Ladbrokes v. Sweden? -- British bookmaker Ladbrokes is looking to challenge the Swedish government's monopoly on betting by applying for a license to operate its online poker service in Sweden, and it says it will consider legal action if the application is denied. EU law says that countries may use social reasons to prevent competition, but otherwise have to uphold free and fair competition.
Guilty -- Rep. Tom DeLay's former Deputy Chief of Staff Tony Rudy pleaded guilty today to conspiring with shamed lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Rudy was referred to in court papers released in connection with Abramoff's plea, which said Rudy (referred to as "Staffer A") was paid $50,000 in 10 equal monthly payments by Abramoff in 2000 to help stop an Internet gambling bill opposed by Abramoff's clients. In addition to the guilty plea, Rudy promised to cooperate with the ongoing federal investigation of bribery and lobbying fraud. He faces up to five years in prison, but could receive less based on the help he provides the government.
Mobile SA BET -- International sports betting operator Sports Acumen today launched its new mobile phone betting service, SA BET. "Mobile betting is the next big thing in betting and Sports Acumen’s SA BET service is unique in Australia in delivering its clients a web based betting service via their mobile phone," said Sports Acumen's General Manager Robert Gallagher.
Diamond I -- Louisiana-based gaming technology company Diamond I, Inc. today announced it intends to pursue mobile phone gambling opportunities now that it has acquired patent-pending voice-recognition biometric security technology. "We believe our 'voice-print' technology will make it easier to implement user-friendly cellular-gambling over cell phones, including the new generation of video-enabled cell phones," said David Loflin, Diamond I's CEO.
Affiliates -- Online gambling site CasinoRoom.com has been incorporated into online gaming affiliate program, PokerAffiliate.com.