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MOST US gambling operators do not understand remote betting, says Brian Mattingley, CE of London-listed online gambling operator 888 Holdings. But, he adds, Caesars Entertainment gets it. The Las Vegas casino operator is 888’s joint venture partner in the US where, one by one, the states are passing laws to allow online gambling.
The US prohibits online gambling and has cracked down on operators, particularly those from other countries, that target US gamers. However, states in need of new tax revenue have been able to pass laws allowing it within their own borders — in much the way that some states have legalised marijuana for medical use despite the US government deeming it illegal.
Whether other US casino groups grasp the intricacies of remote betting is open to question, says Mattingley. "They think they understand part of it, but don’t know how to get on with doing it."
Operators based in Europe, such as 888, who were forced out of the US in 2006 when Congress passed a law cracking down on online gambling, are licking their lips at the prospect of returning to a newly reopened US market.
888 is seen by analysts and rivals as a likely winner as the US market unfurls. State regulators are expected to grant online licences to incumbent US gambling businesses such as land-based casinos or Native American gaming reservations.
If Mattingley is correct, these businesses have little or no experience in gambling technology or in marketing online gambling to customers. This is where European online operators such as 888 and Bwin.party, which has joint ventures with MGM and Boyd Gaming, come in.
Industry consultants H2 Gambling Capital say a US market could reach close to $7.4bn in poker, casino and bingo gross winnings in five years’ time, assuming legislation is passed in 17 states. Delaware passed a law regulating online gambling last summer. Nevada and New Jersey followed suit this year. The industry now expects a repeat of the rapid state-by-state legalisation of riverboat gaming in the 1990s.
"Neighbouring states didn’t want their residents to cross their borders to gamble," says Norbert Teufelberger, CE of Bwin.party, who worked with US land-based casinos in that decade. "It had a domino effect. (Regulation) happened really fast. I believe it will happen similarly online."
Pennsylvania borders New Jersey and devastated its rival state’s gaming industry in Atlantic City when it legalised casino gaming. New Jersey’s online push has not gone unnoticed over the border, and a bill to legalise internet gambling is being considered in Pennsylvania. Illinois is debating a revised gaming bill.
Nick Batram, leisure analyst at Peel Hunt, says: "While some states will never allow online gaming, any state that has a land-based offering will be keen to protect their interests and this may mean moving online."
The big prize is California — the most populous state — where two rival gaming bills are being debated. A poker-only bill has the best chance of success, says Richard "Skip" Bronson, chairman and founder of US Digital Gaming, which provides technology platforms for gaming operators and regulators.
"California, at least initially, is going to be (online) poker-only," he says, although this is unlikely to last long: it is inevitable that other games will be regulated within the state. "You have to look at the history of the gaming industry … it’s the best predictor of the future."
Poker, casino and bingo will make up the US online market. European operators with sports betting at the core of their business, such as William Hill, Ladbrokes and Paddy Power, are faced with strident opposition to betting from sports bodies such as the NFL and the NBA. "For the traditional bookmakers, the opportunity looks limited at the moment," says Batram.
Bwin.party hopes for a US renaissance of its Party Poker brand. Other operators, such as PokerStars, are also trying to get back into the US after being barred for several years.
Last year, Isle of Man-based PokerStars paid $731m to settle a US justice department prosecution over allegations including bank fraud and money laundering. PokerStars did not admit wrongdoing.
But PokerStars is blocked from the Nevada market because of a clause in the state’s gambling bill that bars any online gambling operator involved in unregulated bets since 2007.
So PokerStars, which described the Nevada clause as "anticompetitive, unfair and potentially in violation of US constitutional law", is switching its focus to New Jersey. Its parent company is bidding to buy a land-based casino in Atlantic City, which would enable it to apply for a New Jersey online licence. In a sign of how intense competition in the US is likely to become, PokerStars’ bid is vehemently opposed by the American Gaming Association (AGA).
Caesars, a member of the AGA and keen to build an early online advantage, is probably the best-placed US casino operator, according to analysts. Its shares have risen more than a third since it became clear governor of New Jersey would sign the bill to clear the way for legal online gambling within a state where Caesars is the biggest operator.
Despite the potential size of the US market, online gambling does not suit all operators. Less focused on the online market are Las Vegas Sands and its rival Wynn Resorts.
"Investors will need to prepare themselves for the heavy initial investment companies will make when markets open," says Batram.
"There will be a huge land grab and it is all about building liquidity as quickly as possible."
The US is the joker in pack for online gambling | Arts & Entertainment | BDlive
The US prohibits online gambling and has cracked down on operators, particularly those from other countries, that target US gamers. However, states in need of new tax revenue have been able to pass laws allowing it within their own borders — in much the way that some states have legalised marijuana for medical use despite the US government deeming it illegal.
Whether other US casino groups grasp the intricacies of remote betting is open to question, says Mattingley. "They think they understand part of it, but don’t know how to get on with doing it."
Operators based in Europe, such as 888, who were forced out of the US in 2006 when Congress passed a law cracking down on online gambling, are licking their lips at the prospect of returning to a newly reopened US market.
888 is seen by analysts and rivals as a likely winner as the US market unfurls. State regulators are expected to grant online licences to incumbent US gambling businesses such as land-based casinos or Native American gaming reservations.
If Mattingley is correct, these businesses have little or no experience in gambling technology or in marketing online gambling to customers. This is where European online operators such as 888 and Bwin.party, which has joint ventures with MGM and Boyd Gaming, come in.
Industry consultants H2 Gambling Capital say a US market could reach close to $7.4bn in poker, casino and bingo gross winnings in five years’ time, assuming legislation is passed in 17 states. Delaware passed a law regulating online gambling last summer. Nevada and New Jersey followed suit this year. The industry now expects a repeat of the rapid state-by-state legalisation of riverboat gaming in the 1990s.
"Neighbouring states didn’t want their residents to cross their borders to gamble," says Norbert Teufelberger, CE of Bwin.party, who worked with US land-based casinos in that decade. "It had a domino effect. (Regulation) happened really fast. I believe it will happen similarly online."
Pennsylvania borders New Jersey and devastated its rival state’s gaming industry in Atlantic City when it legalised casino gaming. New Jersey’s online push has not gone unnoticed over the border, and a bill to legalise internet gambling is being considered in Pennsylvania. Illinois is debating a revised gaming bill.
Nick Batram, leisure analyst at Peel Hunt, says: "While some states will never allow online gaming, any state that has a land-based offering will be keen to protect their interests and this may mean moving online."
The big prize is California — the most populous state — where two rival gaming bills are being debated. A poker-only bill has the best chance of success, says Richard "Skip" Bronson, chairman and founder of US Digital Gaming, which provides technology platforms for gaming operators and regulators.
"California, at least initially, is going to be (online) poker-only," he says, although this is unlikely to last long: it is inevitable that other games will be regulated within the state. "You have to look at the history of the gaming industry … it’s the best predictor of the future."
