Newlyweds Lance and Riley Qualls enlisted in the Army together, building their marriage around a shared sense of purpose and sacrifice.
Source: www.war.gov
Blog
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A Gate Between Hope and Hell: A Marine's Story
Before a blast of shrapnel to his leg and arm changed his life forever, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah Smith spent more than 100 grueling hours holding the line against a desperate sea of humanity in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Source: www.war.gov
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Signers of the Declaration of Independence: Massachusetts: Part 2
The 56 delegates who signed the Declaration of Independence are all considered Founding Fathers; Massachusetts had five delegates — three of them were Elbridge Gerry, John Hancock and Robert Treat Paine.
Source: www.war.gov
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Grants
6 Min ReadGrants
The NSSC supports the Agency’s internal effort to create an environment conducive to streamlining and simplifying grants and cooperative agreements. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), through the establishment of the NSSC, has transitioned to a consolidated model for the award and administration of all Agency grants and cooperative agreements. The consolidation is designed to achieve efficient and effective service, improve data quality, standardize processes, leverage skills and investments, and provide economies of scale. *Notice*
The Payment Management System (PMS) is currently experiencing issues affecting Federal Financial Report (FFR) generation. Impacted NASA grant recipients will not be considered noncompliant. NASA is working with PMS to resolve the issue. Updates will be posted here.
Grants Status Requests
To submit a request, visit NASA General Information Request Form and complete the form. You will receive an automated email with the most commonly requested grant status information.
Important Instructions:
- Ensure you enter a valid email address, as replies will only be sent via email.
- The confirmation email may take a few minutes to arrive in your inbox.
How to Fill Out the Form:
- Category: Select “Procurement including Grants & Cooperative Agreements.”
- Procurement Area: Choose “Grants/Agreements.”
- Grants/Agreements Activity: Select “Grant Status.”
- Required Information: Provide either a Grant Number, Purchase Requisition Number, or both.
Memorandum for NASA Grantee Community
Guidance Regarding OMB Memorandum M-25-14 and Recent Temporary Restraining Orders
Update on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Executive Orders – January 29, 2025
On January 23, 2025, NASA’s Office of Procurement (OP) released a memorandum for the NASA contractor and grant community regarding Executive Order “Initial Rescission of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions” and the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) memorandum “Initial Guidance Regarding DEIA Executive Orders.”Per OP’s memo, NASA grant and cooperative agreement recipients shall immediately cease and desist all DEIA activities required for their grant. This work may include but is not limited to: DEIA plan requirements, training, workshops, reporting, considerations for staffing, or any other direct or indirect grant activity related to DEIA. All grant recipients shall notify their cognizant Grant Officer if they identify requirements within their grants that are in violation of this guidance. Your Grant Officer’s contact information can be found on your NF 1687, Notice of Award for Grant and Cooperative Agreement (NOA).
Thank you for your work and partnership with NASA.
NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions
In FY2025, NASA separated the Terms and Conditions from the GCAM to create a standalone document. This document outlines both the general and specific terms and conditions and applies to all awards issued under 2 CFR 1800 (NASA’s adoption of 2 CFR 200.)
NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions 7-15-2026Request for Supplemental Grant and Cooperative Agreement Actions
Administrative Supplement Requests Templates :
No Cost Extension (NCE) Request Form
Other Administrative Supplement Request Form
Principal Investigator (PI) Change Request Form
Period of Performance (POP) Change Form
Submit via email to NSSC-ADMIN-SUPPLEMENT REQUEST
PI Transfer Requests:
Submit via email to NSSC-Grants-PI-Transfer
NASA Insignia Guidelines
Grantees are strongly encouraged to use the NASA Insignia Format identified in the guidelines at NASA Insignia Guidelines for NASA Grantees. These guidelines aim to increase awareness of NASA’s mission activities via Grantee partnerships for a broader and more diverse population.
Payment Management System
NASA uses a service provider, currently the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Payment Management System (PMS), to provide Federal funds to recipients. PMS will provide instructions to the recipients for registering and requesting funds through the system.
