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Denis Kelly: The Stanjames.com CEO on what makes his company special
Denmark: How a complaint from slot operators has delayed online deregulation
John Samuel: The need to improve customer service after a mistake has been made
BETTING NEWS 4
iGAMING NEWS 12
COMMENT 33
Unlike Audley Harrison, the RGA has hit back at the growing claims that betting causes integrity issues for sports suggesting that the sporting authorities should address their own problems first. Andrew McCarron reports.
RGA hits back over sports integrity
INTEGRITY
The Remote Gambling Association has taken a swipe at the professionalism of sports following on from last month’s controversial title fight between David Haye and Audley Harrison. Addressing the RGA AGM, chief executive Clive Hawkswood highlighted Haye’s announcement at the end of the £12m bout that he ‘put a lot of money’ on stopping Harrison in the third round - a particularly worrying remark considering that not only is it against the sport’s rules to bet on a fight that you are involved in, but also that it appeared the WBA Heavyweight Champion could have won the bout earlier. Haye soon u-turned on his statement, though, saying he’d not had a bet personally. He
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added: “It did feel like I’d bet on myself because a lot of people had put money on it, family members and what not. If it had gone into the fourth round I knew people would have lost a lot of money and I’d have felt a bit guilty.” Presumably, the people he knew would have lost a lot of money had he won in the first or second round as well - as it seems patently obvious he was capable of doing. However, Haye has not been censured by the sport’s regulator, the British Boxing Board of Control. Its secretary Robin Smith said: “Every year we send out the rules and regulations and if he’d have read it he’d have known. I think from what David has said, and I heard the interview live, I’m fairly happy that everything was okay.”
However, it is this laissezfaire approach from the regulator that has annoyed the gambling industry. Hawkswood commented: “The important point is not that the British Boxing Board of Control said it was ‘disappointed’ that Haye claimed not to know the rules. While it is okay sending its rules out, it needs to make sure that people actually read them. “This was for a World Title Fight and they didn’t think to check with the camps that they knew the rules. You’d could almost understand it if it was a small supporting fight, but this was a World Title Fight. It beggars belief.” Sports have linked betting with integrity issues in order to lobby for payments from bookmakers despite, in
Hawkswood’s words, being ‘hugely more wealthy than the gambling industry’. He also referenced recent controversies regarding members of FIFA and the IOC when suggesting that ‘people in glass houses should not throw stones’. Hawkswood revealed that some sports may have probity problems of their own making as Switzerland is reviewing whether its anti-corruption laws should apply to non-profit making organisations. Before now, most of the sporting authorities that are based there have been exempt. He added: “40 sports governing bodies are in Switzerland for tax reasons, so it’s a bit galling when sports accuse us of moving offshore.” RGA AGM Politics 14
ACTION IMAGES / ANDREW COULDRIDGE LIVEPIC
£5.20 (€8.30) • ISSUE:75 • DECEMBER 2010 • www.betting-business.co.uk
Stanleybet targets French retail monopoly FRANCE
uropean bookmaker Stanleybet has used the European Commission’s announcement that has closed the infringement procedure against the French online betting market to highlight the fact that inequalities still remain in retail betting in the country. Stanleybet launched legal proceedings in the French Council of State in 2009 following the failure of the French government to respond to an application for a sports betting licence lodged by Stanleybet in April 2009. The application requested the repeal of the law which granted an offline monopoly to Française des Jeux and also to allow Stanleybet to open an initial one hundred shops across France. The licence application remains unanswered. Stanleybet CEO John Whittaker commented: “The Commission’s action in pursuing France regarding the unlawful online restrictions and the resulting changes to the French online law demonstrate what can be achieved to improve consumer benefit and choice by resolute action: to this extent, the Commission’s efforts are to be applauded. However, let no one be under any illusion that the French gambling market is free of restrictions. The offline sports betting market remains off limits to all but national incumbent Française des Jeux - despite every effort by Stanleybet and others to seek a licence to operate in France.” He suggested that it would be ‘patently absurd’ to justify the continuing restrictions against offline operators on consumer protection grounds and added: “I call upon the European Commission to act speedily in order to remedy this injustice, by pressing France hard to bring its laws relating to offline sports betting in line with the online situation. There are also a small number of other Member States, including Greece and the Netherlands, which have similar unjustified restrictions in their offline betting markets, and we trust that action will also be taken against them.”
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www.betstone.com
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OPAP eyes up online partners OPAP MIGHT ACQUIRE AN EXISTING ONLINE OPERATOR
ACTION IMAGES / JULIAN HERBERT LIVEPIC
News
GREECE
REPORT BY GRAHAM WOOD ith the Greek government continuing its preparations for a regulated regime for online betting and gaming as a means of raising tax revenues, monopoly operator OPAP has progressed with its own plans for a competitive future whilst announcing another quarter of bumper figures. According to reports in the Greek financial daily Naftemporiki at the end of October, the part state-owned company was revealed to be in talks with eight overseas companies to ensure it remains in pole position once the government liberalises the online market. Ioannis Spanoudakis, OPAP’S CEO, indicated that Paddy Power, 888, Playtech, G2, Bwin, Partygaming, Bet365 and Intralot had all been contacted as potential partners. Spanoudakis also revealed that OPAP is considering the acquisition of an online betting operator or the creation of a joint venture with an online operator already active in other markets. However there are concerns that OPAP will be handed a head-start when the new regime – defined as a ‘huge opportunity’ by Spanoudakis – comes into force, not only as it will be able to maintain its retail monopoly but also as it appears to have a cosy relationship with the government as the details of the regulations are being defined. As OPAP announced its third quarter results at the end of November, in which it revealed 161.2m euro (£135.2m) net profit for the three months to 30 September, it also gave details of plans to trial new games for its Stihima sports betting business in 700 of its retail outlets, and to rollout the
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new OPAP TV channel. Under existing legislation OPAP, 34 per cent owned by the state, holds exclusive rights on sports betting and lotteries in the country until 2020 and is seeking to sign exclusive contracts with its network of agents, although relationships have been fraught of late. The monopoly was traditionally one of the biggest investors in marketing in the country – although this has been cut back of late – whilst revenues on the range of gaming products reached 5.4bn euro (£4.5bn) in 2009. However the government is starkly aware that online betting is a popular pastime for Greek gamblers and OPAP’s betting product – Stihima – is particularly uncompetitive when compared with the odds and selection of opportunities offered by overseas operators. Despite the buoyant profit levels, third quarter turnover on fixed odds sports betting recorded an annual fall of 6 per cent to 434m euro (£364.1m) whilst the popular Keno numbers game also recorded a year on year fall of over 4 per cent during the quarter with turnover down to 602.9m euro (£505.9m). Desperate to raise tax revenues as the economy shrinks, the government sees liberalising online gaming as a means of generating 500m euro (£419.5m) in fresh income from the sector. With the European Commission’s Guido Berardis promising to publish a Green Paper on the future of the European gaming sector in the early part of next year (that seems certain to favour a degree of liberalisation and regulation) the Greeks also have little choice. However it needs to keep OPAP on its side to prevent legal action over its existing monopoly contract that should expire in ten years’ time.
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
DCSM weighing up recommendations remove thresholds LEVY
The Levy thresholds that have existed to protect the industry’s smaller business if the government heeds the latest recommendations. Andrew McCarron report The horseracing industry has been quick to applaud the conclusions of the Levy Board’s government appointed members after they recommended that the 50th Levy Scheme should provide a yield in the region of £75-80m - a good £20m more than bookmakers think they should pay. Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt asked the Levy Board’s government appointed members (Paul Lee, Penny Boys and Paul Darling) to submit their own views to him after the Levy was switched to the government for determination last month. The trio has surprised the betting industry by recommending that thresholds should be abolished, that the Levy should be reintroduced on foreign racing at the same headline rate as the domestic rate and that the headline rate should reduce to 9 per cent
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of gross profit. The thresholds have traditionally been a way of protecting the smaller bookmaker, but have come in for some criticism recently as the national bookmakers have also been benefitting when shops in their estates fall underneath the thresholds. However, the trio’s report argued that as British horseracing has become less important in the betting shop environment, then the Levy payments are less critical to a business. It recommended: “With only 23 per cent of total LBO gross win generated from British horseracing (and about 27 per cent if foreign racing were included), the government appointed members have concluded that it can no longer be argued with justification that the continued provision of thresholds will, of itself, prevent the closure of LBOs or is indeed the
pivotal factor which would determine whether an LBO remained open or not.” The recommendation to include foreign racing as part of the Levy used the justification that it was originally part of the Levy until 2002, but the government appointed members dismissed racing’s calls to have the Levy apply to nonracing products such as virtual sports and gaming machines, arguing that horseracing’s market share within the betting shop isn’t large enough to justify the claims that the sport promotes general betting activity. The report recognises that some of the recommendations are an additional burden on bookmakers, hence the reduction of the top rate. It said: “We are very much aware that, by abolishing thresholds and including foreign racing, a significant additional burden will be
placed on bookmakers, which we have sought to ameliorate by reducing the headline rate. We hope that this will also encourage bookmakers to promote horseracing as against other products to the benefit of both parties.” Racing has been quick to laud the recommendations, although is predictably kicking up a fuss about reducing the headline rate to 9 per cent by demanding this should only happen if offshore bookmakers and betting exchanges pay more into the Levy. British Horseracing Authority chairman Paul Roy said: “The priorities now are reversing the impact of offshore operators and exchanges, which combined could cost as much as £20m to £40m in Levy.” Meanwhile, the Levy Board’s consultation on how betting exchanges and their so-called ‘business
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Gambling.com up for auction Media Corp, operator of the Purple Lounge online casino, has revealed it is to put its domain name Gambling.com up for auction through Sedo. Analyst Northland Capital has predicted a valuation of £8.2m, more than Media Corp’s current market capitalisation of £7.8m, adding: “Any sale would have an impact on one of Purple Lounge’s route to market (e.g. higher customer acquisition costs) but the funds realised could be invested in sales and marketing and complementary acquisitions.”
RACING WANTS TO LEAVE THE 9 PER CENT RATE UNTIL OFFSHORE BOOKMAKERS ARE CONTRIBUTING
HRI returns fire over bookmaker calls for government review With money so tight in Ireland, the issue over the funding of horseracing is becoming increasingly heated ahead of this week’s latest Irish budget. Simon Banks reports. IRELAND
he run up to this week’s Irish budget featured an increasingly fractious war of words between the betting industry and horseracing as both sought to limit any damage that may be caused by finance minister Brian Lenihan’s attempts to end the disparity between the amount raised by betting duty and the demands of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund. The Irish Bookmakers Association struck first by releasing a stinging attack on Horse Racing Ireland and its chief executive Brian Kavanagh. Citing a report by the accountants KPMG, the IBA said that HRI spending ‘was out of control’ and called for a government investigation into the organisation. It claimed that in the ten years between 1998 and 2008 prize money increased by 600 per cent but the number of race fixtures only increased by 33 per cent. It also said that the HRI’s administration costs increased by over 660 per cent over the same period and the chief executive’s salary increased by 56.6 per cent between 2002 and 2008. IBA chair Sharon Byrne said: “As a matter of urgency HRI spending should be subjected to a thorough and forensic value for money review. Ireland’s betting sector is under severe pressure due to the economic downturn, unfair competition from untaxed online and mobile competitors and archaic restrictive legislation. However, HRI spending has not delivered real benefits for the racing and betting sectors, even with whopping increases of up to 660 per cent.” Kavanagh hit back immediately saying that the IBA ‘either misunderstands or misrepresents the way in which the administration of Irish racing has changed since 1998’, pointing out the HRI replaced the Irish Horseracing Authority in 2001 and claiming the IBA had misrepresented the KPMG report. Indeed, he managed to get KPMG to publicly distance itself from
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up Levy ns to lds
er business are in danger of being removed rron reports. users’ are treated by the Levy Scheme has continued unabated with a second round of consultation dominated by Betfair’s forensic criticisms of responses from racing, the ABB, the Federation of Racecourse Bookmakers and William Hill. At the same time, the other parties have criticised Betfair for clouding the issue and not coming up with any solutions of its
own. William Hill commented: “The HBLB and particularly the government appointed members should press for the level of transparency and factual investigation that is required to settle this matter. If there are no business users utilising the UK exchange, then Betfair or its customers should not fear a third party investigation.”
the IBA’s conclusions a few days later. Kavanagh added that the IBA’s statement was ‘clearly a smokescreen designed to deflect attention from the real issue which needs to be investigated, namely the declining tax contribution from betting to the Exchequer despite rapid and sustained growth in the sector’. The horse racing and breeding industries then went on the offensive with a submission to the department of finance authored by the economist Colm McCarthy which called a for a doubling of betting duty to 2 per cent, which he claimed would raise 70m euro (£59.3m) a year. He also recommended that the tax be extended to all online and telephone betting. On 24 November the Irish government published its National Recovery Plan which contained a raft of public pending cuts and tax rises aimed at stabilising the international bond markets and the European Union, which was in the process of agreeing a bail out. The only reference to betting duty, however, was a line at the bottom of page 116 which read: “An alternative funding model to support the horse and greyhound industries will be introduced.” What form that model will take is anyone’s guess and when it may be introduced is also highly uncertain. While the government is likely to get its budget narrowly passed in the Dail, Fianna Fail’s coalition partners the Green Party have said they are withdrawing their support and general election is expected to be held in January. Although the betting duty issue is hugely important for jobs in both the betting and horse racing and breeding sectors, the figures involved appear insignificant in comparison to the 85bn euro (£72.0m) the government has been forced to borrow in attempt to try and stabilise the economy.
ANALYSIS Stakeholders now have until 31 December to submit comments to the culture secretary and given the positive noises from some MPs about the independent report, bookmakers will be well advised to push their viewpoint more forcefully. The Bookmakers’ Committee made a compelling case for a Levy yield of between £50m to £57m because of the massive increase in media rights with an increase in thresholds to £123,000. Association of British Bookmakers chief executive Patrick Nixon told the Racing Post: “I’d be surprised if the Bookmakers’ Committee case did not remain true to the view that there should be no increase in the Levy, and that there is no desperate state of crisis in racing at all, which has been drummed up as a publicity exercise in the Levy process.”
THE IBA HAS BEEN BATTLING WITH THE HRI CHIEF EXECUTIVE BRIAN KAVANAGH
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
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Betting StanJames.com CEO Denis Kelly talks to BBi about his firm’s first foray in the US and how important in running betting has become.
Rebranded exchange moves into retail betting RELAUNCH
B STAN JAMES IS AN ACTIVE SPONSOR AT THE RACECOURSE
Friendly, approachable and fair INTERVIEW
ou’ve recently taken a shareholding in Racing2Day what potential does the US market have for an online bookmaker? Racing2Day is licensed in the US to provide on-line pari-mutuel (tote) betting on horse and harness racing. The pari-mutuel market is important to StanJames.com and we aim to develop a significant business in the US. In relation to the US market as a whole, there is obviously huge potential should the market open up for an online gaming operator. We do see a trend towards the regulation of online gaming in the US and we aim to position StanJames.com to take advantage of these changes.
invented in-play betting and it is our mission in 2011 to reposition ourselves at the forefront of the market to become the in-play betting bookmaker of choice.
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France and Italy have both put up ‘walled gardens’ with IP blocking for those not locally licensed. Will Stan James need to adapt its model if this approach becomes de rigueur across Europe? The taxation system and the conditions attached to the regulations are what will really determine whether StanJames.com will change its business
etting exchange IbetX has undergone a transformation by switching its exchange brand to Bettor.com, relaunching its website with a commission structure favouring casual punters and opening its very first betting shop. The new-look betting exchange is billed as being ‘designed by sports fans for sports fans’ and replaces the exchange that was IbetX. Ibetx.com will continue to exist as the company’s corporate site. The new site leans heavily on social interaction with user-created content such as live chat, blogs and polls, as well as user profiles and other social media staples. PR manager Jayne Clarke explained: “Betting exchanges have come a long way over the past decade, but we felt there was little distinction between their offerings. Therefore, to provide customers with a more varied choice we realised there was a need to offer more, something different and unique. We have been working on improving our exchange by undertaking extensive market research and have tried to incorporate all the elements that bettors have suggested they would require for the ultimate betting experience.” The bigger surprise,
DENIS KELLY
model to access a particular regulated market. We have all seen examples in France and Italy where operators have pulled out of the region because of the taxation system and other regulatory conditions. How important is in running betting to Stan James? In-play betting is very important to us and makes up a substantial part of our existing business. We have recently signed a three year deal with Perform, which allows us to stream live sporting events to our customers. This is a significant investment and underlines our belief in the potential of the in-play betting market. StanJames.com
appeals to a broad range of punters from the racing experts to the ordinary man on the street. The response from racing in the UK to our sponsorship has been tremendous, we had a fantastic relationship with Does in-running need to be Newmarket and are now marketed separately to building a similar good normal betting? working relationship with Not separately but differ- Cheltenham and the ently, we intend to market Jockey Club. our in-play betting offering in real time as the event What is the relationship unfolds, so you will have between StanJames.com an offer online which will and the now growing UK change as the event retail arm? unfolds. This is different to Both companies are owned our ‘Pre-match’ marketing by the Fisher family which are more suited to although they are run as entirely separate busitraditional media. nesses with separate manStan James does a lot of agement teams. sports sponsorship: Is it What makes Stan James value for money? We have recently con- special? cluded a five year term as Heritage: a 40 year industry sponsors of the Newmar- experience. We have excepket Guineas meeting and tionally loyal, experienced last month announced a staff who are passionate five year sponsorship deal about providing the best experience. of the ‘Road to the Cham- customer pion Hurdle’ which Mission: we want our cusincludes sponsorship of the tomers to have fun by Champion Hurdle at Chel- making betting easy and tenham. Yes, we feel that accessible. Values: we are a this is good value for trusted brand, a family money. Cheltenham is the company which does everyjewel in the crown of thing it can to be friendly, national hunt racing and approachable and fair.
though, is Bettor’s new retail unit in Holborn, London. The firm has leather seating, a spacious layout and even a VIP area. It was officially opened last month by snooker star Ronnie O’Sullivan. Clarke said: “We’re proud to be the first betting exchange to establish a presence on the high street because it allows us to offer our customers competitive odds and a betting environment that is truly exceptional. It offers a more personalised, first class service and a stylish and inviting environment that gives sports fans and casual bettors a more enjoyable high street betting experience. Just like on a flight you have a choice, we wanted to offer a first class betting experience rather than economy.” She added: “Looking at the research and what people want from their offline betting experience, we realised there was an opportunity for us to establish our brand on the high street. So, we are trying something new. We have kitted out the shop with state of the art equipment and top of the range furnishings, have trained the staff to provide a first-class service and offer refreshments to all customers.”
