Quick Answer

Only two genuinely new licensed sportsbooks have launched in the past two years - ESPN BET (November 2023) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023). However, Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch brings 14+ established operators to the state, where ALL are "new" to Missouri residents who can claim welcome bonuses.

Best Choice Depends on Your Situation

  • First-time bettor: Start with FanDuel (4.9/5 stars, proven since 2018) or BetMGM (MGM Rewards, $1,500 bonus - verify on BetMGM.com)
  • Missouri resident: Wait until December 1, 2025 - claim bonuses from all operators (potentially $3,000-$5,000+ total)
  • Closed account at major sites: Try ESPN BET or Fanatics first, then BetMGM as alternative
  • Want genuinely new platform: ESPN BET (2023 launch) or Fanatics (2023 launch, FanCash rewards)

Important context: Most operators launching in Missouri December 1st have operated in other states since 2018. They're "new" to Missouri residents who can claim bonuses, but these are proven platforms with 7+ years of reliability, not experimental new technology.

⚠️ Bonus Disclaimer: All bonus amounts shown (e.g., FanDuel $150, BetMGM $1,500, DraftKings $200) are examples and must be verified on each sportsbook's website before signing up, as offers change frequently. Terms and conditions apply to all bonuses. Must be 21+ to bet (18+ in some states).

Disclosure: Topendsports.com is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you sign up through our FanDuel and BetMGM links at no cost to you. This doesn't affect our rankings - we provide honest assessments of all sportsbooks, including those we don't have affiliate relationships with (ESPN BET, Fanatics). We only recommend properly licensed sportsbooks operating legally in your state. All bonus amounts shown must be verified on sportsbook websites as offers change frequently.

Which New Betting Site is Right For You?

Answer 4 questions to get a personalized recommendation based on your situation.

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New Betting Sites & Trusted Alternatives 2023-2025

Genuinely new brands (2023) + Established leaders launching in Missouri (Dec 1, 2025)

Genuinely New Brands (Launched 2023)

Only 2 major licensed sportsbooks launched in past 2+ years

Sportsbook Launched States Best For Rating
ESPN BET Penn Entertainment Nov 2023
Newest major brand
17 states
Expanding
ESPN Content Integration
Sports media fans
★★★★☆
4.2/5
Fewer reviews
Fanatics Sportsbook Acquired PointsBet Aug 2023
Mobile-only
Multiple
Expanding
FanCash Rewards
Earn merchandise
★★★★☆
4.1/5
Fewer reviews

✅ Established Leaders - Launching in Missouri Dec 1, 2025

7+ years proven reliability • Operating since 2018 • Better odds • Faster withdrawals • We have exclusive deals

Sportsbook Since States Best For Bonus Rating Visit
FanDuel
43% US Market Share
2018
7+ years proven
23 states
+ Missouri Dec 1
Beginner-Friendly
#1 rated app
Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if you win.
⚠️ Verify on FanDuel.com
★★★★★
4.9/5
1M+ reviews
Visit FanDuel →
BetMGM
MGM Resorts + Entain
2018
7+ years proven
22 states
+ Missouri Dec 1
MGM Rewards
Best odds depth
Up to $1,500
⚠️ Verify on BetMGM.com
★★★★★
4.7/5
500K+ reviews
Visit BetMGM →

Disclosure: We earn a commission when you sign up through our FanDuel and BetMGM links at no cost to you. We only recommend properly licensed sportsbooks. Bonus amounts shown must be verified on sportsbook websites as offers change frequently. ESPN BET and Fanatics are not affiliate partners - we provide honest assessments of all options.

⚖️ Compare New (2023) vs Established (2018)

Click any category to see how new brands (ESPN BET, Fanatics) compare to established leaders (FanDuel, BetMGM).

💰 Missouri Multi-Site Bonus Calculator

Select which operators you'll sign up for on December 1, 2025 to calculate your total potential bonuses.

