A casino is a building where people can gamble and play games of chance. Some casinos are elaborate entertainment complexes with hotels, shopping centers and theatrical shows. Others are quieter and less luxurious. They all attract visitors and make money by selling them drinks, food, hotel rooms, show tickets and other perks. Most modern casinos are run by large gaming companies, such as Las Vegas Sands or Hilton. These corporations have deep pockets and are not afraid of government crackdowns or mob interference. In addition to gambling, a casino also makes money by allowing players to bet on sports events and races.

The casino has a mathematical advantage over every player in most games, including the most popular ones: roulette, blackjack, craps and video poker. This advantage is determined by the game’s rules, and it can be measured in terms of expected value (or EV). EV for table games is higher than that for slot machines, which are programmed to pay out at specific percentages of total money wagered.

Most casino owners focus on customer service and promotional incentives, rather than strict security measures. This allows them to keep their gross profit margins high. For example, a casino may offer big bettors free spectacular entertainment and transportation, or elegant living quarters in its hotel. It can even give them free meals and cigarettes while they are gambling. This strategy pays off; a 2005 survey by Harrah’s found that females over the age of forty were the largest group of casino gamblers, and women tend to prefer electronic games over table games.