Not Backing Down -- British bookmaker Sportingbet plans to expand further into the U.S. market despite the arrests of British gambling bosses, including one of its own. Andrew McIver, who will take over as CEO of Sportingbet in October, told the Financial Times that the company will step up efforts to find more U.S. and acquire U.S.-facing operations. "It's still the U.S., or what's the point?" McIver said. "I still hold that view."
Micromahjong -- Dynasty Gaming Inc. announced today the signing of a licensing agreement for its Mahjong Mania software with online gaming software provider Microgaming. Further to the announcement, Microgaming has finalized a contract under which its client, Vegas Partners Lounge, will offer the aggregate, cash-wager version of Mahjong Mania to its 28Mahjong.com customers.
Orenes y el Toro -- European bookmaker betbull plc signed a joint venture agreement Wednesday with Spanish leisure and gaming group Grupo Orenes to jointly pursue licensed retail betting opportunities in Spain. The agreement is a 50/50 venture of equal shareholding, capital investment and profit share and will last for a minimum of five years. Betbull and Orenes have already agreed on a broad business plan detailing their proposed development of retail betting throughout Spain, using their respective know-how and expertise.
Sponsoring -- PokerStars.com is sponsoring the upcoming world Super Featherweight championship rematch between Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales. They have fought twice and each won once. The fight will take place in Las Vegas on Nov. 18 and will air on HBO Pay-Per-View.
Tabcorp's Global Ambitions -- Australian gaming giant Tabcorp Holdings Ltd. is looking to expand internationally, but is not interested in any large-scale casinos or acquisitions. Managing Director Matthew Slatter said the group is selectively exploring opportunities in its areas of expertise: network gaming, local market casinos and running a totalisator wagering business.
Stock Watch - Sportingbet is still fighting back on the London Stock Exchange. Embroiled in legal controversy in the United States, the company gained 5.50p today to close at 187. Payment processor Neteller, still yo-yoing on the market, gained 22p to 34.