Poker Explodes -- In a study published Jan. 1, leading bookmaker Ladbrokes reports that online poker has grown to a 53.9 million euro-per-day business, an increase from 8.5 million euro-per-day in January 2003. The group also reports that there were around 150 poker rooms in 2003, up from 30 in 2002. Ladbrokespoker.com claims to have 50,000 registered users.
Jackpot Madnewss -- Jackpot Madness, a portal to Internet sites with progressive jackpots reported says it had another record-breaking year in 2003. Two winners hit jackpots in excess of $1.6 million, while numerous others won jackpots ranging from $200,000 to $500,000.
Asian News -- North and South Korea appear to be engaging in the latest border war in the Internet gambling arena. JoongAng Daily reports that Pyeongyang-based DPR Korea Lotto lodged a public complaint today in reaction to a South Korean legislator's complaint about the group taking bets from South Koreans. The complaint was posted on the official homepage of Rep. Park Won-hong of the Grand National Party. It is believed to be the first time North Korea has posted any message on Internet sites of South Korea's public officials or institutions. Park said during a National Assembly inspection of the Ministry of Unification in October 2003 that South Koreans were illegally sending money (around $5 million per year) to North Korea via credit card and bank transfers to DPR Korea Lotto. In its written response to Park's complaint, the site argues that their monthly income is "no more than $40,000 and profit is less than $10,000." JoongAng Daily reports: "According to the Unification Ministry, a South Korean who wishes to use the North Korean Internet gambling service must obtain a permit under the Inter-Korean exchange laws. A ministry spokesman said this has never happened.