As a growing number of U.S. states clamp down on sweepstakes casinos, ClubWPT Gold was prompted to reimagine its traditional dual-currency model.
In 2025, states such as Montana, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Washington, and Nevada enacted laws or regulatory actions that either outlaw sweepstakes casinos entirely or specifically target their use of virtual currencies like Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins.
These legal crackdowns often categorize sweepstakes gambling as illegal under state gambling laws, imposing severe consequences, including felony charges and hefty fines. For instance, Montana and Connecticut now treat the dual-currency sweepstakes model as a felony, compelling many operators to leave these states.
Meanwhile, states like New York and New Jersey are enacting similar restrictions, and others like California and Ohio are considering legislation aimed at sweepstakes casinos.
Finding a Way for Sweepstakes Casinos to Exist
In response to this escalating regulatory pressure, ClubWPT Gold unveiled a new model that shifts away from traditional dual-currency systems.
Under the updated approach, players purchase AI-driven training tools, receiving poker chips in return that can be redeemed for cash.
This strategic pivot appears designed to sidestep the legal barriers associated with the old model, allowing ClubWPT Gold to continue operating amidst the swiftly changing legal landscape.
By aligning with evolving state laws, the company aims to sustain its presence and operations in the U.S. market.
For example, the proposed sweeps-ban bill in California, a pivotal market for online gaming businesses, directly targets the dual-currency system—posing an even greater challenge and opportunity for operators to innovate and adapt.
ClubWPT Gold's New System
ClubWPT Gold used to use two types of currency: Gold Coins for fun games and Sweeps Coins that could be turned into cash or prizes. Now, they have removed Gold Coins and introduced the following changes:
- Hand Analysis Credits: Players spend real money to buy these credits, which are training tools for improving poker skills.
- Chips: For every dollar spent on Hand Analysis credits, players get the same amount in Chips. These Chips work like the old Sweeps Coins and can be used in cash-redeemable poker games and tournaments at a 1:1 ratio with U.S. dollars.
- Gold Coins and free-play games are no longer available. All money spent goes to buying poker training tools.
- Players receive Chips for every dollar spent, which can be used like cash.
This change helps ClubWPT Gold align with new state laws and may offer a template for other companies in the industry.
This new approach is being observed to see if it offers a sustainable path forward for the industry, especially in states tightening regulations.
The Future of Sweepstakes Casinos?
ClubWPT Gold is changing how it operates to keep up with new laws and stay in business.
They're showing other companies a new way to run sweepstakes casinos that might work better with state rules.
If you want to play sweepstakes casino games online, you can start by signing up on a site that offers these games.
You can buy or earn credits to play, and with some luck, you could win cash prizes. Just make sure the site follows the laws in your area so you can play safely and have fun.
Also, always exhibit responsible gambling habits.
