Few operating levers appear as immediately attractive as increasing slot hold. On paper, the decision can look rational: a modest reduction in Return to Player (RTP) creates an instant improvement in theoretical revenue, often without requiring new capital, new product, or additional labor. For an operator under pressure to improve short-term results, it is an easy number to change and an easy benefit to model.
The problem is that the income statement does not capture the entire customer reaction in the same period. A hold increase may produce a near-term uplift, but in repeat local-player markets it can also reduce time on device, weaken perceived value, shorten visits, lower occupancy, and gradually erode loyalty.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE BY RICK LOPEZ IN THE FALL 2026 EDITION OF GAMING & LEISURE MAGAZINE.