|
Sunday 5 September 2010
legal
Nordic region, future view on legislation »
Italy, 2010 outlook on legislation »
GAMING EVENTS The 2010 Outlook on Worldwide Gaming Events »
featured domains
GAMING jobs On the lookout for your next career »
news archive
|
|
Entraction and Betsson poker deal
Online gaming operator Betsson set to launch a second poker network to its customers following the signing of an agreement with platform provider Entraction.
The agreement will enable Betsson’s 290,000 active poker players access to dual poker networks, with the Entraction network operating alongside Betsson poker on the Ongame network.
“This strengthens Betsson's total offer in our important poker markets,” said Magnus Silfverberg, CEO of Betsson Malta Ltd. “The agreement with Entraction is one of our measures to boost our position as a leading poker operator in Europe.”
“We are of course pleased to have signed an agreement with Betsson and are convinced that Betsson's players will enjoy Entraction's user friendly and reliable poker network,” added Entraction CEO Peter Åström.
March 31, 2010
bwin and Gioco signs Net Entertainment for Italy market
bwin ans Gioco Digitale selects Net Entertainments CasinoModule for Italy.
Net Entertainment AB has signed an agreement with bwin´s Italian subsidiary Gioco Digitale Sp.A for the delivery of the award winning CasinoModule to both Gioco Digitale as well as bwin's Italian site bwin.it.
The agreement with Net Entertainment means that Gioco Digitale and bwin.it extends the product offering to also comprise casino games and there is an ambition to extend the partnership within the bwin group moving forward. Launch will take place as soon as possible after the requirement specifications have been publicized by the Italian authorities which is expected during the first half of 2010.
”The license agreement with Net Entertainment gives us access to a wide range of market leading casino games which is an important focus area for our continued growth”, says Paolo di Feo, General Director for Gioco Digitale.
”We are delighted that bwin has selected us as their strategic partner and wish them welcome as a customer. The agreement means that Net Entertainment becomes the prime supplier of online casino software in Italy”, comments Johan Öhman, CEO for Net Entertainment.
March 31, 2010
Ladbrokes new CEO confirmed
Ladbrokes new Chief Executive is Sporting Index Chairman and former Chief Executive Richard Glynn.
Ladbrokes plc confirmed Tuesday the appointment of former Sporting Index Chairman and Chief Executive Richard Glynn as the company’s new Chief Executive. Glynn joins Ladbrokes from Sporting Index where he has been Chairman since May 2008 and Chief Executive from 2001 and he enters his new role on April 22, replacing Christopher Bell who is stepping down after nearly twenty years with Ladbrokes.
Chairman of Ladbrokes Peter Erskine said, “We are delighted that Richard will become the next Chief Executive of Ladbrokes. We conducted a thorough international search and selection process and had a number of high quality candidates to choose from.
“Richard combines entrepreneurial energy with industry experience. His nine years' experience of the betting and gaming industry combined with his successful transformation of Sporting Index into a leading international and innovative spread betting business makes him ideally suited to lead the reinvigoration of Ladbrokes.”
Glynn will receive a base salary of £580,000 per annum, as well as 1.177 million Ladbrokes shares with a value of £1.75 million on appointment. Glynn will also receive a one-off interest award of around 4 million shares based upon delivery of value to Ladbrokes’ shareholders over a five year period.
Richard Glynn said, “I am very excited, and proud, to be joining Ladbrokes. It is a great business with significant opportunities in a rapidly changing marketplace. I am looking forward to working closely with the Ladbrokes team to fulfil the group's significant potential.”
March 30, 2010
FDJ acquires LVS
France’s FDJ acquires betting software developer LVS
French monopoly operator La Française des Jeux (FDJ) announced in a statement Friday that it has acquired LVS, the British betting software developer which already supplies FDJ with fixed odds betting platform.
Christophe Blanchard-Dignac, Chairman and CEO of FDJ said, “This is an important acquisition in the context of the opening of the French online betting market to competition. By buying this company, La Française des Jeux reinforces its technological control on the overall activity - sports betting and lotteries – in the sake of the safety of our customers.”
“We’re delighted that La Française des Jeux has chosen to strengthen even further the successful relationship we already have,” said Simon Ordish, CEO of LVS. “It will enable us to take the business to the next level and exploit new opportunities. The acquisition means we can both grow and prosper at a very exciting time for the betting and gaming industry.”
LVS also supplies betting and gaming software to industry names such as William Hill, bwin and Victor Chandler.
March 29, 2010
PartyGaming new B2B deal
PartyGaming signs business to business agreement with France's state controlled bookmaker PMU.
PartyGaming today announces that it has signed a multi-year, exclusive deal to provide an online poker service for the French market to PMU.
Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will co-operate to create a PMU-branded online poker service based upon PartyGaming’s own market-leading poker software that will be integrated into PMU’s own player account systems. This service will be available when both PartyGaming and PMU have obtained the required French licences. The PMU poker service will also provide access for players to the shared player liquidity on PartyGaming’s French poker network that will include partypoker.fr. With the imminent opening of the French online gaming market to competition, PartyGaming said that the poker service will be available once the two parties have both obtained the required French licences.
Jim Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of PartyGaming said, “Today's agreement with PMU is consistent with our stated strategy of securing a small number of high value partners in regulated markets. PMU is widely recognised as one of Europe's leading betting businesses and we look forward to providing them with a world class poker service.”
PMU is France’s pari-mutual horse racing company and is the largest horse race betting organisation in Europe. PMU recently announced its twelfth year of consecutive growth, with turnover of €9.3 billion, of which €660 million was generated from the www.PMU.fr betting website and a gross profit of €2.2 billion in 2009. PMU has more than 6.5 million customers in France using 10,000 retail outlets.
March 26, 2010
iMEGA challenges domain ruling
Interactive Media Entertainment and Gaming Association (iMEGA) responds to the Kentucky Supreme Court's ruling on behalf of the 141 Internet gambling related domain names seized by the Commonwealth.
Yatahay Limited, the owner of TruePoker.com, is the first company to come forward and identify itself as an affected party and member of iMEGA, following the ruling last week by the Kentucky Supreme Court which determined that both iMEGA and the Interactive Gaming Council (IGC) had no standing to contest the state’s actions to seize 141 online gambling domain names.
