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Rank Group reports 2009 performance

The company, which owns the Mecca Bingo, Grosvenor Casinos, Top Rank Espana and Rank Interactive brands, reported a 3.4 percent increase in revenue to £540 million.

Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) was £58 million, down 4 percent year on year but marginally ahead of market expectations.

The Grosvenor Casinos arm takes credit, as it is the only division to record a boost in operating profit, which rose 19 percent year on year to £30.9 million. All other groups showed a fall in profits. Rank Interactive, the online operation, went down by 3 percent to £50.8 million. Online highlights in 2009 included a re-launch of MeccaBingo.com and the launch of Gcasino.com, to support and push on the company’s land based G Casinos.

Nick Batram of KBC Peel Hunt said, "Rank has achieved a good set of figures against a tough backdrop and shows a business that is now very much moving on to the front foot, driven by a strong casino offering and a bingo operation that has stabilised".

A statement read: “The current year is forecast to be a period of gradual, if fragile, economic recovery in Britain, Rank’s key market; whilst the outcome of the forthcoming general election is likely to influence the regulator and tax landscape for gaming and betting in Britain."

February 26, 2010

French Senate passes online gambling bill

France's online gaming bill has been passed by the French Senate after its first reading with votes 181 to 140.

The bill will now return for a second reading of the National Assembly on March 30, and should the French parliament’s final vote be in favour, the bill is then to be approved by the European Union as well as France’s Conseil d'Etat (Supreme Court) and Conseil Constitutionnel (Constitutional Council).

Eric Woerth, French Budget Minister, announced this Tuesday, before the Wednesday vote, that France’s online gaming law will come into effect by 1 June, opening the country’s igaming market for competition, ahead of this summer’s football World Cup in South Africa.

February 26, 2010

bwin preliminary results

bwin announced yesterday its preliminary results for the fourth quarter and financial year 2009, ending on 31 December (unaudited).

Highlights for the fourth quarter (pro forma consolidated) give that gross gaming revenues are up 12.9 percent to €132.9 million, including numbers of Gioco Digitale, where the latter corresponds to 11.8 percent of the increased revenue of 12.9 percent. Sports betting gross gaming revenues are up 3.3 percent to €66.6 million, or up 1.7 percent €65.6 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Poker gross gaming revenues are up 35.8 percent to €37.6 million, or down 10.1 percent to €24.9 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Casino gross gaming revenues are up 4.8 percent to €20.2 million. Record gross gaming revenues for games are up 36.0 percent to €8.4 million, or up 32.4 percent to €8.2 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Customers are reported at 1.2 million active customers, or 1.1 million active and 277,000 new active real money customers excl. Gioco Digitale.

For the full financial year of 2009 (pro forma consolidated) gross gaming revenues are up 6.1 percent to €446.6 million, or up 2.8 percent to €432.7 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Sports betting gross gaming revenues is down 3.8 percent to €226.3 million, or down 4.3 percent to €225.3 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Poker gross gaming revenues are up 26.1 percent to €118.8 million, or up 12.5 percent to €106.0 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Casino gross gaming revenues are up 5.4 percent to €73.7 million. Gross gaming revenues for games are up 30.7 percent to €27.8 million, or up 29.7 percent to €27.6 million excl. Gioco Digitale. Customers are reported at 2.4 million active customers, or 2.3 million active and 1.1 million new active real money customers excl. Gioco Digitale.

February 26, 2010

London Capital Group profit plummets

Financial spread betting specialist full year results hit by unfavourable market conditions as profit dropped 46% to £5.8m, from £10.8m in 2008.

The company managed to maintain similar levels of aggregate trading revenue across its divisions against a highly profitable 2008, however the impact of lower interest income and cost of growth made total revenue fall 4% year on year to £27.6m, from £28.9m in the previous year.

White label deals with companies including Betfair, Paddy Power and PartyGaming provided a further drag on performance, with increased customers and trade volumes along with lower net revenue per customer resulting in an increase in white label costs, both in absolute terms and as a proportion of revenue generated. Gross profit correspondingly fell 14% year-on-year to £19.0m, from £22.2m.

Higher depreciation, hosting and maintenance costs due to the company’s ongoing investment in IT systems, combined with higher associated administrative costs, also led to a 36% year-on-year decline in adjusted earnings before interest, tax, debt and amortisation (EBITDA) to £8.1m, from £12.6m in 2008. Key performance indicators remained strong since the turn of the year, and the group’s new CFD and MetaTrader platforms is to be launched in the second quarter of 2010, and expects to contribute positively to growth.

Chairman Richard Davey said, “Whilst we recognise that economic conditions remain uncertain and there is little visibility in forecasting group revenues, the positive KPIs of client acquisition, customer funds on deposit, new White Label partnerships and the roll-out of two new trading platforms during 2010 means we remain confident of the Group's ability to grow. All these point to an improved position for the year ahead and I look forward to bringing you better results in future.”

February 26, 2010

Paddy Power deploys Orbis LiveOdds technology   

Orbis Technology has announced that Irish bookmaker Paddy Power has become the first operator to adopt LiveOdds.

LiveOdds allows operators to stream data directly from the database to the players’ screen in real time, without the need to refresh. LiveOdds is built on Orbis’ new LiveServ technology which enables the delivery of live messages, content and data directly to customers. LiveServ has been designed as a highly scalable and flexible ‘push’ server which provides support for the widest range of browsers and front-end technologies.

John O’Donnell, Paddy Power’s Chief Technology Officer said,“At PaddyPower.com we pride ourselves on offering cutting edge product innovation and industry leading service levels to our customers,” he continued “LiveServ delivers a step-change in how we present product information and our unique money back value propositions. It is a significant addition to the Orbis stable of products and will fundamentally change all aspects of our customer‘s interaction with PaddyPower.com.”

February 25, 2010

Virgin Games goes total gaming

Expansion to include PC gaming titles in recreating the brand a "total gaming" destination.

Virgin Games takes a radical move to build the brand a total gaming destination, which also allows the company to market the brand in jurisdiction where online gaming is prohibited.

Virgin Games and Game Domain International is looking to give Virgin access to more than 200 game titles from 70 game developers, available for download, and including titles as Rome: Total War, Fifa Football Manager, Warhammer, Mark of Chaos and Tomb Raider: Legend. These will be in addition to Virgin Games current online gambling products.

Virgin Games Chief Executive Simon Burridge said, “We want Virgin Games to be somewhere you go to play games of any description, be that casino, poker, bingo or Rome: Total War. If Virgin Games is going to be about anything, it has to be about entertainment and being a place you can go to have fun.” 