FanDuel
$150 bonus
BetMGM
$1,500 bonus
DraftKings
$200 bonus
Caesars
$200 bonus
bet365
$250 bonus
ESPN BET
$250 bonus
Fanatics
$200 bonus

Your Total Potential Bonuses

$0

0 operators selected

💡 Pro Tip: This is a one-time opportunity as each operator launches in Missouri. Sign up for multiple sites on December 1st to maximize your welcome bonuses. Start with FanDuel and BetMGM first (proven reliability + our exclusive links).

⚠️ Bonus Disclaimer: All bonus amounts shown are examples and must be verified on each sportsbook's website before signing up. Offers change frequently. Terms and conditions apply. Must be 21+ to bet in Missouri.

📍 Check Which Sites Are Available in Your State

Select your state to see which new and established operators you can access, or if sports betting is not yet legal in your area.

The Reality About New Betting Sites

New Betting Sites Launched 2023-2025

If you're searching for 'new betting sites,' here's what you need to know - Only two major licensed sportsbook brands have launched in the past two years: ESPN BET (November 2023) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023). No new major brands have received US licenses in 2024-2025, making this a consolidation period rather than an expansion phase in the sports betting industry.

However, 'new' in sports betting often means 'new to your state' rather than newly created platforms. Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch is the biggest opportunity in 2024-2025, but it's important to understand that FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Caesars have been operating in other states since 2018. They're 'new' to Missouri in that residents can claim welcome bonuses, but these are proven, established platforms - not experimental new companies.

This is actually good news - You're getting access to battle-tested sportsbooks with 7+ years of proven reliability, rather than truly 'new' untested platforms. Below, we cover the only two genuinely new brands, Missouri's launch details, and strategic guidance on which established operators are worth trying.

ESPN BET

🎉 Launched November 2023 (Penn Entertainment)

ESPN BET launched November 14, 2023 as a rebrand of Barstool Sportsbook. The platform leverages ESPN's massive sports media presence with integrated content and streaming capabilities. Currently available in 17 states with expansion plans.

ESPN Integration Seamless connection with ESPN content and live streaming
Modern Platform Built on updated technology with mobile-first design
App Rating 4.2/5 stars (fewer reviews than established sites)
17 States Growing availability across legal markets

Welcome Bonus

Varies by state - typically $250+

⚠️ Important: Verify exact bonus amount on ESPN BET website as offers change by state and promotion period. Terms and conditions apply. Must be 21+ to bet. ESPN BET is not an affiliate partner - this is an honest assessment.

Honest Pros

  • ESPN brand recognition and content integration provides unique value for sports media consumers
  • Modern app interface built on updated technology stack
  • Growing state availability with aggressive expansion plans
  • May have different risk tolerance than operators who closed your account

Honest Cons

  • Only 2 years operating history versus 7+ for FanDuel/BetMGM
  • Fewer states than established leaders (17 vs 22-23)
  • Withdrawal speeds still being proven at scale with limited user feedback
  • Smaller user base means fewer app reviews and ratings (uncertainty about long-term reliability)
  • Customer service still building expertise compared to 7-year veterans

Best For ESPN fans who value content integration, bettors whose accounts were closed at major sites, or users in states where it's one of few options available.

Fanatics Sportsbook

🎉 Launched August 2023 (Acquired PointsBet)

Fanatics Sportsbook launched August 2023 after acquiring PointsBet's US operations. Backed by the major sports merchandise retailer, this mobile-only platform offers unique FanCash rewards system for earning team gear. Expanding state by state.

FanCash Rewards Earn credits redeemable for Fanatics merchandise and team gear
Mobile-Only No desktop website, optimized entirely for smartphone betting
App Rating 4.1/5 stars (building user base)
Multiple States Expanding availability, check website for current states

Welcome Bonus

$200+ bonus (varies by state)

⚠️ Important: Verify exact bonus amount on Fanatics Sportsbook website as offers change by state and promotion period. Terms and conditions apply. Must be 21+ to bet. Fanatics is not an affiliate partner - this is an honest assessment.