The Supreme Court asked that iMEGA and IGC file affidavits asserting that one or more of their members were the owners of an affected domain name, so the Court could then make a ruling on the merits of the case.
iMEGA Chairman, Joe Brennan Jr. said, “The owners of the TruePoker.com domain have taken a big step on the behalf of the industry and players, and we’ve overcome the technicalities that gave the Commonwealth their short-lived victory. The Court can now make a decision based on Kentucky law. Based on the language of the decision last week, we know the Court wants to do just that. We know that the law favours us, and frankly, so does the Commonwealth’s attorneys.”
March 26, 2010
NetPlay TV and Virgin deal change
NetPlay TV agrees to major changes of its deal with Virgin Media Television, including the termination of its option agreement.
NetPlay TV plc has agreed revisions to its agreement with Virgin Media Television, signed last April, where NetPlay TV takes full control of the Challenge Jackpot database and terminating its share option agreement with Virgin Media, in exchange for a payment of £1.82 million.
In April 2009 NetPlay TV signed an agreement with Virgin Media to take over production of the Challenge Jackpot brand, including website and television channel, and where Virgin Media entered into an option agreement over 9.9 percent of the total issued shares in NetPlay TV at 18 pence per share. Accordingly to NetPlay TV, the database generated £2.9 million of gross gaming margin from May 12th 2009 to December 31st 2009 and was subject to a revenue share agreement. Under the revised terms all revenues arising from this database will be retained by NetPlay TV, with Virgin Media receiving fixed monthly payments that reflect the value of its airtime.
Martin Higginson, Group Chief Executive of NetPlay TV said, "The revised terms of this deal allow us to invest in the future development of the Challenge Jackpot brand, as well as the ability to extend it onto other channels.”
March 26, 2010
GTECH G2 adds iovation's device reputation technology
Finsoft platform MarginMaker to integrate iovation's Reputation Manager.
Provider of the world’s first device reputation service for preventing online fraud and abuse, iovation today announced its partnership with GTECH G2. The GTECH G2 group, through its Finsoft subsidiary, will offer iovation’s device reputation technology as part of its real time transaction and risk management platform for online gaming and betting customers.
Finsoft’s platform solution for online bookmakers, MarginMaker, will integrate iovation Reputation Manager to offer highly sophisticated risk management services. Using iovation’s device reputation technology, MarginMaker customers can easily expose cyber criminals by recognising and re-recognising the computers they use. In addition, iovation maintains the world’s largest database of device-based fraud histories, enabling customers to benefit from the collective fraud experiences of companies around the globe.
“The service provided by iovation has proven itself to be extremely successful for so many companies in the online betting industry - it absolutely makes sense for us to include it in our fraud management process,” said Predrag Popovic, CTO of GTECH G2 and CEO of Finsoft.
March 24, 2010
Bingo.com partners with Unibet network
The Unibet bingo and casino network welcomes nearly two million new users to the network.
Bingo.com group offers multiplayer bingo, slot machines and sweepstakes, and players of Bingo.com will add to the liquidity of MariaBingo.com and Bingo.se brands.
Chief Executive of Bingo.com Tarrnie Williams said, “Through this partnership Bingo.com has the ability to maximise the value of its international traffic as it will now support over 20 languages and 10 currencies. Bingo.com will also realise cost savings in technology, finance, customer service and other departments that are included services in the Unibet partner programme."
Unibet’s platform offers bingo and casino and features sites including Betty and Carat bingo and the Maria bingo brand that Unibet bought in December 2007, the largest online bingo operator in the Nordic market.
"Signing a partnership with Bingo.com, one of the strongest bingo brand names in the industry, is obviously very positive for us. It shows that we really have a quality bingo network with great understanding for local needs. We look forward to growing our business together on existing and new markets,” says Petter Nylander, CEO Unibet.
March 24, 2010
Mangas Gaming's Nicolas Béraud new group chief executive
Mangas Gaming’s Isabelle Parize and Nicolas Béraud both promoted, with Béraud to replace Parize as Mangas chief executive.
Group chief executive Parize has been promoted to vice-chairwoman and has joined the board, where she will be responsible for its development and acquisition strategy, as well as regulatory issues and supervising the company’s ethics department. Parize has been chief executive of Mangas Gaming since September 2007.
BetClic founder Béraud has been appointed group chief executive, a promotion from his role as Mangas chief operating officer and chief executive of Mangas owned BetClic. Béraud, set out to make BetClic one of Europe’s top five operators, will supervise all three companies in the new role, as well as Bet-at-home, which Mangas acquired with Expekt in March 2009, and Everest Gaming, which Mangas acquired in December.
March 23, 2010
888 reports performance
Business to business arm Dragonfish grew revenue by 33 percent.
888's total operating income dipped 6 percent to US$246.7 million in its final results for the year ended December 31st, which is mainly explained by economic downturn and foreign currency conversions. Profit before tax dipped 10 percent to US$34.6 million. 888 said however that 2010 is set to be a year of growth with a number of strategic initiatives in the pipeline.
Performance was in contrast to that of Dragonfish, launched in March, which recorded revenue up by a third to US$51.3 million, from US$38.6 the year before.
Gigi Levy, CEO of 888 commented, "2009 was the year that validated the strength of the Group's combined business model: a world class B2C operator and an innovative and comprehensive B2B service provider. Whilst the market for our B2C business remained challenging we retained our focus on innovation to ensure our offering remains at the forefront of the gaming experience with exciting visuals, increased interactivity, more community focus and a new customer loyalty programme. In January this year we also launched a new streamlined, distinctive and digital look to our four key sub-brands - 888Casino, 888Poker, 888Bingo and 888Sport."
Real money registered customers rose by 22 percent to 7.1 million, from 5.8 million.
March 23, 2010
Dragonfish signs agreement with bwin Italia
The agreement signifies Dragonfish’s first move into the Italian gaming market.
Dragonfish, the independent B2B division of 888 Holdings Plc, today announces the signing of an agreement with bwin Italia, a subsidiary of bwin, for the provision of a comprehensive casino offering.
