Talks Begin -- PartyGaming has entered into talks with the United States Department of Justice to discuss activities involving unnamed third parties occurring prior to the passage of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. Although it is too early to project on the outcome of these discussions, they raise questions regarding the continued U.S. clampdown on online gambling.
Handed Down -- The European Free Trade Association Court (EFTA Court) ruled this week that Norway would breach internal-market rules by blocking Ladbrokes from setting up operations within its borders. The Norwegian government had attempted to exclude Ladbrokes to protect Norwegian gambling firms, leading Ladbrokes to seek legal action. The final decision on the matter will be made by an Oslo court, which is expected to use the EFTA Court's decision to help it decide the case.
Expanding -- Vegas24.com announced plans this week to expand its operation to incorporate a number of casinos throughout the United Kingdom. Although plans are still in their infancy, the company hopes that expansion into the brick and mortar casino world will allow it to further expand its business.
Approved -- CryptoLogic Inc. has obtained approval from its shareholders to incorporate as a subsidiary of CryptoLogic Limited and move its operations from Canada to Ireland. The relocation will allow the company to incorporate both on NASDAQ and the Toronto Stock Exchange. The company hopes that the relocation will allow it to realize a future of expansion throughout Europe and Asia with the support of its shareholders.
Resolved -- Sportsbook.com this week awarded US$19,707 to six players who disputed their balances with the site. The payout marked the end of a dispute that began when the company was under the management of Sportingbet PLC.
Released -- Watchdog group eCommerce and Online Gambling Regulation Assurance (eCOGRA) released a new fairness testing program this week that they hope will create a "brand of confidence" among online bettors. The program, known as the Total Gaming Transaction Review is designed to promote independence and fairness under the watchful eye of eCOGRA and several accounting firms in order to prevent injustice within online gambling sites.