Routine Monitoring
NASA is responsible for routine post-award monitoring on all awards, regardless of the award’s risk determination. At a minimum, routine monitoring includes reviewing award recipients’ annual performance reports, semi-annual Federal Financial Report (FFR), and Transactions Testing Review.
Research Performance Progress Reports
All NASA award recipients must submit annual performance reports. Annual reports are due to NASA 60 days prior to the annual anniversary of the award’s POP start date (e.g., if the POP of an award is October 1 – September 30, the report would be due 60 days prior to October 1.)
- Final Performance Reports: Submit via email to [email protected]
- Performance Reports: Submit via email to [email protected]
Federal Financial Reports (SF-425)
Recipients will submit their semi-annual FFRs in PMS:
Period 1 (October 1 – March 31): Due by April 30 each year.
Period 2 (April 1 – September 30): Due by October 30 of each year.
Final FFRs are due 120 days after the end of the POP
Additional information and training are available on the Payment Management System website at https://pms.psc.gov/. The PMS help desk number is 1-877-614-5533.
Forms
Post-Award Certifications and Representations
Current and Pending Support (CPS) Form
NASA Pre-Award and Post-Award Disclosure Requirements
Regulations and Guidance
Regulations
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
- Title 2: Grants and Agreements
- 14 CFR 1274: Cooperative Agreements with Commercial Firms (Rescinded January 2021)
- 14 CFR 1275: Research Misconduct
Guidance
NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Manual (GCAM): NASA’s Grant Manual for Proposers and Recipients
The NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Manual (GCAM) provides pre and post award policy guidance to NASA proposers and award-managing personnel and award recipients to implement government-wide and NASA-specific regulations for applying for, awarding and administering grants and cooperative agreements with educational and non-profit organizations; State, local, and Indian tribal governments; and for-profit organizations.
NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions
In FY2025, NASA separated the Terms and Conditions from the GCAM to create a standalone document. This document outlines both the general and specific terms and conditions and applies to all awards issued under 2 CFR 1800 (NASA’s adoption of 2 CFR 200.)
Research Terms and Conditions (For Research Awards Issued Prior to October 1, 2024)
NASA implemented the Federal-wide research terms and conditions for all research and research-related grant and cooperative agreement awards issued under 2 CFR 1800 (NASA’s adoption of 2 CFR 200). The Research Terms and Conditions implement the requirements of the Uniform Guidance and includes three companion documents:
RTC Appendix A: Prior Approval Matrix, RTC Appendix B: Subaward Requirements, and RTC Appendix C: National Policy Requirements).
The Research Terms and Conditions and companion documents are accessible on the NSF website.
NASA Office of Inspector General
To file a complaint regarding denial of equal opportunity or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age; go to
https://oig.nasa.gov/hotline.html
1-800-424-9183
300 E Street, S.W. Suite 8V39
Washington, DC 20546-0001
NASA OIG Hotline
http://missionstem.nasa.gov/filing-a-complaint.htmlResources
Grants.gov
NSSC Grants Payment Package
NASA Research Opportunities Online (NSPIRES)
System for Award Management (SAM)Source: www.nasa.gov
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President Trump Signs Executive Order to Create US Space Academy
President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order on Aug. 28, 2026, to establish the nation’s first U.S. Space Academy at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.Credit: NASATo strengthen the nation’s space workforce and develop the next generation of space leaders, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order on Friday to establish the nation’s first U.S. Space Academy.
The order highlights how space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. The proposed academy would focus technical education with leadership development, discipline, and a commitment to public service, helping ultimately advance U.S. interests in space.
“Given the rapid growth of the U.S. Space Force and commercial space industry, and the expansion of our ambitions to the Moon and far beyond the Moon, it’s clear we will need to educate and train an entire generation of skilled service members, engineers, and civil operators,” said President Trump. “That’s why I will sign an Executive Order to begin the process of creating a new a national academy called the U.S. Space Academy.”
The order also calls on NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman to serve as the chair of a new Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy, and NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson to serve as the executive director. They will work with vice chairs — Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, Michael Kratsios, and Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, Kevin Hassett — and other representatives from the White House and the interagency on the commission.
