Acquired -- Lottomatica subsidiary Gtech has acquired the outstanding share capital of London-based Finsoft, the sports-betting solutions provider. Gtech has also agreed to acquire "substantially all" of the assets of BEG Finsoft d.o.o Belgrade, Finsoft's Serbia-based operational development centre. The acquisition is expected to be completed during Q3 2007.
In Check -- The government of Gibraltar has selected technology and services provided by eCOGRA, the I-gaming industry watchdog and standards authority, to test and certify the integrity of gaming equipment and software used by Gibraltar licensees. "We are delighted that a regulator of the calibre of the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority has accepted this advanced process after intensive study," said eCOGRA chief executive Andrew Beveridge. On May 8, eCOGRA launched its Total Gaming Transaction Review (TGTR). TGTR is a service which, on an ongoing basis, confirms that the games offered at I-gaming venues are independent and fair.
Reporting -- Interactive Systems Worldwide, Inc. (ISWI) released second quarter results, which show revenues up 102 percent to $69,000 from $34,000 in Q2 2006. ISWI said the revenue jump came primarily as a result of its agreement with Hipodromo de Agua Caliente S.A., the Latin American gaming company. The company said it continues to negotiate with Shantech regarding a cash infusion of $500,000 and a strategic marketing agreement. "We continue to work diligently to address the company's liquidity issues and improve its operating performance," said ISWI chief executive Bernard Albanese. The company also said it was unable to, "in a timely manner," conclude an equity financing transaction, which would have enabled it to regain compliance with NASDAQ requirements. ISWI said it expects its shares to be de-listed "in the very near future."
Appointed -- As part of its international growth strategy, Netcetera, the European Web hosting provider, has appointed David Boswell as its chief executive. Boswell's appointment coincides with the opening of its Isle of Man-based data centre. "Dave has the broad range of skills and experience required to take our company to the next level and we are very pleased to welcome him aboard," said Netcetera managing director Peter Skelton.
Where Are They Now -- Former SkillJam vice president of production Frank Cartwright has been named VP of online entertainment at GSN, the television network for games.
Title Sponsor -- 888 has announced an agreement to sponsor the World Heads Up Poker Championship 2007.
Bingo -- ABC, the American broadcasting company, will on May 18 debut its new interactive show, National Bingo Night. Home viewers will be able to play along by printing cards from ABC.com and marking off their own numbers, then logging on for a chance to win prizes if they hit bingo.
Powerful Paddy -- The Independent carries a report on Paddy Power, whose shares currently sit at an all-time high. The paper recommends that investors hold back from cashing in, as its deals with Turf TV and SIS have given it "a huge marketing advantage." Bettors looking to watch races during Ascot week will "have no choice but to head for Paddy Power," the paper says.
Setting Up Shop -- Aharon Shaked, controlling shareholder in 888, has set up a new investment company, Shaked Holdings Ltd.. Globes Online reports that the company will invest in ventures and companies in Israel and elsewhere, with initial investment focused in biotechnology companies and quarries. Shaked is one of four co-founders of 888.
Stock Watch -- On the LSE, PartyGaming was down 4.50p to 40, 888 was down 1.50p to 123 and Playtech was up 3p to 382.