Stake.us

Company History and Founding

Stake.us was launched in 2022 as the United States–facing extension of the international Stake.com brand, itself founded by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani. The pair previously built the global real-money casino Stake.com and the livestreaming platform Kick, both under the umbrella of their Australian-based company Easygo. The US sweepstakes operation is formally run by Sweepsteaks Limited, a Cyprus-registered company, to comply with US regulations that permit free-to-play casino-style games with redeemable sweepstakes prizes.

Business Model

Stake.us operates on a sweepstakes model, which is legal in most US states. Players purchase packages of Gold Coins (GC) for entertainment, and receive Stake Cash (SC) as a bonus. Stake Cash can be used to enter sweepstakes games, and any winnings in SC can be redeemed for real cash prizes. The platform does not allow direct real-money deposits for betting; instead, it sells virtual coin packages that often include SC bonuses. This model has allowed Stake.us to avoid traditional gambling licensing while offering a casino-like experience. The company generates revenue from the sale of Gold Coin packages and from the house edge on games.

Game Library and Features

Stake.us boasts a library of over 2,500 games sourced from leading providers such as Hacksaw Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and proprietary in-house studios. The platform includes classic slots, table games like blackjack and roulette, and live dealer experiences. A standout feature is the “Provably Fair” system, which allows players to independently verify the randomness of each game outcome using cryptographic hashes. This transparency is a key differentiator in the social casino market.

Market Position and Competition

The US sweepstakes casino market was valued at approximately $4.6 billion in 2026, and Stake.us is among the top players in the space. It competes directly with brands like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker. Stake.us distinguishes itself through its association with the global Stake brand, aggressive sports marketing (including Premier League and UFC sponsorship), and its integration with the Kick streaming platform. However, the platform faces growing legal challenges; as of January 2026, it is unavailable in California, and several other states are considering tighter regulations on sweepstakes casinos.

Partnerships and Marketing

Stake.us has secured high-profile marketing partnerships that boost its visibility. It serves as the main shirt sponsor of English Premier League football club Everton and is an official partner of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). These deals, mirrored by Stake.com internationally, have helped the brand gain mainstream recognition despite the regulatory gray area of sweepstakes casinos.

Regulatory and Legal Environment

While Stake.us operates under sweepstakes laws, it is not licensed as a traditional gambling operator in the US. The platform uses a Cyprus-registered legal entity to navigate US regulations. However, several state regulators have raised concerns about the sweepstakes model, and some states have issued cease-and-desist letters or banned such platforms entirely. Stake.us currently restricts play in California and may face additional state-level restrictions in the future.

VIP Program and Subscriptions

Stake.us offers a tiered VIP and rakeback program that provides cashback on losses and exclusive bonuses. Additionally, a paid subscription service called “Stake.us Subscription” gives members enhanced daily bonuses and priority customer support. These features are designed to increase player retention and lifetime value.