“President Trump’s vision for a new academy is a transformational step to educate the engineers, scientists, technicians, operators and even the astronauts who will be necessary for the inspiring future we are pursuing in space. In the years ahead, we will return NASA astronauts to the lunar surface, build the Moon Base, get underway on nuclear power, ignite the orbital economy and launch more missions of science and discovery,” said Isaacman. “I have no doubt that so much of the future talent that will graduate and contribute to these exciting endeavors will be educated at the United States Space Academy.”
A report from the commission to the President is due within 120 days of the signing with recommendations on governance framework, service obligations for graduates, physical location of the academy, legislative requirements, and more.
The signing of “Establishing the United States Space Academy Executive Order,” took place at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston where the President also presented the Artemis II crew members with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.
The Executive Order is the latest from President Trump that demonstrates his commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in space and advancing NASA’s Golden Age exploration and innovation. In December 2025, he signed the Ensuring American Space Superiority, and recently, a new National Space Transportation Policy memorandum on Aug. 20.
Read the full Executive Order on The White House website:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/establishing-the-united-states-space-academy
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Bethany Stevens / Cheryl Warner
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1600
[email protected] / [email protected]Source: www.nasa.gov
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President Honors NASA’s Artemis II Crew with Highest US Space Award
President Donald J. Trump awarded NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor on Aug. 28, 2026, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.Credit: NASAPresident Donald J. Trump awarded NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor Friday for their service during the Artemis II mission. He presented the awards during a ceremony at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, honoring the first medal recipients since 2023.
NASA’s historic Artemis II mission launched on April 1, and splashed down safely in the Pacific Ocean on April 10. The crew members were the first astronauts to launch on the agency’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket, flying aboard NASA’s Orion spacecraft, which the crew named Integrity. During their record-setting mission, the astronauts traveled 252,756 miles from Earth, farther than any humans have traveled before, surpassing a previous record set by Apollo 13 astronauts in 1970. In total, they flew 695,081 miles, including a lunar flyby.
“We gather on these historic grounds to celebrate the immense courage of four intrepid space heroes whose sense of daring and adventure led them further from Earth than anyone has ever traveled ever before,” said President Trump. “Today we’re proudly awarding the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to the remarkable crew of Artemis II. These astronauts did not do it alone. I want to salute all of the engineers, and scientists, launch and landing specialists, everyone at NASA who helped make this mission a great success.”
The Congressional Space Medal of Honor was authorized by Congress in 1969 to recognize an astronaut who in the performance of duties has distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally brave and meritorious efforts, and contributions to the welfare of the nation and humanity. There now are 34 recipients of the award since the beginning of the space program, including the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia who received the award posthumously.
“President Trump’s leadership has put America back on a path to lead the world in space, from creating the Artemis program to giving NASA the resources and mandate to win this new space race,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “The Artemis II crew answered that call with extraordinary skill and courage, showing the world the Moon again and what American leadership and exploration look like at their best. Their achievement was made possible by the exceptional NASA workforce, alongside our industry and international partners, who showed once again what can be accomplished when we commit to big, bold endeavors. We will build on this success as we return to the lunar surface and establish an enduring presence on the Moon.”
The first crewed mission under NASA’s Artemis program paved the way for the 2027 Artemis III test flight in low Earth orbit to demonstrate rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and commercial human landing systems, and the Artemis IV mission in 2028, which will return American astronauts to the lunar surface.
“It was the honor of my lifetime to fly on Integrity around the Moon with Victor, Christina, and Jeremy. Having President Trump here at the agency’s Johnson Space Center to honor NASA and my crew underscores the significance of what our teams accomplished,” said Wiseman, who served as commander of the mission. “I can’t wait to see my friends continue this legacy on Artemis III.”
Glover served as pilot of the Orion spacecraft.
“Piloting Orion for the first time in space was a profound honor, made possible because of the years of hard work, dedication, and expertise by countless individuals dedicating their time and talents to the mission,” said Glover. “We share this recognition with the thousands of people who launched us around the Moon and brought us safely back to Earth.”
Koch served as a mission specialist.
“The response to our mission here on Earth was beyond anything we ever imagined and all we ever hoped for. We are grateful every time we hear from people who followed along with our journey. As team members on this shared mission, we accept this award to honor those who made it happen, from factory floors to clean rooms and mission control rooms,” said Koch.
