HIGHER TAXES?
Overseas operators advertising in the United Kingdom could see higher taxes as the U.K. government looks to create "a more level playing field."
On Thursday, Gerry Sutcliffe, the country's sports minister, announced that foreign gambling businesses "may face new requirements," though did not address what those revised requirements might entail.
Before any requirement change, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said it will conduct a review with the Gambling Commission that will look into contributions by foreign licensed operators, which include Sportingbet and 888 Holdings, towards the cost of regulation, problem gambling treatment and the Horserace Betting Levy.
"All this review does is kick the issue into the long grass," Ralph J. Topping, William Hill's chief executive told The Telegraph.
"They've missed the barn door -- they could take penalties for England," he added.
According to The Telegraph, Mr. Topping believes the major issue is that foreign operators are taxed next to nothing compared to what U.K. sports betting firms pay.
These remarks come after Mr. Topping discussed moving a portion of the bookmaker's operations offshore because of overseas competition and high taxes.
The review, the department said, will report findings to Parliament before the end of this year.
LAUNCHING
Virtue Fusion Alderney Ltd. has announced the launch of its multi-currency, multi-lingual, networked software with Sweden’s newest online gaming site operated by Svenska Bingo.
Using cross border software that enables Svenska’s players to access the same prize pools of United Kingdom players will allow for "more attractive" jackpots, said Bob McCulloch, Virtue Fusion's chief executive.
"The launch of this product in Sweden is a good indication as to the way the market is moving towards European and networked prize pools," said a company statement.
Also launching: Adding to its offering of casino, poker and sports betting, The Linx Media group has unveiled another online casino.
Powered by Microgaming Software Systems Ltd., LinxCasino.com features 400 games and payment solutions from Entropay, WebMoney and Ukash among others.