Hold Percentage

Hold percentage, often referred to simply as "hold," is a key metric in casino operations representing the actual amount of cash a casino wins from its gaming tables or machines over a specific period.

Understanding Hold Percentage

It is calculated by dividing the actual cash won by the casino (the "hold") by the total cash players bought in with (the "buy-in" or "drop"). Unlike the House Edge, which is a theoretical mathematical advantage (e.g., 2.7% in Roulette), hold percentage reflects the real-world operational outcome.

Actual vs. Theoretical: Why Hold is Higher

In land-based casinos, the hold percentage is frequently significantly higher than the theoretical house edge, often ranging from 10% to 20% or more. This difference is primarily due to player behavior: players often re-bet their winnings multiple times. Each re-bet exposes their bankroll to the house edge repeatedly, effectively multiplying the casino's actual win rate from the initial buy-in. This dynamic is a core aspect of casino math in practice.

Related Casino Metrics

The table drop refers to the total amount of cash and chips exchanged for cash at a gaming table. It represents the total money players have initially brought to the table to play. This figure is crucial for calculating hold percentage, as it forms the denominator in the hold percentage calculation.

Casino Operations

Hold percentage is a vital performance indicator for casino operations management, providing insight into actual revenue generation and helping to assess game performance, operational efficiency, and profitability. Analyzing hold data allows casinos to make informed decisions regarding game mix, staffing, and marketing strategies.