Issue N11, 2010

March 19, 2010

Cryptologic Supplies Games to Betsson

Betsson Malta Ltd. announced this week that it would be rolling out at least nine Cryptologic slot games to its sites after the two entities signed a lucrative three year deal. Betsson Malta is listed on the Stockholm stock market and is one of Europe’s leading gambling brands.

Justin Thouin, the Vice-President of CryptoLogic, said about the deal: “Betsson is the latest customer to sign up to CryptoLogic's games, underscoring the value our innovative and rich content brings to operators worldwide. With every new licensee CryptoLogic not only expands its global reach but also strengthens its base for generating long term revenues.”

At least one new game is currently available at Betsson site, Casino Euro, and other new games will launch by the end of this year at Betsson.com, CasinoEuro.com and CherryCasino.com.

“We are confident CryptoLogic's highly innovative games will enhance our customers' gaming experience and attract more demand. We look forward to working with CryptoLogic to help us achieve just that,” said the Business Area Director of Betsson, Magnus Grinneback.

Betsson has a customer base spanning over 18 countries, and includes gambling services such as casino, poker, games, bingo, scratchcards and sportsbook.

LastFan Launches Remote Betting Pool Service

The UK Commission regulated gambling group, LastFan.com, has taken the initiative of creating a brand new online service that should be good news to football fans. Players will essentially be able to compete against each other head to head on a new site, with the chance of winning the pool if they manage to predict the outcome correctly.

David Murphy of LastFan.com said: “There are lots of prediction games around but the chances of winning them are small. We wanted to provide a real pot that is won by fans testing their football knowledge against each other.” “We know it works,” said Murphy about the new site. “We know people already play this way in offices around the country; we've just put it online so that you can either play in a larger game for a bigger pot, or you can set up your own game to test your mettle against your mates.”

LastFan.com, was founded by three football fans who wanted to bring a familiar product to their customer base, and allow them to stand in line to win real money. Players can wager from £3 - £10 on the game – making this a small investment for the chance to win big.

Microgaming Launches Italian Language Poker Network

Italy, which has recently seen major changes in its online poker industry, welcomed another major player to the scene in the form of a new online poker network launched by Microgaming. The network has already signed on Ladbrokes Italia as the first foreign operator, and many more are expected to follow thanks to Microgaming’s top reputation in the industry.

Mattia Nicelli, the Chief Executive Officer of Ladbrokes Italia, said this week: “Microgaming has a proven track record in online poker, as it hosts the most established poker network. Our decision to join its Italian Network is a strategic move that we believe will be of great benefit to our players. 

“Drawing on its wealth of global and local expertise, together with its technological prowess, Microgaming has adapted its services in a way that caters to our specific needs, as we compete in the competitive Italian market,” said Nicelli. “We are confident that this partnership will prove mutually beneficial and that Microgaming’s new venture targeting the Italian market will emulate the success it has experienced around the world.”  

Roger Raatgever, CEO for Microgaming, said: “The launch of Microgaming’s Italian Poker Network is another example of Microgaming bringing the highest global standards to local markets. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that the new poker network is fit for purpose to meet the needs of the Italian player-base, as well as the Italian regulatory standards.”

 

“The initial offering of poker tournament games to the network’s player community represents a solid foundation upon which to build, and Microgaming is currently working within regulatory parameters to develop the poker games portfolio further.”

Tiger Woods Betting Hits Peak Again

 

With the news that Tiger Woods is set to make an official return to the golfing scene after several months of self imposed exile, betting sites are already reporting record activity over the golfer’s performance at this year’s Augusta poker tournament.

Woods’ life practically exploded overnight after the media discovered that he had been unfaithful to his wife with over 10 women. His wife and children moved out of the family home and top sponsors threatened to pull out of lucrative deals. However, Tiger Woods has proved his resilience and announced this week that he is returning to the green course in April.

The public definitely believes in Tiger’s ability to make a good comeback, with odds of 4-1 that he will win the Masters. If Woods wins at Augusta, this will be the fifth time he has done so.