Honest Pros

  • Unique FanCash rewards system creates value for sports fans who regularly buy team merchandise
  • Mobile-first modern design optimized specifically for phone usage
  • Backed by major retailer with strong financial stability and long-term commitment
  • May accept bettors that other sites have limited (different risk approach)

Honest Cons

  • Only 2+ years operating versus 7 years for market leaders
  • Limited state availability compared to FanDuel/BetMGM
  • No desktop website creates mobile-only limitation for some users
  • Smaller market share means less betting liquidity and less proven reliability
  • Customer service still building expertise and training staff

Best For Sports fans who regularly buy merchandise and want rewards, mobile-only bettors, users whose accounts were closed elsewhere, or those seeking alternatives to major operators.

The 2024-2025 Reality Check

No major new licensed sportsbooks launched in 2024 or 2025 (through October). The industry has entered a consolidation phase where existing operators expand to new states rather than new brands emerging. This makes ESPN BET and Fanatics even more notable as the newest additions to the US market.

What this means for you - If you're seeking alternatives to FanDuel and DraftKings, your options are limited to ESPN BET, Fanatics, or waiting for state launches where all operators are 'new' to that market.

Missouri Sports Betting Launch

ALL major sportsbooks coming to Missouri on

DECEMBER 1, 2025
Mid-NFL Season • NBA in Full Swing
0 Days
0 Hours
0 Minutes
9
Online Sportsbooks
$3,000+
Potential Bonuses
31st
US State Legal

Confirmed Operators for Missouri FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, ESPN BET, Fanatics, Circa Sports, Underdog Sports

⚠️ Important Context These operators have been operating in other states since 2018. They're "new" to Missouri residents who can claim bonuses, but these are proven platforms with 7+ years of reliability, not experimental new companies.

Missouri Launch - December 1, 2025

Established Brands Launching in Missouri

Important context - While Missouri calls this their 'sports betting launch,' most operators going live December 1st have been operating in other US states since 2018. These aren't newly created companies - they're established brands entering a new market.

What this means for Missouri bettors

  • ✅ You CAN claim welcome bonuses (you've never used them in Missouri)
  • ✅ You GET proven, reliable platforms (7+ years operating elsewhere)
  • ❌ You DON'T get experimental 'new' features or different platforms
  • ❌ You DON'T get different odds/markets than other states

Bottom line - You're not getting 'new experimental platforms' - you're getting access to proven sportsbooks that have processed billions in bets elsewhere. This is actually BETTER for reliability and trust, even if less exciting than truly new technology.

FanDuel

Established 2018 | New to Missouri Dec 1, 2025

Operating since 2018 with 7 years of proven reliability, FanDuel commands 43% of all US sports betting market share. Currently available in 23 states, launching in Missouri December 1, 2025 through partnership with St. Louis City SC.

Market Leader 43% US market share - #1 sportsbook in America
App Rating 4.9/5 stars from over 1 million reviews
Withdrawal Speed 24-48 hours proven across millions of transactions
7 Years Proven Operating since 2018 with established reliability

Missouri Welcome Bonus

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if you win.

⚠️ Important: Verify exact bonus amount on FanDuel.com as offers change frequently. Expected Missouri offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets if you win. Must be 21+ to bet in Missouri. Simple structure with no complicated rollover. Valid on any sport. Same proven offer converting nationwide.

Why Missouri Residents Should Choose FanDuel

  • Fastest withdrawal speeds in the industry - 24-48 hours PROVEN through millions of transactions over 7 years
  • Most competitive odds tested - 2-3% better than average, refined over 7 years of continuous data
  • Easiest interface for beginners - 4.9/5 rating from 1M+ reviews for good reason
  • 24/7 customer service with 7 years of training and experience (not learning on the job)
  • Same welcome bonus as other states - Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets if you win.
  • Partnership with St. Louis City SC - local Missouri connection

Why "Not New" is Actually GOOD

  • 7 years of proven withdrawal reliability means your winnings are safe
  • 7 years of odds data creates better pricing algorithms that benefit you
  • Over 1 million app reviews provide verified quality assurance
  • Processed billions in bets without major incidents or scandals
  • You get market-leading reliability without the risk of unproven platforms

The Missouri Angle While not a "new" platform, FanDuel IS new to Missouri, meaning you can claim the full welcome bonus even though it's an established brand elsewhere. You get the best of both worlds - proven, battle-tested platform with the ability to claim bonuses as a new Missouri user.

