Thomas Jensen of Point-Spreads.com, a website devoted to online betting odds news, has speculated that a harsh economy is good for the growing online casinos.

"People are looking to make a quick buck so they are joining online casinos and more specifically, online jackpot websites," Jensen said.

Affiliate gambling revenues in the internet casino arena have exploded in recent months based on industry feedback.

Jensen’s statement comes at a time when out of control rising petrol prices and a looming recession is hitting Las Vegas hard, with individuals cutting back on their travels both by air and by car.

MGM Mirage announced earnings dropped to US$118.3m compared with $168.2m in the same quarter a year ago. Tropicana Entertainment, owner of 13 casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, as well as several smaller regional venues, have filed for bankruptcy.