Hansen also served as a mission specialist.
“It is a privilege to receive the Congressional Space Medal of Honor alongside my Artemis II crewmates,” said Hansen. “I share this recognition with the dedicated teams in Canada, the United States, and our international partners who made the mission possible. Artemis II showed what we can accomplish for humanity when we set ambitious goals and work together. For Canada, the mission and the Artemis program as a whole are about much more than just going back to the Moon. It is about the pursuit of excellence and collaboration.”
As part of a Golden Age of innovation and exploration, NASA will send Artemis astronauts on a series of challenging missions to explore more of the Moon and establish a Moon Base on the lunar surface for long-term exploration. These missions will set the stage for sending the first astronauts — Americans — to Mars. Learn more:
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Bethany Stevens / Cheryl Warner
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1600
[email protected] / [email protected]Brandi Dean / Chelsey Ballarte
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
[email protected] / [email protected]Source: www.nasa.gov
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History of Casino Gambling in the USA
The History of Casino Gambling in the USA is a fascinating journey that spans centuries, reflecting changes in American culture, politics, economics, and entertainment. From informal card games in colonial settlements to the dazzling casino resorts of Las Vegas and the rise of legal online gambling, the industry has undergone remarkable transformations. Today, casino gambling is one of the largest entertainment sectors in the United States, generating billions of dollars annually while supporting tourism, hospitality, and employment.
The evolution of casino gambling has not always been smooth. Throughout history, governments have alternated between banning, regulating, and embracing gambling depending on public opinion and economic conditions. Understanding this timeline helps explain why casino laws vary across different states and why the industry continues to evolve.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or someone looking for modern casino insights through getodds.us, exploring the past provides valuable context for understanding today’s gambling landscape.
Early Gambling in Colonial America
Gambling arrived in North America with European settlers during the 1600s. Colonists brought popular games from England, France, and Spain, including dice games, card games, and lotteries.
Unlike today’s regulated casinos, gambling took place in taverns, inns, private homes, and community gatherings. Lotteries became especially popular because governments used them to fund:
- Roads
- Bridges
- Schools
- Libraries
- Churches
- Military campaigns
Many respected institutions, including several universities, benefited from lottery funding during America’s early years.
Although gambling was common, there were already debates about its morality. Religious leaders frequently criticized excessive gambling, while lawmakers attempted to regulate dishonest operators rather than eliminate gambling entirely.
Gambling During the 1800s
As America expanded westward, gambling spread rapidly across new territories.
Riverboats traveling along the Mississippi River became famous gambling destinations. Professional gamblers traveled from town to town offering poker, blackjack, faro, roulette, and dice games.
Saloons throughout frontier towns became gambling centers where miners, cowboys, merchants, and travelers gathered.
Popular games included:
- Poker
- Faro
- Roulette
- Blackjack
- Craps
- Three-card monte
During the California Gold Rush of 1849, gambling experienced explosive growth. Thousands of prospectors visited mining towns where casinos and gambling halls quickly became profitable businesses.
However, dishonest gambling operations also became widespread. Rigged games, cheating, and organized crime damaged gambling’s reputation, prompting many states to impose restrictions.
The Rise of Riverboat Gambling
Riverboat gambling became one of the defining symbols of nineteenth-century America.
Steamboats carrying passengers and cargo along major rivers often featured professional gambling rooms. Wealthy businessmen and adventurous travelers enjoyed sophisticated gaming experiences while moving between cities.
Poker gained enormous popularity during this era and gradually evolved into the game recognized today.
Despite their glamorous image, many riverboats attracted professional cheats. Some gambling operators manipulated games, while others worked with criminal organizations to exploit inexperienced players.
Public concern eventually contributed to stricter gambling laws throughout many regions.
Anti-Gambling Movement
By the late nineteenth century, anti-gambling campaigns gained momentum.
Religious organizations argued that gambling encouraged:
- Crime
- Alcohol abuse
- Poverty
- Family problems
- Corruption
Many political leaders supported stricter laws to improve public morality.
As a result:
- Numerous gambling halls closed.
- Lotteries were outlawed in many states.
- Professional gambling became increasingly underground.