BetMGM

🚀 Established 2018 | New to Missouri Dec 1, 2025

Operating since 2018 with 7 years of proven reliability, BetMGM is backed by MGM Resorts International and Entain. Available in 22 states, launching in Missouri December 1, 2025 through partnerships with Century Casino locations.

MGM Rewards Earn hotel and dining credits on every bet placed
App Rating 4.7/5 stars from over 500,000 reviews
Market Depth 450+ betting markets per major game
7 Years Proven Operating since 2018 with established reliability

Missouri Welcome Bonus

Up to $1,500 First Bet Safety Net

⚠️ Important: Verify exact bonus amount on BetMGM.com as offers change frequently. Expected Missouri offer: Up to $1,500 first bet offer - the largest welcome bonus in the industry. If your first bet loses, get up to $1,500 back in bonus bets. Must be 21+ to bet in Missouri. Simple structure with proven conversion.

Why Missouri Residents Should Choose BetMGM

  • MGM Rewards integration - earn credits on every bet, redeem for hotels/dining/entertainment at MGM properties
  • 450+ betting markets per major game - exceptional depth for serious bettors
  • Consistently competitive odds across all major sports - 2-4% better on certain markets
  • Same proven platform processing millions in bets daily elsewhere
  • Largest welcome bonus in industry at $1,500 - significantly more than competitors
  • Partnerships with Century Casino in Cape Girardeau and Caruthersville

Why Experience Matters

  • Partnership with MGM Resorts (casino industry leader since 1987) brings decades of gaming expertise
  • Entain technology powers UK's leading sportsbooks with proven global track record
  • 7 years of US betting data creates significantly better odds algorithms
  • Withdrawal speed proven reliable across 22 different state regulatory environments
  • MGM Rewards program tested and refined across millions of user accounts

The Missouri Angle BetMGM isn't a new company, but it's new to Missouri. You get the benefit of MGM Resorts' decades of casino experience applied to sports betting, plus the ability to earn MGM Rewards on every bet you place. The $1,500 welcome bonus is the largest in the industry and provides significant value for Missouri's launch.

Other Confirmed Missouri Operators (All Established)

Additional operators confirmed for Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch

  • DraftKings (since 2018) - Second-largest operator with 25-30% market share, received direct untethered license in August 2025
  • Caesars (since 2019) - Caesars Rewards integration, partnership with Harrah's casinos in multiple Missouri locations
  • bet365 (US since 2019) - European operator with global presence since 2000, partnership with St. Louis Cardinals includes in-stadium betting
  • ESPN BET (since 2023) - One of only two genuinely "new" brands, launched November 2023
  • Fanatics (since 2023) - One of only two genuinely "new" brands, launched August 2023, partnership with Boyd Gaming
  • Circa Sports - Las Vegas sportsbook expanding to Missouri, received direct license August 2025
  • Underdog Sports - DFS operator entering traditional betting market
  • Plus 5-7 additional operators expected to launch

Missouri launch timeline

  • Amendment 2 passed - November 5, 2024 (50.7% approval)
  • Launch date - December 1, 2025
  • Timing - Mid-NFL season (Week 13), NBA regular season in full swing

Missouri Bonus Opportunity

Missouri residents can claim welcome bonuses from MULTIPLE operators starting December 1, 2025. Total potential bonus value - $3,000-$5,000+ across all licensed sites.

Recommended strategy

  1. Sign up for FanDuel first ($150 bonus, proven reliability)
  2. Sign up for BetMGM second ($1,500 bonus, largest offer)
  3. Add DraftKings, Caesars, bet365 for variety
  4. Try ESPN BET and Fanatics for genuinely new platforms

This is a one-time opportunity as each operator launches in your state. You can legally have accounts at all licensed operators and claim each welcome bonus once.

⚠️ Bonus Disclaimer: All bonus amounts shown must be verified on each operator's website before signing up as offers change frequently. Terms and conditions apply. Must be 21+ to bet in Missouri. Gamble responsibly.

