Russian Officials Mull New Ban Proposal -- Russia's State Duma deputies on Wednesday gave unanimous, tentative approval to a bill that will ban gambling in four special zones beginning in 2009. The legislation, though, has been criticized for both its ambiguous language and targeting of minutiae, such as betting over card games in private homes. The bill is expected to undergo drastic changes before it passes a second reading later this year. "There is no doubt the bill will change beyond recognition," said Yevgeny Kovtun, a spokesman for the Gaming Business Association. The bill, submitted by Vladimir Putin in October, passed through a first reading Wednesday by a vote of 440-0 and one abstention.
Stars Shines -- After four weeks of record-breaking entries, PokerStars continues to attract record numbers of players from around both the United States and the rest of the world. Each week, the PokerStars Sunday Millions tournament has generated a new attendance or prize-pool record. Last week, 6,740 players signed up for the event, generating a $1.3 million prize pool, with a $188,720 first prize. Nine hundred seventy-five players finished in the money, with Swedish pro Bo Shlstedt taking home the winner's pot.
Viva Italia: Part II -- After U.K.-based bookmaker Ladbrokes announced Monday its plans for Italian expansion, the company said it would have the operation up-and-running within weeks. Ladbrokes CEO Christopher Bell said that securing the telephone and Internet betting licenses were "only a matter of process." He added, "The good news about Italy is that we are on the road and it will be on the map for Ladbrokes from next summer." Bell is also optimistic about the company's entrance into the Spanish betting market, with the company planning to make an announcement in early 2007.
PGIC Enters Macau -- Casino game technology provider Progressive Gaming International Corporation (PGIC) announced today that it has received approval for its Progressive Baccarat table game in Macau. "Baccarat is the most dominant game in the Asian markets," said Neil Crossan, PGIC executive vice president.