Dragonfish will provide bwin’s casino games portfolio in the Italian market, supplying a broad range of download and flash games, consisting of in-house proprietary developed games and a diverse range of third party games. The agreement will see some of the best performing casino games in the industry being offered to the Italian market, including classic slots, video slots, video poker, table games and a range of high profile branded games.
Gabi Campos, Managing Director of Dragonfish, said, “The synergy of bwin’s brand presence and our premium casino offering provides a potent combination, and is an ideal way to enter the growing Italian market.”
Paolo Di Feo, General Director of bwin activities in Italy said, “We have chosen Dragonfish as our online casino technology provider so that we can ensure a premium gaming experience for our customers. We believe 888 is a top brand and Dragonfish will be able to capitalise on the experience they have.”
March 22, 2010
Playtech 2009 performance
Performance shows a 25 percent jump in earnings before interest, tax, debt and amortisation (EBITDA) and a 71 percent increase in net profit for the full year 2009.
Playtech announced this week that adjusted EBITDA rose from €74.7 million in 2008 to €93.7million last year. Its performance was ahead of analysts’ expectations, and net profit for the period rose to €69.5 million, up from €40.7 million.
Gross income rose 23 percent to €137.3 million, supported by the deal with William Hill Online in late 2008 to provide online poker and casino, a deal that alone contributed with €22.5 million in profit share, before amortisation and intangibles.
Chief Executive Mor Weizer said, “I believe this performance demonstrates both the robustness of the business model and the benefits of being a pure B2B provider.
“The breadth and richness of our portfolio has enabled us in 2009 to attract many new licensees, including those added through acquisition. These licensees were drawn from a wide range of market segments. By these means we increasingly diversify our revenue streams by product, geography and licensee type and this is set to continue as more locally regulated markets open up.”
March 22, 2010
Partouche eCOGRA accredited
Partouche Technologies, subsidiary to the French casino group Partouche, has achieved the required standards for Certified Software seal for its online casino.
The company's online casino software has been awarded the eCOGRA Certified Software seal following extensive onsite testing, inspection and monitoring by eCOGRA compliance teams.
Partouche Technologies Chief Technical Ms. Pereira said that the exhaustive eCOGRA assessment had been a valuable exercise for her management team, formalising systems and improving some areas of business activity, and confirming that others met the best international standards for best business practice.
In addition she has commissioned eCOGRA’s services to provide monthly casino payout percentage and RNG reviews, and monthly poker RNG reviews, using live data.
Andrew Beveridge, Chief Executive of eCOGRA, said that the accreditation was only achieved following a rigorous on-site inspection, which encompassed every aspect of the company’s software development activities, and was followed by sustained monitoring and annual reviews.
Accreditation for Partouche poker operations is further scheduled once all in-house development is completed.
March 19, 2010
NeoGames white label deal with Megascratch.com
NeoGames portfolio of over fifty online scratch games to be provided to the Megascratch.com brand.
The white label agreement includes NeoGames Ltd to provide turnkey services including payments, risk management, player retention management and customer care in 18 languages to Megascratch.com Inc.
“NeoGames seek for expertise and knowledgeable partners with assets in specific markets, which is why Megascratch.com Inc, is a natural partner for NeoGames in creating a Scandinavian online scratch card offering,” said Shay Bar Joseph, Managing Director of NeoGames International.
A spokesperson for Megascratch.com added: “With mass market appeal in the Scandinavian market for online scratch cards, teaming up with NeoGames is the obvious choice; they have the products whilst we have the Scandinavian market intact. With the new white label offering, we feel that we have the tools to provide a fun, safe and secure online gaming.”
March 19, 2010
Jadestone expanding in Italy with Gioco Digitale
Jadestone Networks announced today that, after the agreement with bwin, they will add player liquidity and local expertise of Gioco Digitale to their Italian network.
Jadestone will now create a skill game network in Italy for the combined Gioco Digitale and bwin audience. The network will be integrated to Italian authorities via the new Gioco Digitale platform and thereby also be open for other partners to join.
"We are proud that customers appreciate our games in the Italian market and that we continue to grow our presence there," said Tobias Nissen, General Manager of Jadestone Networks. "Our partnership with bwin and Gioco Digitale forms the bedrock of a high quality and high liquidity network for all Italian players to enjoy. The re-launched proposition takes advantage of the new platform developed by Gioco Digitale and bwin and will benefit all other partners that choose to work with us in Italy."
"Skill games are a key product in our vision of gaming as a part of the entertainment industry, that already see a strong effort in direction such as the producing and/or the distribution of poker and sport video; we believe in Italy there is space for the growth of a network that share this vision, and we found in Jadestone not only a recognized international leader, but also a partner that is willing to commit in creating games that are in line with Italian taste and trends." said Paolo Di Feo, General Director of Bwin and Gioco Digitale in Italy.
To further strengthen the local presence in Italy Jadestone has appointed Marcus Dahlgren as the new Jadestone country manager in Italy. Marcus, who will be on the ground in Italy from April 2010, will be responsible for building up the local business together with existing and new partners.
March 18, 2010
PKR looking to release 3D Casino
PKR is planning a suite of casino games and a full 3D casino by end of year.
As reported by EGRmagazine.com, PKR Chief Executive Malcolm Graham said that the company will introduce a suite of casino games in a bid to build on the success of its flagship 3D poker product, which has grown at an average of one million players a year since its launch in 2006.
Graham said, “My hypothesis is that there’s an opportunity to leverage a richer visual experience on the table side, hence what we’re doing. At the moment it’s somewhere between 2D and 3D. There are limitations to the movie-esque table experience, which we’re hopeful we can take to another level. We’re in the process of rolling out 3D casino games, which included launching 3D roulette in December. It will be the best roulette product in the market and we’ll then be adding table games to that.”
The casino product will be added a part of a programme of improvements over the next 12-18 months that will also include improving PKR’s poker offering to add multi-table functionality and the ability to access the table more quickly.
March 18, 2010
Playtech and Boylesports signs bingo deal
Playtech's Virtue Fusion Alderney to deliver bingo solution to Irish bookmaker Boylesports.
