In this episode of the Planet Money podcast, the host delves into the significant shift in American sports gambling following the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that lifted the federal ban. The episode features two prominent figures: Michael Roxborough, a trailblazing Vegas bettor who harnessed statistical analysis for an advantage, and Rufus Peabody, a Yale graduate who employs advanced data techniques and algorithms to outsmart bookmakers. However, the emergence of online betting giants like DraftKings and FanDuel has altered the landscape, making it harder for individual gamblers to consistently find an edge, as these platforms use cutting-edge data to spot and restrict successful players. The podcast discusses the industry's ongoing evolution and raises important questions about the potential social issues stemming from the increasing accessibility and aggressive marketing of sports gambling.