Poker, casino and bingo will make up the US online market. European operators with sports betting at the core of their business, such as William Hill, Ladbrokes and Paddy Power, are faced with strident opposition to betting from sports bodies such as the NFL and the NBA. "For the traditional bookmakers, the opportunity looks limited at the moment," says Batram.
Bwin.party hopes for a US renaissance of its Party Poker brand. Other operators, such as PokerStars, are also trying to get back into the US after being barred for several years.
Last year, Isle of Man-based PokerStars paid $731m to settle a US justice department prosecution over allegations including bank fraud and money laundering. PokerStars did not admit wrongdoing.
But PokerStars is blocked from the Nevada market because of a clause in the state’s gambling bill that bars any online gambling operator involved in unregulated bets since 2007.
So PokerStars, which described the Nevada clause as "anticompetitive, unfair and potentially in violation of US constitutional law", is switching its focus to New Jersey. Its parent company is bidding to buy a land-based casino in Atlantic City, which would enable it to apply for a New Jersey online licence. In a sign of how intense competition in the US is likely to become, PokerStars’ bid is vehemently opposed by the American Gaming Association (AGA).
Caesars, a member of the AGA and keen to build an early online advantage, is probably the best-placed US casino operator, according to analysts. Its shares have risen more than a third since it became clear governor of New Jersey would sign the bill to clear the way for legal online gambling within a state where Caesars is the biggest operator.
Despite the potential size of the US market, online gambling does not suit all operators. Less focused on the online market are Las Vegas Sands and its rival Wynn Resorts.
"Investors will need to prepare themselves for the heavy initial investment companies will make when markets open," says Batram.
"There will be a huge land grab and it is all about building liquidity as quickly as possible."
The US is the joker in pack for online gambling | Arts & Entertainment | BDlive
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2006/12/07
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29893
Dionne Warwick, one of the most recognizable pop voices of the 1960s, filed for bankruptcy last week, citing more than $10 million in tax debt dating back to 1991.
"Due to several consecutive years (the late '80s through the mid-'90s) of negligent and gross financial mismanagement, Dionne Warwick has realized the current necessity to file personal bankruptcy," Warwick publicist Kevin Sasaki said in a statement to CNN Tuesday.
Warwick, 72, made hits out of many Burt Bacharach and Hal David songs, and won five Grammys in a 50-year career. The singer is down her last $1,000 in cash and only owns furniture and clothing worth $1,500, according to the Chapter 7 filing in New Jersey. The bankruptcy documents filed in New Jersey on Thursday outline a sad financial situation for Warwick, a cousin of the late Whitney Houston.
Along with $7 million in federal IRS debt, Warwick said she owes more than $3 million to the state of California in franchise taxes. Another $500,000 is owed to a lawyer and a business manager, the filing said.
"In light of the magnitude of her tax liabilities, Warwick has repeatedly attempted to offer repayment plans and proposals to the IRS and the California Franchise Tax Board for taxes owed," Sasaki said. "These plans were not accepted, resulting in escalating interest and penalties. Although the actual amount of back taxes owed have been paid, the resulting penalties and interest has continually accrued."
Warwick's total assets are worth just $25,500, mostly because of two fur coats and two sets of diamond earrings valued at $13,000, the documents showed. She also claimed clothing worth $5,000, art worth $5,000 and furniture valued at $15,500.
Warwick recently took a credit card debt management class, it said, perhaps relating to a $20,000 Visa debt.
Her monthly income was listed at $20,950, although she is eligible for a pension from the SAG/AFTRA union, the filing said. Warwick listed her employment with Star Girl Productions, an entertainment management company.
She has been touring in recent months, singing her hits for fans in Europe and South America, according to her website.
Warwick's success began in 1962 with "Don't Make Me Over," followed by 18 consecutive Top 100 singles.
Other Bacharach/David classics include "Walk on By," "Anyone Who Had a Heart," "Message to Michael," "Promises Promises," "A House is Not a Home," "Alfie," "Say a Little Prayer," "This Girl's in Love With You," "I'll Never Fall in Love Again," "Reach Out For Me" and the theme from "Valley of the Dolls."
"Warwick has spent many years of her career raising funds for several humanitarian and philanthropic causes without compensation," Sasaki said. "Aside from carrying the banner for world hunger, she was the first musical artist to donate all sales and proceeds from her landmark recording, 'That's What Friends Are For' to AIDS and The American Foundation For AIDS Research (amfAR)."
"Due to several consecutive years (the late '80s through the mid-'90s) of negligent and gross financial mismanagement, Dionne Warwick has realized the current necessity to file personal bankruptcy," Warwick publicist Kevin Sasaki said in a statement to CNN Tuesday.
Warwick, 72, made hits out of many Burt Bacharach and Hal David songs, and won five Grammys in a 50-year career. The singer is down her last $1,000 in cash and only owns furniture and clothing worth $1,500, according to the Chapter 7 filing in New Jersey. The bankruptcy documents filed in New Jersey on Thursday outline a sad financial situation for Warwick, a cousin of the late Whitney Houston.
Along with $7 million in federal IRS debt, Warwick said she owes more than $3 million to the state of California in franchise taxes. Another $500,000 is owed to a lawyer and a business manager, the filing said.
"In light of the magnitude of her tax liabilities, Warwick has repeatedly attempted to offer repayment plans and proposals to the IRS and the California Franchise Tax Board for taxes owed," Sasaki said. "These plans were not accepted, resulting in escalating interest and penalties. Although the actual amount of back taxes owed have been paid, the resulting penalties and interest has continually accrued."
Warwick's total assets are worth just $25,500, mostly because of two fur coats and two sets of diamond earrings valued at $13,000, the documents showed. She also claimed clothing worth $5,000, art worth $5,000 and furniture valued at $15,500.
Warwick recently took a credit card debt management class, it said, perhaps relating to a $20,000 Visa debt.
Her monthly income was listed at $20,950, although she is eligible for a pension from the SAG/AFTRA union, the filing said. Warwick listed her employment with Star Girl Productions, an entertainment management company.
She has been touring in recent months, singing her hits for fans in Europe and South America, according to her website.
Warwick's success began in 1962 with "Don't Make Me Over," followed by 18 consecutive Top 100 singles.
Other Bacharach/David classics include "Walk on By," "Anyone Who Had a Heart," "Message to Michael," "Promises Promises," "A House is Not a Home," "Alfie," "Say a Little Prayer," "This Girl's in Love With You," "I'll Never Fall in Love Again," "Reach Out For Me" and the theme from "Valley of the Dolls."
"Warwick has spent many years of her career raising funds for several humanitarian and philanthropic causes without compensation," Sasaki said. "Aside from carrying the banner for world hunger, she was the first musical artist to donate all sales and proceeds from her landmark recording, 'That's What Friends Are For' to AIDS and The American Foundation For AIDS Research (amfAR)."
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2006/12/07
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29893
Much of what an online gambling experience is easy access, flexibility and a minimum of messing around. The U.K. punter can be a fussy sort that likes the internet gambling experience to be exciting and entertaining. Apparently the online gambling experience can be frustrating for some punters who find negotiating the long wait times on the internet to be hard on the nerves. The internet has been going through a bit of a shakeup of late with the cyber punks out there making the servers go haywire. Global Services is a research firm in the U.K. that has just completed a survey on customer satisfaction regarding U.K. online gambling web locations.