Playtech announced this Wednesday that it has established a bingo licensing agreement with Boylesports. Playtech will provide Boylesports with its online bingo solution through the Virtue Fusion Alderney platform. Boylesports will receive unrivalled European prize pool liquidity from Playtech Ltd. The bingo product joins Boylesports’ egaming offering that already includes Playtech poker.
Boylesports Head of Online, Conor Grant said, “As the industry leading provider of online gaming software, Playtech have a proven track record for supplying fantastic products with great liquidity. We are delighted to be introducing their online bingo through Virtue Fusion to Boylesports.com.”
Mor Weizer Playtech CEO said, “We are delighted to become online bingo supplier to Boylesports. They already benefit from having Playtech for their poker product, so taking another best of breed service by utilising the Virtue Fusion Alderney platform will compliment their portfolio and bring enhanced opportunities.”
March 17, 2010
Cryptologic and William Hill extends relationship
A new multi-year licensing deal for branded casino games continues 10 year relationship.
Cryptologic has extended its long-standing relationship with William Hill plc with a new multi-year deal to license a suite of its most popular branded casino games. Under the new deal, Cryptologic will license at least 10 of its top slot games including Bejeweled, Cubis, King Kong and Millionaires Club for inclusion at www.williamhill.com. Nine Cryptologic games have already gone live with a further game expected to go live in the coming weeks.
The games are being deployed through Cryptologic's and William Hill's technology platform provider Orbis Technology, a global platform solutions provider to the betting industry, and where Cryptologic will receive recurring revenues based on wagers placed by William Hill's customers.
Brian Hadfield, President and CEO of Cryptologic said, "This deal reaffirms our excellent relationship with William Hill, one of the most respected names in the gaming industry. The rapid roll out of our branded games by William Hill demonstrates the popularity of our games with their customers and the value we bring to our licensees."
"Cryptologic's compelling and innovative games are one of the major reasons we have worked together for over a decade. Their branded slot games are a must-have for attracting and retaining players and providing a highly entertaining environment for our customers," said Colin Cole-Johnson, Gaming Director of William Hill Online. "We look forward to continuing our work with Cryptologic."
March 17, 2010
GTECH G2 introduces innovative marketing tool
GTECH G2 has introduced an innovative social CRM platform to its market-leading Bingo platform. The new tool enables GTECH G2 and its clients to send targeted communications to existing players via widgets inside social networks, start pages, blogs and on the desktop.
The technology uses the new, OOCONNECT platform developed by social media and technology consultants OOSOCIAL.
Matt Nash, CEO of OOSOCIAL said “I’m delighted that a company of the stature of GTECH G2 is our launch partner on OOCONNECT. The easy to implement platform which is primarily focused on CRM also delivers new customer acquisition via our proprietary ‘syndicated authentication’ technology and Facebook API integration”.
Over 17 of GTECH G2’s Bingo clients, including brands such as Butlins and Littlewoods will soon enjoy the marketing power of this unique messaging platform; with players enjoying more relevant and personal information.
March 17, 2010
bwin's Ongame Network live in Italy
Ongame Network’s first regional offering live in Italy.
Responding to legal frameworks bwin’s Ongame Network recently launched its Italian online poker network. Spearheaded by bwin and Gioco Digitale, Ongame Network Italy launches with 5 million players and Ongame Network is looking to further increase this regional liquidity by welcoming more partners holding Italian operating licenses.
“The adaptability of the P5 Poker Engine to power both regional and global networks is showcased by Ongame Network Italy and we continue to work closely with the Italian authorities as we prepare for the anticipated introduction of cash games,” said Martin Lerby, Head of Ongame Network.
The Italian network is monitored by the Italian authorities and is in full compliance with online gaming regulations. The license holder for Ongame Network Italy is bwin SRL, bwin Interactive Entertainment AG’s Italian subsidiary.
March 16, 2010
NetPlay TV Director change
Gavin Whyte, Group Managing Director, steps down to explore new opportunities and establish his own mobile gaming business.
NetPlay TV plc, the interactive TV gaming company, announces the resignation of Gavin Whyte, Group Managing Director. Gavin will be stepping down from the board with immediate effect to explore new opportunities. Gavin joined the company at its inception in 2006.
Gavin has decided to establish his own mobile gaming business, he will continue to assist the company with its mobile strategy on a freelance basis.
Martin Higginson, Chief Executive of NetPlay TV, said, "Gavin has been a pivotal part of the Company since its inception in December 2006. His drive and determination has helped us achieve great things. I would personally like to thank him for all his hard work; it has been very much appreciated by all."
Gavin Whyte added, "I am immensely proud of what we have achieved over the last 3 years and I believe NetPlay TV is now the dominant TV gaming company in the U.K. Last year was transformational and I believe the Company is well positioned to continue its rapid growth. I have enjoyed building NetPlay TV with Martin and wish the team all the very best".
March 16, 2010
888 bingo brands launched at Ignite
888Ladies and 888Bingo launched on the Ignite bingo affiliate network.
Ignite Bingo, the dedicated online bingo network has announced a deal with 888 and the launch of brands 888Ladies.com and 888Bingo.com onto their bingo affiliate network. Ignite further said that both bingo rooms are now fully integrated into our system and all Costa Bingo affiliates are welcome to join the new programmes.
Gibraltar based Ignite Bingo launched in June 2009 and to date has run the Costa Bingo affiliate programme on an exclusive basis. Ignite Bingo director Christian Colton said, “We hope that the 888 brands are the first of many major bingo rooms to launch with us in Q2 2010.” With Ignite Bingo all affiliates can earn up to a massive 50 percent revenue share and expect accurate and on time payments from all our partners.
March 16, 2010
iGaming Supershow
iGaming Super Show Prague announces multi-tracked conference streams for the online gambling Industry... operators, regulators, executives and affiliates.
The iGaming Super Show, 24-28 May 2010, in Prague is named for its expectation to create a unifying conference for the entire online gambling industry, from Operators, to Regulators to CEO’s to Affiliates, has announced multi-tracked conference streams which will examine the primary concerns in the now established online gambling industry.