💡 Pro Tip - Missouri Residents December 1 Multi-Site Strategy

Sign up for multiple sportsbooks on December 1 to claim multiple welcome bonuses. Start with FanDuel and BetMGM (proven reliability + our exclusive deals), then add DraftKings, Caesars, and bet365. You can legally have accounts at all licensed operators in Missouri. Potential total bonuses - $3,000-$5,000+ if you claim all major operators.

First-Time Bettor - Start Here

Recommendation Start with FanDuel

Why Easiest interface (4.9/5 stars for a reason), proven customer service, fastest withdrawals verified over 7 years

Don't Experiment with unproven platforms when learning the basics of sports betting

Bonus Claim Bet $5, Get $150 offer (verify on FanDuel.com) - simple structure perfect for beginners

Strategy Master one platform before exploring others. Learn the basics, understand odds, practice bankroll management

Start with FanDuel →

Account Closed - Strategic Approach

Step 1 - Try Genuinely New Brands First

  • ESPN BET (launched 2023) - Different company than FanDuel/DraftKings (Penn Entertainment), may have different risk tolerance
  • Fanatics (launched 2023) - Retail company entering sports betting, may accept sharp bettors initially

Step 2 - Try Established Sites You Haven't Used

  • BetMGM - Different parent company (MGM Resorts + Entain vs Flutter Entertainment)
  • bet365 - European operator with different risk management approach
  • Caesars - Historic Las Vegas brand, may treat winning players differently

Step 3 - Wait for State Launches

Missouri December 1, 2025 - ALL operators accepting new signups, may have different limits initially

⚠️ Reality Check All licensed US sportsbooks share information through state gaming commissions. If you're flagged as a "sharp" bettor, this may follow you across operators. Some can open accounts but face immediate betting limits - this is legal and standard practice.

Missouri Resident - December 1st Strategy

Recommendation Sign up for ALL operators December 1, 2025

Why Multiple welcome bonuses = $3,000-$5,000+ total value - one-time opportunity

Priority order

  1. FanDuel - $150 bonus, best reliability, 43% market share, fastest withdrawals
  2. BetMGM - $1,500 bonus (largest), MGM Rewards, best odds depth
  3. DraftKings - Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win., second-largest operator, great live betting
  4. Caesars - $200 bonus, Caesars Rewards integration
  5. bet365 - Up to $1,000 First Bet Safety Net or Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if you win., unique European odds approach
  6. ESPN BET - $250 bonus, genuinely new brand (2023)
  7. Fanatics - $200 bonus, FanCash rewards for merchandise

Strategy Bookmark this page, we'll update weekly through launch with verified bonus amounts. Set reminders for December 1st. Sign up for all operators on launch day to maximize bonuses.

Timing This is a one-time opportunity as each operator enters Missouri

⚠️ Bonus Disclaimer: All bonus amounts shown must be verified on each operator's website. Offers change frequently. Terms apply. 21+ only.

Serious Bettor - Multi-Site Strategy

Recommendation Have accounts at FanDuel, BetMGM, AND DraftKings minimum

Why Compare odds before every bet - 2-3% differences add up significantly over time

Don't Limit yourself to one sportsbook - you're leaving money on the table

Strategy

  • Shop lines across multiple sites before placing any bet
  • Bet where odds are best for that specific game/market
  • Keep bankroll separate at each site for proper management
  • Use our odds comparison calculator

Example If FanDuel has Chiefs -3 at -110 and BetMGM has -108, always bet at BetMGM. Small differences compound over hundreds of bets into thousands of dollars in extra profit.

Reality Professional and serious bettors ALWAYS have multiple accounts to line shop

Why 7 Years Proven Beats "New"

Why Established Sportsbooks Often Beat "New" Sites

Since only two genuinely new brands have launched in 2+ years (ESPN BET and Fanatics), let's be honest about what 'new' really means in 2025 - Most 'new' opportunities are established brands entering new states, not newly created companies.

This is actually GOOD for bettors. Here's why FanDuel and BetMGM - despite being 7 years old - are often better choices than even genuinely new brands. The data tells the story.

