NETeller cashes in despite US legislation
Money transfer group NETeller has reported a revenue gain of 48 per cent for the third quarter, from $44.9 million to $66.7 million, despite the US Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. Pre-tax profits for the Isle of Man-based company climbed by 24 per cent to $32.5 million in the period, with shares reaching 149 pence, a rise of 5.1 per cent.
Jowell criticises US gaming stance
Culture secretary Tessa Jowell criticised US anti-gambling legislation at the first international summit for online gaming, warning that it could become the 'new prohibition'. She told delegates from over 30 countries that the UK did not support the United States' stance on Internet gambling, and was worried that its legislation would create unregulated off-shore sites.
Government to allow extradition requests for gaming executives
The UK government declared at the summit that it would not protect gaming executives from extradition requests where they had taken Internet wagers illegally. It warned that operators would have to abide by the laws of particular countries, and that the UK would not acknowledge people who operated illegally.
Camelot launches 007 scratchcards
Britain's National Lottery operator Camelot is launching a James Bond themed scratchcard to coincide with the imminent release of the franchise's latest movie. The card will offer a £70,007 prize and will feature a selection of 12 different scenes from Daniel Craig's first outing as Britain's most famous secret agent.
Talarius confirms takeover approach
Share prices in AIM listed AGC operator Talarius jumped by nearly 20 per cent amid rumours of a takeover approach. Commenting on the speculation, the firm confirmed that it had received an approach from a third party, but said that it may or may not lead to an offer being made.
Caborn urges WTO to 'clear up' Antigua dispute
Speaking at the gaming summit, sports minister Richard Caborn urged the WTO to 'clear up' Antigua's ongoing dispute with the US. He added that Britain was sympathetic to Antigua's position and said the WTO would reveal its position in 2007.
Intralot seeks 250 million eur compensation
Greek lottery company Intralot is asking for 250 million eur in compensation from lottery operator OPAP for 'transitional services' when its national lottery contract expires next year. According to reports, OPAP is arguing that it has no contractual obligation to pay any sum to Intralot, but may offer a much lower amount as a compromise.
Ryanair signs bingo partnership
Low-cost airline Ryanair is set to offer bingo and instant win games on its website after announcing a partnership with online bingo operator Jackpotjoy. The Irish travel company?s CEO, Michael O?Leary, said the move would assist them in keeping the fare prices down.
Ladbrokes in 888 rumours
British bookmaker Ladbrokes is believed to be interested in purchasing 888 Holdings after reports surfaced that the online gaming company was in takeover talks with a number of third parties. Adding to the speculation is Ladbrokes recent assertion that it wanted to expand into the online gaming market.
Record Macau income boosts Sands' revenue
Las Vegas Sands Corp posted a 21 per cent rise in net income to $97.3 million for the third quarter, fuelled by a 39 per cent increase in revenue at its Venetian Macau casino to $339 million. Total revenue for the Nevada-based company rose from $437.6 million to $553.2 million against the same period last year, with shares rising 0.2 per cent to $76.32.
EC overturns Greek gaming ban
The Greek government's 2002 ban on electronic and electro-mechanical amusement games contravenes European law according to a ruling by the second chamber of the European Court. Greece was found to have breached the freedom to provide services, freedom of establishment and free movement of goods directives by the court.
Starpoint sold to Suzo-Happ
UK-based Starpoint Developments has been acquired by the Suzo-Happ Group for an undisclosed sum. A spokesperson for Suzo-Happ said that Starpoint's factory near London would remain open, and the company would continue operating as a separate entity.
Brulines achieves its AIM
Technology firm Brulines has been listed on the Alternative Investment Market, nearly five-months after it originally planned. The company, which tracks AWP performance among other things, intended to float in June but delayed the action citing 'volatile market conditions'.
Councillor blames Labour for Blackpool's problems
Blackpool councillor Peter Callow has blamed Blackpool's Labour run council for de-prioritising the town's tourist industry causing its current decline. He said that the council had been 'sitting back' on tourism and was only now waking up to what it means to the city's economy.
Lib Dems call for casino referendum
Sheffield's Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Paul Scriven, has said that the council's public consultation over the city's super-casino bid had been poor so far. Responding to a report by the Bishop of Sheffield, which concluded a casino 'would have a major effect on the city, Scriven also called for a city-wide referendum.
Third time unlucky for Fountainbridge application
Grosvenor's third attempt to get a casino licence at the Fountainbridge site in Edinburgh has been rejected by city licensing chiefs who said that there were already enough casinos in the city. Lawyers for Grosvenor had argued that the capital had fewer casinos per head than any other Scottish city.