Paddy Power was identified as the best operator to provide the betting services with the most user friendly platform. Close behind the 62 percent satisfaction rate are SkyBet and William Hill with 61 percent each. The average for the internet betting operators was only 57 percent indicating there is room for improvement. The customer satisfaction survey also included a segment asking about recommendations. And the results were rather discouraging when few punters would recommend sites and a big percent would actually discourage going to certain betting sites.
Poor ratings in this department can result in less traffic garnered and significant losses in new business. Principal Advisor for Global Services, Rebecca Jennings, stated, “none of the players are providing a consistently positive experience from homepage through to opening an account and betting.” Jennings advised to fix the problem, “by making only minor amendments to their existing sites,” such as providing “reassuring content as to why betting with them is the best choice” through the use of “comparison tools, external awards, consumer opinions or press articles.” The need for this type of survey to provide feedback to the online gambling operators is apparent in order to improve the experience and make online gambling better for everyone.
Online Betting Could Use Improving U.K.Study
Paddy Power was identified as the best operator to provide the betting services with the most user friendly platform. Close behind the 62 percent satisfaction rate are SkyBet and William Hill with 61 percent each. The average for the internet betting operators was only 57 percent indicating there is room for improvement. The customer satisfaction survey also included a segment asking about recommendations. And the results were rather discouraging when few punters would recommend sites and a big percent would actually discourage going to certain betting sites.
Poor ratings in this department can result in less traffic garnered and significant losses in new business. Principal Advisor for Global Services, Rebecca Jennings, stated, “none of the players are providing a consistently positive experience from homepage through to opening an account and betting.” Jennings advised to fix the problem, “by making only minor amendments to their existing sites,” such as providing “reassuring content as to why betting with them is the best choice” through the use of “comparison tools, external awards, consumer opinions or press articles.” The need for this type of survey to provide feedback to the online gambling operators is apparent in order to improve the experience and make online gambling better for everyone.
Online Betting Could Use Improving U.K.Study
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2006/12/07
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The Illinois Senate Committee finally acted on the gambling expansion bill that will legalize online gambling, by voting for its passing last Wednesday. The resulting 10-4 votes signified the committee’s approval to present the bill at the Senate floor for full voting as early as Thursday. The proposed expansion included the addition of another casino in Chicago and the installation of slot machines in Chicago city airports and in all horse racing tracks that operate legally in the state of Chicago.
Moreover, the proposed law institutes measures that aim to address the administration, regulation and enforcement of Internet gambling laws by creating the Division of Internet Gambling, as a sector of Illinois’ Department of Lottery. The regulations will cover all forms of online casino gambling, whether regarded as games of chance or skill. The prohibition of online sports betting will prevail in the state of Illinois, in accordance with the existing federal law.
The controversial “bad actor” clause also forms part of the regulatory measures, which automatically disqualifies a license applicant who has broken any U.S. laws that prohibit the acceptance of online wagers, if the violation was committed during the most recent past ten years prior to the filing of the application. The clause specifically applies to suppliers of goods, services or software to licensed Internet gaming operators. Approved licenses are valid for five years and renewable for another five years but subject to the requirements of the “bad actor” clause.
The proposed expansion law up for full-senate voting this week, also includes provisions that allow the Division of Internet Gaming to enter into interstate and international agreements with other online gaming operators, for as long as the compacts are not in violation of any federal, state or foreign law.
Illinois Acts on Bill to Legalize Online Gambling : ADI News
Moreover, the proposed law institutes measures that aim to address the administration, regulation and enforcement of Internet gambling laws by creating the Division of Internet Gambling, as a sector of Illinois’ Department of Lottery. The regulations will cover all forms of online casino gambling, whether regarded as games of chance or skill. The prohibition of online sports betting will prevail in the state of Illinois, in accordance with the existing federal law.
The controversial “bad actor” clause also forms part of the regulatory measures, which automatically disqualifies a license applicant who has broken any U.S. laws that prohibit the acceptance of online wagers, if the violation was committed during the most recent past ten years prior to the filing of the application. The clause specifically applies to suppliers of goods, services or software to licensed Internet gaming operators. Approved licenses are valid for five years and renewable for another five years but subject to the requirements of the “bad actor” clause.
The proposed expansion law up for full-senate voting this week, also includes provisions that allow the Division of Internet Gaming to enter into interstate and international agreements with other online gaming operators, for as long as the compacts are not in violation of any federal, state or foreign law.
Illinois Acts on Bill to Legalize Online Gambling : ADI News
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2006/12/07
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Netflix is going to space: The content provider-cum-content creator has announced a 10-episode order for the first season of Sense8. The series comes from the melded minds of the Wachowski siblings, in their first TV project, and Babylon 5’s J. Michael Straczynski.
The sci-fi thriller is described as “a gripping global tale of minds linked and souls hunted” and will premiere late next year — presumably, all in one sitting. It was born from a late-night conversation among the Wachowskis, “several years ago,” about the ways in which technology is great but also terrible. “Out of that paradox Sense8 was born,” Andy and Lana said in a statement.
The show joins the buzzy slate of programming that will fill out the rest of Netflix’s year, including Jenji Kohan’s Orange is the New Black, the trip-trip-trippy Hemlock Grove, and (didn’t you hear?) Arrested Development. It looks like Straczynski will oversee the day-to-day (his Studio JMS is a partner alongside Georgeville Television) while the Wachowskis deposit their constellation of ideas while working on Warner Bros.’ Jupiter Ascending.
The rest of us, meanwhile, will wait and wonder about how, exactly, to pronounce the title. Is it a pun? It is a clue? Speculate away.
The sci-fi thriller is described as “a gripping global tale of minds linked and souls hunted” and will premiere late next year — presumably, all in one sitting. It was born from a late-night conversation among the Wachowskis, “several years ago,” about the ways in which technology is great but also terrible. “Out of that paradox Sense8 was born,” Andy and Lana said in a statement.
The show joins the buzzy slate of programming that will fill out the rest of Netflix’s year, including Jenji Kohan’s Orange is the New Black, the trip-trip-trippy Hemlock Grove, and (didn’t you hear?) Arrested Development. It looks like Straczynski will oversee the day-to-day (his Studio JMS is a partner alongside Georgeville Television) while the Wachowskis deposit their constellation of ideas while working on Warner Bros.’ Jupiter Ascending.
The rest of us, meanwhile, will wait and wonder about how, exactly, to pronounce the title. Is it a pun? It is a clue? Speculate away.
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2006/12/07
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29893
The best software usually means the best of games and in the case of Microgaming online gambling software, the choice is clear. Microgaming has for over ten years led the pack and produced and operated, reliable, innovative and distintive gaming solutions to gambling sites around the world. Serving as many as 160 sites, with steady network growth continuing Microgaming has proved that it operates exceptional well. As this company from the Isle of Man continues to expand on its 600 titles across terrestrial, internet including mobile platforms it has offered all this in two dozen languages. MIcrogaming is well established in the progressive network of slot games paying over €375 million in prize money since it began.