February 25, 2010

Powerful South African gaming group created through merger

Gold Reef Resorts and Tsogo Sun Holdings have agreed to merge their respective gaming and hotel businesses, in turn creating the largest gaming group in South Africa.

Tsogo Sun, which is owned by brewing giant SABMiller, will merge with rival South African gaming and hotels group Gold Reef Resorts to create one of the biggest listed gaming groups in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The merger will see Gold Reef acquire Tsogo shares held by Tsogo Investment Holding Company Limited and SABSA Holdings Limited in exchange for new Gold Reef shares.

Discussing the new merger, Steven Joffe, Chief Executive Officer of Gold Reef said, “It creates a company of significant scale and diversification across geographies and markets. As a larger and stronger company, we will be well positioned to pursue attractive growth opportunities in new markets.”

Tsogo Sun Gaming (TSG) also made a deal last September with Dragonfish, the business arm of 888, to come together and launch online poker, casino, sports betting, and bingo. At the time TSG said that the move into online gaming was a natural advancement for their business.

Tsogo Sun’s Montecasino is also hosting the Montecasino Poker Champs Tournament on the 26 to 28 March in La Toscana. The estimated price pool is R2 million (approx. €190,000) and the game is No Limit Texas Hold'em, freeze out, and buy-in of R15,000 (approx. €1,400) with a cap of 150 entries.

February 24, 2010

Merge Gaming expecting high growth

One year target set at six-time growth and brand to be top 10 ranked.

As reported by eGaming Review, Merge Gaming is expecting a six-time boost in player liquidity during the next six months and to be one of the world’s top 10 poker sites by early 2011.

The company recently attracted Sportsbook.com owner Jazette Enterprises to move its operation and brands Sportsbook.com, PlayersOnly.com and Superbook.com to the Merge Gaming network from the Cake network. Player liquidity will grow four-fold as a result of the deal, with further growth via new clients attracted to the network by its increased liquidity, said Chief Executive Anthony Taylor.

Taylor continued, “We aim to be among the top 10 poker sites in the world this time next year. Sportsbook.com and the other Jazette brands will give us a huge liquidity boost and we are confident that in combination with our leading software this will attract further clients to the network that will enable that growth to snowball.”

February 23, 2010

Gtech G2 to appoint new head as Atul Bali resigns

Atul Bali to take up new position with parent company Lottomatica Group.

The president of Gtech’s online division Gtech G2, Atul Bali has tendered his resignation, following a two year assignment which ends this summer, and will take up a new position at parent company Lottomatica Group.

The change was communicated earlier in February after Bali identified his successor Paolo Personeni, Sales Director at Lottomatica Italy. Bali will remain president while affecting a smooth transition to Personeni.

The management change at G2 follows a number of changes at Lottomatica Group including the resignation of Lorenzo Pellicioli as Group CEO and the installation of Marco Sala as his replacement. In 2007 and 2008 Gtech acquired Finsoft, Boss Media, St Minver, and Dynamite Idea to form the foundations of its online gaming and sports betting operation, branded as G2 in 2009.

February 23, 2010

Norway open to action by EFTA on ban to stop gaming payments 

The ban which is expected to come in force on June 1st, 2010 will raise the prospect of legal actions by EFTA, Court of Justice of the European Free Trade Association States.

The Norwegian government approved this Friday regulations to prohibit credit card companies and online payment processors from transferring funds to online gaming operators.

“The regulations are an important step in limiting the scope of illegal and addictive gambling in Norway,” said Culture Minister Anniken Huitfeldt. “Norway employs an aggressive policy against illegal gambling and is the first in Europe to adopt such a ban, but several countries in the EU are now preparing similar national payment bans.”

The ban has been criticised by the EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) which says that such measures could constitute an unjustified restriction of the freedoms of the European internal market for gambling services. ESA have previously informed Norway that it may launch infringement proceeding and bring the matter before the EFTA court. Should ESA not launch infringement proceedings against Norway, the possibility of other European nations enforcing similar payment bans significantly increases.

State controlled Norsk Tipping, which is not subject to the ban, showed a record turnover in 2009 of NOK10.9 billion, including a 30% growth of interactive channels versus previous year.

February 22, 2010

Poker.org domain sold for $1,000,000 in record deal

Record deal demonstrates the value and strength of premium generic domains.

Internet platform Sedo, announced Thursday that it had brokered the sale of Poker.org for $1 million, the largest .org domain sale to date. The domain was brokered on behalf of National A1 Advertising.

“Poker.org is an integral part of our growth strategy, and will provide great dividends now and into the future,” said PokerCompany.com, the buyer of Poker.org.

“We expect to see growing demand for .ORG domains, as organizations and individual investors are recognizing their full value and potential,” said Kathy Nielsen, Director of Sales at Sedo. "This record-setting sale demonstrates the tremendous strength of a premium generic within the overall domain market."

February 19, 2010

Entraction poker reports growth

Royalty income for the fourth quarter was 37 percent higher than the same period the previous year.

Sales for the fourth quarter totalled SEK 108.7 (102.8) million, an increase of 6 percent. Operating profit amounted to SEK 12.0 (11.7) million. Sales for the year amounted to SEK 435.4 (346.1) million, an increase of 26 percent. Operating profit for the year was 50 percent up on the 2008 figure, totalling SEK 52.0 (34.6) million and the operating margin was 11.9 percent (10.0). 

"Entraction saw its poker sales growing faster than those of its competitors in 2009. Royalty income for the fourth quarter was 37 percent higher than the same period the previous year, while turnkey poker sales rose by 7 percent during the period. Turnkey poker sales were negatively affected by our gradual closure of Cardroom2 in the fourth quarter."

"We signed several new agreements in the fourth quarter, and five new partners will shortly be launched. We have intensified our sales work and are stepping up our efforts to broaden the revenue base, both in terms of the number of partners and income from new markets." Said Entraction CEO, Per Åström.

Entraction further reports that growth has mainly been from countries around the Mediterranean and additional growth is expected through launching Entraction casino and poker in Italy during the summer 2010.

February 19, 2010

Ladbrokes drop in annual profits

Pre-tax profit fell 28% year on year, reflecting economic conditions and player winnings hitting margins.

The company, which has more than 2,700 betting shops in addition to its online business, said 2009 net income fell to £74.4m ($116.3m), or 9.9p per share, from £200.7m, or 28.3p; while revenue dipped 10% to £1.03bn. Its egaming profit fell 16% year on year to £46.1m.