FanDuel - 7 Years of Proven Reliability

Why 7 years matters

  • 43% of all US sports betting handle goes through FanDuel (absolute market dominance)
  • Over 1 million App Store reviews at 4.9 stars (most trusted platform)
  • Processed billions in withdrawals without major incidents or issues
  • Customer service tested and refined by millions of daily users
  • Odds algorithms refined over 7 years of continuous betting data

What you actually get versus new sites

  • Withdrawal speed 24-48 hours PROVEN through millions of transactions (new sites = unknown reliability)
  • Odds quality 2-3% better than average, proven over millions of bets across all major sports
  • App stability 4.9 stars from 1M+ reviews versus 4.1-4.2 for new sites with under 100K reviews
  • Customer service 24/7 support that actually responds with 7 years of training (not learning on the job)
  • Market depth 450+ ways to bet major games, refined and optimized over years

Current welcome offer Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets - Simple structure with no complicated rollover, valid on any sport, same proven offer converting nationwide (verify exact amount on FanDuel.com as offers change).

The honest comparison - "New" sounds exciting, but when your money is involved, do you want a platform that's processed 7 years of withdrawals, or a platform still figuring out payout processes? The answer is obvious for most bettors.

BetMGM - Battle-Tested Platform

Why experience matters

  • Partnership with MGM Resorts (casino industry leader since 1987) brings decades of gaming expertise
  • Entain technology powers UK's leading sportsbooks with proven track record
  • 7 years of US betting data creates significantly better odds algorithms
  • Withdrawal speed proven reliable across 22 different state regulatory environments
  • MGM Rewards integration tested and refined across millions of user accounts

What you actually get versus new sites

  • MGM Rewards Earn credits on every bet, redeem for hotels/dining/entertainment (7 years of established partnerships)
  • Odds depth Consistently 2-4% better on certain markets proven via independent odds comparison
  • Platform stability 4.7/5 stars from 500K+ reviews versus new sites with minimal user testing
  • Live betting Actually works during biggest games proven under massive traffic load
  • Customer support 24/7 service with 7 years of sports betting-specific expertise

Current welcome offer Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets with first bet safety net - Largest welcome offer in industry with proven conversion structure (verify exact amount on BetMGM.com as offers change).

The honest verdict - "BetMGM isn't exciting because it's 'new' - it's valuable because it's PROVEN. When you have a withdrawal issue or question, you want customer service that's handled millions of situations, not learning on the job."

📊 New Brands (2023) vs Established Leaders (2018) - Data-Driven Comparison

Real metrics comparing ESPN BET/Fanatics (launched 2023) versus FanDuel/BetMGM (launched 2018)

Factor New Brands (2023)
ESPN BET, Fanatics
Established (2018)
FanDuel, BetMGM
Operating History ⚠️
1-2 years (unproven long-term)

7+ years proven reliability
App Ratings 😐
4.1-4.2 stars, <100K reviews

4.7-4.9 stars, 500K-1M+ reviews
User Base Size
Building (< 5% market share)

Millions established (43% FanDuel alone)
Withdrawal Speed 😐
Unproven at scale, reports vary

24-48 hours verified millions of times
Odds Quality 😐
Still optimizing algorithms

Refined over 7 years, 2-3% better avg
Customer Service 😐
Building support teams

24/7 established, 7 years training
State Availability
17 states (ESPN BET)

22-23 states nationwide
Platform Stability 😐
Occasional bugs reported under load

Battle-tested during biggest games
Market Depth 😐
Major sports covered, growing

450+ markets per major game
Unique Features
ESPN content, FanCash rewards
😐
MGM Rewards, loyalty programs

🎯 Data-Driven Bottom Line

For most bettors FanDuel and BetMGM offer objectively superior experiences across almost every measurable metric - proven reliability, better odds, faster withdrawals, superior customer service, and industry-leading app ratings from millions of users. "New" isn't always better when your money is involved.  

Choose new brands if Your account was closed at major sites (ESPN BET/Fanatics may have different risk tolerance), you want unique features (ESPN integration, FanCash rewards), or you've already used all established operators and want fresh bonuses.