THE NEW LOOK BETTOR.COM RETAIL OUTLET
Romanian recognition for Betfair AWARD
etfair’s Romanian software development centre has picked up three awards from the Romanian Council for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), at a ceremony held at the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest. TSE Development
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Romania, which is part of the Betfair Group, was awarded first place in the IT Startup category. The award recognises success across a range of criteria - including sales turnover, investments, job creation and the positive impact the organisation has had on the local community.
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
Furthermore, Oana Chifu, general manager and administrator of Betfair’s development centre in Cluj, walked away with two individual awards, having been named Romanian Business Woman of the Year for Startups and having won the Young Entrepreneurial
Spirit for Startups award. TSE Development Romania has grown from 66 to 110 employees in just 16 months and plans to grow to 130 by the end of 2010. Betfair’s chief technology officer Tony McAlister was delighted: “As an organisation, we continue to reap the
benefits from the operational excellence, development skill and passion for innovation that the Cluj team delivers. We are therefore delighted that their hard work has been recognised by the Romanian Council for SMEs.” British Ambassador to Romania Martin Harris called
Betfair’s success ‘quite astonishing’. He said: “The company based in Cluj, a city I regard as Romania’s Silicon Valley, has rapidly grown throughout the height of the global economic crisis, and now employs some of the best computer programmers in Europe.”
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International plans
Betting
Ladbrokes has said it has plans to continue to grow its successful JV business in Spain (Sportium pictured) which is licensed in the Madrid region and that it also remains committed to pursuing its partnership with AGTech in China, where its AGT joint venture is trialling a virtual racing game in betting shops throughout Hunan with a view to expanding to other provinces in the region.
Take a politician, a good slice of economic cheer and a political point. Mix them all together and employ Paddy Power as head chef. Serve warm. Andrew McCarron reports.
Clouds forming over Spanish plans
PADDY POWER’S PUBLICITY STUNTS, SUCH AS THIS WORLD RECORD STACK OF POKER CHIPS, HAS HELPED IT EXPAND INTERNATIONALLY
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EXPANSION
Major jobs push from Paddy Power t a time when the Irish economy has been looking for some good news, Dublin-based bookmaker Paddy Power has revealed a major new expansion plan for its workforce. The international operator wants to increase its Irish employee base to 2,210 with an addition of 500 new jobs in the country. A further 125 jobs will be created in Paddy Power’s retail estate in Ireland. In addition to the Irelandbased jobs, Paddy Power is creating 810 new jobs in the UK as it expands its retail network and 130 jobs in Australia, where it bills itself as the ‘number one online corporate bookmaker’. All of the new jobs are intended to be in place by December 2013. In fact the good news was so badly needed in the financially beleaguered country that the announcement was
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made by a member of the government - minister for Enterprise Trade and Innovation Batt O’Keeffe TD. He said: “Paddy Power is now a major Irish employer and today’s announcement will bring the firm’s workforce here to more than 2,200. The new high-end jobs align well with the government’s policy focus on driving new levels of innovation and skills across the labour force so that we can achieve sustainable employment growth as our economy recovers. Paddy
Power’s rapid international expansion has direct revenue benefits for the Irish Exchequer and, as overseas markets deregulate, growth prospects are strong for the firm’s online business.” Paddy Power chief executive Patrick Kennedy took the opportunity to lobby against a potential new tax on Irish-based internetbased gambling operations. “We have very strong home grown expertise which has already opened doors in the UK, Australia and France,” he said. “Our strategy is to
ANALYSIS At a time when the Irish government is looking to increase taxes from anywhere as it attempts to dig itself out of the financial hole it has found itself in, Paddy Power has pulled a neat piece of lobbying against the taxation of remote gambling operations. Connecting the fiscal stimulus of new jobs with the status quo and, while not directly opposing it, hinting that a remote gambling tax would only hit Irish-based operators, all in the presence of a minister pleased to be associated with some good news for change, could be deemed as a very smart move.
continue to seek opportunities through organic means, joint ventures, strategic partnerships and where the value and fit is right, through acquisitions. We operate in highly competitive markets and it is essential that we remain competitive here out of Ireland in order to continue to expand this business and create more jobs. “The benefit to the economy of our international expansion extends beyond job creation. Paddy Power pays corporation tax in Ireland on all our internet and telephone profits from the 162 countries where we do business. In 2009 we paid 41m euro (£34.5m) to the Irish Exchequer, 19m euro (£16.0m) of which was generated from locating our internet and telephone business in Tallaght. As the business expands in the coming years, this figure will rise significantly. An internet tax, if applied in a manner which does not disadvan-
tage Irish employers, is fully enforceable on all international operators thereby protecting job creation in Ireland, will add further to the Exchequer coffers.” The firm also provided an update for the trading so far in the second half of the year and revealed that its international online businesses and UK Retail activities continued to grow strongly, but in Ireland business has been the opposite, with a five per cent drop in amounts staked. Kennedy commented: “The strong growth in group profitability in the first six months has continued into the second half, with a particularly strong performance in our international online businesses and UK Retail activities. We are also continuing to invest in our scale and capabilities to position the group well for 2011 and beyond in its existing and potential future markets.”
Bringing in running inside the LBO ndependent retail bookmaker Roar! Betting is one of the few small LBO operators in the UK to offer in running betting to its customers, although managing director Dominic Ford believes that some of the niche sports are under represented. The firm runs a system obtained through the Bookmakers Technology Consortium that provides hundreds of in running markets over the course of a day; which helps the small bookmaker compete above their station, but Ford believes that current customer demand for in running markets mean they will become ever more important in the LBO
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BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
environment. He predicts potential for increasing numbers of in running markets for the more obscure sports which still have a dedicated following, such as Indian Premier League cricket. He explained: “We only have two shops of our own, so the BTC helps us to box above our weight a bit with the in running markets, but I think there is scope for more. Customers come in and ask for certain in running bets that we’re not able to service them over the counter at present. Fortunately, we also operate self service terminals from BGT, which offer as many live markets as you need, but directing customers to use
them is a bit of a barrier as they are somewhat reluctant to use them.” Ford said the self service terminals attract punters who like to place in running accumulators, which would be a nightmare for a regular cashier to take with fluctuating prices, but many punters would rather place singles with a person behind the till. “Demand is growing for in running,” he added, “but at the moment the offer is not commensurate to public expectation. It is up to the industry to cater for that demand.” DOMINIC FORD BELIEVES INDIAN CRICKET IN RUNNING WOULD BE A BIG DRAW
PICTURE SUPPLIED BY ACTION IMAGES
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Report by Graham Wood pain’s position as one of the top online betting and gaming markets appears in danger as the country’s government moves closer to introducing legislation which appears to be following the example of France’s tough fiscal regime rather than the relatively more attractive model currently in place in neighbouring Italy. During recent years a lack of regulation has allowed operators to target Spanish punters from offshore with particularly encouraging results, and it has become clear that the market would have huge potential for the future once it became fully regulated. However, the first indications of how that regulated market would look have dampened enthusiasm. According to media reports it appears that a turnover tax of 10 per cent would be applied to online betting whilst poker and casino would have a less harsh rate of 20 per cent of margin. However, as in France, incumbent operators would maintain their monopolies meaning that Loterías y Apuestas del Estado (LAE) would be free to continue to offer pools and other forms of sports betting via its retail network and both LAE and ONCE would have the sole right to offer offline numbers betting. As the regions maintain a high level of control, they will, according to the details of the first draft of the legislation released, also be free to add further taxes on top of those levied by the state. With the French getting the all clear from the European Commission for their ‘controlled opening’ of the gaming market, it does not bode well unless lobbying similar to that which helped reduce the initial draconian levels of taxation first mooted in France can also force a change of heart in Spain. With France effectively off-limits for most sports betting operators, and those who took up a licence complaining of the lack of profitability, the loss of the Spanish market would be a major blow.
Stand number 6224 IGE 2011, Earl’s Court January 25th-27th 2011 www.sis.tv
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Bwin iphone launch
Betting
ACTION IMAGES / JULIAN HERBERT LIVEPIC
Bwin has launched ‘bwin live’, a live betting application for Apple’s iPhone for sportsbetting available in the iTunes Store for Great Britain and Austria. Berthold Kao, who is in charge of product management RNG & mobile at Bwin, commented: “Thanks to bwin live, Bwin customers now get to place bets on their iPhone using an intuitive user interface, check on the status of the bets they have placed, and retrieve a detailed list of their bets.”
TALKING HEADS: Boxing Day or New Year’s Day? Boxing Day and New Year’s Day offer some quality fixtures for punters to enjoy over the festive season, but which is better for business? Nick Norton asked the independents. any years ago Boxing Day used to be very busy, but nowadays it is less so. However, it remains busier than New Year’s Day, when a lot of people are feeling a bit subdued, having had a big night the evening before, and don’t make it in until most of the racing has finished. As this shop is located in a residential area we tend to see a lot of relatives and friends visiting families who live locally come in to place a bet on Boxing Day, which has the attraction of the King George VI, although as already mentioned, interest in this is not as great as in the past. Christmas Eve is actually the festive date that has got progressively busier
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over the three years that we have been open on this day. People are now aware that they come in for a bet the day before Christmas and we get quite a few in to play on our gaming machines. STEVE HAMLYN Semilong Racing Northampton
As long as it goes ahead, Boxing Day is one of the best days of the year in this area. The racing is fantastic, with the King George VI Chase being the obvious highlight that everyone looks forward to. Our staff are energised after having Christmas Day off to relax, and the punters are always up for the top quality lineup at Kempton Park. New
Year’s Day can sometimes be a bit of an anti-climax. It does offer good racing, but most people don’t get out of their beds until lunchtime, by which time half the cards have already finished.
Day is not quite in the same class and it is very much a case of the morning after the night before as well. Customers tend to start coming in at 9.30/10am on the morning of Boxing Day, whereas on 1 January there JONATHON LEWIS is a much slower trickle of Lewis Bookmakers people coming through the Manchester door, with the majority not arriving until around the Without a doubt Boxing Day midday mark. is the busiest and the more fun of these two days over MARTIN JOHNSTONE the festive period. Prima- Jem Racing rily because the quality of Poole the racing is a whole lot better on 26 December, but From a business perspecalso because both staff and tive Boxing Day is certainly punters do not wake up with better than New Years Day. big headaches and are still While the racing on New aglow with the feel-good Year’s Day fixtures are factor from the previous good, there is nothing comday. Racing on New Year’s parable with the interest
that surrounds the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. Kauto Star will be making his seasonal reappearance at Kempton Park this year, which will help generate even more excitement around the race. Traditionally, Boxing Day has always been the first day back after around 48 hours without any UK racing, which adds to the anticipation. Betting offices are open on New Year’s Eve, so punters have not had the same break from betting, and many are weary from the previous night’s celebrations, so the first day of the year is never as busy. COLIN MANGAN M Cook Bookmakers Nantwich
Jaxx has big plans for German market GERMANY
erman operator Jaxx has revealed it is to concentrate on its betting business and stop investment in its former core business area of lotteries. The company said that it was to develop its myBet business into a ‘top-3 German sports betting brand’ and that it is to strengthen its betting shop estate. At the start of September the ECJ had ruled that Germany’s gaming monopoly was incompatible with European law, which has paved the way for the German gaming market to be liberalised. Management Board spokesman of JAXX SE Mathias Dahms said: “The ECJ has pushed open a number of doors - we now need to decide which one to go through. We are neither able to 8
ACTION IMAGES / JASON CAIRNDUFF
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JAXX, WHICH OPERATES UNDER THE JAXX BRAND IN THE UK, HAS HIGH HOPES FOR ITS MYBET BUSINESS
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
nor want to operate in every area of the German gaming market. We believe the biggest potential lies in the sports betting market, in which our Maltese subsidiary QED Ventures Ltd is optimally positioned through its myBet range. myBet is one of the leading providers in the betting shop sector and has a strong online brand.” Jaxx’s sports betting division has posted high double-digit growth rates ever since the acquisition of QED in 2006, while the imposition of a lottery monopoly in Germany four years ago has ‘destroyed the healthy basis’ for the lottery activities of Jaxx’s affiliates in the country. However, its joint venture Spanish lottery business Digidis
is not affected by the cutbacks and will continue to be run independently by Digidis’ management. Dahms added: “myBet has the historic opportunity to be a topflight player by securing a good starting position in a liberalised market for sports betting. myBet has a strong brand that already enjoys a high level of acceptance in the sports betting market. And it has a product range that is the envy of its competitors. “We will now employ financial means to support myBet in order to bolster its good position and shore up its position in the face of growing competition. Our aim is to make myBet one of the top sports betting providers in Germany.”
BETTINGBRIEFS INDEPENDENT WINS AWARD
An employee at south east independent bookmaker Choicebet has won the the 2010 Racing Post/SIS Betting Shop Manager of the Year. Michael Demetriou, who is the manager at Choicebet’s Herne Bay LBO, was crowned champion last month, beating regional finalists from Paddy Power, Coral, Ladbrokes, William Hill, Joe Jennings and Jenningsbet. Demetriou was the first independent winner for ten years and has also won a VIP trip to next year’s Dubai World Cup as well as a host of other prizes. He commented: “I'm doing what I enjoy. I realised early on I’d never be a doctor or a lawyer, but I enjoy the betting industry and people.” POTTINGER LEAVES SPORTECH
Pools operator Sportech is on the hunt for a new non-executive chairman after Piers Pottinger stepped down with immediate effect. As the senior independent nonexecutive director John Barnes has taken over as acting chairman, while the company looks for a replacement. Pottinger explained: “Now the company has been successfully transformed into a truly international business, I feel it is time for me to move on and allow my successor to head up this exciting business, as it spreads its activities into over thirty countries. I have enjoyed my time with Sportech immensely and look forward to following its progress in the future.” CODERE OPENS IN NAVARRA
Codere has launched sports betting operations in the Spanish region of Navarra. At 5 November, the company was operating in 12 locations, mostly in bars through self service terminals, and the firm expects to expand to a total of approximately 190 locations in the first six months of next year. Codere is the only company authorised to operate in the three regions, or Comunidades Autónomas, in which sports betting is currently permitted in Spain. As in the case of the Basque region, in Navarra sportsbetting is allowed in dedicated sports betting shops, existing gaming establishments and in bars.
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Mangas rebrands as BetClic Everest Group
ACTION IMAGES / ANDREW BOYERS LIVEPIC
iGaming
NICOLAS BÉRAUD: ‘THE CUSTOMER IS AT THE HEART OF OUR DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
REBRAND
rench operator Mangas Gaming has renamed itself using its two strongest brands - from now on it is to be called the BetClic Everest Group. The firm said that the new name embodies the group’s values and ambition: an international on-line gaming operator, with the interests of its 12m customers at heart providing an expert and secure sports betting, poker, horseracing and casino offer. Managing director Nicolas Béraud commented: “At a time when the markets in Europe are being regulated, we wanted, with our shareholders, to go one step further. For our customers, these are now the two brands of reference shaping the very identity of the group, a sign that the customer is at the heart of our development strategy for the years ahead.” Alongside the Everest poker operation and BetClic sportsbook, the company also runs the Expekt betting brand and Bet-atHome.com, its listed German brand which last month posted an increase in third quarter gross profits of 57.1 per cent to 16.78m euro (£14.3m). From a cumulative point of view the betting and gaming turnover for Bet-atHome in the first nine months of the year amounts to 1.04bn (£888.7m) - 71.3 per cent higher in comparison to the respective period
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in the previous year. The company said that a large investment in the acquisition of new customers but also in the reactivation of existing customers led to the successful strengthening of the bet-at-home.com brand and to a cumulative consolidated EBITDA for the first three quarters of 2010 which amounted to 6.6m euro (£5.6m) compared to a loss of 2.2m euro (£1.9m) over the same period last year. Meanwhile, Stephanie Courbit, who owns half of the BetClic Everest Group and chairs the board of directors, has claimed France has the ‘worst online gambling laws in Europe’ in an interview with French national newspaper Le Figaro. Courbit slammed the capped 85 per cent return rate for French punters, suggesting that it was forcing would-be customers into ‘unlicensed’ offshore sportsbook where the return rate is closer to 96 per cent. He added: “The law must evolve faster or risk placing online gambling in the hands of foreign operators. BetClic Everest Group, the only French operator, produces a quarter of its turnover in France, but cannot afford to live in its home market. It is a major handicap to expand abroad. French law as it stands prevents French groups from developing, but favours foreign groups. It is a paradox.”