The results cap a tough 2009 for the company during which Ladbrokes was forced to raise £274.6m in a rights issue in October to strengthen its balance sheet.

To repair fortunes, however, Ladbrokes launched a new version of its online sportsbook last month with plans to live stream over 30,000 sporting events on the site this year, and has revealed a joint venture deal to launch an online sportsbook targeting the South African market and for marketing throughout the rest of Africa.

Group net revenue was down by 4.6% in the first seven weeks of 2010.

February 19, 2010

Cantor Gaming signs mobile deal with Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel & Casino joins The Venetian and The Palazzo in the success of Cantor Gaming's mobile solution the eDeck.

Through the deal Hard Rock customers will have the ability to play their favourite casino games such as table games, video poker and slots throughout public areas of the casino property, which includes bars, restaurants and lounges, as well as by the pool.

Lee Amaitis, President and CEO of Cantor Gaming, said: ‘We’re pleased to bring mobile

gaming to the Hard Rock. We’ve had an extremely positive response to eDeck since it was

first launched last March at the M Resort. The ability to play casino games away from the

casino floor adds a whole new dimension to the Vegas experience, and the flexibility of mobile gaming appeals to customers who are already used to the freedom of using mobile

devices in many other aspects of their lives.”

Randy Kwasniewski, President of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino added: “We are excited to

welcome the addition of mobile gaming to the Hard Rock. Now, gamers are able to enjoy all

the Hard Rock has to offer such as our pool and beach club, fine dining and exciting nightlife,

all the while still able to bet and play casino style games on their mobile device. Mobile

gaming reflects our values at Hard Rock: offering our customers innovative, creative and fresh ideas to complete a special and unique experience at our resort.”

February 19, 2010

Unibet reports performance and mobile channel of future standing

Unibet active mobile users doubled during the fourth quarter of 2009, rising 136% to 5,372, from 2,281 in the previous quarter.

Fourth quarterly strong revenue performance helped full year gross winnings revenues for 2009 reach £138.3 million, an increase of 12% versus the previous year, with profit after tax more than tripling to £26.8 million. Gross winnings revenue for the fourth quarter amounted to £42.1 million.

Chief Executive Petter Nylander said: “We really saw a breakthrough during the second half of 2009 after we re-launched our iPhone version during Q3 this year. The customers enjoyed it and used it at numbers we can speak about. We think the mobile channel for ourselves and the industry will become a channel with some prominence for the future.” 

"Another important step for Unibet has been the decision to participate in the global Sportsbook B2B market and offer our proprietary Sportsbook and risk management services to external customers."

Unibet active customers at the end of the quarter was 365,865, an increase of 20% versus the previous year.

February 18, 2010

Playtech launches mobile solution 

Playtech has launched its new mobile web cross-platform solution, which will allow players to enjoy their favourite games on the go.

The firm said that its new mobile platform for casino gaming extends operators the opportunity to grow their player base into the mobile entertainment market. The new Mobile Web Apps is supported by the leading iPhone/iPod Touch and Android platforms and allows users to switch easily between their computer and mobile using the same account.

Playtech revealed that it already offers over a dozen casino games for the mobile market including blackjack, video poker and slot machines with progressive jackpots. It is also set to premiere a trio of new games as Java applications for players to enjoy including Pop Bingo, which is a single-player bingo title, and fixed-odds face-off game Rock, Paper, Scissors.

February 17, 2010

Unibet signs B2B deal with Paf

Unibet has taken another step in its expansion by entering the global gaming B2B market, and signed a contract with Paf to deliver a fully serviced sports betting solution.

As a first customer, Unibet have today signed a three year deal with Paf, licensed by the Åland Provincial Government, for the provision of a full sports betting B2B Solution. The scope of the services includes odds compiling and risk management on an in-house developed proprietary system for fixed odds betting. Paf will also become a customer in the fast growing sports betting pool products SuperToto and SuperScore offered by Unibet. The Gross Gaming Revenues for the global sports betting market is estimated by independent analysts to be USD 40.9bn for 2009 and the forecast for 2012 is that the global sports betting market will grow to USD 43.4bn.

Unibet have initiated investigations on how to structure the Unibet B2B business in order to protect the integrity of the B2B customers and to maximise the shareholder value of the Unibet shareholders.

"With our extensive Live Betting offer with over 2,000 live events per month and our in-house risk management we have a very strong offer. In this large opportunity market Unibet have been awarded the prestigious European Sports-betting operator of the year by eGaming Review, in three out of the last four years. This gives Unibet a unique position and strong credibility to participate in the global sports betting B2B market," say Petter Nylander, CEO

Unibet.

"Paf will continue to grow internationally and this investment strengthens our offering long term. This Agreement will be important for Paf and our customers. Through our partnership with Unibet, we gain access to the best betting platform in the business", says Anders Ingves, CEO Paf.

February 17, 2010

Virgin Games sets target at 100 new games and double digit growth

Virgin Games, Simon Burridge promises 100 new games this year and he predicts double digit growth in 2010.

Virgin Games, Chief Executive Simon Burridge said: "We've all been working hard over the last two years to make the leap from what was essentially a games marketing business to becoming a fully fledged operator. We now have a bespoke built platform capable of bringing on the best games from a multitude of providers, making us one of the most diverse online gaming companies in the UK market.”

Virgin Games migrated its player base onto its new, bespoke platform late last year. The new platform was developed by Virgin Games’ London based development team, and is integrated to enable cross play between bingo, casino and poker.

The company has also added a 24-hour UK call centre, and an affiliate software system developed in house with revenue share and CPA affiliate campaigns available.

Since September 2009, Virgin Games has seen revenue growth of 20%, Burridge said, after more than £450m in bets placed in 2009, and promises “double digit” growth as a result of the new platform.

February 16, 2010

Playtech acquires bingo supplier Virtue Fusion

Virtue Fusion deal to boost Playtech's bingo network about seven times.

Virtue Fusion, is one of the biggest networks in bingo with a peak traffic of more than 6,000 players, and has more than 20 licensees including Bet365, Crown Bingo, Ladbrokes, Mecca, Paddy Power, Sky, Virgin and Playtech joint venture partner William Hill. Virtue Fusion recently also signed a deal with PartyGaming to supply an end-to-end solution for PartyGaming Foxy Bingo brand in Sweden.

The deal is for an initial consideration of £29m (€33.4 million), plus a bonus payment of up to £7m based on EBIT performance in 2010, and to be paid in the first quarter of 2011.