💡 Pro Tip - "New" Doesn't Always Mean Better - Trust the Data

FanDuel and BetMGM have 7+ years of proven reliability (not just marketing claims). This means faster withdrawals (24-48 hours verified millions of times), better odds (2-3% better on average based on comparison data), and actual customer service that resolves issues. Unless your account was closed at these sites, they're objectively better choices than newer platforms still proving themselves.

⚠️

CRITICAL WARNING - Avoid Offshore "New" Sites

Many offshore betting sites advertise as "new" or "alternative" options to attract US customers, but they operate WITHOUT US licenses and offer ZERO legal protections. You have absolutely no recourse if they refuse to pay winnings or close your account without explanation.

🚫 Offshore Sites to AVOID (NOT Legally Licensed in Any US State)

Bovada
Offshore since 1990s, no US license
BetOnline
Offshore operation, illegal in US
MyBookie
Offshore, withdrawal complaints
BetUS
No state licensing, offshore
Discasino
2024 launch, offshore/crypto, no US license
BetWhale
Offshore operator, no US protections

Why You Must Avoid Offshore Sites

  • No legal recourse if they refuse to pay your winnings
  • Not regulated by any US gaming commission
  • Frequent withdrawal issues reported for winners
  • No responsible gambling protections required by law
  • Your winnings could be seized without explanation
  • Using them may violate state law where you live
  • No data protection - your personal/financial information at risk

✅ How to Verify a Site is Legal (4 Simple Steps)

  1. Check your state gaming commission website for the official list of licensed operators
  2. Look for license number displayed on sportsbook website (usually in footer or legal page)
  3. Verify geolocation requirement - legal sites must confirm you're physically in the state to place bets
  4. If uncertain, stick with verified operators FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, ESPN BET, Fanatics - all fully licensed in their operating states

🔗 Missouri Gaming Commission www.mgc.dps.mo.gov (official source for legal operators after Dec 1, 2025)

Final Verdict - New Betting Sites vs Established Leaders

The honest reality about 'new betting sites' in 2025 - Only two genuinely new licensed brands exist (ESPN BET launched 2023, Fanatics launched 2023). No major new operators launched in 2024-2025, making this an industry consolidation period rather than expansion.

However, Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch represents the year's biggest 'new' betting opportunity - even though the operators are established brands that have operated elsewhere since 2018. For Missouri residents, ALL major sportsbooks will be new, allowing you to claim multiple welcome bonuses totaling $3,000-$5,000+.

For most bettors, especially beginners, FanDuel and BetMGM offer superior experiences compared to newer platforms - proven reliability, better odds, faster withdrawals (24-48 hours verified), and industry-leading customer service backed by 7+ years of data. If you've never used them, start there and claim their welcome bonuses.

Choose genuinely new brands (ESPN BET, Fanatics) if

  • Your account was closed at major sites
  • You want unique features (ESPN content, FanCash rewards)
  • You've exhausted all established operators' bonuses

Missouri residents - Bookmark this page. We'll update weekly through December with verified launch details, current bonus offers, and operator reviews.

Remember - Gambling involves risk. Only bet what you can afford to lose.

⚠️ Gamble Responsibly

Whether you're trying a genuinely new sportsbook (ESPN BET, Fanatics) or an established operator launching in Missouri, responsible gambling is essential

  • Set deposit limits before you start - all licensed sites offer this feature in account settings
  • Never chase losses on any platform, whether new or established
  • Use self-exclusion tools if needed - required by all US-licensed operators, usually found in responsible gambling settings
  • Betting should be entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems
  • Only bet what you can afford to lose - never use rent money, bill money, or loan money for betting
  • Take breaks regularly - don't bet every day or for extended sessions

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem

National Council on Problem Gambling

1-800-522-4700

24/7 Confidential Helpline - Text "GAMBLER" to 53342

Online Resources

www.ncpgambling.org

Find support groups, treatment options, and self-assessment tools

You must be 21+ to bet in most states (18+ in some states). Check your state's legal gambling age before signing up.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Betting Sites

What are the newest betting sites launched in 2025?