In yet another step to meet the industry’s highest levels Microgaming has announced that it has been awarded eCOGRA's Certified Software Seal. The international consumer of gambling products champion eCOGRA's Seals Compliance Committee found after its exhaustive testing requirements that Microgaming was complaint with EGBA Standards. The European Gaming and Betting Association sets the guidelines for software providers of casino and poker software which demand a very high level of security reliability and fairness. Andrew Beveridge Chief Executive Officer of eCOGRA, commented, "eCOGRA certification can only be achieved following a rigorous on-site inspection, which encompasses all aspects of the company's software development activities, followed by sustained monitoring and annual reviews."
Roger Raatgever, the Chief Executive Officer of Microgaming, spoke to the press on the Microgaming eCOGRA award. "The eCOGRA certification is synonymous with the highest possible level of professional conduct in the online gaming industry," he said. "We are proud to receive a renewed Certified Software Seal as it reflects how seriously we take player protection and responsible gaming."
Mr. Beveridge added, ‘Microgaming's commitment to responsible and fair gaming is well known throughout the industry, and eCOGRA's Certified Software Seal is further evidence of the company's achievement of the highest levels of player protection and fair gaming.’
Online Gambling's Microgaming eCOGRA Certified
In yet another step to meet the industry’s highest levels Microgaming has announced that it has been awarded eCOGRA's Certified Software Seal. The international consumer of gambling products champion eCOGRA's Seals Compliance Committee found after its exhaustive testing requirements that Microgaming was complaint with EGBA Standards. The European Gaming and Betting Association sets the guidelines for software providers of casino and poker software which demand a very high level of security reliability and fairness. Andrew Beveridge Chief Executive Officer of eCOGRA, commented, "eCOGRA certification can only be achieved following a rigorous on-site inspection, which encompasses all aspects of the company's software development activities, followed by sustained monitoring and annual reviews."
Roger Raatgever, the Chief Executive Officer of Microgaming, spoke to the press on the Microgaming eCOGRA award. "The eCOGRA certification is synonymous with the highest possible level of professional conduct in the online gaming industry," he said. "We are proud to receive a renewed Certified Software Seal as it reflects how seriously we take player protection and responsible gaming."
Mr. Beveridge added, ‘Microgaming's commitment to responsible and fair gaming is well known throughout the industry, and eCOGRA's Certified Software Seal is further evidence of the company's achievement of the highest levels of player protection and fair gaming.’
Online Gambling's Microgaming eCOGRA Certified
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The Permanent Secretary of UK’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), Mr. Jonathan Stephens, submitted supplementary evidence to support the proposed bill as one that is intended to protect UK consumers and not to raise tax revenues as alleged by the regulatory bodies of Gibraltar and Malta.
UK is currently under fire for the proposed Place of Consumption (POC) Tax, a gambling tax projected in conjunction with the bill proposed by DCMS. The bill seeks to amend the prevailing Gambling Act of 2005, by requiring all online gambling operators to secure a UK license in connection with the online gaming and betting facilities offered to UK residents.
Regulators in Gibraltar and Malta sees DCMS’ proposed bill as a violation of the EU treaty, which does not allow member states to create a regulatory system for the purpose of raising taxes, but instead must be founded on justifications that the proposed regulation aims to combat the risks of unlicensed gambling operations. In fact, Gibraltar’s Gambling Commissioner offers as evidence a previous statement of the UK Gambling Commission which states that the “harms associated with remote gambling in UK, is very low.”
Currently, most UK online gambling operators hold a license to operate as gambling service providers, issued by other governments, such as Gibraltar, Malta, Isle of Man and Alderney. However, this enabled the gaming companies to avoid the 15 percent tax on profits imposed on UK licensed operators like Bet 365. Under the proposed licensing requirement UK operators will have to pay gaming taxes based on all collections received from UK players.
To date, Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association raised as much as £500k, which the association will use to contest the new law, once introduced sometime in 2014.
Licensing of Online Gambling Operators to Protect UK Players? : ADI News
UK is currently under fire for the proposed Place of Consumption (POC) Tax, a gambling tax projected in conjunction with the bill proposed by DCMS. The bill seeks to amend the prevailing Gambling Act of 2005, by requiring all online gambling operators to secure a UK license in connection with the online gaming and betting facilities offered to UK residents.
Regulators in Gibraltar and Malta sees DCMS’ proposed bill as a violation of the EU treaty, which does not allow member states to create a regulatory system for the purpose of raising taxes, but instead must be founded on justifications that the proposed regulation aims to combat the risks of unlicensed gambling operations. In fact, Gibraltar’s Gambling Commissioner offers as evidence a previous statement of the UK Gambling Commission which states that the “harms associated with remote gambling in UK, is very low.”
Currently, most UK online gambling operators hold a license to operate as gambling service providers, issued by other governments, such as Gibraltar, Malta, Isle of Man and Alderney. However, this enabled the gaming companies to avoid the 15 percent tax on profits imposed on UK licensed operators like Bet 365. Under the proposed licensing requirement UK operators will have to pay gaming taxes based on all collections received from UK players.
To date, Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association raised as much as £500k, which the association will use to contest the new law, once introduced sometime in 2014.
Licensing of Online Gambling Operators to Protect UK Players? : ADI News
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2006/12/07
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The season 2 finale of New Girl will be Taylor-made.
Taylor Swift is guest-starring in the May 14 episode of the Fox comedy, EW has learned. The country pop star will play a character named Elaine, who is an “important guest” at the wedding of Cece (Hannah Simone) and Shivrang (Satya Bhabha).
The singer-songwriter and New Girl fan has been name-checked multiple times on the show this season: In one episode, Schmidt (Max Greenfield) sent Cece a text in which he said he was going through a “Taylor Swift-like range of emotions,” while in another, Nick (Jake Johnson) tried to cheer up a heartbroken Jess (Zooey Deschanel) with unfortunate dance moves while she moaned, “I just wanted to listen to Taylor Swift alone,” and “22″ played in the background.
Swift, who has hosted Saturday Night Live, guest-starred in an episode of CSI and appeared in the romantic comedy film Valentine’s Day, will be on set next week to shoot her part.
Jamie Lee Curtis, Rob Reiner, Olivia Munn, Nick Kroll, Parker Posey, and Margo Martindale are among the other celebrities who have appeared on New Girl this season.
Taylor Swift is guest-starring in the May 14 episode of the Fox comedy, EW has learned. The country pop star will play a character named Elaine, who is an “important guest” at the wedding of Cece (Hannah Simone) and Shivrang (Satya Bhabha).
The singer-songwriter and New Girl fan has been name-checked multiple times on the show this season: In one episode, Schmidt (Max Greenfield) sent Cece a text in which he said he was going through a “Taylor Swift-like range of emotions,” while in another, Nick (Jake Johnson) tried to cheer up a heartbroken Jess (Zooey Deschanel) with unfortunate dance moves while she moaned, “I just wanted to listen to Taylor Swift alone,” and “22″ played in the background.