Playtech chief executive Mor Weizer said: “We were always recognised as the market leaders in casino and poker and the only missing part for us was bingo. We realised last year that it was the fastest growing part of the industry and that we should be leading the way in online bingo too.” Weizer said: “bingo will play a key role in regulated markets and I think what happened in Italy (where bingo was regulated next after poker) will happen elsewhere.”

February 15, 2010

188BET and Mobenga team up to provide Innovative mobile services

188BET has appointed mobile betting solutions specialist Mobenga to provide a range of state of the art services for the brand.

The two companies will develop a series of tailor made services that will encompass all of 188BET’s product offerings with a particular focus on providing consumers with unique mobile service. 188BET customers will benefit from the latest technology allowing them to bet through their mobile as well as keep up to date with the latest sports news.

The partnership will also be used to leverage and maximise the range of sponsorship agreements 188BET currently has in place. Over the last 12 months the company has signed agreements with five Barclays Premier League clubs, Aston Vila, Bolton Wanderers, Chelsea, Liverpool and Wigan Athletic as well as Guinness Premiership side London Wasps.

Andy Scott, CEO of 188BET, said “As mobile technology becomes increasingly advanced it is essential that 188BET continues to lead the way in terms of our products. Mobenga is a likeminded company that reflects the ambitions of 188BET and will allow us to develop a range of innovative and unique solutions.”

Christian Rajter, CEO of Mobenga, said “I am thrilled to be have been chosen by one of the biggest and most expansive companies on the market. 188bet has very high standards and expectations and we’ll be providing them with innovative and, to this sector never seen before, services. I am also especially happy to help 188bet to further capitalize on their many partnerships and sponsorships.”

February 15, 2010

PartyGaming and Virtue Fusion signs bingo agreement

Virtue Fusion Alderney will supply PartyGaming's Foxy Bingo brand with its online bingo solution in Sweden.

PartyGaming has selected Virtue Fusion Alderney to launch its Swedish facing site, citing Virtue Fusion’s leading bingo games, unrivalled European prize pool liquidity and “speed to market” as key differentiators in their decision making process.

Bob McCulloch, CEO of Virtue Fusion Alderney said “This deal is the ultimate quality stamp of approval for Virtue Fusion Alderney, to be selected by one of the biggest players in our industry in PartyGaming and one of the trail blazers in the online bingo industry in Cashcade is extremely satisfying.”

Michael Brady, PartyGaming’s Bingo Overseas Marketing and Business Development said “The Virtue Fusion software enables us to launch in an exciting new market. The Virtue Fusion software combined with our marketing expertise promises to herald a new and profitable chapter in our history. Virtue Fusion Alderney’s fantastic liquidity, combined with the rich quality of their online bingo provision is the big attraction for us. We look forward to working together on www.foxybingo.se in Sweden.”

February  15, 2010

BetClic signs agreement with Mobenga on mobile services

Mobile games agreement in place for Swedish Mobenga to provide mobile services to sportsbook operator BetClic.

Mobile gaming and content enabler Mobenga has been awarded with the contract for providing a mobile sportsbook to BetClic. The tailor made services will encompass all BetClic offering and focus on providing the end customers with the same experience as they are accustomed to getting online.

”We are very excited by this partnership with Mobenga, a leading company providing innovative mobile gaming services" said Nicolas Béraud, CEO of BetClic. "Thanks to both our expertises, our customers will have the comfort to bet on BetClic whenever and wherever they want. This partnership further enhances our commitment to offering the best betting experience to our customers.”

“I am extremely pleased that BetClic has chosen us to become their mobile partners. BetClic is an exciting and innovative company that has a very good vision of where they want to be with the mobile channel, and we look forward to getting them there ! ” said Christian Rajter, Mobenga CEO.

February 12, 2010

European Commission stands firm in protecting fundamental principles 

European Commission will not stand by when Member States introduces restrictions.

The recently appointed European Internal Market Commissioner, Michel Barnier, told the European Parliament Thursday that bwin/Santa Casa ruling by the European Court of Justice last year has little bearing on the Commission’s approach to infringement procedures against member states, vowing to pursue non-compliance on a case-by-case basis.

Barnier told parliamentarians that the Santa Casa ruling of September 2009 was based on considerations specific to Portugal and its national monopoly operator, Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa. Considering that the ruling does not fundamentally change the Commission’s approach towards infringement procedures, Barnier said that the Commission would continue to examine the compliance of national legislation on a case-by-case basis.

“With several Member States currently reforming their gaming and betting legislation, this is an important confirmation that the Commission will not stand by while Member States introduce restrictions that go against fundamental principles of the EU,” said EGBA Secretary General, Sigrid Ligné.

February 12, 2010

PokerStars promotes 40 billionth hand

PokerStars, the world's largest online poker site, closes in on 40 billion hands dealt.

As a result PokerStars will feature the largest Sunday Million in the site’s history, a $4 million guaranteed tournament on February 21st. The number 40 will further be magic as part of the promotion and where players dealt to in every millionth hand will receive $40 for each VIP Player Point (VPP) earned during the 40 previous hands played at the same table.

The cash games promotions, which began today, started with hand number 39,601,000,000 and moving towards the magic 40 billionth hand dealt, in where even more promotions will kick-in with players dealt receiving $400 for every VPP earned in the 40 previous hands at the table. The winner of the hand will also see their cash winnings doubled, adding even more money to the bankroll, and should a split pot occur, each player involved in the split will have their winnings doubled.

Sunday February 14th also means a special $40 buy-in tournament that features a high stakes $1 million prize pool.

February 11, 2010

Betsson reports 2009 turnover

Fourth quarter and full year released by Swedish Betsson.

Betsson fourth quarter revealed that group revenues are up 19 percent, while operations margins are down with 4.2 percent. "Group revenues amounted to SEK 382.9 million, corresponding to an increase of 19 percent. The gross profit was SEK 312.2 million which is an increase of 21 percent. The operating income increased to SEK 93.5 million and the operating margin was 24.4 percent. Income before tax increased to SEK 94.3 million and the income for the period was SEK 90.0 million which is equivalent to SEK 2.29 per share."

For the full year Betsson stated that group revenues are up 25 percent, while operations margins are down with 2.3 percent. "Group revenue amounted to SEK 1299.7 million, corresponding to an increase of 25 percent. The gross profit was SEK 1 045.0 million. The operating income increased to SEK 316.9 million and the operating margin was 24.4 percent. Income before tax increased to SEK 318.9 million and the income for the period was SEK 303.3 million which is equivalent to SEK 7.73 per share and an increase of 13 percent."

"A bigger part of our revenue derives today from different partnerships. Through this strategy Betsson secure a continued strong and profitable growth" says Pontus Lindwall, Betsson's President and CEO.

