online casinos.  Even though people are gambling less, most of them are more concerned about travel costs.  No travel is necessary to arrive at online casinos.

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