Swift, who has hosted Saturday Night Live, guest-starred in an episode of CSI and appeared in the romantic comedy film Valentine’s Day, will be on set next week to shoot her part.
Jamie Lee Curtis, Rob Reiner, Olivia Munn, Nick Kroll, Parker Posey, and Margo Martindale are among the other celebrities who have appeared on New Girl this season.
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2006/12/07
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If online gambling laws continue to be relaxed across the United States, it could represent a massive opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors.
Market size
Offline gambling is a massive market with validated demand, and many believe online gambling will be llarger. Overseas, online betting is generating an estimated $32 billion in annual revenue -- nearly the size of the United States casino market. Juniper Research estimates that betting on mobile devices alone will be a $100 billion worldwide industry by 2017.
Laws
New Jersey's Governor Chris Christie recently signed a law allowing Atlantic City's casinos to run websites that take bets on games such as blackjack, slots and poker, but require bettors to be physically present in the state. Delaware recently passed similar laws. Nevada's law, signed on February 21st of 2013, lets land-based casino operators offer online poker only.
Zynga
No one seems more qualified to exploit the opportunity than social gaming company, Zynga, with their established user base, expertise in driving engagement and virality, and iterative data driven product development process. They've already hired an executivefrom 888 Holdings, a gambling company, begun investing in state and federal lobbying efforts, and have applied for an operator license in Nevada and expect to launch their first real-money gaming products in international markets in the first half of 2013.
Partnerships and M&A
Given the lengthy licensing process and regulatory concerns, new entrants are looking to partner with currently existing casino operators.
MGM Resorts and Boyd Gaming Corp, its partner in the Borgata casino in Atlantic City, have arrangements with Bwin.Party, which runs Internet gambling from Gibraltar.
In the U.K., Zynga has partnered with Bwin.Party to offer games such as "FarmVille" slots for real-money betting. Rational Group, the Isle of Man-based company that operates PokerStars, the world's leader in real-money online poker, acquired the Atlantic Club Casino Hotel, one New Jersey's 12 licensed casinos and will obtain and NJ Casino license with the transaction.
Social Responsibility
Concerns over social responsibility will have some consequences on investment considerations in the market.
Some large companies have policies against involvement with gambling, which reduces exit opportunities for companies in the business.
In addition, some large public equity investors, such as hedge funds, have policies against investing in gambling related companies and some general and limited partners of venture capital and private equity funds have similar policies, which could reduce liquidity in private markets.
Startups
Betable allows social game developers to add real, working gambling mechanics to their games.
Chris DeWolfe, a co-founder of the pioneering social site Myspace, is launching a gaming studio with a gambling component. Investors include Jeff Bezon's, Founder of Amazon, and Eric E. Schmidt, Google's Executive Chariman.
Many believe that online gambling will soon become as simple as buying an e-book or streaming a movie, and that the convenience of being able to bet from your couch, will present incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Michael B. Fishbein: Real Money Gaming: The Next Billion Dollar Industry?
Market size
Offline gambling is a massive market with validated demand, and many believe online gambling will be llarger. Overseas, online betting is generating an estimated $32 billion in annual revenue -- nearly the size of the United States casino market. Juniper Research estimates that betting on mobile devices alone will be a $100 billion worldwide industry by 2017.
Laws
New Jersey's Governor Chris Christie recently signed a law allowing Atlantic City's casinos to run websites that take bets on games such as blackjack, slots and poker, but require bettors to be physically present in the state. Delaware recently passed similar laws. Nevada's law, signed on February 21st of 2013, lets land-based casino operators offer online poker only.
Zynga
No one seems more qualified to exploit the opportunity than social gaming company, Zynga, with their established user base, expertise in driving engagement and virality, and iterative data driven product development process. They've already hired an executivefrom 888 Holdings, a gambling company, begun investing in state and federal lobbying efforts, and have applied for an operator license in Nevada and expect to launch their first real-money gaming products in international markets in the first half of 2013.
Partnerships and M&A
Given the lengthy licensing process and regulatory concerns, new entrants are looking to partner with currently existing casino operators.
MGM Resorts and Boyd Gaming Corp, its partner in the Borgata casino in Atlantic City, have arrangements with Bwin.Party, which runs Internet gambling from Gibraltar.
In the U.K., Zynga has partnered with Bwin.Party to offer games such as "FarmVille" slots for real-money betting. Rational Group, the Isle of Man-based company that operates PokerStars, the world's leader in real-money online poker, acquired the Atlantic Club Casino Hotel, one New Jersey's 12 licensed casinos and will obtain and NJ Casino license with the transaction.
Social Responsibility
Concerns over social responsibility will have some consequences on investment considerations in the market.
Some large companies have policies against involvement with gambling, which reduces exit opportunities for companies in the business.
In addition, some large public equity investors, such as hedge funds, have policies against investing in gambling related companies and some general and limited partners of venture capital and private equity funds have similar policies, which could reduce liquidity in private markets.
Startups
Betable allows social game developers to add real, working gambling mechanics to their games.
Chris DeWolfe, a co-founder of the pioneering social site Myspace, is launching a gaming studio with a gambling component. Investors include Jeff Bezon's, Founder of Amazon, and Eric E. Schmidt, Google's Executive Chariman.
Many believe that online gambling will soon become as simple as buying an e-book or streaming a movie, and that the convenience of being able to bet from your couch, will present incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Michael B. Fishbein: Real Money Gaming: The Next Billion Dollar Industry?
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Online Gambling Increasingly Popular Among Women Prone to Addiction 300x225 Online Gambling Increasingly Popular Among Women Prone to AddictionReal money online and mobile gambling is growing increasingly popular with women according to a new report from UK-based publication The Independent.
Online gambling is becoming more attractive to women than drugs or alcohol, says the UK’s leading female addiction specialist.
Liz Karter, the aforementioned specialist, says work stress is a major cause of gambling addiction for women.
“Instead of going out drinking, women are coming home from work and switching on the PC. Many are in demanding careers and want to be able to escape at the end of the day while remaining in control in a way they would not be after drinking or taking drugs,” Kartner explains. “Then they can return to the real world and at first there are no side effects – only later do the problems really start when the habit sets in.”
Experts say that spiraling numbers of women are admitting to gambling problems in the wake of the explosion of online gambling. GamCare, the industry-funded organization, said it received more than 54,000 calls last year – up almost 4,000 on the previous 12 months.
Today’s report indicates that half of all women callers to their helplines “had problems with internet gambling compared to a third of men.” That’s up from 44 percent on 2011 figures.
The Gambling Commission regulator’s January omnibus survey indicated that 55 percent of women questioned gambled in the previous month.
Online Gambling Increasingly Popular Among Women Prone to Addiction | Mobile Marketing Watch
Online gambling is becoming more attractive to women than drugs or alcohol, says the UK’s leading female addiction specialist.
