Hold Percentage Explained: Definition & Guide
Hold percentage is the proportion of total amounts wagered that a casino or gaming machine retains as profit over the long term, typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a pokie machine with a 6% hold percentage keeps $6 from every $100 wagered across thousands of spins. This metric matters to Australian players because it directly reflects the house advantage in electronic gaming machines (EGMs), helping assess long-term expected losses and informing responsible bankroll decisions in licensed venues.
How Hold Percentage Works
Hold percentage represents the casino’s theoretical retention rate from all wagers placed. It is calculated as 100% minus the return to player (RTP) percentage. A game with 94% RTP has a 6% hold. In Australia, pokies in pubs and clubs typically feature hold percentages between 5-15%, regulated by state authorities to ensure fairness. This long-term average applies over millions of plays, not individual sessions.
Hold Percentage vs Player Outcomes
Higher hold percentages mean greater casino profit but lower player returns over time. Players cannot change this fixed mechanic, determined by game maths and random number generators (RNG). Understanding hold helps set realistic expectations—short-term wins occur, but the house edge ensures operator profitability. In regulated Australian markets, holds are audited for compliance.
| Hold % | RTP % | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | 95% | High RTP pokies |
| 8% | 92% | Standard pub EGMs |
| 10% | 90% | Club machines |
| 15% | 85% | Lower return games |
| 20%+ | 80%- | Rare, high hold |