“We have targeted six key areas in iGaming which when put together, gives a thorough across-the-board look at the online gambling industry,” Alex Pratt, Head of iGaming Business, publisher of intelligence and events stated. “We have created relevant tracks using all our resources, experience and contacts with the best industry experts and speakers. Specifically the sessions will include; opportunities for operators in 2010, regulators policy track, affiliate marketing, executive legal analysis across all jurisdictions, iGaming specific business strategies from leading CEO’s and an in-depth financial analysis into consolidations, acquisitions and key performance indicators in the market.”
March 16, 2010
Microgaming customised to cater for the Italian market
Brand new poker network for the Italian online gaming market.
Microgaming announced earlier today the launch of a brand new poker network for the Italian online gaming market. Having gained AAMS approval and completing a thorough beta testing period successfully, the network is now fully live, offering Italian players access to Microgaming’s poker tournament games.
Microgaming has worked in close collaboration with local parties to ensure that its world renowned back-office systems and support services have been appropriately customised to cater for the Italian market.
Ladbrokes is the first operator to join the new network and accordingly to the press release negotiations are underway with a number of other operators, who are keen to partner with Microgaming as a means of entering or solidifying their position in the rapidly growing Italian market.
March 15, 2010
Blue Square launches iPhone betting application
Rank Interactive’s Blue Square has launched a new mobile sportsbook application through a partnership with mobile specialist mkodo.
Benefiting from the growing popularity of Apples's iPhone combined with Blue Square's mobile sportsbook now representing about 10 percent of overall sports stakes, compared to 3 percent a year ago, Blue Square is now looking at additional mobile growth.
Simon Wolf, Mobile Product Manager for Rank Interactive said, “The iPhone has revolutionised the mobile industry and in turn, the mobile gaming industry – it’s already five times more popular than other handsets on our existing mobile betting site, and this product complements the iPhone’s ability to get your bet on quickly with the ease of use on the increasingly popular ‘Betting-In-Running’ markets. We’re looking forward to offering our customers a brand new platform for quick and easy betting on-the-go.”
March 15, 2010
Cellectivity releases sports comparison service
Mobile gaming and betting content provider Cellectivity announces that mobile odds comparison and betting service is now online with Bet2Go.com.
Bet2Go services allows punters to construct their own multiple or accumulator bets by selecting from a number of events and markets, and when the punters has constructed their bet, the service shows the best price based on bookmakers able to offer the wager. Once a punter has compared and chosen the best value or return, a simple click places that bet directly with the bookmaker.
Bookmakers currently available on Bet2Go includes Ladbrokes, Blue Square, Paddy Power, SkyBet, BoyleSports, Victor Chandler and Sportingbet, with William Hill due to be added before this summer’s World Cup in South Africa.
“This is fantastic news for punters looking for that extra value when they need it,” said Marcel Puyk, Chief Executive Officer for Cellectivity.
March 15, 2010
UltimateBet cancels 2010 Aruba Classic
Aruba Poker Classic on hold as the brand looks to increase its presence at other major poker events.
UltimateBet (UB) plans for 2010 includes the development of a monthly $500,000 guaranteed tournament with an eye on building it into a million dollar event, while creating more pro related competitions and running UBOC two times a year.
UBOC is the UB signature online poker tournament series that enters its fourth year running, with this year’s event becoming the company’s most successful online poker championship series so far.
Paul Leggett, Chief Operations Officer at UB parent Tokwiro, said, “It is with great regret that we are announcing that the Aruba event will not run this year but 2010 is going to be an exciting year for UB and its players."
March 12, 2010
Probability and Mobenga enters mobile games deal
Probability games to be integrated onto Mobenga's mobile platform.
The partnership agreement includes the 30 plus Probability games to be integrated onto Mobenga's mobile platform, adding new games to customers such as Unibet, bwin and BetClic. Under the deal, both companies will cooperate in marketing the games to Mobenga’s existing customers, and where Probability will derive revenues from the use of the games by end customers.
Probability Chief Executive, Charles Cohen said, “This partnership extends our global reach, and opens up the large player bases which Mobenga’s customers have" and "It removes in one stroke the main hurdle to delivering our service to these operators – namely the time and cost of integrating a new technology into their platform.
Mobenga Chief Executive, Christian Rajter added, “We are very pleased to have been able to form this collaboration with Probability, and to open our platform to integration with their content. I am confident that the combination of their games and our tailor made sportsbook content will be a powerful and attractive one for our existing customers, as well as new customers we hope to secure.”
March 12, 2010
NeoGames signs Winnings.com
NeoGames signs white label agreement with Winnings.com to provide turnkey services for the new scratch card brand.
The deal sets out NeoGames to provide Winnings with a fully managed white label service towards the European market with brand new scratch card offerings, translated to over 17 different languages and offering over 50 scratch card games.
Shay B. Joseph, Managing Director of NeoGames International added: “Winnings Ltd are long term veterans in the online gaming industry and with their uniqueness and innovative tactics for high driven traffic, Winnings.com will turn into in to a profitable online scratch card offering in the European market.”
Spokesperson of Infomedia, the owner of winnings.com said, “Winnings.com believes strongly in the market appeal and high revenue potential of scratch cards" and "by partnering with NeoGames, this will ensure that we can endlessly provide the best scratch card gaming experience to our customers. Winnings.com will be featured and promoted by the affiliate platform Incomate.com, which we expect a great response from.”
March 12, 2010
Las Vegas visitors on the rise
January marked the fifth straight month of increased visitors to Vegas.
Las Vegas hosted more than 2.8 million visitors in January, a 4 percent increase compared to January 2008. However even though more visitors to Las Vegas, the amount spent in the casinos declined about 3 percent compared to last year.
Las Vegas Strip the casinos reported revenues of $495 million in January, which is 3 percent down compared to January last year. Downtown Las Vegas the casinos raked in $38.2 million, about 2 percent less than last year.
The results are reported in line with national trends and showing that visitors are on the rise, while keeping the recession in mind spending somewhat less on betting.
March 12, 2010
Victor Chandler remains sponsor of Nottingham Forest FC
Victor Chandler continues as the official sponsor of Football League Championship side Nottingham Forest FC.