10 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
Keeping the custom coming back for m MANSION
Ariel Reem is the head of retention at Mansion. He spoke to Betting Business in appearance at the CRM and Retention in Gaming conference on 27 January 201 ustomer retention has always been mooted as the future given the high customer acquisition costs, yet does not seem to achieve the same kind of prominence in reports to investors. Why is this? The online gaming industry is changing its mind set from an acquisition focus, which was mainly to reduce cost, to increase player value by improving retention. The need for this change came from the level of competition that rose in the last few years and the fact that the industry had more mileage on the road. If we compare the online gaming industry to other industries, take for
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example the telecommunication industry, the CRM tools and technology are much more mature compared to online gaming. We can see more and more companies trying to increase player lifetime value and through that improve the ability in the acquisition side to bring more customers in with higher ROI. Those efforts usually involve developing advanced statistical models to predict churn rate, LTV, next best offer etc but as well as creating retention activities that will be more segmented to different populations. Retention is considered to be the slowest way to improve company performance. In order to put in place
good retention systems the company needs to take into account several long term steps and to bring onboard experts that know what segmentation is needed to be in place and how to use this knowledge to create a better experience and marketing activities. On the other hand, acquisition is a much faster way to increase company revenue and it’s faster to see the ROI within a few months. Do all internet-based businesses face similar problems when it comes to customer retention? This problem is really similar to any type of industry but it is much higher on the online environment whereby the time that a cus-
tomer can spend using your product is much shorter and to create loyalty is much harder. In any online product, a customer can play in a few companies at the same time and will look to get a good experience with low tolerance level to wait for retention efforts and marketing activities. Do customers of different products need to be treated differently? The basic retention approach is similar in all products but the way to treat a poker player compared to a casino player is a completely different story. Casino players will look for more bonuses and money to play and to have a longer and better experience
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Antigua and US still in negotiations over WTO dispute Reports that the Antiguan government has settled its World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute for $10m and a ban on operators servicing the US industry appear wide of the mark. WTO
nline giant Bodog Europe has renewed its support of Antigua and Barbuda’s finance minister Harold Lovell in his ongoing dialogue with the United States over the WTO judgement amidst claims that his government has settled for a lump sum from the Americans. After a series of complaints from Antigua, the WTO ruled that the US is violating international treaty obligations by barring Antiguan remote gaming operators from accepting US customers. But it seems that the US is continuing to dig its heels in over how it should compensate the country. The ‘David and Goliath’ dispute began in 2003 with Antigua arguing that the US was in violation of its treaty commitments under the WTO’s General Agreement on Trade and Services (GATS) because it permitted US domestic companies to offer remote gaming services while simultaneously imposing discriminatory trade barriers (by way of federal legislation) that precluded other WTO members from accessing the US market for such services. Following a series of decisions by the WTO and subsequent appeal by the US, the final WTO ruling was released December of 2007 and it found that the United States did, indeed,
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stomer r more
Business interactive ahead of his anuary 2011. when he is playing, where a poker player will look to be better on poker and have the right support in place. The fact that poker is more involved with a community compared to casino means a different communication strategy is required. How do you balance your customer retention plans with your social responsibility obligations? It is extremely important to know how to balance social responsibility obligations in the online gaming industry. On one hand, the company is looking to increase player revenue as much as possible, but on the other hand, if you are not helping your customer to manage their expenses on gambling, you
will reduce the potential value in the future. Once the awareness is in place then the customer feels like the company cares about him and the company will get more loyal members. Is there much difference between customer expectations from country to country? Any communication strategy needs to take into account different segments that may require a different approach: you may find that in the UK members will expect the company to react more responsibly whereby in other countries where the level of awareness is different the member will be more surprised if the company will approach him regarding gambling issues.
include remote gambling services in its GATS treaty commitments, and it was in violation of this treaty by allowing remote gambling on horseracing domestically while barring other WTO member countries from offering such services to the US market. It also ruled that this ongoing treaty violation resulted in damages to Antigua equal to US$21m (£13.3m). As Antigua had no trade leverage, it was not in a position to offset these damages through other trade concessions, which would be the typical recourse in such cases. As a result, in an unusual move, the WTO granted Antigua the right to ‘counter-measures’ Antigua would be entitled to suspend certain intellectual property rights that the US would otherwise have under another treaty up to $21m worth of value per year. In essence, since the WTO could not actually compel the US to pay restitution, because the US remained in violation of its treaty commitments under GATS, Antigua would be entitled to suspend US entitlements under another, intellectual propertyrelated treaty up to this amount as compensation. To date, Antigua has not yet sought to impose these countermeasures, electing instead, for the time being, to negotiate with the US
PATRIK SELIN: ‘NEGOTIATIONS REMAIN ONGOING’
Trade Representative in hopes of a constructive resolution. Patrik Selin, CEO of Bodog Europe, commented: “Minister Lovell has recently returned from a trip to Washington, where we are advised he conferred with the US Trade Representative in hopes of progressing an amicable resolution prior to imposition of the countermeasures. Earlier this week, Minister Lovell convened a meeting with the director of gaming and licensed remote gaming operators in Antigua to provide an update as to the status of the negotiations and to solicit feedback from stakeholders. “The meeting was very constructive. Though Bodog Europe has no USfacing business, we remain committed to the economic interests of Antigua and
Barbuda and the ongoing strength of the Financial Services Regulatory Commission. We were grateful to have the opportunity to discuss these matters directly with the minister.” However, Selin was at pains to refute a rumour that Antigua had accepted an offer by the US to settle the WTO dispute for $10m (£6.3m). “That’s absolutely false,” he said. “At no point in the meeting was anything of the kind said. We were advised that the Minister’s dialogue with the US was ongoing and the licensees’ opinions and feedback were being actively sought to ensure that all stakeholder perspectives were heard. It is our understanding that unless and until the settlement discussions prove fruitless and the countermeasures are implemented, negotiations remain ongoing.”
Ladbrokes cuts down on language offering INTERNATIONAL
adbrokes.com is to reduce the number of tailored language sites it offers and will focus on 13 tailored sites in nine different languages; supporting 17 currencies. The move will see the company drop its services in Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Finnish, Hungarian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Slovakian and Slovenian from February
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next year. Ladbrokes’ managing director digital channels, international and strategy, Gary McIlraith, explained: “We’ve taken a fresh look at what is the appropriate number of languages we operate in, their cost effectiveness and potential moving forward. As a result of the in depth review we are reducing the range of languages and tailored sites
that we offer. This will enable us to better target our internal resources and strengthen our marketing spend around those languages and markets that have the potential to provide significant and durable, regulated revenue and profit.” The firm is to continue its services in English, Swedish, Danish, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Thai, Chinese
and German. McIlraith added: “This is about focusing and strengthening our online resources to where we can operate efficiently and ensure durable scale. We remain very committed to our key markets and will continue to actively review new market opportunities, both online and offline, where we believe we can achieve the requisite scale and compete effectively.”
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 11
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Genting gets social
iGaming
Operator Genting Alderney is stepping up a gear with its social media campaigns, spearheaded by its virtual hostess Gabrielle Genting. Gabrielle and her pages for Genting Casino and Genting Poker will form the hub of information releases for upcoming news on poker, blackjack and skill games tournaments. News and results will also be accompanied by rich media content with videos from Genting TV and photo galleries from the events.
Slot tax complaint delays Danish regulation Everything was looking rosy for a new regulatory approach in Denmark, according to Graham Wood, before the land-based industry took umbrage at the proposed tax levels. DENMARK
he Danes have enjoyed the opportunity of betting and playing slot machines for many years, albeit with the state controlling much of the gaming sector. In addition to the traditional Lotto, the government controls Dansk Tipstjeneste, founded back in 1948, which has offered pools betting on sports for the last sixty-odd years, and fixed odds sports betting albeit with lower odds than those available elsewhere since the 1990s. The state operator also controls around 3,000 slot machines that turnover in excess of 1bn euro per year whilst independent operators manage a further 22,000 slot machines. Furthermore, since legislation was introduced in 1991, there have been half a dozen casinos in operation offering slots and table games. Given that the online sector, in a country with one of the highest rates of internet access, is currently unregulated, the government recently drew up legislation to introduce a regulated market for all forms of online gambling as a means of ensuring that the
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ANALYSIS COMPLAINTS FROM DANISH SLOT MACHINE OPERATORS HAVE DELAYED NEW LAWS IN THE COUNTRY
Danes’ enthusiasm for online gaming and sports betting was directed towards locally licensed companies rather than .com sites registered outside of the country. The proposed tax levels and range of products, although not ideal, did nevertheless provide operators with a regime that could be profitable. Licensed companies would be able to offer all forms of online gaming and pay an across the board tax of 20 per cent of margin, far
It is now unclear whether the commission will get involved in the argument over slot taxation, but in the meantime, the Danish Gaming Board is busy finalising the regulations and the government is hopeful that the revised timetable will allow the first online operators to go live during the summer of next year, unless there are legal challenges by the country’s slots and casino operators in the interim.
more favourable than in France and similar to the levels in force in Italy. Furthermore, there were to be none of the technical complications that exist in the Italian market where operators are required to integrate their systems with the government database. In fact, the legislation proposes guidelines that simply state: “Gaming systems used for the provision of betting and online casinos shall have prior approval from the gaming authority, before
IGAMINGBRIEFS SPONSORSHIP DEAL
32Red is to sponsor the starting stalls at Northern Racing-owned and managed Flat racecourses in a new partnership. The six-figure deal will see 32Red’s logo prominently displayed on starting stalls at Newcastle, Chepstow, Bath, Brighton, Ffos Las and Great Yarmouth for the duration of the next three Flat racing seasons, starting in March 2011. Ed Ware, CEO of 32Red Plc, said: “It’s great to be able to extend our investment in racing with this partnership. Our stalls advertising with Northern Racing in 2010 proved very successful so we were thrilled to take the opportunity to become official stalls sponsor at all six tracks over the next three years.” GOOD OCTOBER
888 Holdings has told investors that trading during October was stronger than the third they may be used to provide having been due to expire quarter across all business gaming...The gaming on 11 October. However, a lines. Average daily authority may require that complaint by the country’s revenue increased by gaming systems be certified private slots companies has approximately 6 per cent, by an accredited testing delayed implementation of led by poker showing a company approved by the the new laws. They argue more than 16 per cent gaming authority.” (Danish that the ‘favourable’ rates increase. The firm said: Statutory Order on Betting applied to online gambling “This revenue increase was and Online Casinos). amount to state aid when driven by higher deposit Having submitted the pro- compared with the rates of levels and more active posed legislation to the between 45-75 per cent of players, with a significant European Commission margin applied to AWPs and increase in new customer earlier in the year, the Danes casino revenues. Slot recruitment of over 20 per had been confident of machine and casino rev- cent. This increase has launching the new regime enues are taxed at rates been driven in part by the by 1 January 2011, the ranging between 45 percent continued investment in 888’s brands.” required period of standstill and 75 percent. The firm saw a 14 per cent increase in total B2C operating income for the first nine months of the year at US$162m (£103.8m).
Gaming breaks more Italian records
NEW LOOK MECCABINGO.COM
ITALY
nce again in October the Italian public confirmed their love of gaming - both online and offline - whilst sports betting also showed strong growth after several months in the doldrums. The largest contributions to the record-breaking month came from the 4,000 video lottery terminals installed so far, the country’s hundreds of thousands of slot machines and from the upturn in fortunes for the bingo sector. According to figures published by the Italian gaming authority, over half of the monthly spend of 5.75bn euro (£4.8bn) came from slots. Turnover was up to 2.7bn euro (£2.3bn) from September’s 2.5bn euro, whilst the small percentage of VLTs active so far
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chipped in another 116m euro (£97.0m). Online bingo recorded one of the largest increases, spend for the month hitting a new record of 17.7m euro (£14.8m) in October, 3m euro up on September’s figures. In fact, since a change in the rules at the end of 2009 which upped the maximum returns to players to 70 per cent, the bingo business has gone from strength to strength. Total turnover on bingo reached 166m euro (£138.8m) in October compared with 106m euro (£88.6m) in the same month last year. Spend on poker and skill games amounted to over 250m euro (£209.4m) in October, taking total turnover to 2.6bn euro (£2.2m) in the year so far, almost 42 per cent higher
12 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
than the figure of 1.85bn euro (£1.5bn) for the same period of 2009. Once again, white label operator Microgame continued to be market leader with turnover of 76.9m euro (£64.4m) - a market share of 30.3 per cent, closely followed by Pokerstars which generated spend of 56.6m euro (£47.4m) - a 22.3 per cent share. Despite the delays in the introduction of cash poker and casino games - now expected in Q1 2011 - operators will be pleased to see the annual figure topping 3bn euro (£2.5bn) this year. Thanks to a strong performance from online sportsbetting sites, which generated stakes of just under 130m euro (£108.9m), the total for all forms of online gaming for the
ITALIAN GAMBLING DEREGULATION IS BUMPING UP THE COUNTRY’S COFFERS
month was up 12.3 per cent year on year to 425m euro (£356m), giving a total for the first ten months of the year of over 4bn euro, an increase of 32.5 per cent compared with the same period of 2009. In fact, the performance of all products is on course
to give another record breaking year. The total to date in 2010 is now 49.6bn euro (£41.6bn), up 12.7 per cent up on the 44bn euro recorded in the first ten months of 2009. The Italian economy may not be at its best, but it appears that the Italian public has just enough disposable income to lighten the gloom and bring cheer to the country’s gaming operators.
After a period of conducting extensive customer research, insight, design, build and testing, Meccabingo.com has launched its new look website, as part of the company’s strategy to improve the user journey and deliver a customer focused experience. Gaming director for Meccabingo.com Angus Nisbet commented: “The new site has been built with customers needs at the forefront of our decisions; it’s simple to use, easy to navigate and a lot more up to date than the old site. There are a number of other innovative additions coming soon, all designed to create a personalised experience for every single customer.”
www.virtuefusion.com sales@virtuefusion.com
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Politics France not yet the finished article
POLITICSBRIEFS
The Remote Gambling Association thinks that the French online gaming laws could still do with the threat of the European Commission’s infringement procedures to make them better. Andrew McCarron reports.
NEW ESSA MEMBERS
FRANCE
The European Commission has claimed victory in ensuring that French citizens will have access to a ‘wider choice of duly authorised online gambling services’ as a result of the changes made to France’s laws on online gambling. The claim was made during the Commission’s announcement that it has closed existing infringement proceedings against France, but the Remote Gambling Association (RGA) is among those who believe that the Commission have been somewhat hasty in dropping everything relating to France. The Commission said: “With its new law, France has opened its online gambling market to operators from other EU member states on the basis of a nondiscriminatory licensing process. This has allowed a broader choice of online gambling services for sports betting. The new law has also legalised online poker in France. “These services are authorised and supervised by a new specific online gambling regulator
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(ARJEL). European gambling operators now have the possibility to apply for French licences and offer their services in France. Nevertheless, gambling continues to be safeguarded in the general interest in order to protect vulnerable consumers and
CLIVE HAWKSWOOD: FRENCH LAWS ‘VERY LIMITED IN SCOPE’
ANALYSIS
RGA CHIEF EXECUTIVE CLIVE HAWKSWOOD LISTENS TO CHAIR JOHN COATES AT THE AGM
to prevent gambling addiction as well as criminal activities.” But, RGA chief executive Clive Hawkswood believes more could and should be done in the country: “The RGA welcomed the original action taken by the Commission because the French gambling laws were clearly in breach of EU law. However, whilst France may now have an online licensing system in place it
During the RGA AGM, Clive Hawkswood warned that the gambling industry might have to revisit infringement procedures as a way of driving change through some of Europe’s more monopolistic gambling regimes if the European Commission’s Green Paper into gambling regulation, due to be published at any time, is downgraded to a mere discussion paper. Unfortunately, the Commission’s decision to leave the French regulations half baked when closing its infringement procedures against the country demonstrates how hit and miss that approach might be, even if there are several infringement procedures in the Commission’s ovens ready to be turned.
is very limited in scope with, for instance, no online casinos and the retention of a privileged position in the horserace betting market for PMU, the previous monopoly supplier. “We are hopeful that significant improvements to the regime will be made when the promised review takes place, but currently the system could not possibly be seen as a model
which promotes innovation, competition and consumer value and choice.” Highlighting the realities of the situation, Hawkswood stated: “French consumers have access to a limited online gambling marketplace, with very few new operators deciding to enter the French market due to the excessive fiscal burden on operators. This is especially
true in relation to sports betting where conditions make it extremely difficult to operate a viable business. The RGA predicted in October 2009 that France’s proposed regulatory and taxation regime would be unattractive and that has unfortunately proved to be the case. “Against this background, we are rather surprised that the European Commission has so readily welcomed the changes that have been made in France. We will await with interest their decisions on the outstanding infringements involving other countries such as Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Sweden and the Netherlands.” Meanwhile in the UK, Hawkswood told delegates at the RGA AGM that the association would also resist any attempts to force the offshore remote industry to contribute to the Horserace Betting Levy, despite the volume of noise coming from the sport on the subject. He said: “Racing’s campaign hinges on buzzwords such as ‘loophole’. If they had a pound for every time they mentioned loophole in the past couple of months, they would have solved the Levy problem by now. It is something we’ll strongly oppose. “Racing has wider views on sport and has thrown their lot in with sports rights more generally, which they probably see as a safer future for them. But sports rights is a huge issue at the moment and something we need to keep on top of.”
Bwin calls for overhaul of German gambling laws
HOTLINE PROVING HOT
The Gambling Commission’s confidential intelligence line designed to allow gamblers, licensed operators and sports people alike to ‘tip-off’ the authorities on illicit gambling has been hailed as effective by the regulator during its first period of operation. In its first six months of operation the line has received over 120 calls, a significant number of which contributed to ongoing criminal and regulatory investigations. The largest topic area for calls has been in the area of illegal gaming machines supply along with a cross-section of other issues including matters relevant to the work of the Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit. The number of the hotline is 0121 230 6655. POKER ICONS PROMOTES PRESSURE GROUP
GERMANY
ienna-listed bookmaker Bwin has welcomed a judgement by the Federal Supreme Court Germany’s highest civil court which ruled that Westdeutsche Lotterie GmbH & Co OHG (Westlotto) cannot obtain injunctive relief against online gaming offerings. The verdict puts an end to a legal dispute that has lasted six years. Bwin co-CEO Norbert Teufelberger commented: “We welcome the judgement by the German Federal Supreme Court, and are glad that we will have to spend less of our time in courtrooms in the future. Now we can concentrate on developing modern regulations for online gaming in Germany.” However, Bwin is now arguing that courts cannot take the place of
William Hill and Paddy Power have joined the European Sports Security Association (ESSA) - the early warning system with the sole mandate to protect the integrity of sport by monitoring betting activity, player and participant education and other measures. The two bookmakers bring ESSA’s membership to 15 leading European operators and further underlines the progress it has made in establishing itself as the industry vehicle for monitoring online and offline betting activity. William Hill director of security Bill South commented: “We believe that ESSA, with its excellent links not only with sports governing bodies but also regulators and other intelligence units, is the correct platform to coordinate this effort.”
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NORBERT TEUFELBERGER: ‘GLAD THAT WE WILL HAVE TO SPEND LESS OF OUR TIME IN COURTROOMS’
14 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
political decisions. It pointed out that due to the fact that 95 per cent of gaming revenues in Germany are
generated by unregulated providers, the State Treaty on gaming must be regarded as a failure. The treaty justifies the state monopoly by claiming that ‘gaming addiction is a danger to the general public and only the state (offline) monopoly is capable of channelling people’s natural gambling urges’. However, Bwin argues the objective of effectively preventing gaming addiction can be achieved only by a licensing model in which the granting of licences is linked to compliance with suitable standards of gambler protection. The bookmaker suggested that in Germany, as in Italy, a licensing model would lead to the consolidation of the market, as a consequence of which a handful of
licensed providers would operate more than 90 per cent of the market, effectively suppressing the black market, whilst at the same time ensuring a high level of protection for the consumer. Teudelberger commented: “It is high time, and in the interests of all those involved, to prepare the way for the modern regulation of online gaming in Germany. We are optimistic that Germany will follow the example of other European states like Italy and France. We shall continue to constructively support the positive regulation of online gaming, contributing the extensive know-how that we have acquired, not least as a licensed provider in newly regulated markets like Italy and France.”