February 11, 2010

Microgaming announces launch of Balkanbet Poker

Software provider Microgaming enters into the Balkan gaming market with the launch of Balkanbet Poker on its poker network.

Balkanbet Limited, licensed in Malta, has adopted Microgaming’s online software as it expands and seeks growth in the Balkan gaming market. The company’s Balkanbet Poker offering will add to its existing sportsbook operation, and online where online casino is to follow.

“The development of our online offering is a key part of our growth strategy,” said Martin Simeonov, CEO of Balkanbet Limited. “With Microgaming on board, we are able to deliver a market-leading product offering to our existing sportsbook players, which is completely integrated into their platform. This partnership will enable us to cement our position as a key player in the Balkans online gaming market.”

Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming, added: “We are delighted to be welcoming Balkanbet to the Microgaming Poker Network. With a focus on the Balkan region, the addition of Balkanbet to the network allows us to expand our reach into this dynamic market."

February 11, 2010

888 reports performance

Improved B2C performance and fourth quarter growth while year to year shows a six percent decrease.

With improved performance from its consumer facing business during the fourth quarter, 888 Holdings plc has reported total operating income of US$247 million for the year ended December 31st, a decrease of 6% compared to the same period last year.

Gigi Levy, Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are pleased that the fourth quarter saw a return to stronger trading, with 14% top-line growth compared to 2008 and 12% quarter on quarter. Overall, trading during the quarter was strong across the business. Dragonfish continues its impressive growth, and in B2C Casino and Emerging Offering were particularly strong, with poker also returning to growth quarter on quarter.

Our positive momentum continues into 2010 and, supported by the successful Wink acquisition and our various business initiatives, we expect to grow the business further during the current year."

February 10, 2010

Gaming VC trading update

Gaming VC Holdings released a trading update for 2009 showing a 7.2 percent year on year rise in net gaming revenues to €53.7 million.

The firm revealed that 2009 sport revenues were up 38 percent compared with the previous year to €8.7 million, while gaming revenues increased three percent year on year to €45 million.

Total average daily revenues last year were €142,000 with €118,000 from gaming, while €24,000 from sport and margins for sportsbook increased to 15.8 percent from 11.4 percent in 2008. Gaming VC said that it held €19.2 million in cash by end of December, while revenues from Betboo averaged €12,000 per day from July to the end of 2009.

Indicators for 2010 and first 24 days, Gaming VC said that its gaming revenues averaged €139,000, which is a 15 percent increase from the same period in 2009. Sports wagers for the first 24 days were up 31 percent compared with the same period 2009.

February 10, 2010

Plus-Five white label solutions

With its debut during International Gaming Expo (IGE) Plus-Five Gaming reports several deals and successful launch for the group.

Plus-Five Gaming, is a new firm that has partnered with AliQuantum Gaming to offer cost effective white label solutions and services. Plus-Five said that working with AliQuantum we can now provide partners with a wide choice of games, including table-, skill-, slot-games, bingo, sports betting and live dealer services using a single platform, and where poker is set to be launched during the second quarter 2010.

“We always knew there was a demand for ‘white-label’ gaming solutions and figured we'd pick up a few new clients but I don't think any of us expected the reception we got at IGE/ICEi,” said Ian Remmer, Sales Director for Plus-Five.

“We now have deals in place with Aberrant Software, Mirada TV, Cozy Games, Leander Games, Bet2Go and others,” said Andy Jones, Chief Executive Officer for AliQuantum and Plus-Five. “We also have our own mobile phone games to add into the mix and our partners can choose whichever games or service they want. Add to this low set-up costs and fast implementation, and we believe we have a winning business formula to give the big guys a run for their money.”

February 10, 2010

IG Group shows growth

Spread betting firm IG Group Holdings releases its interim results for the six months to the end of November, showing a 14 percent year on year increase in revenues to £143.8 million.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation rose 34 percent year on year to £81 million, while the firm’s adjusted profits before tax were also up 34 percent compared to the same period in 2008 to £78 million.

“We are pleased with this revenue growth given that the comparative period in 2008 itself showed strong growth of 47 percent over its prior year comparative period in 2007,” said IG Group. “This was due to equity and foreign exchange markets being extremely volatile in September and October of 2008, which resulted in a significant boost in client activity and revenues for those months. Volatility was much lower during this first half, although the impact of this was partially offset by a strong rally in equity markets, which resulted in a boost in the proportion of our revenues coming from clients trading individual stocks.”

IG Group said that its earnings margin hit 56 percent for the six-month period, which was an increase of eight percent year-on-year.

“IG Group has again delivered record results with strong growth in both revenues and profits,” said Tim Howkins, Chief Executive Officer for IG Group.

February 9, 2010

Spielo now licensed in Nevada

Lottomatica subsidiary Spielo has been granted machine manufacturing and distribution licenses by the Nevada Gaming Commission.

The Commission granted licences to Spielo following an earlier recommendation from the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the firm will now distribute its products in the western American state through Atronic Americas.

Atronic Americas has been licensed for its own products since 1998 but will now be able to supplement its portfolio with Spielo creations including the ProdiGi Vu cabinet and the new Sensys EP platform together with a collection of compelling games.

“This is an exciting milestone in Spielo’s history as it further validates the company’s commitment to conducting business in a responsible manner and with the highest integrity,” said Victor Duarte, President and Chief Executive Officer for Spielo.

“By holding these licences, Spielo will be in a position to bring its cabinets, platforms and games, which have been successfully deployed in other jurisdictions, to the strategically-important Nevada market. Casino operators in the state will see great benefits from Spielo’s two decades of experience in delivering innovative, player-tested products.”

February 9, 2010

NYX appoints new Chief Operating Officer

NYX Interactive has announced the appointment of David Flynn as its new Chief Operating Officer.

Flynn joins following three years with online games software developer MicroGaming, and before joining MicroGaming, Flynn served as Vice President and Director for the Ongame Network and was also the European Operations Manager for Vision IQ. Flynn will work closely with Chief Executive Officer Staffan Lindgren to shape the firm's strategic direction.

NYX Interactive, licensed in Isle of Man, has an established technology platform powering Svenska Spel, La Francaise Des Jeux, Bonnier Gaming and Betsson and revealed that Flynn would also work with Chief Executive Officer Staffan Lindgren to shape the firm’s strategic direction.

February 9, 2010

Devilfish Gaming signs agreement with Merkur Win 

New consultancy entity, Devilfish Services, signs first B2B deal with Merkur Win, the Italian gaming brand owned by Gauselmann Group.

