Which term describes the report used to compare a machine's theoretical hold to its actual hold?

• A. volatility index
• B. theoretical hold versus actual hold report
• C. video lottery terminal (VLT)
• D. standalone progressive jackpot

Answer: (B)

In this area, the focus is on how a machine’s payouts stack up against what it’s designed to pay out. The hold concept compares the theoretical hold—the expected portion of wagers the game should retain over time, based on its payout schedule—with the actual hold—the amount the machine actually retains during a given period. A report that explicitly compares these two values is used to verify proper operation and compliance, ensuring the machine isn’t deviating from its programmed behavior. This kind of document helps auditors and operators spot tampering, misconfigurations, or safety issues by showing whether the machine’s real performance matches its expected performance.

Volatility index is a separate metric that describes payout variability, not a specific hold comparison. A video lottery terminal is the hardware itself, not a report. A standalone progressive jackpot refers to a type of payout feature, not the reporting of hold versus actual hold.