Poker Icons has partnered with Right2bet to launch a series of joint initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the political pressure group in the poker media, with a focus on televised poker tournament coverage. The partnership with Poker Icons is Right2bet’s first major foray into the European poker community. Campaign manager of Right2bet James Gilbert said: “European poker players are often the worst affected by unfair, protectionist gambling legislation, so we want to do as much as possible to engage with the poker community across the continent.”
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Spin3 take lead position at ICE
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Racing Post to host focal point for bookmakers
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he Racing Post has confirmed that it will be adopting a high-profile presence at January’s ICE exhibition (Earls Court, London, 25th/26th/27th January) to thank the industry for its support in 2010, and to wave the flag for the betting community, unveiling an important new product which will enhance dramatically the ‘betting experience’ for shop customers. ICE will host the launch of the Racing Post’s next generation Touch Bet digital touch-screens which will provide punters with the very best bet-prompting information and live research facility. New developments include richer content, new graphical features, a new wide-screen layout as well as additional sports content. Kevan Moretti, head of B2B services at the Racing Post said “Our aim is to pro-
vide the shop audience with the same ‘live’ Racing Post editorial, stats and tipping information which online punters have access to” The new Touch Bets have a design which will be instantly recognisable and familiar to users of both the Racing Post’s website and iPhone application. Kevan went onto say “These new designs with smaller 22inch screens offer a lower purchase cost without compromising on either content or presentation.” Content on the 22-inch Touch Bets will also be made available on the 32ich Touch Bets which will remain the Racing Post’s flagship product. Looking ahead to ICE Moretti said: “As the racing Post team, we are genuinely delighted to be taking such a high-profile presence at this important annual event for the betting industry. This is a large and well at-
tended show at which both the domestic and overseas operators can take a look at all of the trends and technologies impacting their particular business. We are excited about this year’s show and extend an open invitation to all our friends in the betting community, to drop in to the Racing Post Betting Cafe to have a coffee and a chat. We will also be offering the opportunity for our visitors to recharge their batteries; even to access their emails using our free Wi-Fi facility. We look forward to seeing
earls court, london | 25th - 27th january 2011 register at please quote ref: BBI
as many of you as possible at the Racing Post Betting Café at stand 4130, which we hope will become the hub of the show.” Kate Chambers, Show Director responsible for ICE Betting, has welcomed the central role being played by the Racing Post. She said: “I’m delighted that an institution that’s synonymous with bookmaking will be taking such an important role at show. The Racing Post Café is certain to be a focal point, providing a warm and friendly welcome to bookmakers everywhere.”
eading full service mobile gaming solutions provider Spin3 has been confirmed as lead Mobile Gaming sponsor for the ICE Mobile Gaming Conference taking place at Earls Court on Tuesday 25 January. Matti Zinder, head of Spin3, and who will speak at the conference said: "We're now seeing signs that mobile gambling is close to delivering on its great promise and really break into the mainstream. Portable devices like smartphones and tablets are exploding in popularity, and people are increasingly living mobile lives. With people spending so much time on their devices, mobile is fast becoming a must-have platform for leading eGaming brands. At the same time, Spin3 continues to drive
the industry forwards; delivering innovative business solutions like the first play-for-real native iPhone blackjack app. For regulated markets, we’re seeing that a mobile gambling offering is a major differentiator and is fast becoming a must-have platform for leading eGaming brands. We aim to showcase this innovation and the great potential of the mGaming industry as lead mobile sponsor at ICE 2011: we look forward to seeing you there."
Ad Feature
Technology and innovation to shape betting’s future at ICE T ouch, feel and embrace the future of gaming is the invitation being extended to the 20,000-plus visitors expected to attend January's ICE show at London's Earls Court Exhibition Centre (25th/26th/27th January). The invitation could not be more compelling with ICE occupying some 20,000 square metres of stand space from where an expected 2,000 new products will be launched. Kate Chambers, ICE show director said: "We've got the biggest names, the best innovators and the smartest names in betting and gaming all launching their very latest products in London in January; there is no other place in the world that gaming operators can or indeed should be come January." Betting, Mobile and Online industry heavyweights confirming displays in excess of 50 square metres at ICE include Playtech,
ICE delivers unique cross-over opportunities
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xhibition visitors will be able to take advantage of significant cross-over opportunities which remain totally unique to ICE. No other b2b gaming exhibition in the world can boast sectors devoted to casino, online, remote, street, betting, bingo and lottery thereby allowing buyers to establish contacts and see the latest trends impacting the world of gaming at a single venue. ICE Betting, Mobile and Online comprise 160 exhibitors drawn from 40 sovereign jurisdictions and
occupying over 6,000 square metres. There are 51 companies making their debut appearances at ICE, providing a perfect balance of seasoned and new exhibitors. Leading games creators with a strong interest in low stake high volume gaming include APEX Gaming Europe, Barcrest Group, Unidesa-Cirsa, The Global Draw, TAB Austria, JPM International, Zest Gaming, Inspired Gaming Group and Mazooma Games.
Barcrest Group, TAB Austria, Buzz Sports, play4win / wettpunkt, GTech G2, Cyberarts Licensing, SIS, Betstone, Microgaming, Cryptologic, Greentube, Betradar.com, Inspired Gaming, Global Draw, Net Entertainment, Isle of Man Government, Evolution Gaming, Ongame Network, Kambi Sports Solutions, Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Allin 1 Partners, Chartwell Games, Dragonfish, Edict, 2db / Meridianbet, Openbet, Smartbetting Czech Republic, Entraction, Betsoft Gaming, Continent 8 Technologies, States of Alderney / Alderney Gambling, Wirecard Technologies, MediaLive Casino and Initial Rewards. Summarising the ICE proposition, Kate Chambers concluded: "ICE exhibitors are coming to London in their hundreds, to win business - all of which means there's never been a better chance to experience the future of gaming."
Registration live!
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s well as providing online ticket registration and comprehensive exhibitor information, the new ICE web site www.icetotallygaming.com also includes an overview of the comprehensive conference and learning programme including biographies on the panels of expert industry speakers who will be present at the London show. Features to assist visitors gain maximum value from their visit include the ICE interactive floor plan, which has been designed to help show attendees identify new companies and products, link up with exhibiting companies prior to the show and make maximum use of the time spent at ICE.
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FREE ticket registration for the world’s leading betting & gaming show at www.icetotallygaming.com please quote ref: BBI
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Global Draw’s latest marketing aid to independents aiming to maximise their machines
Parspro’s marketing director Thorvar Hafsteinsson gives his First Impressions
Playtech underlines its leading position in online gaming with a host of new contract deals
Top tips on search engine optimisation from Andy Blackburn of Game On Consultants
Betting Business Interactive Edition
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December 2010
No horseracing for punters? Find out what else you can offer them in the B2B listings
Training days The Antiguan authorities are trying to improve social responsibility standards in their jurisdiction with the help of one of the leading experts on problem gambling. GamCare go global. 28
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After months of speculation AMRAC, the broadcaster behind Turf TV, has announced its price for 2011 is £7,030 - a 3 per cent increase. However, the firm is retaining its loyalty discount with a £400 reduction for operators with shops who signed up to Turf TV in 2007 and £250 for those shops which took it in 2008.
The loyalty discounts for our early adopter customers will carry on into 2011, a demonstration of AMRAC’s continuing appreciation of the commitment shown by customers. Adrian Ford Managing director, Turf TV
SCREEN SYSTEMS
The New Zealand Racing Board will be the first to experience what MRG Systems is describing as ‘a new world-class screen system’.
he New Zealand Racing Board has signed a contract with UKbased MRG Systems Ltd for a replacement screen system. The Board’s existing text system in its TAB Betting outlets will be superseded by a modern, technically advanced and feature-rich product that is in keeping with the many technological changes taking place in the industry. The planned roll out commences during February 2011, and the MRG screen system will be the focal point in transforming the existing 670 outlets, and more units in the future given the operator’s plans to increase the TAB estate by 45 per cent over the next four years. The Board’s general manager retail Dave Rodden said: “The New Zealand Racing Board has set itself the target of being a world leader in retail betting, and of providing our customers with the very best possible wagering experience. The new screen system developed for us by MRG is the first tangible evidence of our determination to break new ground, and we are absolutely delighted at the way that MRG have taken our vision and turned it into a compelling, dynamic betting shop product that will amaze our customers, and stimulate significant additional turnover.” Bryan Corbin, technical director of MRG Systems, added: “This development for the New Zealand Racing Board introduces a
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NEW ZEALAND RACING BOARD CEO ANDREW BROWN SHAKES HANDS WITH BRYAN CORBIN OF MRG SYSTEMS
‘Revolutionary’ screen system heading to New Zealand world class screen system to the industry, setting new standards and employing innovative new ideas. Considerable advancements have taken place within the company in terms of our technical capabilities, the clever use of data in the displays plus the continued expansion of new automated processes built into the product.” A very different experience will be enjoyed by TAB customers as a result. The existing CRT TVs will be replaced by 55” LCD panels, with up to ten screens in the most strategic sites. The increased screen di-
mensions have stimulated many original ideas in the design and display of information. For instance, the size and shape of the information being displayed alters in response to the requirements of different sporting events, solving that problem for the watching audience who previously had to wait for a page to reappear in a slow or busy carousel. By its very nature, a Tote system needs to display a particular set of information, but allied to this are comprehensive sets of data held by the New Zealand TAB. These have
only appeared in print form to date but can now be released for use on the screens, revolutionising the displays. Tips, ratings and form will now be displayed in a way that will be visible to, and readily understandable by, all customers. A UK version of the new system will be on show in the Betting area of ICE at Earls Court next month. MRG believes that anyone who sees the system for the first time will recognise that the product sets a new benchmark which will help accelerate screen system development over the next few years.
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FREE ticket registration for the world’s leading betting & gaming show at www.icetotallygaming.com earls court, london | 25th - 27th january 2011
RACING Channels co-operate to fill programme n an unexpected move, SIS and Turf TV have collaborated to bring live pictures from Mauritius to UK and Irish LBO’s last weekend. The full racing schedule, which included the highlight of the Mauritius racing calendar, featured prominently in the
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and SIS will continue to broadcast these meetings when the new season starts in March 2011.
processes, driving time and cost savings and helping Gala Coral position itself as an ‘employer of choice’ among candidates. Gala Coral is also using the capabilities of StepStone’s program to stream vacancies directly to its Facebook and Twitter pages, creating a much more varied approach to promoting its employer brand. Having launched a new careers website at www.galacoralcareers.com the company received a great response, already averaging 20,000 visits per month.
Sponsorship deal orthern Racing and Ffos Las Racecourse has signed a three-year sponsorship deal for the Welsh Champion Hurdle with William Hill. The six-figure agreement runs until 2013 and positions the two-mile race as a major target for every top hurdler in Britain and Ireland. The inaugural new williamhill.com Welsh Champion Hurdle, with £45,000 in prize-money, will now take place on Saturday 5 February 2011. Northern Racing group managing director Tony Kelly said: “This is a fantastic sponsorship deal for the race which helps to give it the status that it deserves in the jump racing calendar.”
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LIVE BETTING something the Racing for Change team has been clamouring for and is likely to increase interest in the sport as a betting medium.
McCoy favourite for BBC award he sport of racing has been given a high profile boost with the news that jockey Tony McCoy is on the 10-strong shortlist for the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year and not only that - he is favourite to win the competition. With no footballers in the running, McCoy’s victory at the Grand National this year means he is evens to pick up the prestigious trophy, which was won by Ryan Giggs last year. Should McCoy win the award, the sport of racing will receive massive publicity on prime time television;
T UK shops on a winter weekend where the domestic racing programme was ravaged by the effects of snow and ice. SIS is the exclusive broadcast rights holder in the territory while Turf TV has a distribution link for the live feeds through its current relationship for South African racing with Phumelela. Both services showed the meetings over the weekend
RECRUITMENT StepStone to recruitment ala Coral Group has implemented StepStone Solutions Talent Acquisition to handle the 300 applications it receives each day for the many job vacancies it advertises across its three main divisions in the UK. StepStone Solutions Talent Acquisition is streamlining recruitment
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Buzz in Las Vegas eeds-based Buzz Sportslaunched Zoneplay Worldwide at the G2Etrade show in Las Vegas last month with the product reportedly receiving ‘high acclaim’ from all that saw the demonstration screens showing live trading of a series of sports. ZonePlay - an in-running betting concept that allows players to guess the next event in a game - was launched in Belgium this summer. Buzz Sports COO Ted Robinson commented: “Initial feedback from the product was fantastic. Early signs from the show indicate we will have a worldwide presence with initial trials of Zoneplay likely to be run Australia, Mexico, Central Europe and South America within January of 2011.”
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Visit us on Stand 4142 at the ICE Totally Gaming Show at Earls Court 25th - 27th January 2011 MRG Systems Limited Willow Court, Beeches Green, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 4BJ
T +44 (0)1453 751871 F +44 (0)1453 753125
E sales@mrgsystems.co.uk W www.mrgsystems.co.uk
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Retail B2B Retail Listings
B2B associations R et ai l
EVENT STAR SPORT’S BEN KEITH ALREADY HANDLES A LOT OF CALLS BET WANTS MORE
gaming B2B machines R et ai l
The leading trade association for betting shop operators. Free expert advice, and a discount purchase scheme for betting shop essentials. Membership costs less than £2 per LBO per week. Protect your livelihood - join the ABB today!
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B2B content R et ai l
www.theglobaldraw.com 99 Green Lane | Hounslow | Middlesex | TW4 6BW Tel: +44(0) 20 8917 9112 | Fax: +44(0) 20 8917 9113
management B2B systems
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RISE AND SHINE with SIS From 30th October the SIS FACTS service will start from 9am every Saturday. The service will include live Australian thoroughbred racing and virtual content. And all at no extra cost! For more information contact us sales@sis.tv www.sis.tv 01908 865865
MRG Systems Innovative Screen Solutions +44 (0) 1453 751871 sales@mrgsystems.co.uk www.mrgsystems.co.uk
epos/ B2B settling systems B2B shopfitting R et ai l
Feel the power mid a whirlwind of media attention, the inaugural Power Snooker tournament took place at The O2 in London on 30 October. The new snooker variant - designed to be faster and more exciting than the traditional format, with several unique rules and an increased focus on audience participation - was created, in the words of tournament winner Ronnie O’Sullivan, to ‘drag snooker into the 21st century’. The basic premise of Power Snooker sees each game last half an hour, there are no frames and the player with most points wins the match. Potting the middle
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red ‘PowerBall’ triggers a two-minute PowerPlay where each ball subsequently potted counts double. Throughout the game players are on a shot clock of 20 seconds. “We intend it to be snooker’s equivalent to Twenty20 cricket with each event being an experience of fast and furious action,” game creator Ed Simons said. “We would love to see coin-operated Power Snooker games machines in clubs. It also provides a tremendous opportunity for the betting industry especially for in-game betting, and I’m surprised that it has taken bookmakers so long to recognise it.”
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EPOS Till Rolls Betting Slips Mini Pens www.betsol.net 077 4932 4906
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SIS joint venture for facilities management IS and Peel Media, owners of MediaCityUK, have agreed a major new joint venture to deliver an enhanced range of production and technical services to the BBC when it moves to the new site next year. The 10 year agreement with the BBC will see SIS and Peel Media form a new company to run MediaCityUK’s state of the art studio facilities, including postproduction, content and technical services, as well as manage all connectivity. The joint team will also work with the BBC, Salford University and other media
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The Bookmakers Trade Fair 2011 6th October Wolverhampton Racecourse organized by
BOSmagazine
IS has announced a special winter saving allowance of £200 for all standard data customers, payable over the next three months. This follows on from a continuing internal business review, the earlier 8 per cent reduction and maintains SIS’s
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support of bookmakers and the independent sector in general. Philip Siers, the SIS LBO divisional managing director, said: “We are delighted to show our support for the industry in these difficult economic times and to be able to offer additional tangible benefits. We will continue to look at ways we can benefit our customers for the future.”
www.cctvcentre.co.uk
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FREE ticket registration for the world’s leading betting & gaming show at www.icetotallygaming.com earls court, london | 25th - 27th january 2011
partners to develop new technologies and services and help deliver MediaCityUK’s vision of becoming a worldclass hub for content creation.
New shop boost
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GAMING MACHINES PAUL JENKINS: LATEST PROMOTION USED THE FOOTBALL FOOTFALL TO DRIVE MACHINE REVENUES UP
or 2011 AMRAC is introducing a ‘soft start’ rate for existing Turf TV customers opening new shops in 2011. This initiative has emerged from feedback from customers struggling with operating costs in the first year as a shop establishes itself in a local market and builds customer loyalty. To help customers opening new shops, Turf TV will be available at a 50 per cent discount on the standard TV rate for the first 12 months of operation. The only condition is the new shop must be an addition to the estate as it stands on 1 January 2011.
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GAMING MACHINES Code cracking ash Code is the new B2 game, designed and built by The Global Draw’s internal development team. Players can select the B2 based ‘mega spins’ mode which offers five spins of the reels for £10 with the chance to win increased prizes. The Cash Code feature contains six cash values which the player must try and unlock by guessing the correct code using an on-screen number pad. Rounding out Cash Code’s array of features are two gamble modes - a traditional even bet card predictor for any prize value, plus Turbo Gamble which automatically gambles prizes up to a particular value set by the player before the game commences.
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B3 stakes consultation he government has launched proposals to consider two possible changes to the Gambling Act 2005 applying to ‘adults-only’ (B3) slot machines. Following extensive discussions, minister for gambling John Penrose is proposing increasing the maximum stake limit from £1 to £2 and permitting a modest increase in the number of such machines in adult-only arcades and bingo clubs. He explained: “I want to ensure these businesses remain competitive in these tough economic times. I believe increasing the stake to £2 and reviewing machine entitlements will provide the boost needed by operators and manufacturers, but public protection must remain paramount.”
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JOHN PENROSE
Providing the incentive aming machine expert The Global Drawhas given its independent betting shops another boost with its latest shop incentive programme designed to reward both shops and customers. The exclusively designed incentive scheme gave The Global Draw’s independent betting shops the chance to win cash rewards for enhanced machine performance. The shops were supplied with marketing and promotional support to maximise the opportunity. The shop rewards were picked up by Joe Jennings, Pridmore Bookmakers,Lodge Park Racing andBet H & Hfor achieving the highest percentage uplift in average weekly revenue per terminal. To help shops further increase machine revenues The Global Draw supplied a free promotion with a funded prize for all shops to run a weekend tournament. The competition was free for bookmakers to run and each shop’s top scorer was entered into a national prize draw for the chance to win £500 - the winner being a customer for Just a Bet in Durham. Paul Jenkins, Global Draw’s independent sector account manager, said: “We regularly design incentives to help our independent bookmakers give their machine income a boost. They are supported with point of sale material to ensure the competitions are impactful to customers and help staff successfully promote the terminals and content through a simple but effective mechanic.”