The new seven figure deal is a two year extension to continue as official sponsor and the deal will see the Victor Chandler logo on Forest’s first team and reserve shirts, as well as all adult replica shirts.
“I am delighted to have reached an agreement to continue sponsoring Nottingham Forest for a further two seasons,” said Victor Chandler. “This season has been a huge success and I am confident the team will secure promotion to the Premier League. The global television coverage of the Premier League offers worldwide media opportunities and will benefit our Far East business particularly.”
Mark Arthur, Chief Executive of Nottingham Forest FC said, “We are proud of our record of forging strong associations with our principle sponsors and delivering success for them, and we are delighted Victor Chandler has agreed to extend the sponsorship agreement for a further two years.”
March 11, 2010
32red annual performance
Net gaming wins for the full year of 2009 were £12.75 million, which was only marginally behind full year 2008 with £12.96 million.
32Red plc said that total revenues fell marginally by 2 percent to £12.75 million for the year ended December 31 2009, despite record revenues during the second half of the year where the company’s flagship 32Red Casino, showed strong growth compared to the first half of the year which saw revenues decline by 11 percent.
The strong recovery in the second half of the year, along with 32Red’s return to growth, resulted in a clean EBITDA of £1.2 million (2008, £1.8m) and operating profit before share option costs and exceptional items for the year of £0.9m (2008: £1.5m).
March 11, 2010
GTECH G2 releases poker software update
Now fully integrated with G2’s GMS back end, the latest poker version gives players a seamless wallet for poker, casino, sports and games.
GTECH G2 has updated the poker software on its International Poker Network (IPN), to give players more choices at the table and more convenience at the cashier. The software update also allows players to pick their own seat at the table and to use the same wallet for poker as they use for casino and sports betting transactions.
With the G2’s poker software being fully integrated with its player centric back end (GMS), players don’t have to transfer funds from their casino account to their poker account when they want to switch between games, casino to poker or from poker to sports betting and placing sports bet between poker games, now players can use the same wallet for all products.
March 11, 2010
IG Group third quarter 11 percent revenue growth
Significantly reduced volatility in both equity and forex markets.
IG Group Holdings plc has reported trading revenue of £69 million for the third quarter ended February 28 2010. Revenue increased by 11 percent compared to the same period last year, following strong growth in the company’s UK, Australian, European and Singaporean financial businesses. Together, the markets comprised 90 percent of Group revenues in the period, and grew at 29 percent.
Revenue growth was achieved against a backdrop of significantly reduced volatility in both equity and forex markets. The strong equity market rally, which helped stimulate client activity through much of 2009, showed signs of weakness in the first two months of 2010.
March 11, 2010
Centrebet in takeover talks
Australian and European gaming operator Centrebet has announced talks with several parties interested in acquiring the group.
Following the announcement Centrebet shares gained more than 20 percent this week. Rumours have placed Centrebet an attractive acquisition for companies such as Ladbrokes and PartyGaming, as both are eyeing up commercial alliances for their expansion plans.
Centrebet reported last month total revenues of AUD $31.9 million for the first six months of its financial year, a drop of 8 percent, and where Australian growth counterbalanced a decline in its European business. Centrebet did however report a 19 percent increase in profit for the period to $6.3 million.
Considering any proposal, Centrebet said it will be seeking to maximise shareholder value and will have to take into account the strong growth potential of the business, given the groups current strategy and the positive sports betting industry in Australia. Centrebet also added that there are no assurance that discussions will result in any formal proposal.
March 10, 2010
MGM to sell $845 million in bonds
Casino operator MGM MIRAGE (MGM) said this week it will sell $845 million in new bonds due in 2020.
MGM, the world's second biggest casino operator, is looking to build a healthier balance sheet as gamblers make fewer trips to its resorts and spend less money when they do. Last month the company said it had reached a deal with lenders to extend the deadline for paying off about $3.6 billion worth of debt to February 2014. In all, the company owes almost $13 billion.
MGM said it will offer the new bonds in a private sale. The notes will be backed by a mortgage on the MGM Grand Las Vegas resort with the proceeds used to pay off bank debt, the company said.
March 9, 2010
Harrah's Interactive Entertainment launches online bingo
Harrah's Interactive Entertainment (HIE) enters the online bingo market with the release of CAESARS Bingo Online.
The company’s new Caesars Bingo site is directed towards UK residents, and also features casino games. The Gibraltar licensed brand has signed an agreement with Entertaining Play, a subsidiary of Gamesys technology, which will provide technology, gaming operations, customer service and payment solutions.
Mitch Garber, HIE Chief Executive said, “CAESARSBingo.com will bring players the fun and excitement found in our casinos in addition to offering exclusive CAESARS Palace Las Vegas prize packages.”
Following a deal in September 2009, 888 b2b division Dragonfish provides Harrah's Interactive Entertainment with poker and casino software, e-payments and customer services.
March 9, 2010
Codere performance back to profit
53,760 gaming machines, 142 bingo halls, 179 off-track betting facilities, 7 casinos and 3 racetracks.
With operations spread out through Europe and Latin America, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Spain, Italy, Mexico, Panama and Uruguay the group reported an overall loss of €10.6 million in 2008. Launching a successful cost reduction programme the financial results for 2009 showed a net income of €19.1 million.
Although Codere saw a decrease of 7.8 percent in operating revenue to €967.9 million for the most recent twelve-month period, expenses were reduced by 10.3 percent to €847 million, resulting in an increased operating profit of 8.5 percent to €116.2 million, while overall earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation fell by one percent to €231.1 million.
March 9, 2010
Italian bingo numbers in play again
Online bingo in Italy legal again following the reversal of a regional court decision.
The regional court’s decision to suspend laws regulating the game has been reversed. Online bingo was suspended last month when the administrative court of the Lazio region ruled that the approval of the decrees regulating online bingo was found not compliant with the formalities required by Italian law.
However the Administrative Court of Appeal has ordered the suspension of the Administrative Court of Lazio’s decision, meaning that online operators can continue to offer the game.
March 8, 2010
Cryptologic licenses top betting games to Betsson
New three year deal expands Cryptologic's European reach.