Liz Karter, the aforementioned specialist, says work stress is a major cause of gambling addiction for women.
“Instead of going out drinking, women are coming home from work and switching on the PC. Many are in demanding careers and want to be able to escape at the end of the day while remaining in control in a way they would not be after drinking or taking drugs,” Kartner explains. “Then they can return to the real world and at first there are no side effects – only later do the problems really start when the habit sets in.”
Experts say that spiraling numbers of women are admitting to gambling problems in the wake of the explosion of online gambling. GamCare, the industry-funded organization, said it received more than 54,000 calls last year – up almost 4,000 on the previous 12 months.
Today’s report indicates that half of all women callers to their helplines “had problems with internet gambling compared to a third of men.” That’s up from 44 percent on 2011 figures.
The Gambling Commission regulator’s January omnibus survey indicated that 55 percent of women questioned gambled in the previous month.
Online Gambling Increasingly Popular Among Women Prone to Addiction | Mobile Marketing Watch
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2006/12/07
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The big betters have been playing the stock market for years and with all the different ups and downs that industry has experienced it’s no wonder some brokers are looking at the online gambling industry as somewhere to place their punts. The buzz is of course focused on the USA online gambling market become the biggest thing since sliced bread but other European news sources are saying the operators from Europe are ready to storm the walls of the US gambling industry. As America softens its stance on internet betting firms such as 888 are there in a flash.
New Jersey is still making the right moves towards the future and with hope they will win the legal battle the sports leagues will wage against the state along with the Department of Justice. The online gambling industry is generating an estimated $32 billion in annually. Juniper Research has estimated that mobile betting on its own will be an industry worth $100 billion worldwide by 2017.
The way the companies in Europe are meshing with those in the USA is through partnerships, joint ventures and mutual investments. The complicated business of international business affairs especially when it involves gambling is costly and time consuming for start up firms. It is obvious that only those firms with deep pockets can compete at the ground level. The newest platform opening up for investment is the social media online gambling experience. This field is again being touted as the panacea for the internet betting world mostly in the USA.
Making money on the advertizing, and information gathering for gambling sector has huge potential investment possibilities both in Europe and America. Unfortunately there are restrictions as some large public equity investors, such as hedge funds, have policies that are adverse to investing in gambling related firms. Some general and limited partners of venture capital and private equity funds have similar policies, which could reduce the level of liquidity in private markets.
Investment Opportunities Abound in Online Gambling Industry
New Jersey is still making the right moves towards the future and with hope they will win the legal battle the sports leagues will wage against the state along with the Department of Justice. The online gambling industry is generating an estimated $32 billion in annually. Juniper Research has estimated that mobile betting on its own will be an industry worth $100 billion worldwide by 2017.
The way the companies in Europe are meshing with those in the USA is through partnerships, joint ventures and mutual investments. The complicated business of international business affairs especially when it involves gambling is costly and time consuming for start up firms. It is obvious that only those firms with deep pockets can compete at the ground level. The newest platform opening up for investment is the social media online gambling experience. This field is again being touted as the panacea for the internet betting world mostly in the USA.
Making money on the advertizing, and information gathering for gambling sector has huge potential investment possibilities both in Europe and America. Unfortunately there are restrictions as some large public equity investors, such as hedge funds, have policies that are adverse to investing in gambling related firms. Some general and limited partners of venture capital and private equity funds have similar policies, which could reduce the level of liquidity in private markets.
Investment Opportunities Abound in Online Gambling Industry
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29893
Getting justice is not always that easy when it comes to international trade deals as the tiny island nation of Antigua Barbuda would attest too. The World Trade Organization awarded the small country a smallish settlement years ago when the country won a court decision regarding the USA’s shredding of the online gambling industry back in 2006. Antigua Barbuda and the United States have been fighting over the ruling which dates back to 2004 that was found in Antigua’s favor.
America’s commitment under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade has been violated by the legislation banning offshore internet gambling services. The WTO granted compensatory measures on January 28, 2013, that involved the sale of US-copyrighted items without compensation for usage, if an alternative resolution with the United States could not be found. As the dispute carries on the need for diplomatic restraint has been required.The controversial nature of the compensatory measures agreed upon, Antigua and Barbuda has yet to implement the package, and has requested that the United States cooperate for an amicable solution. However, Antigua and Barbuda has indicated that it may have to give up on proceeding against the giant USA.
It may proceed with implementing the deal despite dire warnings from America that Antigua’s reputational could be damaged potentially impeding the whole area of the Caribbean basin’s ability to attract foreign direct investment. Dominica told the Dispute Settlement Body, "Antigua and Barbuda had not seen any substantial progress on the part of the US to comply with the DSB's recommendations and rulings nor to reach a settlement with Antigua and Barbuda." Dominica as Antigua’s agent said that Antigua and Barbuda wished to appeal to the United States to "make one last effort at resolving the matter and avoiding unpredictable consequences," given that the measures would be unprecedented. The legal process is expensive for the small country of Antigua and Barbuda .
Antigua Gives It One More Try in Online Gambling WTO Dispute
America’s commitment under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade has been violated by the legislation banning offshore internet gambling services. The WTO granted compensatory measures on January 28, 2013, that involved the sale of US-copyrighted items without compensation for usage, if an alternative resolution with the United States could not be found. As the dispute carries on the need for diplomatic restraint has been required.The controversial nature of the compensatory measures agreed upon, Antigua and Barbuda has yet to implement the package, and has requested that the United States cooperate for an amicable solution. However, Antigua and Barbuda has indicated that it may have to give up on proceeding against the giant USA.
It may proceed with implementing the deal despite dire warnings from America that Antigua’s reputational could be damaged potentially impeding the whole area of the Caribbean basin’s ability to attract foreign direct investment. Dominica told the Dispute Settlement Body, "Antigua and Barbuda had not seen any substantial progress on the part of the US to comply with the DSB's recommendations and rulings nor to reach a settlement with Antigua and Barbuda." Dominica as Antigua’s agent said that Antigua and Barbuda wished to appeal to the United States to "make one last effort at resolving the matter and avoiding unpredictable consequences," given that the measures would be unprecedented. The legal process is expensive for the small country of Antigua and Barbuda .
Antigua Gives It One More Try in Online Gambling WTO Dispute
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THE caretaker Punjab government has decided to reduce tax on entertainment activities and in this regard a summary of Punjab Entertainment Duty Amendment Ordinance-2013 has been sent to Punjab Governor for his approval.
According to sources, the provincial cabinet in its last meeting had approved to reduce entertainment duty on fashion, musical and circus shows, and excluded education and welfare institutions from the entertainment duty net.
After the dissolution of assemblies, it has been decided to implement the ordinance in this regard. In the summary, it has been proposed to reduce
entertainment duty from 65 percent to 20 on fashion, musical shows and from 20 percent to 15 percent on circus shows.
The education and welfare institutions would be excluded from the entertainment duty net; however, these institutions would have to fulfill the condition of Section-VIII of Entertainment Duty Act.