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David Ross Fabrications Ltd Metalwork supplied from our designs or your own. 7YV[V[`WL [OYV\NO [V WYVK\J[PVU (SS Ä UPZOLZ For example: Bet slip dispensers Light boxes-wall and freestanding External ashtrays Magnetic wall boards Swivelling Tower with Poster Frames Pelmet Lights Upstands Floor bins with or without logo Paper Racks Pen dispensers Leaner legs
Coupon Dispensers Poster Frames Racing Post Holders Machine Tables Bandit Screen Posts Window Display Legs Stainless Steel Handrail Systems TV Gantry Systems LCD TV Brackets Plasma TV Brackets
SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF METALWORK TO THE BETTING INDUSTRY FOR OVER 16 YEARS UNIT 1E PECKLETON LANE BUSINESS ESTATE PECKLETON LEICESTER LE9 7RN TEL;01455 823721 FAX;01455 828339 EMAIL;davidross7@btconnect.com www.davidrossfabrications.co.uk Photographs courtesy of Coral Racing & Chisholm Bookmakers
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Sportsbook First impressions Parspro marketing director Thorvar Hafsteinsson
“
First Job: Farm hand
First Album: Slade Alive
First Car: Chevy ‘55
At the age of 8-15 I worked on a farm, no hard labour though and a great memory. However, my first real job was working in a fish factory, like most kids in Iceland did back then.
In my opinion one of the best live albums ever released. ‘Get down and get with it’, ‘Mama we're all crazy now’, I played it over and over again and I played it loud with the amp set to 11.
I was never able to drive it since the car was wrecked and I was just 13. My second car - a convertible Skoda '59 - was the same. Beautiful car but a total wreck. My first drivable car was a Fiat Uno.
First Holiday: Malaga A family holiday when I was 12 was three weeks in Malaga. On our way home we had to make a stopover in Ireland because my fellow Icelanders shopped so much in Spain that the plane was so loaded it had to refuel.
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RUVÛRÙØÒÁQÓVÁÓÁÙÓUPØ ÚÕÁYRÙWXÓTÁVÛÚÙWVÊ RUÖTXÒRUP PÙØZQÚXUÒV
Bet1128 virtually achieves Gold standard Virtual sports have been an established betting product for over a decade now, but developers continue to push the envelope over what is achievable. Bet 1 128 are bringing the efforts to market. nspired Gaming Group, the server-based gaming (SBG) and virtual sports specialist, has launched of its new ‘Gold Package’ for online customers. The Gold Package is essentially a pure revenue sharing proposition provided through a delivery and support platform reducing any barriers to the uptake of the company’s Virtual Sports for small and medium-sized online operators. Bet1128, the European online gaming operator, went live with Inspired’s Gold Package and core suite of Virtual Sports last month at www.bet1128.com. The Virtual Gold Package is described as an accessible way for operators to provide virtual sports betting including football, horse racing, greyhound racing,
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motor racing, speedway, and virtual numbers games (including Roulette and Lottery Draw derivatives), which are easily integrated with their existing bet management solution. New events and upgrades will be added to the content offer as they are developed. The content - be it a race, match or numbers draw - is generated by Inspired’s Virtual Sports Platform (VSP) and streamed using the latest encoding and streaming technology to Gold Package customers. Steve Rogers, managing director of Inspired’s Virtual Sports division, said: “We see the launch of the online Gold Package as being demonstrable of the success of our products online. We have seen through our existing online customer base that the revenues generated are ma-
terial and are growing parallel with online activity. We are so confident in the performance of our virtual racing products that we are willing to invest in both the upfront and ongoing costs of delivery of the content, to remove what can be costly barriers to entry. “We are excited about making our Virtual Sports more accessible to them and their customers. The launch of our Virtual Sports at Bet1128.com shows how easily it can be integrated into existing systems and I am sure that it will be a big hit with their customers.” Fabrizio Festari, poker and casino manager at Bet1128, commented: “We were certainly sold on the flexibility of the new revenue-share plan. To be able to have access to this package of content is ex-
tremely attractive to ourselves and our customers. ” Inspired has also recently launched its multi-language Virtual Sports package in 16 languages, which has been taken up by Bet365. Rogers commented: “The development of our multi-language commentary demonstrates our desire to be constantly innovating and to address demand from our customers who offer their online sportsbook internationally.” John Coates, joint chief executive of Bet365, added: “Our decision to upgrade our Virtual Sports offering is reflective of the dedication to constant innovation and desire to keep the product fresh and interesting for end users. This has allowed us to consistently offer the best in class product to our customers.”
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MARKETING Oddschecker cuts latency ddschecker.com, the odds comparison site, has deployed Push Technology’s ‘diffusion enterprise-class’ push solution to provide its customers with the latest prices at near zero latency. Oddschecker can be sure that it gives its customers direct access to the best prices from the top bookmaking brands, with Diffusion ensuring high reliability and data consistency - even at times of key demand such as the Grand National. Oddschecker’s Derren Maggs said: “Since implementing the Diffusion push solution, we now have a reliable and consistent service in place that can scale to handle ten times our current traffic levels, and that we know will support our business going forward.�
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Bet365 hits all channels ky Sports and ESPN have committed to air Bet365’s pioneering live betting adverts, featuring Ray Winstone, in all live football matches throughout the 2010/2011 season. This completes the big channel sign up which will see a TV advert that features live odds. The cutting edge technology was the brainchild of bet365, and by working together with Drummond Central, was the first gaming company to offer live, in-play odds on adverts during televised football matches on ITV. Drummond Central managing director Julie Drummond said: “This is the first time live odds adverts will have been aired on games showing on Sky and ESPN, which is a real coup for us.�
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BETTING SYSTEM
B2B Sportsbook Listings
Sportingbet supplies Russian betting system
B2B betting platform
portradar has launched another new product: the Football Fantasy Manager. The product is designed to convert gamers to punters at a much higher rate than any other mode of online advertising. It offers advanced simulation software and 3D-graphics design based on Artificial Intelligence and a unique replication of real leagues’ and real players’ performance. The Fantasy Manager directly transfers gamers to betting offers on the customer’s website. It allows betting on simulated matches with a virtual currency that can later be exchanged into real currency offers. This new product runs in ordinary browser environments and is integrated either on a bookmaker’s website or on the website of an affiliate partner.
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www.parspro.com Andrew McIver
nline bookmaker Sportingbet has announced a joint venture with First International Bookmakers Company (FIBC), Russia’s second largest licensed bookmaker, trading under the well known Liga Stavok brand. Under the five year deal, Sportingbet and FIBC agree to partner exclusively to establish a Russian online sports betting offering under the ‘Liga Stavok powered by Sportingbet’ brand. Sportingbet is the sole provider of online services to the joint venture which will be a unique offering in the market. FIBC operates 256 Liga Stavok licensed betting outlets in 67 cities across Russia, and is expanding at a rate of 25 new openings per month. Liga Stavok has unparalleled access to
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the Russian sports betting market as a result of its exclusive betting partnership with the Russian Football Premier League. As one of only 18 licence holders, Liga Stavok is one of the country’s most recognised betting brands. Sportingbet chief executive Andrew McIver said: “I am confident that the combination of Sportingbet’s world class online sports betting product and expertise with Liga Stavok’s strong brand and exclusive betting partnerships will enable the joint venture to build a leading position in this exciting, fast growing market. This partnership is a perfect fit with Sportingbet’s strategy to build geographical diversity through new markets, working with the highest quality partners where appropriate.�
The innovative multi-channel betting platform
Visit us at ICE 2011, stand no. 6322 E-mail: info@betologic.com Site: www.betologic.com
gaming B2B consultants S po rt sb
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+44 (0) 1624 827138 info@gbgc.com g www www.gbgc.com .gbgc com
LIVE BETTING
CONTENT
RouletteCricket a hit
Maskey takes the reins
ouletteCricket has now been successfully integrated with OpenBet’s Remote Gaming Interface (RGI) to deliver its first playformoney game for betting and gaming operators. The in-play betting game is for web and mobile is now available for operators. Commercial partner manager at OpenBet Max Francis commented: “This integration proves that RGI will deliver true value to both operators and games developers alike through the rapid time to market and seamless integration. The launch of RouletteCricket signals a shift in the scope of our offering as we are now able to provide a genuine choice of the best and most innovative content to our customers.�
irtual sport specialist Gextech has appointed Jamie Maskey as managing director. Maskey has over twenty five years of experience in the gaming sector, with roles at Victor Chandler and Finsoft. Executive director Scott McCabe commented: “We are excited about Jamie coming on board with the full support of the Scarborough Group which now has a significant interest in this business. His strong customer focus and track record of driving growth in companies in the gaming sector is exactly what Gextech needs to reach its full market potential.� Maskey added: “Both the company’s Smart Stitch software and the content generated by the Fantastic League game offer opportunities to diversify and grow the business globally.�
R Fantasy product
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Get great PR from the industry experts
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For a quote call Chris Jones +44 (0)1273 699900 ! # """ !
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iGaming Sweet suite for PKR
PKR.com is taking a suite of mini games and side games from GTech G2, including three of the most popular easy-toplay instant win games in G2’s portfolio - Triple Chance Hi-Lo, Aces High, and Casino Dice.
There can be only one A slot version of the cult classic film Highlander is among the new games as part of OpenBet’s Games Package 22 thanks to an agreement between FremantleMedia and MGM.
Star signing
Virtue Fusion Alderney will launch Zodiac Supernova on its award-winning network which serves the likes of MeccaBingo, Ladbrokes, William Hill, Sky, Bet365, Crown Bingo, Virgin, Paddy Power and Boylesports.
PLAYTECH IS SUPPLYING 150 GAMES TO RAY’S NEW ONLINE OPERATION
Customer satisfaction Greentube CEO Eberhard Dürrschmid said his firm is continually improving: “We have been increasing the speed in which our products are developed and are of course profiting from our position as the online division of the Novomatic Group.”
BINGO Parlay with the King arlay Entertainment has launched the Video King Gaming Channel on the Parlay Games Services (PGS) North America network. Players can play for free, earn points by playing bingo, and enter the Video King Gaming Channel’s draws for a chance to win a number of prizes. Video King’s CTO and VP of Electronics Dan Free commented: “This gaming site offers free-play bingo and other casino games, along with daily, weekly and monthly drawings, as well as daily prizes awarded for selected bingo games. Parlay has done an outstanding job on these games, and players will love playing them.”
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Playtech deals with RAY and Codere Demonstrating its range of services, Playtech has announced it is to supply Finland with casino products and a Spanish firm in Italy with a bingo solution. inland’s slot machine association RAY has signed a deal with Playtech for an online gaming service. RAY will operate an online gaming site, Ray.fi, with over 150 games encompassing both slots and traditional casino table games. Playtech branded slots such as Iron Man and Pink Panther are included, as well as popular local content such as JokeriPokeri and Tuplapotti. Online poker will also be available with seven different kinds of poker and the ability to share tournaments between the online
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environment and RAY's gaming locations, such as Grand Casino Helsinki. RAY awarded Playtech the contract for the provision of the online gaming platform in May. Since then, they have been working together to develop and enhance the platform and content for players in Finland, fully compliant with the Finnish regulatory environment. Head of RAY internet gaming operations Kari Hyttinen commented: “With our very strong focus on responsible gaming, we have been pushing the frontiers of technology and integration through this process. Playtech has delivered innovative solutions to achieve these and we can now offer our players market-leading content in a controlled environment that is fully consistent with our core values and controls.” Playtech chief executive Mor Weizer said: “We have developed innovative solutions to what were complex requirements and are delighted to deliver a complete solution for RAY and industry-leading content for their Finnish players.”
His company has also landed the signing of Codere Interactiva as a licensee and its launch as an operator on the company’s Italian bingo platform. This is the first online gaming initiative from Spanish-based gaming operator Codere, which is one of the leading participants in gaming in both Europe and Latin America. Codere’s online offering will complement its longstanding presence in Italian landbased bingo, where it operates 13 major bingo halls. This launch marks the first of what will be a number of initiatives as Codere develops its online gaming profile in regulated markets. The addition of Codere.it brings the number of Italian bingo operators on Playtech’s platform to four, which holds a market share in excess of 25 per cent. Weizer commented: “We are delighted to welcome Codere as a licensee. They are a major gaming operator with a significant land based presence in Italy and we are very much looking forward to helping them develop their online presence in regulated markets.”
QuickFire solution for Leon eon Gaming has gone live with its QuickFire’s Live Dealer games. QuickFire currently provides Leon Gaming with a choice of casino games from a rapidly expanding portfolio of Microgaming’s premium titles. QuickFire’s Live Dealer product has recently undergone a major upgrade, and now features High Definition video streaming, standalone multi-window games and multi-language functionality. Players can enjoy Roulette, BlackJack and Baccarat & Multi-player Baccarat, all hosted from a brand new, state of the art studio which has been approved by eCOGRA’s Seals Compliance Committee. The new deal will also provide Leon Gaming’s players with a fully integrated single wallet.
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IGT announces mergers nternational Game Technology( IGT) is to merge its WagerWorks and Million2-1groups into a single global division headquartered in San Francisco, California. This new Interactive division will be led by IGT executive vice president Gideon Bierer. “Merging our online and mobile business units under the IGT brand will solidify our position as a leader in interactive gaming,� said Bierer. “As technology advances and markets evolve, we look forward to accelerating our product innovation and significantly growing our interactive business. We already work with the largest online operators in many European countries and look forward to doing the same in new territories.�
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POKER Subito on French network oker Subito has gone live on the joint French liquidity network run by Dragonfish and Prima Networks, the fourth site to do so. Poker Subito, operated by ad Astra, is targeted at the mass market of casual gamers, and is positioned as the poker site where players can ‘play as they like’, whatever their level. Dragonfish MD David Zerah said: “The launch of each new partner helps to grow our French poker network as we seek to build market share. Through appealing to the more casual poker player, Poker Subito offers players something different and we look forward to working with them to help maximise its potential.�
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Nordic finds Jadestone adestone Networks has signed a casino contract with Nordic Gaming Group. The agreement expands upon Nordic Gaming Group’s existing relationship with Jadestone to add the company’s brand new RNG Mini and Casino games portfolio. The casino offering is created in co-operation with Swedish iGaming solution provider Play’n Go. “The new ‘Play full-size’ functionality gives us the ability to offer casino games to all of our players from anywhere within our sites. This is great for the customer as they aren’t dependent upon finding and clicking on the casino lobby tab to play casino games,� commented Ben Clemes, casino & games manager for Nordic Gaming Group.
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New Greentube partners uasar and PokerIdol have chosen Greentube as their software supplier in order to benefit from the ongoing success of Novomatic games content across the globe. Quasar MD Marc Galea said: “We chose Greentube expecting a high standard of product and service - I can confidently say that my expectations have already been met and generally exceeded throughout all stages of our co-operation.� Pokeridol CEO Daniel Avander added: “Their suite of casino and skill games is a natural extension to our poker offering and they will prove to be very popular with our European poker customers.�
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Revenue dip ryptoLogic revealed that revenue from fully hosted virtual casino rooms was CA$5.6m (ÂŁ3.5m) in Q3 2010, slightly down from the previous quarter’s figure of $5.8m (ÂŁ3.7m), reflecting ‘normal seasonal patterns’. The company said revenues from its branded games segment decreased to $1.4m (ÂŁ880,000) in Q3 2010, due to a decline in revenue contribution from ‘a key licensee’. It added that it continues to work closely with its licensees to help them maximise revenue from CryptoLogic’s portfolio of branded gaming content. 13 new branded games went live in the quarter taking the total number of games up to 156.
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CASINO Tain extends choice oftware supplier Tain has expanded its product range by signing a deal which will let it offer its customers the chance to operate using Playtech casino software, encompassing a comprehensive games library and the full range of management tools via Playtech’s unified administration system, the IMS. Tain’s chief executive Christer Fahlstedt said: “This deal further strengthens our cooperation with Playtech which is approaching its fifth anniversary. The ability to offer Playtech’s content greatly strength-
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Back office Andy Blackburn of Game On Consultants provides some SEO tips
B2B Back Office Listings
Content is king
B2B marketing
Gambling platforms can be rigid in design and may not allow for additional content to be added to your site. Ensuring there is an alternative content management system for additional content increases your ability to compete in the search engines.
Don’t forget the longtail A new online brand will struggle to compete for ultra-competitive keywords. Target longer and less competitive search terms in the early stages, moving upwards as the site grows and gains authority within the search space.
Give users a voice Providing users with a platform to discuss brand or products, allows the capture of elusive (and free) user generated content - which is relevant content being indexed as part of your website.
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GAMCARE HAS BEEN PROVIDING EXPERTISE IN TRAINING TO ANTIGUA’S FSRC
Antigua brings in social responsibility experts I
nternationally-recognised problem gaming charity GamCare and the Antigua Financial Services Regulatory Commission have collaborated on a unique social responsibility training programme for Antigua’s licensees. Demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility, the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) invited GamCare to develop a training programme for all gaming operators licensed under the jurisdiction. UK-based GamCare has advised many other gaming jurisdictions but this is the first time that it has collaborated in a practical programme of this nature. As the leading provider of advice, practical help, support and treatment for anyone affected by problem gambling, GamCare believes it is ideally placed to offer practical advice on player protection. GamCare supports the development and implementation of responsible policies and practice across the gambling industry and its certification is generally regarded as a mark of best practice. Commenting on the social responsibility
The issue of problem gambling is a tricky one for most regulators to deal with effectively, so Antigua has called in experts GamCare to help develop a programme. programme, director of gaming at Antigua’s FSRC Kaye McDonald said: “We are delighted that GamCare has agreed to work with us on this initiative. Licensees under our jurisdiction will benefit from the expertise of this internationally renowned non-profit organisation, with its years of experience in tackling and preventing gambling-related harm. GamCare has formulated a bespoke programme to ensure that our licensees are equipped with the knowledge to meet our required high standards of player protection and social responsibility. ” GamCare CEO Andy McLellan said: “I applaud this important initiative of the FSRC, which represents its strong advocacy of re-
sponsible practices in the remote gaming industry. Remote gaming products covered by licences in this jurisdiction are, of course, accessed by players internationally. By inviting GamCare’s collaboration in this joint enterprise to support Antiguan Licensees, the Commission is ensuring that together we give these players the vital protection that they need to help them to gamble responsibly.” As if to underline GamCare’s expertise in problem gambling issues, earlier this year it published a report to tackle teenage gambling problems. ‘Beating the odds: preventing teenage problem gambling’ set out GamCare’s programme for action, which included: pilots in different regions bringing expert counsellors, teachers, parents and voluntary groups together to raise awareness locally; development of new ways to communicate with and help young people, using social networking, viral advertising, mobile content etc; and short and accessible training packages for teachers, youth workers and others working with young people to increase their awareness of the issues and of how to find help.