The agreement stipulates Devilfish to provide its expertise and development to launch Merkur Win’s impending online poker and casino products.

Merkur Win currently has a strong presence in Italian retail sports betting, following the acquisition of 233 licenses for betting shops and outlets by parent company Gauselmann in 2008, and through its new and dedicated consultancy unit, Devilfish will offer Merkur Win a number of gaming services including an online marketing strategy, design and setup of affiliate programmes, customer promotions and bonus programmes, product and channel management as well as 3rd party product selection.

“We are very happy to be involved with Gauselmann’s famous Merkur brands,” said Paul Barnes, CEO of Devilfish Gaming. “Devilfish has a lot to offer, because we both operate an online gaming business and share that know-how with selected strategic partners who are entering the market, using high-calibre in-house management consultants. In addition, we own the valuable Devilfish brand, which we also license to 3rd parties in non-competing markets.”

The German Gauselmann Group is a leading operator for amusement with prize machines (AWP) across Europe, posting consolidated revenues of €1.2 billion in 2009. Gauselmann recently sold the Atronic group of companies to Lottomatica’s GTECH for approximately €189 million.

February 8, 2010

Isle of Man announces regulatory changes

Changes in gaming regulations allow egaming firms to run its non-gambling related activities without an OGRA license.

Under the new regulations, activities excluded from the Online Gambling Regulation Act (OGRA) 2001 licence now includes marketing, administration, software downloads, customer support and relay servers allowing for igaming companies to base their non-gaming activities in a jurisdiction that supports all aspects of the industry.

The jurisdiction said that companies would still require an OGRA licence for core activities such as striking a bet and player fund activities.

“Our new streamlined regulations further demonstrate our commitment to growing the eGaming industry on the Isle Of Man,” said Garth Kimber, Head of eGaming Development for the island state’s Department Of Trade And Industry.

“The Isle Of Man is developing a multi-faceted eGaming industry and activities such as marketing, administration and customer support are an important part of this.

February 8, 2010

Playtech signs Virgin Games

Playtech signs a partnership agreement with operator Virgin Games.

The deal will see Playtech's gaming solutions developer, Gaming Technology Solutions Ltd, licence its EdGE software platform (Enhanced Gaming Engine) to Virgin Games.

Playtech said that the EdGE platform is an effective and easily integrated games engine that will allow Virgin to manage and operate its games with ease. In addition the platform’s ICE back office toolset will deliver many functional and performance enhancements to Virgin Games including support for marketing campaigns, customised reports as well as support.

“We are looking forward to working with Gaming Technology Solutions and, through the delivery of its platform, we have access to a variety of leading games content from world class developers,” said Warren Eloff from Virgin Games.

“We are delighted that Virgin Games, a well-established and leading operator, has chosen Playtech's Gaming Technology Solutions as its games integration partner and EdGE as its software solution,” said Mor Weizer, Chief Executive Officer for Playtech.

February 8, 2010

Probability mobile business slightly down

Mobile gaming company Probability trading update shows third quarter last year down with eight percent. 

Accordingly to a trading update released by Probability plc third quarter last year is showing an eight percent quarterly drop on net gaming revenues to £1.13 million, compared to previous year. 

The London based mobile gaming firm revealed that net gaming revenues for the three month period running to the end of the year were ‘slightly lower’ as a result of ‘higher withdrawals running up to Christmas’ and were new registered players for the quarter fell by just over three percent to 47,089.

In addition, Probability revealed that it had net cash and equivalents of £1.91 million at the end of the year, which was down from £1.96 million at the conclusion of its second quarter, while its new X Factor branded slot title attracted over £2.5 million in wagers during the screening period of live shows.

“As we expected, net gaming revenues were slightly lower than the previous quarter as players cashed in their winnings in November to finance their Christmas expenditure,” said Charles Cohen, Chief Executive Officer for Probability.

February 6, 2010

RealDealPoker.com to prove game fairness with odds 100 to 1

Gene Gioia is standing by his commitment to offer a fair game of poker online by offering 100 to 1 odds to players who request and pay for an audit.

Launching in March 2010, RealDealPoker.com uses a patented technology including a “cut function” and the deployment of “burn cards”. The patented Cut N’ Shuffle® system is a fully automated real card dealing system that scrambles, shuffles and deals real decks of cards, digitizes the results and then translates them to its online poker table games. Also used is the first system capable of producing post-game audit results, Game Check®.

For a small fee, any player can call for an independent, third party audit of any game, current or past. All game data, including the video capture of the originating deck is sent by the Gioia server to the independent auditing agency to enable them to compare the game results against the deck that was supposed to be used in that particular game.

An independent auditor can apply auditing procedures that will allow them to determine if the game play is accurate. If the auditor finds any irregularities in game and cannot validate the results, all players involved in that game will have their money from the game returned to them and the person calling for the audit will be credited 100 times the fee charged for the audit. So, for example, if the audit fee to the player is $50 and the auditor cannot validate the game, the player paying the $50 audit fee is credited $5,000 to his account. “

“This is our commitment to providing a game of poker that players can trust,” says Gene Gioia, founder of RealDealPoker.

February 5, 2010

Quebec government to legalise online gaming

The government authorizes the Société des loteries du Québecto to offer online gaming

In a press release Government of Quebec, Canada, said Wednesday that it has authorised the state lottery operator Loto-Quebec to offer online gaming to the resident's of the province, including poker games which set to launch later this year.

“Our government has decided to authorize the Société des loteries du Québec to offer online games of chance. Inasmuch as this is a sector that is developing exponentially in an illegal way, Loto-Québec is being given the responsibility of working to redirect this already existing but illegal gaming activity to a site that is secure, legal and trustworthy. I believe this to be an efficient way of fighting the underground economy,” declared Mr. Bachand. Loto-Québec, declared Mr. Cousineau, intends to carry out this project successfully and with the full rigor and integrity that have characterized its operations for 40 years.

February 5, 2010

PartyPoker play chip strategy

Angered discussions in poker communities on PartyPoker play chip decision. 

PartyPoker’s decision earlier this week to limit the maximum chip amount players can have in their play money account dominates discussions in the online poker communities.

Earlier this week, PartyPoker took the step to cap earnings in the play money games to a maximum of 250,000 chips. When players woke up on Tuesday morning, many people who had built up millions of these chips through years of play found that their accounts had been reset. PartyPoker reasons is to stop the transferring of chips from account to account outside of regular poker hands. Seemingly behind the decision was the selling of play money chips outside of the playing arena on PartyPoker, where it is reported that some sites offered one billion chips for $400. Accordingly to PartyPoker this makes for inequities in the play money games and PartyPoker policies is “We do not tolerate unfair play in any form, whether on our play money or our real money sites." The new policy and restriction does not affect Real Money accounts as their play money balance remains unchanged from one login to the next.