By the early 1900s, legal gambling opportunities had almost disappeared across much of the United States.
Nevada Changes Everything
The most significant turning point in the History of Casino Gambling in the USA occurred in 1931.
Facing severe economic hardship during the Great Depression, Nevada legalized casino gambling.
State lawmakers hoped legalized gambling would:
- Create jobs
- Increase tourism
- Generate tax revenue
- Stimulate economic growth
Their decision transformed the state’s future.
Small casinos first appeared in Reno and Las Vegas. Initially, these establishments were modest compared to today’s mega-resorts.
However, legalization attracted investors eager to capitalize on growing tourism.
The Birth of Las Vegas
Las Vegas rapidly became America’s gambling capital.
Several factors contributed to its growth:
Construction Workers
Thousands of workers building Hoover Dam needed entertainment during their free time.
Tourism
Travelers driving across the Southwest found Las Vegas an attractive stop.
Legal Gambling
Since gambling remained illegal in most other states, Las Vegas offered a unique experience unavailable elsewhere.
By the 1940s and 1950s, casinos expanded into luxury resorts offering:
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Live entertainment
- Fine dining
- Shopping
- Swimming pools
Visitors increasingly viewed Las Vegas as both a vacation destination and a gambling paradise.
Organized Crime’s Influence
During the mid-twentieth century, organized crime played a significant role in casino development.
Several mob figures financed casino construction because traditional banks often refused gambling-related investments.
While these investments helped expand Las Vegas, criminal influence also led to:
- Money laundering
- Tax evasion
- Skimming casino profits
- Corruption
Beginning in the 1960s and 1970s, federal investigations and stricter regulations gradually reduced organized crime’s control over casinos.
Corporate ownership eventually replaced many mob-connected businesses.
Atlantic City Enters the Industry
Another milestone occurred in 1976.
New Jersey voters approved casino gambling in Atlantic City.
The objective was to revitalize the city’s declining tourism industry.
Casinos quickly became major attractions, drawing visitors from across the East Coast.
Atlantic City offered an alternative to Las Vegas for millions of Americans who preferred shorter travel distances.
Large hotel-casino developments created thousands of jobs while increasing state tax revenues.
Native American Gaming Revolution
The next major chapter began during the 1980s.
Native American tribes argued they possessed sovereign rights to operate gaming facilities on tribal lands.
Several legal battles eventually reached the U.S. Supreme Court.
Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988.
The legislation established rules for tribal gaming while recognizing tribal authority under federal oversight.
Since then, tribal casinos have expanded dramatically across the country.
Today, hundreds of tribal casinos operate in numerous states, contributing significantly to local economies while funding:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Infrastructure
- Housing
- Community services
Native American gaming remains one of the most important developments in modern casino history.
Commercial Casino Expansion
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, more states legalized commercial casinos.
Economic benefits motivated many legislatures to reconsider previous gambling bans.
States introduced various casino formats, including:
- Riverboat casinos
- Racetrack casinos
- Destination resorts
- Urban casinos
Legal gambling expanded beyond Nevada and New Jersey into many regions.
Each state established unique regulations covering licensing, taxation, responsible gambling, and consumer protection.
Modern Casino Resorts
Today’s casino resorts offer far more than gambling.
Modern properties combine gaming with world-class entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Luxury hotels
- Celebrity restaurants
- Concert venues
- Shopping malls
- Golf courses
- Nightclubs
- Spa facilities
- Convention centers
Many guests now visit casino resorts primarily for vacations rather than gambling alone.
This diversification has made casinos major contributors to tourism industries across the United States.
Technology Changes Gambling
Technology has dramatically reshaped casino gambling over the past few decades.
Electronic innovations introduced:
- Video poker
- Electronic blackjack
- Digital roulette
- Automated craps
- Ticket-based slot systems
Casinos also implemented sophisticated player rewards programs using digital tracking systems.
These loyalty programs allow casinos to provide personalized promotions based on customer activity.
Technology has improved both operational efficiency and customer convenience.
The Rise of Online Gambling
Internet technology created entirely new gambling opportunities.
Initially, online gambling operated within uncertain legal frameworks.
Over time, several states legalized regulated online casino gaming.