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BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 Editor: Andrew McCarron, Email: am@sjc.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 8563 8425
Designer: Gina Lloyd, Email: gl@sjc.co.uk
Advertising sales: Contributors: Neil Judson, Email: njudson@gbmedia.eu Alex Lee, Simon Banks,Nick Norton, James Tel: +44 (0) 1204 396 397 Walker, Graham Wood Fax: +44 (0) 1204 392 748 Managing editor: Ken Scott Email: ks@sjc.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1273 699 900
Ad Production: Dave Roderick Email: gdk@sjc.co.uk
Subscriptions: Sarah Haworth, Email: shaworth@gbmedia.eu Tel: +44 (0) 1204 396 397 Fax: +44 (0) 1204 392 748
Editorial & Production: Scott & Jones Communications Ltd 20 New Road, Brighton, BN1 1UF, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1273 699 900
Advertising & Subscriptions: Gaming Business Media LLP Bolton Technology Exchange 33 Queensbrook, Bolton BL1 4AY, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1204 396 397 Fax: +44 (0) 1204 392 748
Publishing Director: John Sullivan, GBM LLP Email: jsullivan@gbmedia.eu Tel: +44 (0) 1204 396 397 Fax: +44 (0) 1204 392 748
TRAINING
MARKETING
Training issues
Social move for GameOn
16 per cent of organisations struggle to find the right training for their staff and business needs according to a recent poll from Stonebow, People 1st’s training company. Some cite finding training that fits with operational requirements a major hurdle while others are impeded by a lack of budget for external trainers. Sharon Glancy, managing director of Stonebow, commented: “These statistics paint a revealing glimpse of the current HR landscape. What’s important is that businesses must not undertake training for the sake of conducting training. The training must fit the job role, meet short and long-term plans for the business and ultimately be aligned to an organisation’s corporate objectives.”
GameOn Marketing, leading provider of outsourced marketing, PR and VIP hospitality, has launched its own Social Media division and appointed Simon Powell as head of social media. Powell, also MD of Message Makers, has more than five years of online marketing experience and manages social media campaigns on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. He said: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to use my expertise to enhance the company’s service portfolio. Message SIMON POWELL Makers has agreed to work exclusively under the GameOn Marketing brand for all igaming clients and we can’t wait to enhance our offering through this exciting partnership.”
Betware teams with Unica SHARON GLANCY
SECURITY Interwetten gets ID Identity management business GB Group has extended its relationship with operator Interwetten to continue managing its online ID verification processes. InterwettenMD Birgit Bosch explained: “We are confident that with GB Group’s Identity Management expertise, we will continue to grow our international customer base in a safe, secure and responsible way. We are delighted with the quality of service we receive from our account director and the team at GB Group, so the decision to continue our relationship was a relatively easy one to make.” GB Group’s Peter Murray added: “Our Identity Management services extend far beyond international age, ID verification and fraud management solutions.”
Iovation improves European network Iovation, the ‘device reputation’ authority protecting online businesses from fraud and abuse, has partnered with customer insight and data specialist Transactis. Pairing Iovation’s device intelligence with Transactis’ consumer information will allow online European retailers an unprecedented, more complete defence against fraud. “European retailers using Transactis will benefit from our global knowledge base with over 400 million unique devices from every country in the world combined with years of history and experience from protecting billions of transactions,” said Greg Pierson, founder and CEO of Iovation.
Betware, a software company specialising in technical solutions and services for the gaming industry, has signed an agreement with Unicato incorporate its Campaign Management application into eMarketing Toolkit. Enriched with Unica’s application, the Betware eMarketing Toolkit now gives operators the opportunity to take full control over any marketing campaign that has been geared towards their players - from planning and execution right through to analysing performance and reporting. Stefán Hrafnkelsson, CEO, Betware, said: “Our aim is to continue offering products that increase sales and player retention and I am convinced the eMarketing Toolkit will help our customers reach that goal.”
Opinions expressed in this publication should not be regarded as the official view of Gaming Business Media LLP, except where stated. Views, opinions and recommendations contained in this publication are put forward for consideration only. No action should be taken in reliance upon any such views, opinions or recommendations. Neither Gaming Business Media LLP nor contributors accept any responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person howsoever caused or arising as a result of or in consequence of action taken or refrained from in realiance on the contents of this publication.
of our knowledge to help people understand the nuances of the game and improve their skills with a free native app for users of Apple mobile devices.”
PLATFORM
Notes for contributors: BBi welcomes the submission of articles for consideration by the editor with a view to publication. Submission of an article will be held to imply that the article contains original unpublished work which Gaming Business Media LLP may lawfully publish. All submissions are made at the owner’s risk. © Gaming Business Media, 2010 All rights strictly reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission given, full acknowledgement of author, publisher and source must be given.
in Brisbane, Australia. The attendees of the show had the opportunity to visit the LVS stand and become acquainted with the company’s next generation sports betting solutions and architecture that can be easily integrated to any existing lottery system. The exhibition allowed LVS, which this year joined the World Lottery Association (WLA) and the European Lotteries and Toto Association(EL), to follow its strategy of strengthening relationships within the lottery sector.
MOBILE Gambling clampdown
LVS woos lottery operators Developer LVShas presented its Advanced Betting Platform to more than 2,000 participants in this year’s World Lottery Association Convention and Trade Showheld
Industry developers have been left disappointed after Googleclamped down on the quality and content of applications in the Android Market - where users of Google’s Android mobile phone software obtain apps. New guidelines listed in the relatively new rating system for the marketplace state: “Apps with gambling themes or that include simulated gambling should be rated ‘Teen’ or above. Real gambling is not allowed in Android Market.” The move has come as a blow for poker operator Full Tilt, as it had only recently launched its ‘Rush Poker’ app, which has now been removed from the Marketplace however, the new rules do not apply to Android apps distributed elsewhere.
The innovative multi-channel betting platform Shop Betting
Internet Betting
Tipping point Mobile gambling solutions provider Spin3has launched Spin3 Poker Tips - an app designed to help players hone their poker skills on the move. Available via the Apple App Store, it will help both basic and advanced players improve their tactics and knowledge of the game through hundreds of expert tips and an interactive quiz. Head of Spin3 Matti Zinder said: “Poker is a classic casino game and one everyone wants to play, but it’s one of the most difficult games to master. We decided to share some
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Products Playtech present Playtech has launched a new seasonal product: packed with seasonal songs, Santa voiceover and traditional Christmas themes, Santa Surprise brings players all the joy and excitement of this time of year.
Microgaming unearths a Reel Gem eel Gems is the latest five reel slot to join Microgaming’s portfolio of casino games. The jewel-laden game features 243 Ways to Win and showcases Microgaming’s new re-spin feature. Reel Gems is focused on the glittering theme of precious gems and offers diverse winning opportunities through a mix of wild, scatter, multiplier and retriggering free spins. When three to five Diamond Ring symbols appear on the reels it will activate 15 retriggering free spins which triple all wins, with the opportunity of up to 120,000 coins on this feature alone. Another one of Microgaming’s latest releases is Retro Reels - a five reel, 20 payline slot, which introduces a new interactive feature offering the opportunity to wager more by re-spinning a selected reel in order to generate improved combinations of winning symbols. The Free Spins bonus round offers a variety of Free Spins Bonus logos which offer between 10 and 25 Free Spins, during which all wins are doubled and up to 100,000 can be earned
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Safety first
Strike gold
Camlock Systems’ new Series 35 features an allnew isotoxal mechanism comprising a unique asymmetrical warded keyway that prevents the entry and/or operation of an incorrect key.
BetSoft has unleashed another Slots3 game in the shape of Gold Diggers, which tells the story of intrepid miners Zeke and Jeb during the California Gold Rush of 1849 using 3D special effects.
Mixing slots with roulette
Rank call for mobile portal
he Global Draw’s new B2 casino table themed game Laquelle has been designed and built by’s the firm’s internal development team, exclusively for its betting shop customers. Players place bets on the outcome of the reels for the chance to win instant cash prizes. Rick Mountney, content development director for Global Draw, said: “We are continually updating our content offering and we are keen to develop our growing B2 category games. Laquelle fits in well with this strategy. “We believe it will appeal to those who enjoy roulette-style games and also attract more slots game players.” Laquelle players place their bets using the chips at the bottom of the screen, with a minimum stake of £1 and a maximum of £50, and then spin the reels. They win if they have a bet on a reel which contains a multiplier number but get nothing for a zero. Players have the option to gamble their winnings up to £500. There is also a gamble feature based on predicting the colour or suit of the next card in the deck. All wins greater than £2 may be part-banked prior to gambling.
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ank Interactive, Rank Group’s interactive gaming business which houses top brands such as GCasino, Mecca Bingo and Blue Square, has launched a consolidated iPhone games portal powered by its mobile partner, mkodo. Rank Interactive customers can now enter the portal of a Rank Interactive brand (eg Mecca Bingo, BlueSq or GCasino) and choose from the best mobile games from a selection of the top games suppliers. Previously, customers had been redirected to the white-labelled sites of these suppliers but now they will be staying within the Rank brand’s umbrella. At launch the portal will include games supplied by Probability and Million-2-1. Rank Interactive’s Simon Woolf said: “The iPhone games portal has been introduced to provide a better experience for our customers who enjoy playing casino, slots and the like via their mobile phones. They now have a market-leading selection of the best mobile games available from the top suppliers in one portal.”
Looking app Spin3 has developed the first playfor-real Blackjack native app for iPhone, iPad and iPod on the Apple App Store and will be exclusively available to users in the UK and Ireland from operator 32Red.
OpenBet provides X Factor winner penBet has launched its games package 22, including one of the most advanced 3D roulette game on the market and compelling branded games provided via an agreement between FremantleMedia and MGM. MGM classics The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Robocop are ready to give customers a run for their money in brand new slot games based on the iconic and timeless movie greats. These new games were developed by OpenBet’s Electracade division in conjunction with the publisher, FremantleMedia. The aim of the project was to translate popular film and television brands into online casino games, retaining key features of the original iconic MGM films, in terms of action, sound and animation. OpenBet chief executive David Loveday said: “Based on brands with a strong heritage, these games promise not to disappoint fans of the franchises but to engage them on a further level for many more years to come.”
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QUOTE “WE ALSO HAD A GUY ASK FOR ODDS OF HIS SURVIVING A YEAR IF HE AMPUTATED A LEG AND AN ARM, WHICH WE DECLINED.” DAVID WILLIAMS OF LADBROKES TALKS TO THE FINANCIAL TIMES ABOUT NOVELTY BETS
Comment Problems with the bonus culture
andrew mccarron viewpoint t last month’s RGA AGM, Warwick Bartlett raised the thorny issue of the standards involved in the online industry’s sign-up bonuses. He warned that the conditions linked to both bonuses and the payment of progressive jackpots to winners is the ‘soft underbelly’ of the businesses and it’s hard to disagree with his sentiments. For some time now, there has been a ‘race to the bottom’ for standards when it comes to sign-up bonuses as the market has become more and more competitive. As long as the headline bonus amount is big, eyecatching and, more importantly, larger than most of the competition, it seems most operators don’t care how many obstacles they put in the way of punters in order to dissuade them from collecting the full amount. It is a similar pattern to what happened in the equally competitive arena of mobile telephone provision where mobile retailers offered increasingly high amounts of cashback with increasingly ridiculous conditions attached, such as applications for cashback must be made within very small and vague windows during the contract and once one was missed then the whole cashback contract was cancelled. In fact, some mobile retail business plans revolved around stiffing customers of promised bonuses. Ofcom was forced to step in after receiving a reported 400 complaints a week about such underhand tactics and ended up developing a code of practice for the mobile networks to stem the flow of mis-selling. It had limited effectiveness, though, and after Ofcom estimated cashback mis-selling was costing the public approximately £9m a year it inserted a General Condition into the Communications Act in order to stamp down on the issue. The public perception of the mobile retailers offering cashback has suffered from the poor standards in the industry and the online gaming sector should be aware that it is heading down
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the same route. The amount of anecdotal evidence received during the World Cup from dissatisfied punters who have been left feeling short changed by sign-up bonuses was unexpectedly high. If a company is offering sign-up bonuses in order to attract new custom, then surely the best way to keep that custom is to provide what has been promised in a nice and simple way. A new customer disgruntled by what they see as an operator wriggling out of their obligations is unlikely to be a returning customer - so what is the point? Some sign up bonuses this summer were clear and simple - and the brands offering them would benefit from repeated custom. But companies demanding a full unexpected ID check before any winnings were extracted left some punters asking why the check was only necessary to take money out of the account rather than when they put their money in. Justified money laundering procedures or not, customers felt short changed and deceived, and in an industry that trades on its integrity this is not good news. There are several ways that customers can feel cheated - some bonuses only last seven days, ‘minimum odds’ restrictions range from 1/5 to evens, casino bonuses need to be turned over so often it’s hard to keep track especially when some casino games don’t qualify and some only partially qualify. While it’s understandable that companies want to protect themselves against the one-hit bonus farmers, the structure of the bonuses have become increasingly unappealing to the very people they are supposed to attract. Bartlett warned that if the industry does not put its own house in order in this area of its operations then the authorities will. And, of course, the effect of more regulation on an essential marketing tool will be to undermine creativity and innovation. The industry would do well to heed this advice before it is too late.
32 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
End of an error could improve customer se John Samuels of IBAS looks at what can be done better by bookmakers after cashiers have made a mistake when taking a bet. IBAS
s we all look forward to the fun and enjoyment that the forthcoming seasonal festivities will hopefully bring, it is also that time of year when we may reflect upon what has gone on in the past, and possibly consider the annual task of making some New Year resolutions. We may resolve to have a rethink on how things are done and refresh or review existing practices. Looking back over previous issues of Betting Business, during 2010, it is obviously the case that most of my articles have placed bookmaker’s rules under the spotlight. My comments and observations have been prompted by the interesting situations that have arisen, when the operator’s rules have been applied to bets in dispute. My columns have also
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put emphasis on the importance of operators’ rules being regularly reviewed and, where necessary, added to or amended. Also touched upon was the importance of reminding and forewarning front-line staff where disputes will more than likely come from (e.g. related contingencies, late bets, wrong prices, the 90 minute football settlement rule etc) and the seriousness of good customer service levels. One aspect of good customer service being the mantra of prevention (of disputes) is better than cure. Judging from the IBAS postbag, however, the Holy Grail in customer service of attracting and retaining experienced, knowledgeable and motivated front line staff is, for many operators, seemingly a long way off and a difficult goal to achieve. So, if it is accepted that
EVEN WELL TRAINED CASHIERS CAN MAKE MISTAKES SOMETIMES
mistakes will continue to be made (and go un-noticed until the moment of settlement), or circumstances will occur that have an impact on how bets will be settled, it is vital that trading rules are reviewed and kept up to date. Whilst on the subject of mistakes and rules, operators may also want to review their stance when an error is made by their systems or staff. Many operators still take quite a draconian view of how bets, taken in error (related contingency, wrong price, wrong handicap, bets not acceptable from the grey-
hound track, etc.), should be settled. An attitude of operators, that is often encountered by IBAS, is ‘our rules say this, so that’s it’ with no consideration how the customer was misinformed or mis-led. Certainly, it seems, quite a few operators have some way to go before they can be said to be in the 21st century level of customer service provision. Some form of ex gratia payments, or gestures of goodwill, would certainly go some way to make up for some of the errors made by operators’ staff and systems.
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Betting shops are primarily for betting The Gambling Commission’s director of regulation, Nick Tofiluk tells betting businesses that the regulator is maintaining its effort to ensure betting remains the primary activity in betting premises. he proposition that betting shops must offer betting as their primary gambling activity might seem straightforward but the Commission still has concerns over the activities of some betting operators. As a result, we continue to make representations against betting premises licence applications and are currently reviewing two operating licences regarding the provision of betting in existing betting premises. We’ve been addressing this issue, which some call ‘phantom betting shops’, for two years now and our view hasn’t changed. Licensed betting operators must follow the intentions of the Gambling Act 2005 and the requirements of Supplement 4 (see panel) of our Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) by offering betting as the main gambling activity in betting shops. Over the past year, we’ve taken an interest in around 20 betting premises applications to help local councils establish principle and precedent in this area. The applications are often splits to existing premises and we always
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uld service
One other item on my wish-list is for all bookmakers to be able to say that their rules are published and in the public domain, and their customers do not have a problem in locating or reading them. This means that they are always displayed in the customer area of branches, are not displayed high up on walls in such a manner that one cannot read them, and are not displayed in a dark back corridor on the way to the toilets or rear fire escape or similar. Giving the trading rules a prominence in the shop
does give them much credibility when they need to be referred to and used. This is in addition to there being a legal requirement, from the 2005 Gambling Act, for operators’ rules to be displayed, in such a manner, that they can be read. Further, and in an effort to avoid the accusation that a bookmaker’s rules are not readily available, maybe bookmakers should consider publishing their retail betting rules on their web sites. Tip for the month, and for those regular readers of this piece you will know why I am pointing this out, remind all operational staff that bets on snow at Christmas are taken on singles only! Merry Christmas and hoping it’s a good new year for all. • John Samuels has spent over forty years within the betting industry. He provides expert witness comment and advice to police, solicitors and barristers, on various issues related to the betting industry, particularly those concerning fraud and money laundering. For more information email adjudication@ibas-uk.co.uk or visit www.ibas-uk.com
liaise with the local licensing team who may have their own concerns in cases that have a significant regional impact, for example, in November we made a further two representations against betting premises licence applications. Monitoring operators’ provision of primary gambling activity is an ongoing activity for our compliance managers and at present two licence holders are undergoing a licence review that centres on this topic. Our work in these two cases may lead us to look in detail at other businesses who we know to be running similar schemes. In simple terms, betting shops must offer betting as their primary activity - so before you put potentially costly plans into action, do make sure that is going to be the case. Members of our compliance team are always available to explain the position, but to reduce the possibility of putting your licensed status at risk or making a wasted investment, you really should consider taking legal advice to ensure you will meet the requirements of LCCP Supplement 4.