Cryptologic has signed a three year agreement to license at least nine of its most popular online betting games to Betsson.
The agreement covers a suite of Cryptologic's top slot games to be launched on Betsson websites www.betsson.com, www.casinoeuro.com and www.cherrycasino.com. One game has already gone live on CasinoEuro and the remainder are scheduled for roll-out across the three brands later this year. The deal will provide Cryptologic with recurring revenue based on wagers placed by Betsson's customers.
March 8, 2010
Microgaming's 1Click Poker
Microgaming announces the launch of its new 1Click Poker client via Ladbrokes.
Developed using Flash, 1Click Poker is multi-platform compatible and can to that be launched using a wide range of browsers. The release of 1Click Poker is a continuation of Microgaming’s network strategy to attract and protect recreational players, and follow previous changes and initiatives such as rake allocation and putting a stop to data mining.
Microgaming said that 1Click Poker takes an all new approach in getting new players active and online. Opening the client players are presented with three easy straight forward options... real money or play money, ring game or sit ‘n’ go and how much they want to buy-in for, and with one click confirming their choice the player is instantly seated at the table.
Andrew Clucas, Head of Poker at Microgaming Software Systems said, “It is with immense pleasure that we unveil this innovation to the industry. The concept driving our work on 1Click Poker is ’Everything a player needs, presented clearly and logically.’ We believe this new product will be hugely popular with operators and players alike.”
March 5, 2010
PartyGaming performance resilient but not immune
PartyGaming gained at the end of the year and reached $132.2 million in gaming revenues but where overall net losses turned red to $26.5 million.
Total revenue fell 6 percent to $446.2 million but performance was up through all product verticals during the fourth quarter, including poker and PartyGaming again holds the top position for non-US poker. Operating profit increased 4 percent to $81.1 million but where clean EBITDA was down 6 percent year on year to $135 million. Clean EBITDA for bingo showed $13.4 million in 2009, following the acquisition of Cashcade, and Sports betting clean EBITDA was up to $5.8 million.
Chief Executive, Jim Ryan, said, “PartyGaming’s performance was resilient, but not immune. In 2009 we focused on operations and improving our operations. In doing so we actually returned the business to growth. If you look at our 4th quarter all four product verticals grew, and grew dramatically.” Growth during the last quarter reached 17 percent for poker, casino, bingo and sports compared to previous quarter. Ryan further reported that he believes the Group is well positioned for 2010, specifically, with increased focus on Europe and regulated markets such as Italy, Denmark, France and possibly Spain.
March 4, 2010
Intrastate online poker bill in Florida
Joseph Abruzzo, state representative, has introduced a bill in the House of Representatives that would permit card room operators to provide intra-state online poker within the state of Florida.
Creating a framework for the state of Florida, the Internet Poker Consumer Protection and Revenue Generation Act of 2010 (H.B 1441) will serve to regulate intrastate Internet poker by creating a licensing structure lawful under the UIGEA. The bill would provide licensed card room operator to be providers of online poker through licensed Internet poker hub operators, while also implementing a system to protect players private information and preventing fraud and identity theft, where financial transactions will processed fully transparent and secure.
Pari-mutuel Wagering, a division of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, will regulate and administer operations of the state online poker network, and conduct monitoring and investigations of the network. Internet poker hub operator is looking at a non-refundable license fee of $500,000 to the division, and thereafter 10 percent annually of monthly gross derived from online poker during the previous fiscal year. To that, Internet poker hub operator will pay tax to the state corresponding to 20 percent of the monthly gross derived from online poker operations.
Subject to a competitive procurement process, the division will accept proposals to provide intrastate internet poker from those already holding a valid card room affiliate license issued by the division, where the annual card room affiliate license fees is set at $1,000. Each card room affiliate will also be required to use at least 4 percent of its monthly gross receipts from online poker to supplement pari-mutuel purses and prize money.
The act is proposed to be in effect by July 1, 2010.
March 4, 2010
Sportingbet profit numbers
Sportingbet reports a 22 percent rise in net gaming revenue to 52.6 million for the second quarter ending January 31 2010.
Sportingbet plc which is looking to move from London’s AIM Market to the official listing of the London Stock Exchange later this year reported adjusted operating profit of 8 percent up to £11.2 million.
Wagered amounts on sports in Europe for the period increased 27 percent year on year to £292.4 million, and where in-play betting accounts for 60 percent of total value of bets. The live betting market increased with 44 percent, year on year, generating a total net gaming revenue of £18.2 million giving a gross margin of 10.2 percent. European casinos and games gross revenue showed a growth of 10 percent year on year to £12.9 million. Western Europe sub-region revenue growing 26 percent year on year, and this was in large due to 93 percent growth of German market, Greek and Spanish revenues were up by 13 percent and 11 percent respectively. Football bets represents 64 percent of Sportingbet’s overall sports revenue and 77 percent of European sports revenue during the quarter.
Chief executive Andy McIver said: “The second quarter is a busy time in the sporting calendar and consequently a material period in the Group's financial year. As such it is very pleasing to report results in line with our full-year plan, particularly given the recessionary backdrop in many of our markets.”
The group’s quarterly performance took net gaming revenue the first half of the year to £101.2 million and a 24 percent rise.
March 4, 2010
Paddy Power reports strong online growth
Paddy Power reports online growth of 75 percent but operating profit down 12 percent in 2009, even with increased turnover of more than a third to €2,752 million.
In a year of development, including the acquisitions of IAS and Sportsbet in Australia and opening seven new retail shops in Ireland and 27 in the UK, Paddy Power reported preliminary results that operations profit dropped to €66.7 million year on year.
Online division however showed significant strength and recorded profits of €45.7 million corresponding to an annual growth of 7 percent, while accounting for 75 percent of the company's year on year operating profit, compared to 57 percent the previous year.
Patrick Kennedy, Chief Executive, Paddy Power plc said, "Despite the economic problems, 2009 was a cracking year for Paddy Power punters on two fronts. The year saw a slew of punter friendly sporting results which was the exact opposite to the experience of the prior year. Also, Paddy Power once again invested heavily in bringing unsurpassed value to our customers through a range of ‘stand out’ offers."
