[ScottJ]

Here are five predictions for 2015.

[1] Tote Security Breach : At least one tote provider will uncover a major security breach that leads to a national debate on parimutuel racing security. This breach will be uncovered by an internal IT staff member, who becomes the initial focus of the investigation, but forensics will show that the problem has existed for months prior, funded by large financial players. This will lead to a call for a national tote system similar to NASDAQ opening the game to national exchange wagering. No indictments or prosecutions will result.

[2] International Market Expansion for US Product : In response to a 4.6% decrease in national handle during the first half of 2015, a US-based ADW platform company will lead a marketing effort to bring East Coast racing to Great Britain, France, and Spain in order to increase handle. Turf racing will be featured for the local markets in these prepackaged six race simulcasting events.

[3] Import Signals : While Australia, Japan, and Meydan have led the signal import markets here in the United States, expect that horse racing from India will be part of an overnight offering established during the year.

[4] Saratoga Contraction Impact : The run of great weather that has fueled the "Summer Place to Be" will end with a rainy August resulting in numerous sloppy track programs and significantly shorter fields than expected. The decrease in business will lead to a Belmont-Aqueduct Fall/Winter season of four days per week.

[5] Industry Consolidation : Expect that 2015 will see at least one racetrack (thoroughbred, quarterhorse, or harness) close in Louisiana, New York, and Illinois.