LCCP SUPPLEMENT 4 Supplement 4 has been in place for 18 months now and says in part that: “Gaming machines may be made available for use in licensed betting premises only at times when there are also sufficient facilities for betting available. Such facilities for betting must include the provision of information that enables the customer to access details of the events on which bets can be made and to be able to place those bets, obtain details of the outcome of the events, calculate the outcome of their bets and be paid or credited with any winnings…”. The Supplement adds that the number of gaming machines should not exceed the number of betting terminals and code of practice provisions also apply; including the expectation that operators will have regard to the actual use made of the different gambling facilities in their betting shop when considering whether betting is the primary activity. See www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk for detail.
A fresh perspective from Ibetx Business consultant and betting industry customer Ric Ingram believes that it is always nice to see an innovative business model in the betting industry. betx.com - the betting exchange - has rebranded itself as Bettor, with Ibetx becoming the group name. But it is far from just a change of structure or brand. Under the Bettor.com banner, Ibetx has launched both its first betting shop and a new look betting exchange site deliberately targeting casual punters. It is clear that a great deal of thought and effort went into designing the innovative business models underlying both business streams. I visited the first Bettor shop located in High Holborn, WC1. It looks like a modern upmarket store from the outside and inside it has been furnished to a very high standard. Perhaps the only clue that the shop is not part of a much larger estate is the ‘Super Soccer’ long list of football matches and the particularly professional approach of the counter staff. Ibetx deserve to be successful - especially with the approach of accepting higher bet sizes than their bigger competitors. And, of course, at some stage they will probably have more of their own prices and be able to leverage their established betting exchange base in some fashion. The new betting
I
exchange site also merits the ‘well designed’ description. There is the occasional software bug and areas where the functional design could be better implemented or presented. The overall look and feel compares favourably with competing offerings. But there is much more to the Bettor.com exchange than just good looks. It has been conceived from the outset to be more than just a place to place bets. It is designed to be a place for sports fans to interact socially with other sports fans and the commission structure is a new departure for the betting exchange industry and is clearly focussed for, and specifically designed to benefit, casual punters. User-forums are not new in the betting exchange
industry, but Bettor.com offers many points before, during and after the betting process for optional social interactions with other punters. This level of integration of social networking - if it takes off - could provide a clear market advantage for the Bettor.com exchange. Consistent with the target market implied by the emphasis on social interaction, a novel commission structure has been introduced. The new commission basis particularly favours the casual betting user, perhaps at the expense of the bigger player. The casual user will rarely pay much more than 1.5 per cent in commission and often much less, even down to zero commission for some punters. This needs to be compared with 5 per cent commission charged for the casual user
at most competing exchanges. Also, the commission charged by most exchanges is based on net profit for any one market. Now the Bettor.com exchange will charge commission on each bet separately. This means that professional players making lay books, sophisticated punters ‘dutching’ two or more selections, or traders both backing and laying individual selections in one market will often pay either multiple commissions or a commission percentage on a higher amount than net profit made. Of course, this begs the question of a possible alienation of the bigger or more sophisticated players who will sometimes be faced with higher commission charges than they might have previously experienced or might be able to enjoy elsewhere. This is certainly a different set of business models from the competition and time will tell if it will pay off for Bettor.com - it certainly shakes up the market giving punters a real choice which is always a good thing in the long run for any industry and its customers. I suspect that the big shop estates and other betting exchanges will keep a close watching brief on both business streams of Bettor.com.
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 33
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PROBABILITY HAS ALSO RELEASED ROULETTE ON ALL MOBILE PLATFORMS
Business
ACTION IMAGES / PETER FORD LIVEPIC
Speculation ends Unibet and Sportingbet talks A possible merger between two of Europe’s bigger sportsbooks has been called off after reports of talks were leaked to the press. CONSOLIDATION
isted online bookmakers Sportingbet and Unibet have ceased talks over a potential merger after their discussions were leaked to the press. A report in the Sunday Times that the two companies were in talks appears to have unsettled the Scandinavian firm, as did Sportingbet’s attempts to quell speculation. The firm issued a statement to the London Stock Exchange regarding the media reports: “The company confirms that it has had and will continue to have discussions with different parties in relation to a variety of potential opportunities. There can be no certainty as to whether or not such discussions will result in any form of transaction. Any further announcement will be made
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if and when appropriate.” The appropriate time happened to be the following day, though, when Sportingbet issued a second statement in as many days, revealing that Unibet had withdrawn from merger talks. Unibet seemed to be not too impressed at being named outright and so issued its own statement to the Nasdaq OMX Nordic Exchange in Stockholm suggesting it has plenty of other irons in the fire. It said: “As a leading player in the online gaming market Unibet maintains an on-going dialogue with a number of companies in the sector. Whilst it is the company’s usual policy not to comment on market speculation, the company confirms that preliminary discussions with Sportingbet are no longer on-going.” The merger may have brought some synergies to
the sportsbook operations and the firms are strong in different countries, but it appears both parties will now have to look elsewhere. At least Sportingbet’s latest quarter would make appealing reading to any would-be suitor. In the three months up to 31 October, amounts wagered were up 11 per cent to £513.9m and EBITDA was up even further - by 17 per cent to £11.3m. Amounts wagered on sports betting grew by 12 per cent to £499.6m, earning Net Gaming revenue of £36.8m - up 11 per cent for the quarter. Casino and gaming contributed a further £10.8m, and poker £3.5m, both slightly down on last year’s figures. As a percentage of amounts wagered, the European and Australian sports NGR, after deducting customer bonuses, was 9.6 per cent and 4.2 per cent
SPORTINGBET, WHICH SPONSORS PREMIER LEAGUE SIDE WOLVES, SAW IN:PLAY GROWTH OF 27 PER CENT IN THE LAST QUARTER
respectively. An impressive in:play growth of 27 per cent also sees it provide 66 per cent of European sports revenue. Group chief executive Andrew McIver commented: “Sportingbet continues to capture the growth opportunity in our industry which is ultimately being driven by ever increasing broadband penetration, continuing customer confi-
dence in transacting over the internet and a greater customer awareness of the exciting opportunities presented by online sports betting. These compelling fundamentals underpin the long term growth potential of the business.” The bookmaker’s recent roll out of its mobile phone offering in Europe is also providing reasons to be cheerful with actives up
tenfold since the launch six months ago and now accounting for over 7 per cent of active customers in the region’s largest geographic markets. The firm said: “The take up of the mobile product is expected to continue to grow significantly as smart phone penetration is expected to reach over 50 per cent in the core European markets over the next three years.”
Arena up in attendances, hospitality and media rights INTERIMS
acecourse operator Arena Leisure has said it is considering a number of strategies over the determination of the 51st Levy Scheme in order ‘to optimise the various potential outcomes and deliver the best interests for Arena and its shareholders’ but many other aspects of the business are looking rosy. In an interim management statement, the company reported that it has traded in line with expectations for the four months ending 31 October, with improvements in public attendances and a moderate recovery of hospitality business. However, it
ACTION IMAGES / ANDREW BOYERS LIVEPIC
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THIS YEAR’S ST LEGER WAS SUCCESSFUL FOR ARENA
34 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
warned that the impact of fixture funding reductions as a result of a reduced Levy yield has impacted fixture profitability from July. Total attendance in the period across Arena’s seven racecourses was 292,000 (2009: 279,000) and included a successful Ladbrokes St Leger festival in September at Doncaster Racecourse. The attendance over the four days of the festival was 60,000 (2009: 53,000) including a Saturday crowd of 30,000 (2009: 27,000). For the 10 months to 31 October 2010, the average attendance was 2,014 and represents an 8 per cent increase.
The corporate and private hospitality business continued the 15 per cent improvement achieved in the first half of the year. The operator said its international media rights distribution via GBI Racing has grown again and that income from media rights into LBOs has ‘continued to be resilient’ as the current five-year contract to 31 December 2011 is linked to inflation. A new five year deal kicks in when the current one expires. Arena has secured 353 fixtures for 2011, including 48 twilight meetings on its all-weather tracks during
the winter months and a further 37 fixtures that it will ‘largely be self-funding’ because of the further drop in yield for the 50th Levy. The company concluded: “Arena remains well placed with its increasing diversification of income streams: notably through in-house catering, ATR media distribution, and the Lingfield hotel. However, the significant reduction in Levy yield, together with the added uncertainty of the 2011/12 scheme having been referred to the government for determination, means that we expect another challenging year in 2011.”
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Placing raises £2.3m Mobile gambling specialist Probability has raised £2.3m before costs to fund its expansion plans and provide working capital through a placing of 4,600,000 new ordinary shares. The shares were mainly placed with new investors, including several institutional buyers, and the offering was ‘significantly oversubscribed’. Probability CEO Charles Cohen said: “The new resources will be used to help us accelerate our expansion not just in the UK but internationally as we look to newly regulated markets particularly in Europe.”
Bwin counts cost of France entry FINANCIALS
win has posted a loss of 6m euro (£5.1m) for the third quarter, mainly because of its entry into the newly regulated French market. Adjusted EBITDA dropped 41.7 per cent to 9.8m euro (£8.3m), a result ‘impacted by one-off expenses associated with its France entree and preparations to take advantage of forthcoming regulation in number of jurisdictions’. The launch in France also saw a ‘significant increase’ in marketing activities rising by 30.5 per cent to 31.3m euro (£26.4m) in Q3 2010, accounting for 32.8 per cent of net gaming revenues. However, the expense of the new market has been reflected in its performance as the company’s strong growth rates for active customers were achieved in France in particular. In the poker segment, the number of active customers in France rose by nearly 70 per cent in Q3 2010 compared to Q3 2009. In relation to Q2 2010, the increase in active French poker customers was 82.4 per cent, and in active sports betting customers 50.4 per cent. The figures show that in Q3 2010 about 9.0 per cent of Bwin’s active customers were from France. With these early figures, it is no wonder the company commented: “Bwin is confident that it will be able to achieve its declared objective of playing a leading role in France’s newly regulated online gaming market.”
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joined Samvo as senior marketing manager to oversee the launch. His primary brief will be to establish the brand and drive customer acquisition to the new portal and retail units; while in the longer term, increase the visibility of the group and its key sister operation DAVID MILLER SamvoBetBroker. Miller commented: “Egaming is an indusartin Higginson has stepped down as try I have been watching for some time. It is director and group chief executive of a vibrant, innovative and burgeoning sector operator NetPlay TV and is to be succeeded and reminds me of the early years of my by managing director Charles Butler, videogames career.” although Higginson will aid the immediate odog Europe has continued its mission transition process and continue to advise to snap up the industry’s talent by recruitthe company on its strategy and media ing Kemley Sellars as PPC manager - a relationships on a consultancy basis. Higginson said: “Starting any new busi- similar role he held at Betfair. Kemley has ness is always challenging and exciting; extensive knowledge of the PPC arena and NetPlayTV has been no exception and we previous to Betfair was an analyst at both Latitude and iCrossing whose clients have created include Chelsea FC, Ann Summers and something unique JackPotJoy. in a crowded landKemley commented: “The sheer energy scape. The recent of the Bodog brand makes it a very attracsuccessful tive place to work and unlike other compaplacing and implenies you have the ability to put your own mentation of our stamp on things. The role is newly created revised strategy so I am looking forward to starting on this have created the blank sheet of paper.” opportunity for me MARTIN HIGGINSON IS to hand the reins STEPPING DOWN AT ther new faces at Bodog Europe include over to Charles.” NETPLAY TV web and SEO manager Paul Ngoie, who sian Handicap specialist Samvo has was previously at Ladbrokes and Stream20 hired a senior marketing executive as where he managed the SkyBet account, the company looks to rebrand and launch a casino player marketing manager Karolina major new gaming, entertainment and Pelc, previously with Ads Dot Com and leisure experience in 2011. Veteran Paddy Power, and payment and fraud videogames marketer David Miller has analyst David O’Callaghan who has joined
corporate
appointments
M
B
O
A
from Full Tilt. Bodog Europe CEO Patrik Selin commented: “Our recruitment drive has been a rapid and extensive one but such is the pace of our growth the expansion was critical. We wanted to start Bodog Europe lean and gauge the potential and real development of the brand in this crowded market.” and software developer NYX Pforlatform Interactive has recruited Lena Rönnlund the position of CFO, a move that completes a number of ‘aggressive changes’ in the NYX management team. Rönnlund was CFO at Evolution Gaming AB and earlier head of accounting at both Redbet Holding AB and Paynova AB. David Flynn, CEO of NYX Interactive, commented: “Having Lena join the company completes and complements our already strong management team. We now have over 35 years of gaming experience covering every product vertical and some of the most successful operators and software suppliers in the market today.” eanwhile, Inspired Gaming Group, M recently acquired and refinanced by private equity firm Vitruvian Partners, has appointed Harmen Brenninkmeijer as senior vice president of strategic market development. He will be responsible for the continued expansion of Inspired’s casino, bingo and virtual sports products into growing international markets. Brenninkmeijer said: “The company is fresh, energetic and inventive, and I am looking forward to being part of that culture and helping to expand it into new markets. In addition to Italy, there are many exciting global opportunities in our industry and I am confident Inspired’s gaming products will be in high demand in these markets.”
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 35
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Placing raises £2.3m Mobile gambling specialist Probability has raised £2.3m before costs to fund its expansion plans and provide working capital through a placing of 4,600,000 new ordinary shares. The shares were mainly placed with new investors, including several institutional buyers, and the offering was ‘significantly oversubscribed’. Probability CEO Charles Cohen said: “The new resources will be used to help us accelerate our expansion not just in the UK but internationally as we look to newly regulated markets particularly in Europe.”
Bwin counts cost of France entry
appointments
FINANCIALS
win has posted a loss of 6m euro (£5.1m) for the third quarter, mainly because of its entry into the newly regulated French market. Adjusted EBITDA dropped 41.7 per cent to 9.8m euro (£8.3m), a result ‘impacted by one-off expenses associated with its France entree and preparations to take advantage of forthcoming regulation in number of jurisdictions’. The launch in France also saw a ‘significant increase’ in marketing activities rising by 30.5 per cent to 31.3m euro (£26.4m) in Q3 2010, accounting for 32.8 per cent of net gaming revenues. However, the expense of the new market has been reflected in its performance as the company’s strong growth rates for active customers were achieved in France in particular. In the poker segment, the number of active customers in France rose by nearly 70 per cent in Q3 2010 compared to Q3 2009. In relation to Q2 2010, the increase in active French poker customers was 82.4 per cent, and in active sports betting customers 50.4 per cent. The figures show that in Q3 2010 about 9.0 per cent of Bwin’s active customers were from France. With these early figures, it is no wonder the company commented: “Bwin is confident that it will be able to achieve its declared objective of playing a leading role in France’s newly regulated online gaming market.”
B
joined Samvo as senior marketing manager to oversee the launch. His primary brief will be to establish the brand and drive customer acquisition to the new portal and retail units; while in the longer term, increase the visibility of the group and its key sister operation DAVID MILLER SamvoBetBroker. Miller commented: “Egaming is an indusartin Higginson has stepped down as try I have been watching for some time. It is director and group chief executive of a vibrant, innovative and burgeoning sector operator NetPlay TV and is to be succeeded and reminds me of the early years of my by managing director Charles Butler, videogames career.” although Higginson will aid the immediate odog Europe has continued its mission transition process and continue to advise to snap up the industry’s talent by recruitthe company on its strategy and media ing Kemley Sellars as PPC manager - a relationships on a consultancy basis. Higginson said: “Starting any new busi- similar role he held at Betfair. Kemley has ness is always challenging and exciting; extensive knowledge of the PPC arena and NetPlayTV has been no exception and we previous to Betfair was an analyst at both Latitude and iCrossing whose clients have created include Chelsea FC, Ann Summers and something unique JackPotJoy. in a crowded landKemley commented: “The sheer energy scape. The recent of the Bodog brand makes it a very attracsuccessful tive place to work and unlike other compaplacing and implenies you have the ability to put your own mentation of our stamp on things. The role is newly created revised strategy so I am looking forward to starting on this have created the blank sheet of paper.” opportunity for me MARTIN HIGGINSON IS to hand the reins STEPPING DOWN AT ther new faces at Bodog Europe include over to Charles.” NETPLAY TV web and SEO manager Paul Ngoie, who sian Handicap specialist Samvo has was previously at Ladbrokes and Stream20 hired a senior marketing executive as where he managed the SkyBet account, the company looks to rebrand and launch a casino player marketing manager Karolina major new gaming, entertainment and Pelc, previously with Ads Dot Com and leisure experience in 2011. Veteran Paddy Power, and payment and fraud videogames marketer David Miller has analyst David O’Callaghan who has joined
corporate
M
B
O
A
www.ingg.com
from Full Tilt. Bodog Europe CEO Patrik Selin commented: “Our recruitment drive has been a rapid and extensive one but such is the pace of our growth the expansion was critical. We wanted to start Bodog Europe lean and gauge the potential and real development of the brand in this crowded market.” and software developer NYX Pforlatform Interactive has recruited Lena Rönnlund the position of CFO, a move that completes a number of ‘aggressive changes’ in the NYX management team. Rönnlund was CFO at Evolution Gaming AB and earlier head of accounting at both Redbet Holding AB and Paynova AB. David Flynn, CEO of NYX Interactive, commented: “Having Lena join the company completes and complements our already strong management team. We now have over 35 years of gaming experience covering every product vertical and some of the most successful operators and software suppliers in the market today.” eanwhile, Inspired Gaming Group, M recently acquired and refinanced by private equity firm Vitruvian Partners, has appointed Harmen Brenninkmeijer as senior vice president of strategic market development. He will be responsible for the continued expansion of Inspired’s casino, bingo and virtual sports products into growing international markets. Brenninkmeijer said: “The company is fresh, energetic and inventive, and I am looking forward to being part of that culture and helping to expand it into new markets. In addition to Italy, there are many exciting global opportunities in our industry and I am confident Inspired’s gaming products will be in high demand in these markets.”
jobs@ingg.com
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 35
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Agenda LISTINGS SIX MONTH BRIEFING
DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day
Ante Post: What the bookies say December has some great horseracing and football but if the weather contrives to call them off there is always the indoor pursuits of darts and Strictly Come Dancing to take their place. hree wise men once told me Christmas was invented for TV Sports, and with a long Bank Holiday weekend the whole nation can put its feet up and have a punt along the way. Online and in-play betting should be colossal over this time. Football on TV over the festive period has been pretty dire in recent years, with Sky serving up leftover matches about attractive as three day old turkey sandwiches. But they have given us an absolute gift this year with Chelsea visiting Arsenal on 27 December. Racing comes into its own with the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day and the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown on 27 December, whilst in cricket the Ashes will be reaching a crucial point with the Boxing Day
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Star win another King George, although it will be sure to cost us a pretty packet. Finally, the whole family can settle around the TV to watch the climax of Strictly Come Dancing and DARREN HAINES The X Factor. These shows UK PR Manager are great for attracting new Paddy Power customers and, although they can be very volatile, The Ashes series is reach- they are great for business. ing its third test, and although the time differ- STEVE TEMPLEMAN ence isn’t great it hasn’t Director impacted turnover. The JenningsBet series will still be wide open and hopefully it will still be The Festive period sees a alive going into the final host of top-class sporting test. We were top price on events taking place both at Australia before the series home and further afield. started, so it gives us a legit- Weather permitting, racing imate reason to be cheering fans will have the traditional on England. The festive Christmas highlights of period is also great for top Kempton’s King George and quality racing action includ- the Coral Welsh National at ing the King George and the Chepstow to look forward Welsh Grand National. It to, while on the other side of would be great to see Kauto the world, temperatures
Test in Melbourne. And throughout this period there will be the World Darts Championship, which continues to go from strength to strength.
centrepiece of which is the running of the William Hill King George at Kempton. This year sees Kauto Star having a crack at a fifth win, and he is likely to go off as favourite. The first weekend of January sees the FA Cup really take off when the Premier League and Championship sides enter the fray. In terms of turnover, the FA Cup Third Round is the biggest weekend of the competition. Last year’s winners, Chelsea are currently favourites to lift the trophy once more, while DAVID STEVENS Manchester United are not PR Manager far behind. United’s noisy Coral neighbours City could offer good value, as by the New The two highlights of the Year it could be the only silDecember/January run-in verware they are in conare the William Hill King tention for. George and the FA Cup Third Round. Boxing Day is RUPERT ADAMS one of the biggest days in Public Relations Executive the racings calendar, the William Hill
will be rising both on and off the pitch as the Ashes series reaches a climax. For football supporters, the third round of the FA Cup is always a key point of the season as the big boys enter the fray, while less athletic but often no less dramatic action takes place in darts’ two competing World championship events, the PDC and BDO at Ally Pally and Frimley Green respectively. Finally, it wouldn’t be December without a flutter on a White Christmas.