Other highlights reported were the b2b agreement with France's PariMutuel Urbain (PMU), the world's second largest betting organisation, to provide risk management and pricing expertise.
March 2, 2010
Cryptologic profit takes a dive
Revenue for Cryptologic's financial year 2009 takes a dive by 35 percent to $39.8 million.
The company explains the 35 percent dive to $39.8 million as a result of "lower wagering activity across the industry, adverse currency factors and a reduced contribution from a key licensee". Cryptologic also reported a net loss of $35.5 million, corresponding to 9 percent more than previous year of $32.7 million, but reflected $24.8m of one-off charges for asset impairments and restructuring to align the company's costs with its revenue base.
Restructuring include Cryptologic divesting its poker network to GTECH G2, hence eliminating the costs of a standalone business and enabling it to cut quarterly operating expenses by 25 percent annually. The total annual recurring cost base, which comprises operating, general and administrative, finance and amortisation expenses was reduced by $20.6 million to $55 million
Brian Hadfield, Chief Executive Officer of Cryptologic said, "2009 was a tough year as a number of adverse factors including a global economic downturn overshadowed the company's progress in implementing its new strategy to reduce costs and return to growth. We have entered 2010 in better shape with a substantially reduced cost base that will continue to be managed tightly."
During the period 20 new licences have been added, including Betfair, Betsafe, Sportingbet, Totesport and Virgin Games and fourth quarter included relocating from Cyprus to Malta and signing BetClic, GigaMedia, Rank Interactive and UniBet.
March 2 , 2010
International Bingo Network changes from Parlay to Boss Media
St Minver managed Bingo Network (IBN) changes software provider.
With about 20 bingo brands, white-label and network operations company St Minver and the International Bingo Network makes a change in software provider. Coming this spring the IBN brands will launch a change from Parlay Entertainment's bingo software to the Boss Media (GTECH G2) bingo product.
Parlay announced earlier this year ten brands in production, and another 14 signed and under implementation, including Bingomania.co.uk and AstroBingo.co.uk.
March 2, 2010
William Hill igaming division a bright star outperforming the group
With the total group's net revenue reporting less bright numbers, William Hill Online division is "almost unrecognisable" with a 63 percent blast in revenue.
Chief Executive Ralph Topping described the William Hill online and igaming business as significantly outperforming the group. Group net revenue grew 4 percent to £997.9 million with a 4 percent dip in the retail division, while the online business reported a blast in revenue o a bright 63 percent to £203.5 million. The company’s earnings before interest tax and amortisation (EBITA) fell 7 percent to £258.5 million.
Not reaching the ground-breaking billion pound mark is reported as a volatile year, where sporting results and global economic conditions have had an impact on the business. Sports volatility included a particularly bad run of trading on football bets in the third quarter that also hit rival company Ladbrokes, after the first 66 Premier League matches saw just four draws, compared with a five-year season average of 25% of games being drawn.
Ralph Topping added that, "The scale and breadth of our business ensured that we were well-placed to ride out the extra volatility in sporting results and the areas affected by the economy were counteracted by good growth in gaming machines and our improving online performance." He continued, "The company “transformed” key parts of the business in 2009 including its igaming arm, and William Hill Online is almost unrecognisable from a year ago."
March 1, 2010
Internet is looking at strong growth ahead
Internet users continue to show high growth but where penetration versus population is only 25 percent.
Accordingly to numbers from Internet World Stats and as available on gopoker.com, Internet penetration versus population is looking at a strong growth ahead. Numbers per September 2009 and highest level of Internet users compared to population is North America with 74 percent, followed by Oceania/Australia with 60 percent, Europe 52 percent and Latin America/Caribbean with 30 percent.
Analysing million of users per world regions Asia holds the top position with 738 million users, Europe 418 million, North America 253 million and Latin America/Caribbean 179 million.
Countries with the highest number of Internet users places China in the lead with 360 million users, followed by the United States with 227 million, Japan 95 million, India 81 million and Brazil with 67 million closely followed by Germany 54 million, United Kingdom 46 million, Russia 45 million and France with 43 million.
Total number of Internet users as of September 2009 was estimated at 1,733,993,741 compared to a total population of 6,767,805,208 throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, North America, Latin America/Caribbean and Oceania/Australia.
March 1, 2010
New EU Internal Market Commissioner
Michel Barnier, new EU Internal Market Commissioner commented earlier last week on the Santa Casa ruling of September last year.
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) that includes bet-at-home, Bwin, digibet, Expekt, Interwetten, PartyGaming and Unibet, welcomed Michel Barnier's comments, giving hope for operators facing potential future legal battles with state gaming monopolies within the European Union.
Barnier said earlier in February when addressing members of the European Parliament, that the analysis of the Commission Legal Service regarding the European Court of Justice’s Santa Casa ruling of September last year in favour of the Portuguese monopoly does not fundamentally alter the Commission’s approach towards infringement procedures.
The Commissioner continued in saying that the ruling was based on considerations that where specific to Portugal and to the national monopoly operator, hence the Commission will therefore continue to examine the compliance of national legislation with EU law on a case by case basis. The short of it being that any future legal battles between operators and monopolies on the rights of online gambling customers are not pre-determined.
EGBA Secretary General Sigrid Ligné said: “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 the fundamental principles of the EU.
“We believe that the respect of Internal Market rules in our sector will promote high standards and improve the protection of players throughout the EU”.
March 1, 2010
|
Games Directory Check out the games directory, game rules, tips and odds for new players, semi-pro and pros...
Poker Tips "When holding a winning hand in hold´em and you check... You´re giving opponents a free card without risk"
Texas Hold'em The pots are bigger in Hold’em than in a stud or draw game and hands per hour often double in comparison. This gives a player twice the chance and makes Texas Hold’em the most popular game of poker.
Seven Card Stud Seven Card Stud is a popular and well known form of poker and is played with up to eight players. Using one deck of cards (52 cards), with jokers excluded, the player is dealt a total of seven cards.
| |||||||||
|
| ||||||||||||
Copyright gopoker.com 2010 | All rights reserved | info@gopoker.com