Today, eligible players in participating states can legally enjoy:
- Online slots
- Digital blackjack
- Online roulette
- Video poker
- Live dealer games
Regulated platforms emphasize:
- Identity verification
- Responsible gambling
- Secure payments
- Fair gaming standards
As online gambling continues expanding, trusted resources like getodds.us help players stay informed about legal gaming options, industry developments, and responsible gambling practices.
Sports Betting Changes the Industry
A major legal shift occurred in 2018 when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on state-authorized sports betting.
Following the decision, numerous states legalized sportsbooks.
Many casino operators integrated sports betting with:
- Retail sportsbooks
- Mobile betting apps
- Casino loyalty programs
The combination of casinos and sports wagering has become one of the industry’s fastest-growing sectors.
Responsible Gambling Becomes a Priority
Modern casinos place increasing emphasis on responsible gambling.
Operators now provide resources including:
- Self-exclusion programs
- Deposit limits
- Time reminders
- Educational materials
- Support services
Regulators also require casinos to maintain strict standards for:
- Consumer protection
- Financial transparency
- Fair gaming
- Security
These initiatives help create safer gambling environments while reducing potential harm.
Economic Impact of Casino Gambling
Casino gambling has become a major economic contributor across the United States.
The industry supports millions of jobs directly and indirectly through:
- Hospitality
- Tourism
- Food services
- Entertainment
- Construction
- Technology
- Transportation
Tax revenues generated by casinos often fund:
- Public education
- Infrastructure projects
- Healthcare
- Community development
- Emergency services
Many local economies depend heavily on casino-related tourism and employment.
Challenges Facing the Industry
Despite its success, the casino industry continues facing several challenges.
These include:
- Increasing competition
- Regulatory changes
- Cybersecurity threats
- Responsible gambling concerns
- Economic uncertainty
Casinos must continuously adapt through innovation while maintaining compliance with evolving regulations.
Technology, customer preferences, and state legislation will likely continue shaping the industry’s future.
What Does the Future Hold?
The future of casino gambling in the United States appears increasingly digital.
Industry trends include:
- Expansion of regulated online casinos
- Greater mobile gaming adoption
- Artificial intelligence for customer experiences
- Cashless casino technology
- Enhanced cybersecurity
- Personalized rewards programs
At the same time, traditional casino resorts continue investing in luxury entertainment experiences that attract visitors beyond gambling.
The balance between physical destinations and digital gaming platforms will likely define the industry’s next chapter.
Conclusion
The History of Casino Gambling in the USA demonstrates how gambling evolved from informal colonial games into one of America’s largest entertainment industries. Along the way, shifting public attitudes, legal reforms, economic needs, and technological innovation shaped the casino landscape we know today.
From riverboats and frontier saloons to Las Vegas mega-resorts, tribal gaming, online casinos, and mobile betting, each era introduced new opportunities and new challenges. Strict regulation, responsible gambling initiatives, and technological advancements continue improving the industry while protecting consumers.
For readers interested in learning more about modern casino trends, legal gambling updates, and industry insights, getodds.us serves as a valuable resource alongside an understanding of the rich history that built today’s American casino industry.
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What Is RTP in Online Casinos?
If you’ve ever played at an online casino, you’ve probably come across the term RTP. Whether you’re spinning slots, playing blackjack, or trying games at a crypto casino USA, understanding RTP can help you make smarter decisions. Many players focus only on bonuses or jackpots, but RTP is one of the most important factors when choosing where to play.
For anyone exploring the best crypto casino or searching for a trusted bitcoin casino USA, RTP provides valuable insight into how much a game is designed to return to players over time. While it doesn’t guarantee short-term winnings, it does help you compare games and identify those with better long-term value.
As more crypto gambling sites enter the market, players are paying closer attention to fairness, transparency, and payout percentages. Most reputable platforms publish RTP information so users can understand the expected return before placing bets. This transparency is one reason why cryptocurrency casinos have become increasingly popular among experienced gamblers.
In this guide, you’ll learn what RTP means, how it works, why it matters, and how you can use it to improve your online casino experience.
Understanding RTP in Online Casinos
RTP stands for Return to Player. It is expressed as a percentage and represents the amount of wagered money that a casino game is expected to return to players over a very long period.