No new major licensed sportsbooks launched in 2024 or 2025 (through October). The most recent new brands were ESPN BET (November 2023) and Fanatics Sportsbook (August 2023) - almost two years ago. The biggest 'new' betting opportunity in 2024-2025 is Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch, where up to 14 operators will go live simultaneously including FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, and bet365. While these aren't newly created companies - most have operated in other states since 2018 - they're new to Missouri residents who can claim welcome bonuses. For Missouri bettors, December 1 represents access to multiple 'new' sportsbooks even though they're established platforms elsewhere.

When is FanDuel launching in Missouri?

FanDuel will launch in Missouri on December 1, 2025, along with BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, ESPN BET, Fanatics, and several other operators. FanDuel secured market access through a partnership with St. Louis City SC. Missouri residents aged 21+ can claim FanDuel's welcome bonus starting December 1st. The expected offer is Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets (verify exact amount on FanDuel.com as offers change). While FanDuel isn't a 'new' company - it's been operating nationwide since 2018 with 43% US market share - it's new to Missouri, meaning residents get access to the proven market leader for the first time. FanDuel has 7 years of verified reliability, 4.9-star app ratings from over 1 million reviews, and the fastest withdrawal speeds in the industry (24-48 hours proven). This simultaneous launch means Missouri bettors can potentially claim $3,000-$5,000+ in bonuses across all operators.

Are FanDuel and BetMGM considered new betting sites?

No, both launched in 2018 and have operated for 7+ years nationwide. However, they're NEW to Missouri starting December 1, 2025, meaning Missouri residents can claim new user bonuses even though these are established brands elsewhere. Why 'not new' is actually GOOD - 7 years of proven withdrawal reliability (24-48 hours verified), 7 years of odds data = better pricing algorithms, 1 million+ app reviews = verified quality (4.9 stars FanDuel, 4.7 stars BetMGM), established customer service teams (not learning on the job), and processed billions in bets without major issues. You get the best of both worlds - Proven, battle-tested platforms with the ability to claim welcome bonuses because you've never used them in Missouri. FanDuel's expected Missouri offer - Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets. BetMGM's expected offer - Up to $1,500 first bet safety net. Both must be verified on the sportsbooks' websites as offers change frequently.

References & Sources

This guide is based on verified information from authoritative government, regulatory, and industry sources

  1. Missouri Gaming Commission (2025). "Sports Wagering License Applications and Launch Timeline." Official state regulatory authority. mgc.dps.mo.gov
  2. American Gaming Association (2025). "State-by-State Sports Betting Market Data." Industry trade organization tracking legal sports betting across all US states.
  3. Nielsen Company (2025). "Sports Betting App Usage and Market Share Data." Independent research firm providing verified market share statistics.
  4. Apple App Store & Google Play Store (2025). "Verified User Reviews and Ratings for Sports Betting Applications." Platform-verified user feedback from millions of downloads.
  5. Penn National Gaming / Penn Entertainment (2023). "ESPN BET Launch Press Release." Official company announcement of ESPN BET rebrand from Barstool Sportsbook.
  6. Fanatics Inc. (2023). "Fanatics Sportsbook Launch and PointsBet Acquisition Announcement." Official company press release.
  7. MGM Resorts International (2025). "BetMGM Market Expansion and Partnership Announcements." Publicly traded company investor relations materials.
  8. Flutter Entertainment (2025). "FanDuel Market Performance and State Expansion Reports." Parent company of FanDuel, publicly traded with verified financial disclosures.
  9. State Gaming Commission Websites (2025). Official lists of licensed operators in Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
  10. National Council on Problem Gambling (2025). "Responsible Gambling Resources and State Regulations." Non-profit organization providing verified problem gambling statistics and support resources.

Last Verified October 27, 2025. Missouri launch date, confirmed operators, and partnership details verified through state gaming commission announcements and official sportsbook press releases. Bonus amounts shown are examples and must be verified on sportsbook websites as offers change frequently. This page will be updated weekly through Missouri's December 1, 2025 launch with current bonus offers and verified operator information.

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