My Diary: Bob McCulloch Virtue Fusion Alderney (VFA) CEO Bob McCulloch looks ahead to the festive period and how it’s business as usual for the Playtech company. DIARY
t might be silly season for most people, but our industry never sleeps, so the next month will have a somewhat familiar feel. We will have the final VFA board meeting of 2010 here on Alderney and I’ll be busy preparing the end of year accounts and agreeing budgets for 2011, as well as signing off our marketing programmes and commitments for the next 12 months. Knowing that it can be a difficult period to get hold of
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To be honest, unless you are going on holiday it’s not a great time to travel. It’s not so bad getting off the island but there seem to be very few seats on the return flights. Well, the ones that haven’t been cancelled thanks to the bad weather people, a lot of time will be anyway, so most of my busispent tying up loose ends ness will be done here. before everyone begins to Our customer support is disappear. I can never based on Alderney - or the believe how many people Rock as we natives call it seem to be able to take so and it will be a hive of activmuch time off around Christ- ity over the coming weeks mas and New Year! as we handle all the extra
36 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
players on the network. So much so that Christmas is cancelled! Well, not quite, but everybody chips in to ensure operations continue to run smoothly. In between all of this, due to my wife’s recent knee operations, I’ve got two very energetic dogs to walk, meals to cook and a house to keep in order. I don’t think I’ve ever been fitter! For my sins, I’ll be making the McCulloch family Christmas lunch - and my wife has invited friends as well, just
to add to the pain. Luckily for them, at least I’ve been practising. Actually, I quite like cooking, so I’m almost looking forward to it. In terms of planning ahead, ICE is looming large. Confirming preparations for the three days at Earl’s Court is firmly on my agenda and I look forward to seeing everyone at the end of the month. Before then, the first week in January will see me in London completing arrangements and organising meetings.
JANUARY 24 3rd Annual International Casino Conference, West Brompton Conference Centre, Earls Court 24-25 Legal Gaming in Europe Summit, Millennium Gloucester Hotel, London 25-27 ICE, Earls Court, London 25 7th annual Combating Cybercrime in Betting and Gaming Conference, West Brompton Conference Centre, Earls Court 25 Mobile Gaming Conference, Cromwell Room, Earls Court Exhibition Centre 25-27 European Amusement & Gaming Expo, ExCeL 26 Monetising Social Games Conference, Cromwell Room, Earls Court Exhibition Centre 26 Payments for Gaming, West Brompton Conference Centre, Earls Court 26-27 Mobile Games Forum, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London 27 CRM and Maximising Player Lifetime Value Conference, Cromwell Room, Earls Court Exhibition Centre 27 Mergers & Acquisitions Conference, West Brompton Conference Centre, Earls Court 27-30 London Affiliate Conference, Old Billingsgate Market FEBRUARY 22-24 Gaming Executive Summit LatAm, Panama City MARCH 1-3 iGaming Asia Congress, Grand Hyatt, Macau 9-10 Caribbean Gaming Show and Conference, Dominican Republic 15-17 IAAPI Amusement Expo, Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai 30 – 1 April FER-Interazar, IFEMA, Madrid APRIL 11-13 iGaming Forum, Grand Hotel, Stockholm 13-14 13th Andean Gaming Show, Columbia 14-15 World of Entertainment 2011, Prague 15-16 Casino Affiliate Convention, NH Grand Krasnapolsky Hotel, Amsterdam MAY 3-4 iGaming North America, Las Vegas 24-26 iGaming Super Show, The RDS, Dublin
www.tvc.uk.com
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Analysis
Tote sale moves o step closer - again
TOP TEN FINANCIAL SPREAD MARKETS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
UK 100, Daily Wall Street, Daily Spot, EUR/USD Spot, GBP/USD UK 100, Dec Germany 30, Daily Wall Street, Dec Germany 30, Dec Gold, Daily Dec Gold, Feb
Chart supplied by: Spreadex. Calculated on volume of bets
preadex’s Andy McKenzie explained that there has been a great deal of activity in the financials market of late: “Financials has been slightly more indices-led than currency related but gold’s continued surge has attracted quite a bit of interest on the commodities front. We have seen a noticeable increase in the number of account applications from investors new to the practice, who are seeking alternative investment strategies and opportunities.” McKenzie said that the vast array of options in the financial markets can suit the tastes of most investors and that Spreadex has been working hard to educate newcomers towards the best way of protecting their risk. He added: “Although winnings can be potentially open ended, one of the often-mentioned negatives of financial spread betting is the fact that losses can be greater than the initial stake sizes put down should the markets turn against you. However, disciplined use of stops can minimise the downside of trades and with our ShortsandLongs product we guarantee these stops for no extra charge offering even greater security should markets ‘gap’ or experience great volatility. “Once people get accustomed to the spreads they have been discovering the flexibility provided by, for example, hedging against an existing portfolio of shares with a short position in case their stocks suffer a fall in value.” In fact, financial trading is becoming more popular with traditional betting brands such as Ladbrokes and Paddy Power operating financial spread products. There has been a slight demystifying of the financial product in recent years thanks to initiatives such as ‘play for fun’ accounts. As if underlining the fun aspect and to celebrate its tenth birthday, WorldSpreads is offering a prize of £100,000 to any client who can open and close ten consecutive, profitable trades in a row between Monday 15 November and Friday 10 December. A recent study of WorldSpreads customers’ spread betting activity showed that almost three quarters of clients’ bets are closed in profit. By way of reference, seven WorldSpreads’ clients placed 10 such consecutive winning trades between May and July of this year. If more than one trader wins, the cash will be divided equally. If no-one achieves 10 such profitable trades in a row, the prize will be award to the client(s) with the highest number of consecutive winning trades. WorldSpread’s CEO Conor Foley commented: “This competition is for everybody. It celebrates not only our birthday but the appeal of spread betting for those trading for a living or just for fun. I look forward to handing over the cheques in time for Christmas.”
S
38 BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010
TOP TEN RETAIL BETTING EVENTS (EIRE) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Domestic Football - Tottenham vs Liverpool Domestic Football - Liverpool vs Chelsea Domestic Football - Newcastle vs Chelsea European Football - Rangers vs Man Utd Horseracing - Hennessy Gold Cup Chase (Newbury) Horseracing - PP Gold Cup Chase (Cheltenham) Boxing - Haye vs Harrison Spanish Football - Barcelona vs Real Madrid International Cricket - Australia vs England - Ashes 1st Test Horseracing – Breeders’ Cup Classic
TOP TEN BIGGEST UK OFF COURSE LBO ESTATES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
William Hill Ladbrokes Gala Coral Betfred Totesport Paddy Power Jenningsbet (inc. Better) Mark Jarvis Scotbet Stan James
2,306 2,082 1,643 851 517 106 75 70 65 61
Chart supplied by: Boylesports
TOP TEN SPORTS EVENTS WATCHED ONLINE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Italian Football - Inter Milan v AC Milan Tennis - ATP Paris Masters - 1000 Series - 11/11 Tennis - ATP London Masters Finals - 1000 Series - 27/11 Italian Football - Sampdoria v AC Milan Domestic Football - West Ham v Man Utd - Carling Cup Italian Football - Inter Milan v Parma Tennis - ATP London Masters Finals - 1000 Series - 24/11 Italian Football - Juventus v Fiorentina Italian Football - Lazio v Catania Italian Football - Juventus v Roma
Chart supplied by: www.watchandbet.tv
TOP TEN BETTING EXCHANGE EVENTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Chart supplied by: Betfair
TOP TEN POOL BETTING EVENTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Newbury - Hennessy Gold Cup Chase (Handicap) Haydock Park - Betfair Chase (Registered As The Lancashire Chase) Cheltenham - Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase (Handicap) Newbury - sportingbet.com Long Distance Hurdle Cheltenham - Ultima Business Solutions Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Cheltenham - Morson Group Handicap Chase Doncaster - totesport.com November Handicap (Heritage Handicap) Cheltenham - Jardine Lloyd Thompson Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) Cheltenham - Arkle Bookshop Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle Ascot - Coral Hurdle (Registered As The Ascot Hurdle Race)
Chart supplied by: Totepool
Tennis - ATP London Masters SF Nadal v A Murray International Cricket - Pakistan v South Africa (3rd ODI) Tennis - ATP London Masters Nadal v Roddick Tennis - ATP London Masters Final Nadal v Federer Tennis - ATP London Masters SF Federer v Monfils Domestic Football - Chelsea v Sunderland International Cricket - Pakistan v South Africa (5th ODI) Tennis - ATP London Masters Nadal v Djokovic Domestic Football - Tottenham v Liverpool Tennis - ATP London Masters Nadal v Berdych
TOP TEN RETAIL BETTING EVENTS (UK) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Horseracing - Hennessy Gold Cup Horseracing - Paddy Power Gold Cup Domestic Football - Manchester City v Manchester United International Cricket - Ashes Outright Domestic Football - Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur Horseracing - Breeders' Cup Horseracing - Beecher Chase European Football - Rangers v Manchester United International Cricket - Ashes 1st Test Horseracing - Betfair Chase
Chart supplied by: Betfred
BB75-p38-39-Analysis:09/10
7/12/10
15:17
Page 2
http://www.mkodo.com/Products/MobileBetting
With expressions of interest due into the government at the end of the week, Simon Banks looks at the runners and riders in the multimillion pound race for the Tote.
s one ain T
PRIVATISATION
he coalition government has let it be known that it is determined to press ahead with the sale of the Tote and William Hill, Coral, Sportech and Betfred have emerged as potential bidders. Investment bankers Lazards have sent out details of the sale to potential bidders and are requesting expressions of interest by 10 December. Analysts believe the Tote could fetch around £200m for the exchequer, reflecting current market conditions compared to 2006 when a consortium of racing interests offered £400m. This bid was rejected by Gordon Brown while he was still at the Treasury because it was too dependent on bank debt - a somewhat prudent move given the economic crisis that has since enveloped the globe. Coral has previously offered £350m for the Tote’s 500 plus betting shops, and the retail estate now Racing wants to be involved in the future of the Tote, but no longer appears to be a bidder
TOP TEN SPORTS SPREAD MARKETS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
International Cricket - Ashes 1st Test Domestic Football - Blackpool v West Brom International Cricket - Pakistan v S Africa 2nd Test International Cricket - India v New Zealand 1st Test International Cricket - Pakistan v S Africa 1st Test International Cricket - India v New Zealand 2nd Test Spanish Football - Barcelona v Real Madrid Domestic Football - Chelsea v Sunderland Domestic Football - Sunderland v Everton Domestic Football - Man City v Man Utd
Chart supplied by: Spreadex . Calculated on volume of bets
Spanish Football - Barcelona v Real Madrid Horseracing - Hennessy Gold Cup Chase Domestic Football - Liverpool v Chelsea International Cricket - The Ashes International Football - England v France Horseracing - Paddy Power Gold Cup Horseracing - Totesport.com November Handicap European Football - Rangers v Man Utd Boxing -David Haye v Audley Harrison Horseracing - Totesport.com Becher Chase
Chart supplied by: Victor Chandler
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Betfair William Hill Ladbrokes Sportsbook bet365 Paddy Power At The Races OddsChecker Sky Bet Betfair.com - Racing Betfair – Soccer
Chart supplied by: www.hitwise.com [Calculated by visits]
TOP TEN ONLINE BOOKMAKER PERFORMANCE RESPONSE TIME (SECS)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
iPhone BlackBerry 8520 BlackBerry 9700 BlackBerry 8900 Nokia E71 Nokia X6 Nokia 5230 iPod Touch Nexus One Sony Ericsson x10i
Chart supplied by: mkodo and 888. Data taken from all sites hosted on the mkodo platform.
(1) (2) (4) (3) (6) (7) (8) (5) (-) (9)
Coral – 0.05 Victor Chandler – 0.42 Boylesports – 0.80 Bet365 - 0.83 Sky Bet – 1.23 Betdaq – 1.26 Ladbrokes – 1.57 Eurobet – 1.61 Betsson – 1.87 Paddy Power – 1.94
Chart supplied by: Gomez
TOP TEN MOBILE SPORTSBOOK (TURNOVER) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
online gambling. As Sportech chief executive Ian Penrose put it: “We now process more than 15 per cent of all tote and pools-based betting in the world. That means the case for getting involved with the UK Tote now is much more compelling than it was yesterday.” Sportech, however, does not have any retail operations so it could make a joint bid with fellow north west based company Betfred, whose headquarters are only eight miles from those of the Tote. Betfred finance director Barry Nightingale said: “If what the government is looking for is an experienced operator which knows the Tote estate and its customer base well, and where there is an obvious cultural and geographic fit, then we will be able to make an excellent case both to racing and to government. “Whilst we are both based in the north west, there is almost no local overlap of the estate. Integration of the two businesses could be done with minimal disruption. We would be a natural partner for the Tote and for racing.” William Hill and Ladbrokes would
MOST POPULAR SPORTS BETTING SITES
TOP TEN ONLINE BETTING EVENTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
stands at 517. In addition to providing pool betting from Britain’s racecourses, on course and off course through Tote Direct, the Tote also offers online sports betting via Totesport.com. The diversity of the Tote’s operations means that is unlikely that any potential bidder will want to retain everything. Indeed, when Coral previously bid it offered the pool betting operation to racing as it was only interested in the retail estate and online sports betting. William Hill, Coral and Betfred are all unlikely to retain the on course pool betting business, though William Hill and Coral would face competition issues over the retail estate. There is also some interest from outside the UK betting industry in the shape of AGC operator Praesepe and European bookmaker Stanleybet. There has also been talk of the Tote’s online operations being hived off and sold separately. Since the acquisition of US pari mutuel operator Scientific Games Racing, Sportech now has operations that mirror two of the Tote’s; on and off course pool betting and
appear to face insurmountable competition hurdles but Hills chief executive Ralph Topping said in the summer: “We can’t buy the Tote, which is a bit of a nonsense. Because we’ve got 25 per cent of the betting market in bricks and mortar, we can’t buy any more. So I’m not allowed to grow, but my tax bill is.” However, Hills head of public affairs Andrew Lyman has hinted that the company may challenge the Office of Fair Trading’s stance: “We don’t think that we should be ruled out of the competition. We are looking to seek a change in the definition of what is termed as competition in this market.” It is nearly thirty years since the sale of the Tote was first mooted and there have been several false dawns since. However, with the government now committed to the sale, Lazards appointed, more conducive market conditions prevailing and plenty of interested potential buyers, the long running saga could finally be coming to a close.
Spotlight:IG Group G Markets, a subsidiary of IG Group, has extended its international marketing by becoming an official sponsor of Team Sky, an elite international cycling team. Team Sky will carry the IG Markets brand on the collar and seat of all team kit for the 2011 season, starting with January’s Tour Down Under in Adelaide, and all subsequent races including the Tour de France in July. The partnership will take the team through 60 races, on four continents, over a nine-month season, and ‘underlines the growing popularity that both cycling and CFD trading continue to see on a truly global basis’. However, it’s not all been good news for IG Markets in the past month - the firm has been served with a claim issued in the High Court in relation to the insolvency of former client Echelon Wealth Management. Three former clients of Echelon, which went into liquidation in October 2008, are seeking to recover damages from IG Markets in a sum in excess of 25m euro. The firm, and the market, seems pretty unconcerned though. It said: “IG, having sought the opinion of leading Counsel, considers the claim to be speculative and without foundation and will defend itself vigorously. It is not expected that this matter will have any material impact on the group.”
I
TOP TEN MOBILE SPORTSBOOK (PAGE IMPRESSIONS) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
(1) iPhone (2) iPod Touch (9) HTC Desire (3) BlackBerry 9700 (4) BlackBerry 8520 (5) Nexus One (-) Samsung Galaxy (7) Nokia 5800d (-) iPad (-) Sony W995
Chart supplied by: mkodo. Data taken from all sites hosted on the mkodo platform. Calculated by Page Impressions
BettingBusinessInteractive • DECEMBER 2010 39
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