Handle
In sports betting, the term "handle" refers to the total amount of money wagered by bettors on a specific event, game, or over a given period at a sportsbook or casino. It represents the total sum of all bets placed by customers.
The handle is an essential metric for sportsbooks, as it determines their overall betting volume and, consequently, their potential revenue. Sportsbooks use the handle to calculate their gross revenue and profit margins.
For example, if a sportsbook receives $10,000 in bets on a football game, that game's handle is $10,000. If the sportsbook pays out $9,500 to winning bettors, their gross revenue (also known as "hold") is $500.
The handle provides insights into the popularity and betting interest of specific events or games, helping sportsbooks make informed decisions on odds adjustments and marketing strategies.