For example, if a slot machine has an RTP of 96%, it means that for every $100 wagered collectively by all players, the game is expected to return around $96 in winnings while the remaining $4 becomes the casino’s theoretical profit, also known as the house edge.
It’s important to understand that RTP is based on millions of simulated or real game rounds. It does not predict what will happen during your individual gaming session.
A player may:
Win a large jackpot after only a few spins.
Lose several sessions in a row.
Break even during a short visit.All of these outcomes are completely normal because RTP only reflects long-term mathematical expectations.
How RTP Actually Works
Every licensed online casino game is developed using mathematical algorithms that determine possible outcomes. These algorithms generate random results through a Random Number Generator (RNG), ensuring every spin or hand is independent.
RTP is calculated during game development using millions of simulated rounds. Developers analyze every possible outcome and determine what percentage of wagers should theoretically be returned to players.
Here’s a simple example:
Total bets placed: $10,000,000
Total winnings paid: $9,600,000RTP Calculation:
($9,600,000 ÷ $10,000,000) × 100 = 96% RTP
This doesn’t mean every player receives exactly 96% back. Some players may hit life-changing jackpots, while others may experience losing streaks.
RTP vs House Edge
Many beginners confuse RTP with house edge, but they’re actually opposite measurements.
RTP House Edge
Percentage returned to players Percentage kept by the casino
Higher is better Lower is better
Example: 97% RTP Example: 3% House EdgeThe formula is simple:
House Edge = 100% − RTP
Examples:
99% RTP = 1% House Edge
97% RTP = 3% House Edge
96% RTP = 4% House Edge
94% RTP = 6% House EdgeThis is why experienced gamblers often choose games with higher RTP values, especially when playing at the best bitcoin casino or trusted crypto gambling sites.
Why RTP Matters for Crypto Casino Players
Players using cryptocurrencies often focus on fast withdrawals, privacy, and lower transaction fees. However, RTP is equally important because it affects your long-term expected returns.
When comparing two games that appear similar, the RTP can make a noticeable difference over hundreds or thousands of wagers.
For example:
Game A
RTP: 94%
Game B
RTP: 97%
Although the difference seems small, over many sessions, Game B statistically returns significantly more money to players.
Most reputable crypto casino USA platforms display RTP information directly within the game details, allowing players to compare games before wagering Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or other cryptocurrencies.
RTP in Different Casino Games
Not every casino game offers the same RTP. Some games naturally provide better long-term returns than others.
Online Slots
Slot machines usually offer RTP between 94% and 98%.
Popular high-RTP slots often attract experienced players because they provide better mathematical value while still offering exciting jackpots and bonus features.
Blackjack
Blackjack has one of the highest RTP percentages available.
When played using optimal basic strategy, many blackjack games exceed 99% RTP, making them a favorite among skilled players.
This is why many experienced gamblers visiting a bitcoin casino USA spend more time at blackjack tables than playing low-RTP slots.
Roulette
Roulette RTP depends on the version.
European Roulette: approximately 97.30%
American Roulette: approximately 94.74%The extra double-zero pocket in American Roulette increases the casino’s advantage.
Baccarat
Baccarat is another excellent option for players seeking higher RTP.
The Banker bet generally offers an RTP close to 98.94%, making it one of the strongest choices on many crypto gambling sites.
Video Poker
Certain video poker variations provide RTPs above 99%, especially when players use the correct strategy.
Games like Jacks or Better are popular because they combine skill with excellent long-term returns.
RTP and Volatility: Understanding the Difference
Many new players assume that a high RTP means frequent wins. This isn’t always true because RTP and volatility measure completely different aspects of a casino game.
RTP tells you how much money is expected to return to players over the long run.
Volatility, also called variance, describes how those payouts are distributed.
A high-volatility slot may:
Pay fewer wins
Offer much larger jackpots
Create longer losing streaksA low-volatility slot may:
Produce smaller but more frequent wins
Have steadier gameplay
Be better suited for longer gaming sessionsThe ideal combination depends on your playing style. Some players prefer consistent entertainment, while others enjoy chasing large payouts at the best crypto casino.
