Lottery company's latest results point to changing player habits

The lottery industry is always evolving. We are seeing more and more players using digital options for their lottery play. However, the latest numbers from Brightstar Lottery tell us that traditional lottery games are still the backbone of the business.

Brightstar is one of the world's biggest lottery technology providers. For its second-quarter numbers in 2026, they said that worldwide iLottery bets are still growing at a double-digit pace. At the same time, Brightstar said draw games and scratch-off tickets continue to make the most money for state lotteries. This just shows us that retail lottery sales remain strong.

Digital growth continues

While announcing its second-quarter earnings, Brightstar CEO Vince Sadusky stated:

Better-than-expected second quarter profits were driven by global same-store sales expansion and disciplined operational management, even as we invest in long-term growth initiatives.

One of the big takeaways from these earnings was the continued growth in online lottery play.

Sadusky said, “Global iLottery wagers continue to grow at a double-digit pace." He added that recent investments by the company will position it for stronger revenue and cash flow going forward.

Brightstar didn't disclose the exact amount by which iLottery sales have increased. However, all trends show that many lotteries around the world have been experiencing the same thing in recent years. More players are buying tickets using official state lottery mobile apps and websites.

Traditional lottery games still top the leaderboard

Yes, we have seen a growth in digital sales. However, Brightstar's numbers show that traditional lottery products continue to make up most of the business.

During the second quarter of 2026, the company generated $517 million from instant ticket and draw game wager-based revenue. This compares to just $17 million tied to U.S. multi-state jackpot wagering. Overall, the company's total revenue for the quarter totaled $584 million.

This clearly shows that scratch-off tickets and regular draw games remain the primary drivers of lottery spending. This is even though online lottery sales have become a larger piece of the market.

For lottery players, that means retailers continue to play a huge role in the lottery ecosystem, even while digital purchasing options expand.

What does this mean for players?

Brightstar provides technology and services to almost 90 lottery customers around the world. This includes being the primary lottery system for 26 of the 46 lottery jurisdictions in the United States.

Since they have such a big reach, Brightstar's investment priorities can influence how players interact with lotteries in the future.

Because of strong cash generation during the first half of the year, Chief Financial Officer Max Chiara said it's helped fund investments while allowing the company to continue improving efficiency.

Brightstar was also able to reaffirm its financial outlook for 2026. They expect more than 5% organic revenue growth while continuing to invest in new technology and digital initiatives.

For lottery players, the message is pretty clear: online lottery play is becoming increasingly important. However, traditional games won't be going anywhere anytime soon.

Instead, these latest numbers suggest the future of the lottery industry will likely be a blend of both. This gives players more ways to play while also preserving the familiar retail experience that continues to generate the most lottery sales.

Enjoy playing the lottery, and please remember to play responsibly.