February 5, 2010

Microgaming signs deal with Warner Bros. Digital Distribution

The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy to enter online gaming.  

Microgaming announces a multi-year licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Digital Distribution, to create a series of rich graphic video slots based on the popular Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, available to internet gaming in countries where online gaming is permitted. The agreement gives Microgaming permission to develop online video slot games using animation material, themes and characters from the motion pictures The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming said, 'We’re excited about creating state-of-the-art video slots from the best movie trilogy of the decade. We look forward to bringing The Lord of the Rings into the online gaming sphere, where our expertise in game quality and speed to market will ensure its success. The Lord of the Rings has a huge entrenched fan base with over 97% awareness of the film franchise, as well as phenomenal and unprecedented home video success.”

February 5, 2010

Norsk Tipping shows record high turnover for 2009

Turnover for 2009 reaches €1.34 billion.

Norwegian Government controlled Norsk Tipping shows a record year and has reported its highest ever annual turnover with NOK10.9 billion (€1.34 billion) for 2009, following strong growth in its interactive channel which saw internet and mobile turnover soar by more than a third versus the previous year.

February 5, 2010

Sweden's gaming legislation delayed

Sweden’s new gaming legislation is rumoured to be delayed due to legal concerns of enforcement.

The much anticipated new gaming legislation is said to be delayed as reasons of legal concerns over the viability of sanctions which it seeks to impose on illegal operators, and with a general election scheduled for September, many now believe that the partial market liberalisation is unlikely to occur before 2011.

According to Swedish Radio, which cites unnamed sources, there is major disagreements among lawyers per some of the regulations contained in the new bill, particularly with regards to sanctions towards violators of the new law. This has led to significant delays in the preparation of the bill, which was expected to be submitted to Parliament in March with a view to enacting the law before the general election in September.

Under the partial market liberalisation, foreign operators are expected to be authorised to offer sports betting to Swedish citizens, while Svenska Spel is expected to retain a monopoly over casino games and poker which the state considers to pose a higher risk to gamblers.

February 5, 2010

Net Entertainment shows strong growth 

Existing licensees as well as the launch of new customers shows a revenue growth of 46 percent for the full year.

Following a strong finish to the year, Sweden’s Net Entertainment AB said this Friday that total revenues for the full 2009 year amounted to SEK300.1 million (€29.6 million), an increase of 46% compared to the previous year, as a result of growth from existing licensees as well as the launch of new customers. During the year Net Entertainment signed 10 new license agreement for the CasinoModule and 14 new customer's casinos were launched.   

Johan Öhman, President and CEO, says: "We saw strong growth at the end of 2009 with a revenue growth of 12 percent during the fourth quarter compared to quarter three. The increase was the result of organic growth by existing licensees. The number of game transactions increased by 23 percent during the same period. Combined, this result shows

that there is a strong market development and demand for our products. This positive trend has continued in January."

February 5, 2010

PlayersOnly.com and Sportsbook.com to Merge Network

PlayersOnly and Sportsbook.com move from the Cake Poker Network to the Merge Gaming Network by mid-April.

In a press release PlayersOnly and Sportsbook.com stated, “Merge Gaming, the designer, developer, and licensor of software to the international online poker industry, today announces it has successfully agreed to migrate the online poker gaming activities of Jazette Enterprises to the Merge Gaming platform.”

Anthony Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of Merge Gaming, said, "This is a industry changing deal and we are delighted to have come to an agreement with Jazette Enterprises. This deal will bring massive liquidity to the network and see the online poker industry landscape change overnight. We are delighted to sign such an established partner to the network, it’s through our great software and superior backend we are able to attract a group of this size to the network.”

The Merge Gaming Network’s flagship is Carbon Poker and the network stands as the 20th largest worldwide accordingly to PokerScout.com, with a seven-day running average of 245 real money ring game players and during peak hours nearly 500 cash game players. Meanwhile, the Cake Poker Network is the ninth largest worldwide, with a seven-day running average of 2,150 cash game players.

February 05, 2010

PartyGaming announces fourth quarter

Group revenue for the fourth quarter 2009 was $132.2 million, up 32 percent.

Party Gaming PLC announced the financial results for the fourth quarter of 2009 and preliminary results for the fiscal year 2009. The company’s profits were up for the quarter compared to the previous year, but showed a decline for the fiscal year overall due to company decisions and purchases made.

Party Gaming’s group revenue for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $132.2 million, a change of 32 percent against the same time period last year ($100.4 million) and also showed an increase of 17 percent compared to the third quarter of 2009. For the year, however, revenue accumulated $446.2 million, a drop of over 6 percent compared to profits from 2008 of $472.9 million. Party Gaming purchased the World Poker Tour (WPT) in late 2009, which caused the 6 percent decrease in revenues.

Party Gaming also announced a new executive in Per Widerström. Widerström holds a long history in the online gaming industry, most recently as the Chief Executive Officer and Director of Mangas Gaming Malta. Widerström, in the past, also held the head position at Expekt.com.

“I am delighted that we have secured the services of such an internationally experienced and multi-disciplined executive as our Chief Operating Officer,” Ryan commented. “Per will report directly to me and will primarily be responsible for driving growth across the Party Gaming brands. He has a great track record for leading business operations and delivering results. I’m confident he will be a great asset for Party Gaming as we push ahead with our strategic plan.”

February 5, 2010

Dragonfish to assist Centric growth 

888's independent B2B division Dragonfish provides online casino and poker software to Centric Multimedia.

888 Holdings announces that its independent B2B division Dragonfish will provide online casino and poker software to the Greek digital media firm Centric Multimedia S.A. Centric which targets the southern and eastern European markets through its subsidiary Lex Online Entertainment is set to launch online gaming in a variety of languages shortly.

Dragonfish says that it is to supply the new operation with casino and poker software together with back-office technology, fraud and risk management systems, payments processing and customer support.

Centric recently reported a 29.5 percent increase in turnover to €546.7 million for the nine months ending in September. The Athens-based firm stated that it had a ‘strong track record’ in diversifying into new growth sectors and driving entry into new markets.

February 5, 2010

Gaming VC gears up for expansion

Gaming VC Holdings S.A. announces a ‘significant expansion’ of its CasinoClub and sportsbook brands into new territories.

