Mega Millions, Powerball Reach Epic Jackpot Highs
image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Both the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots have climbed to a combined total of $2.2 billion. Yes, you read correctly – that’s billion.
Think of it in this way – this is 2,200 millions, which is much bigger than 27 countries’ GDP. If a person wins and doesn’t pay taxes, the $2.2 billion would be enough to pay the Brooklyn Nets, which is selling for $150 million. If a person donated that $2.2 billion, it would be the most charitable donation ever.
The Powerball jackpot stands at $620 million while the Mega Millions jackpot is $1.6 billion. This is the largest lottery jackpot to be seen.
Mega Millions Group Lead Director and Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director Gordon Medenica said Mega Million is in history territory but to think that the jackpot is a world-record is even more exciting.
It’s not a surprise that more and more people – especially those who hardly play – are getting in on the action. Friendly Food Mart owner Sunny Patel in Gloucester Township said there have been many new faces. His store sold a $50,000 winner recently. The ticket holder matched four of the white number and the Mega Ball and had a Megaplier attached to the ticket.
His store also sold a winning Powerball ticket with every digit but one. Patel said he’s had customers from miles away coming to his store.
Perhaps his store is lucky, but the odds of winning are still stacked against players.
People have wondered why the jackpot has gotten so big so quickly. In 2016, the rules for Powerball changed to decrease the odds of winning. Since that time, it’s been harder to win the jackpot, ensuring it grows more and more. This means a huge jackpot is likely, which increases the frenzy people have about playing. When this happens, the jackpot grows even more.
The Powerball was $1.58 billion before someone had finally hit.
In October 2017, the Mega Millions also reduced the odds and increased its ticket prices to $2. It’s not uncommon for a huge jackpot to get people riled up and playing.
Medenica said people buy a ticket because they have a dream.
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