Hilton Speculation -- Several media outlets are reporting that Hilton Group Plc, owner of hotels and gambling businesses, worth £3 billion and £4 billion, respectively, is in advanced talks to sell its hotel business to U.S. group Hilton Hotels Corp and, possibly, its gaming business. A sale of this magnitude would put an end to the 40-year-old U.K. company. Hilton confirmed today that it was approached to sell its gambling business, Ladbrokes, in October, but stated at the time that it "remains focused on concluding its negotiations with Hilton Hotels Corporation in relation to the sale of the Hilton International hotels division for the benefit of shareholders." The company added that "the board has great confidence in the future of Ladbrokes." No further details have been released.
Marketing Rights -- Online gaming operator BetandWin.com Interactive Entertainment AG has acquired the exclusive international marketing rights to the German Soccer League and the Second Division for the next three seasons up to and including 2008/2009. Germany-based Sportsman Media Group, in close cooperation with the German Soccer League, will act as betandwin's exclusive distribution partner for these rights, which include all international television broadcasting and online and mobile rights. With its newfound claim on German soccer, betandwin intends to stream the games of both divisions live on its online platform.
25 People to Watch -- Global Gaming Business Magazine this week released its fourth annual "25 People to Watch" feature, which profiles 25 individuals likely to be the most influential people in the gaming industry for the coming year. Coming in at the top is Marian Ilitch, the Detroit entrepreneur who bought MotorCity Casino last year from MGM Mirage. Ilitch's company is also involved in Indian gaming, with several tribal management deals stretching from California to New York. Others who made the list include Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Duncan Fischer of Tattersalls and I-Gaming News' own Mark Balestra.
Smoke-Free Prevails -- U.K. bookmaker Betfred will not be setting up shop in the small town of Wisbech, which already houses betting shops owned by Ladbrokes and Coral. The Betting and Gaming Committee has decided to grant a license only to Harlow-based independent bookmaker Joe Jennings. Betfred's Wayne Stevenson said Tuesday that the company was astonished at the decision and is considering an appeal. The committee said Joe Jennings had an edge because it plans to include a non-smoking area and disabled facilities.