The proposal of Excise & Taxation Department regarding imposing entertainment duty on cinema and chairlift has not been accommodated.
According to sources, the provincial cabinet in its last meeting had approved to reduce entertainment duty on fashion, musical and circus shows, and excluded education and welfare institutions from the entertainment duty net.
After the dissolution of assemblies, it has been decided to implement the ordinance in this regard. In the summary, it has been proposed to reduce
entertainment duty from 65 percent to 20 on fashion, musical shows and from 20 percent to 15 percent on circus shows.
The education and welfare institutions would be excluded from the entertainment duty net; however, these institutions would have to fulfill the condition of Section-VIII of Entertainment Duty Act.
The proposal of Excise & Taxation Department regarding imposing entertainment duty on cinema and chairlift has not been accommodated.
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At a time when states are struggling to make up lost revenues, online gambling is starting to look like a safe bet.
Last month, New Jersey became the third state after Delaware and Nevada to legalize Internet gaming with legislators in other states such as California, Pennsylvania and Illinois moving to introduce similar proposals.
“I think that, generally, states that have already established casino industries will be more likely to begin offering online gambling sooner,” said Doug Walker, an economics professor at the College of Charleston who’s studied the effects of legalized gambling.
The growing prevalence of online gambling marks a sea change in the overall attitude toward the business and what activities should be allowed on the Internet.
With this acceptance comes tremendous financial opportunities in a lucrative area of e-commerce that until this year could only flourish abroad. Delaware became the first state to enter the realm of legal online casino gambling in June 2012.
Before the Obama administration eased federal restrictions, online gambling was widely viewed as a business ripe for criminal enterprise. The lawlessness of the web made issues of fairness and propriety relevant. Players put themselves at risk of credit card fraud, identity theft and other financial crimes by disclosing their personal information online.
Now considered less shady as a result of the legal opinion issued by the Justice Department in 2011, online gambling seems poised to generate an economic boon.
Shares for gaming giant Zynga soared this year after the company expanded its online gambling businessoverseas. Meanwhile, shares of rival Glu Mobile jumped 18 percent last week after announcing it would begin offering a real-money slot game for mobile phones through a partnership with London-based gambling service Probability.
The new state laws have sent online gambling companies scrambling for real estate in Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey as a result of provisions allowing virtual gaming as long as it’s affiliated with land-based operations.
In Atlantic City, the online gaming giant Pokerstars is trying to buy a casino-hotel where it could anchor its Internet business.
Similar bills have been introduced in the legislatures of Pennsylvania and Illinois. Two bills have beenintroduced in the California state Senate that would legalize online gambling there.
The administration of Gov. Chris Christie in New Jersey anticipates the law will boost casino tax revenue by $200 million in the next fiscal year.
What impact all of this will have on the physical casino industry remains to be seen, Walker said.
“It’s difficult to predict what the overall effect of legal online gambling will be on the land-based casino industry. There is little evidence yet,” he said. “But I consider online gambling and casino gambling to be different products. The casino experience is a social experience. Online gambling may be more convenient, however. We could see the two acting as substitutes or complements, and the relationship could be different in different gambling markets.”
States see jackpot in online gambling | Gamezebo
Last month, New Jersey became the third state after Delaware and Nevada to legalize Internet gaming with legislators in other states such as California, Pennsylvania and Illinois moving to introduce similar proposals.
“I think that, generally, states that have already established casino industries will be more likely to begin offering online gambling sooner,” said Doug Walker, an economics professor at the College of Charleston who’s studied the effects of legalized gambling.
The growing prevalence of online gambling marks a sea change in the overall attitude toward the business and what activities should be allowed on the Internet.
With this acceptance comes tremendous financial opportunities in a lucrative area of e-commerce that until this year could only flourish abroad. Delaware became the first state to enter the realm of legal online casino gambling in June 2012.
Before the Obama administration eased federal restrictions, online gambling was widely viewed as a business ripe for criminal enterprise. The lawlessness of the web made issues of fairness and propriety relevant. Players put themselves at risk of credit card fraud, identity theft and other financial crimes by disclosing their personal information online.
Now considered less shady as a result of the legal opinion issued by the Justice Department in 2011, online gambling seems poised to generate an economic boon.
Shares for gaming giant Zynga soared this year after the company expanded its online gambling businessoverseas. Meanwhile, shares of rival Glu Mobile jumped 18 percent last week after announcing it would begin offering a real-money slot game for mobile phones through a partnership with London-based gambling service Probability.
The new state laws have sent online gambling companies scrambling for real estate in Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey as a result of provisions allowing virtual gaming as long as it’s affiliated with land-based operations.
In Atlantic City, the online gaming giant Pokerstars is trying to buy a casino-hotel where it could anchor its Internet business.
Similar bills have been introduced in the legislatures of Pennsylvania and Illinois. Two bills have beenintroduced in the California state Senate that would legalize online gambling there.
The administration of Gov. Chris Christie in New Jersey anticipates the law will boost casino tax revenue by $200 million in the next fiscal year.
What impact all of this will have on the physical casino industry remains to be seen, Walker said.
“It’s difficult to predict what the overall effect of legal online gambling will be on the land-based casino industry. There is little evidence yet,” he said. “But I consider online gambling and casino gambling to be different products. The casino experience is a social experience. Online gambling may be more convenient, however. We could see the two acting as substitutes or complements, and the relationship could be different in different gambling markets.”
States see jackpot in online gambling | Gamezebo
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The granting of 888’s online poker license by the state of Nevada is a symbol of the change in public opinion about online gambling in the US. The change in opinion is largely due to the financial crisis and the need for states to raise more revenues. However, as Anthony Axisa, the CEO of Cybergaming Consultants says, “The big question remains whether online gaming will be regulated nationally or if it will be state by state, with some potential of cooperation to a certain degree. Currently, it looks like federal isn’t happening.”
Despite the change in public opinion, a large amount of opposition to online gambling is coming from major gaming companies based in Las Vegas. A number of the traditional gambling institutions are scared by the potential impact of online gambling on their business.
Rick Geiger, an attorney at Geiger Gaming Law, believes that those companies opposing online gambling will have to forget their differences for the sake of the industry, “What Nevada needs is for the big gaming companies to put their egos in their pockets and start understanding what online gaming can do to be additive to their businesses and accretive to their earnings.”
The Conflicting Opinions on US Online Gambling - Online Casino Archives
Despite the change in public opinion, a large amount of opposition to online gambling is coming from major gaming companies based in Las Vegas. A number of the traditional gambling institutions are scared by the potential impact of online gambling on their business.
Rick Geiger, an attorney at Geiger Gaming Law, believes that those companies opposing online gambling will have to forget their differences for the sake of the industry, “What Nevada needs is for the big gaming companies to put their egos in their pockets and start understanding what online gaming can do to be additive to their businesses and accretive to their earnings.”
