In a casino, customers gamble by participating in games of chance or skill. While most casino games are based on chance, they have mathematically determined odds to give the house an edge over the players. This advantage, or house edge, is known as the rake. In addition to the rake, customers may receive complimentary items, or “comps” as they play. Generally, the casino’s payout percentage, or house edge, is a percent of the winnings returned to players.

For the casino to remain profitable, it must know the house edge and the variance of a game. Knowing these numbers will help the casino calculate the amount of cash it has to keep its doors open. These are calculated by mathematicians or computer programmers, known as “gaming mathematicians.” In the United States, casinos often outsource this work to professionals. In France, for instance, the advantage is less than one percent. The house edge is lower in France. In the United States, most casinos demand a one percent advantage for roulette, while craps tends to attract big bettors.

Casinos are great at retaining high-end customers, but they must keep in mind that few gamblers spend tens of thousands of dollars on their first visit. Creating a comfortable environment and a sense of belonging is the key to building loyalty among high rollers. In addition to offering freebies, casinos must also cultivate deep relationships with local communities, donating to charities and participating in community activities. Casinos must also understand the emotions of their high-rolling customers in order to keep them coming back.