Data Hub -- Results from a survey recently completed by the American Gaming Association show that 85 percent of Americans see gambling as an acceptable activity. The group states that figure represents a 6 percent rise from the 79 percent of Americans who considered gambling acceptable last year. The AGA reports that the increase was seen across all demographic groups. Frank Fahrenkopf, president of the AGA, said the survey results are consistent with his group's opinion of the industry it serves. "This public opinion data serve to quantify our long-held assumption that the more familiar people are with the casino industry, the more likely they are to embrace and support it," he said.
UK News -- The Financial Times reported today that U.K. bookmaker Sportingbet is in discussions with an un-named company regarding a takeover of Sportingbet. The U.K.-based bookmaker told the newspaper that it has received no formal offer and that it is meeting with numerous parties to get additional funding to meet its earn-out obligations. The preliminary takeover offer reported today would give Sportingbet a value of 30 pence per share.
Making Deals-- IASbet Ltd. Chairman Mark Reed said Monday that his company is going to buy 50 percent of Internet Betting Company plc, an online gambling company. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that IASbet said the move was intended to broaden the company's scope overseas and diversify its markets. "We are focusing on the global opportunities, not so much national opportunities," Reed said.