To support the expansion, Gaming VC has revealed two new key appointments that will report directly to Kenneth Alexander, Chief Executive Officer for Gaming VC, and manage the international growth of its casino and sportsbook offerings.

The CasinoClub brand is set to expand outside its core German market with Gaming VC announcing that Jon Salmon, the former Chief Marketing Officer for PartyGaming and founder and past Managing Director for Ads Dot Com, will be responsible for additional marketing spend to maintain its existing German business.

“Jon has a successful track record of building teams and launching gaming specific marketing programmes and brings in-depth gaming experience to the group,” read a statement from gaming VC.

In addition, Gaming VC has appointed Jim Humberstone, the past Head of Sportsbook for SportingBet, to lead a team that will launch a number of new language versions of its sportsbook for southern Europe.

“These two new management appointments further strengthen the senior team at Gaming VC and will enable the group to continue its aggressive expansion into new products and territories,” accordingly to a statement from Gaming VC. “In total, the group expects to invest up to seven million Euros during 2010 to build the new businesses. Both businesses are expected to be loss-making in 2010 but make a contribution to earnings in 2011 and beyond.”

February 5, 2010

CryptoLogic signs deal with Bet24.com

CryptoLogic signs agreement to license 10 of its most popular games to Bet24.

The agreement covers some of CryptoLogic's top branded and non-branded slot games and will provide CryptoLogic with recurring revenues based on wagers placed by Bet24's customers.

Justin Thouin, CryptoLogic's Vice President, said: "Bet24 is our first new licensee of 2010 and builds on the strong momentum of new customers gained by CryptoLogic in 2009. With a growing roster of leading online gaming operators, CryptoLogic continues to increase its reach across the global player community with its compelling branded gaming content."

Bet24 was founded in 2001 and since 2005 is part of MTG. Bet24 offers gaming entertainment including exciting odds on international as well as local sports events, Casino, Poker, Games, Bingo and Lotto in 15 different languages on www.bet24.com. Bet24 has active clients in more than 70 countries enjoying the full array of gaming services.

Kim Larsen, Casino and Games Manager of Bet24, said: "The agreement with CryptoLogic is in line with our strategy of providing our customers with the best gaming entertainment products available in the market. We are delighted to offer their games to our customers and look forward to working with CryptoLogic to expand our business and enhance user experience."

February 4, 2010

Sportingbet extends GTECH G2 licensing agreement

Sportingbet extends agreement with GTECH G2 and adds bingo to its existing games portfolio.

Following a 5 years successful working relationship Sportingbet renews its commitment across all key products of G2 over a three year period, including poker, casino and games, and adding G2's newly launched bingo software whilst also entering a new phase of its sports betting relationship. 

Continuing with its success and core sports betting market, Sportingbet strives to achieve growth in all product domains, and offering multiple products from GTECH G2 through a single account is central to Sportingbet growth and player experience. Whilst operating their sports book on the acclaimed Margin Maker software, Sportingbet will also integrate G2’s Gaming Management System which will serve as the back office for bingo, poker and casino. In addition to the renewed commitment to GTECH G2’s IPN, Sportingbet is also working closely with G2 to launch poker in markets that are set to regulate in the near future.

February 3, 2010

Playtech profit rise up

Playtech trading update for fourth quarter 2009 shows a 21 percent year on year rise in gross income to €38.5 million.

The trading update revealed a 23 percent rise in gross income for the entire year when compared with the previous twelve month period to €137.3 million. Playtech further stated that total revenues for the fourth quarter reached €30.4 million, which represents a ten percent year on year increase, while its full year revenues increased with three percent when compared with 2008 to €114.8 million.

Casino revenues for the fourth quarter accumulated €20.7 million, which was an increase of twelve percent year on year, while those from poker for the three month period went up three percent compared with the same period 2008 to €8.4 million.

“The fourth quarter was a solid quarter with strong increases in all business areas,” said Mor Weiser, CEO for Playtech. “This strong performance has continued in the first three weeks of the year. The board is very comfortable with market expectations for the year ended December 31, 2009 and looks forward to 2010 with confidence as another significant year of development.”

February 2, 2010

Norway to stop online gaming

It is shortly expected that the Norwegian Government will place a stop on payments going to operators not licensed in Norway.

The decision to prohibit payments to foreign gaming companies was taken about a year back, and ever since technology has been in development to enforce the law and accordingly to industry rumours technology is now closing in on its final stage.  

Companies that will be effected if technology turns out successful is among others Betsson, Entraction, Net Entertainment and Unibet, as they presently do not hold a gaming license in Norway, while at the same time having a strong market in Norway. The Norwegian market alone is reported to be one of three main markets for Betsson.

February 2, 2010

King Solomon's Poker changes network

Online poker room King Solomon's moves from International Poker Network to iPoker Network. 

The move from Boss Media's International Poker Network (IPN) to Playtech operated iPoker Network is almost complete for online poker room King Solomon's. The site recently announced that players holding accounts on the Boss Media IPN will no longer have access to the tables of IPN as of February 1st.

Accordingly to King Solomon's Poker there were over 25,000 players across the iPoker Network at time of writing, which is substantially higher than the traffic through brands of IPN.

February 1, 2010

Betsson business solutions

Betsson launch B2B division to support brands and growth.

Stockholm based gaming group Betsson AB launches B2B subsidiary to provide partners with turnkey infrastructure and operational expertise. 

Betsson Malta Ltd CEO, Magnus Silfverberg, says that “Betsson Business Solutions will offer new and existing partners hard-earned expertise, experience and service. Partnering with Betsson will be a safe bet in creating a successful gaming venture. I believe this will help bring Betsson’s passion for great games and excellent customer treatment out on an even bigger scale. I am also happy to announce that Jonas Konstantinov is appointed new Managing Director for Betsson Business Solutions.”

February 1, 2010

32Red acquires NedPlay.com

Online casino NedPlay.com now under strong ownership.

With less successful operations NedPlay.com is now under new ownership as 32Red takes over, the deal includes player database and all intellectual property. 32Red stated that the purchase would bring players at NedPlay.com the ‘same high level of service and support and exciting promotions’ as enjoyed by players at 32Red brands and sites.

“We are pleased to have NedPlay.com join our group and look forward to delivering the same high standards we apply across our existing operations to NedPlay.com,” said Ed Ware, Chief Executive Officer for 32Red, and that NedPlay.com brand will continue its business as is for the time being as 32Red evaluates the brands future in the weeks to come. Players with approved pending withdrawals should expect payment shortly, while unresolved compensation to the site’s affiliate partners would be settled in the short-term.

February 1, 2010