The Conflicting Opinions on US Online Gambling - Online Casino Archives
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2006/12/07
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In the days and weeks following the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, rhetoric was strong in Washington about the issue of violence in entertainment. From outgoing Sen. Joe Lieberman, D-Conn., to David Axelrod to even President Barack Obama, policymakers and pundit-types alike invoked the matter as the nation searched for meaning in the Newtown tragedy.
[REFERENDUM: Are Video Games Too Violent?]
More than three months later, the debate over gun regulations trudges on in Washington, with Obama holding a press conference pleading for congressional action just yesterday. Yet there has been little legislative action or even talk, comparatively speaking, about what Congress can and should do about violent movies, television and video games, even as search warrants revealed the Newtown shooter obsessively played the bloody video game "Call of Duty."
But one senator hasn't let go of the issue. Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., introduced the Violent Content Research Act soon after the Sandy Hook tragedy and reintroduced it again in January when the original died with the 112th Congress. The bill would require the National Academy of Sciences to undertake a study of "the impact of violent video games and violent video programming on children." It currently has five bipartisan cosponsors and is working its way through committee.
A call for more research isn't exactly controversial. Obama already signed an executive order calling for more CDC research on the roots of gun violence, including "the relationship between video games, media images and violence."
The MPAA—whose president, former Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., has adamantly denounced any measures of censorship in the name of preventing gun violence—has told U.S. News it would support Rockefeller's bill.
"We certainly understand the need for more data to inform this conversation and we certainly support the effort to explore the scientific evidence," says MPAA spokesperson Kate Bedingfield.
But the bill is not without its critics. For one, they point out that numerous federally-sponsored studies, including some by the National Academy itself, have already failed to find a conclusive link. Secondly they say other countries that consume similar or even higher levels of violent media don't have nearly as high rates of gun violence as the United States. Furthermore, they argue that focusing on violent entertainment distracts from the conversation about gun regulation and/or changes to the national mental health system.
[READ: NRA Releases Shooting Practice Game for Kids]
Addressing the "distraction" criticism, Rockefeller, who is not running for re-election and has a "D" rating from the NRA, told Variety magazine, "We need to discuss all legislative options that might prevent more innocent lives lost. I see the debate over violence in the media as part of a comprehensive discussion to take strong actions to promote gun safety."
But some worry about the parameters of the study itself.
"[Rockefeller] basically advertises as loud and clear as he possibly could what he wants the results of any study to be," says Christopher J. Ferguson, a Texas A&M psychology professor who has conducted numerous studies on the link between aggressive behavior and violence in video game and television. "Scientific objectivity cannot survive under that circumstance. That is an enormous amount of political pressure to put on the scientific community. The risk is that there will be junk science—science for hire, basically."
The research on the link between violent entertainment and behavior is mixed, at best. Even more complicated is determining the role it plays in massacres like the one in Newtown.
"We aren't going to get mass shooters waiting in line to fill out surveys," says Ferguson, pointing out that for every "Call of Duty"-playing shooter there is another mass shooter who we have no reason to believe played violent video games.
Ferguson participated in the White House "task force" talks alongside other researchers and video game executives. He described Vice President Joe Biden's take on the matter as "agnostic."
"He didn't think the evidence was there, and if there was something it would be just a tiny piece of the puzzle. It really wasn't the most significant issue," he says.
[PHOTOS: Cyclists Ride From Newtown to D.C. for Gun Control]
Biden did warn the industry executives present in the meeting that they had a PR issue on there hands, says Ferguson. And so far it appears they and the movie industry are taking his advice. Both have emphasized giving parents the tools to supervise their children's habits, with the MPAA and the ESRB (which regulates video game ratings) touting a FTC study that found an all-time high compliance with their ratings systems.
Yet the N.Y. Daily News reports that the video game lobby has put pressure on another legislative attempt to research violent video games. Earlier this month Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, offered a Department Justice study of violent video games' connection to mass shootings as an amendment to gun control legislation. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., then proposed an amendment to Grassley's proposal that would expand the study to 13 additional areas associated with violence like bullying, mental illness and child abuse. According to the Daily News report, Senate sources say video game lobbyists were behind Coon's move in attempt to water down the study.
Even if Grassley's, Rockefeller's or any study proved a conclusive and significant link between violent media and violent behavior, the legislative steps to be taken next are unclear. In the wake of Columbine, some states passed laws to regulate the video game industry, all of which were knocked down by courts on First Amendment grounds. Most notably, in Brown v. Electronic Merchants Association, the Supreme Court struck down a California law prohibiting the sale or rental of violent video games to minors, rend
[REFERENDUM: Are Video Games Too Violent?]
More than three months later, the debate over gun regulations trudges on in Washington, with Obama holding a press conference pleading for congressional action just yesterday. Yet there has been little legislative action or even talk, comparatively speaking, about what Congress can and should do about violent movies, television and video games, even as search warrants revealed the Newtown shooter obsessively played the bloody video game "Call of Duty."
But one senator hasn't let go of the issue. Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., introduced the Violent Content Research Act soon after the Sandy Hook tragedy and reintroduced it again in January when the original died with the 112th Congress. The bill would require the National Academy of Sciences to undertake a study of "the impact of violent video games and violent video programming on children." It currently has five bipartisan cosponsors and is working its way through committee.
A call for more research isn't exactly controversial. Obama already signed an executive order calling for more CDC research on the roots of gun violence, including "the relationship between video games, media images and violence."
The MPAA—whose president, former Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., has adamantly denounced any measures of censorship in the name of preventing gun violence—has told U.S. News it would support Rockefeller's bill.
"We certainly understand the need for more data to inform this conversation and we certainly support the effort to explore the scientific evidence," says MPAA spokesperson Kate Bedingfield.
But the bill is not without its critics. For one, they point out that numerous federally-sponsored studies, including some by the National Academy itself, have already failed to find a conclusive link. Secondly they say other countries that consume similar or even higher levels of violent media don't have nearly as high rates of gun violence as the United States. Furthermore, they argue that focusing on violent entertainment distracts from the conversation about gun regulation and/or changes to the national mental health system.
[READ: NRA Releases Shooting Practice Game for Kids]
Addressing the "distraction" criticism, Rockefeller, who is not running for re-election and has a "D" rating from the NRA, told Variety magazine, "We need to discuss all legislative options that might prevent more innocent lives lost. I see the debate over violence in the media as part of a comprehensive discussion to take strong actions to promote gun safety."
But some worry about the parameters of the study itself.
"[Rockefeller] basically advertises as loud and clear as he possibly could what he wants the results of any study to be," says Christopher J. Ferguson, a Texas A&M psychology professor who has conducted numerous studies on the link between aggressive behavior and violence in video game and television. "Scientific objectivity cannot survive under that circumstance. That is an enormous amount of political pressure to put on the scientific community. The risk is that there will be junk science—science for hire, basically."
The research on the link between violent entertainment and behavior is mixed, at best. Even more complicated is determining the role it plays in massacres like the one in Newtown.
"We aren't going to get mass shooters waiting in line to fill out surveys," says Ferguson, pointing out that for every "Call of Duty"-playing shooter there is another mass shooter who we have no reason to believe played violent video games.
Ferguson participated in the White House "task force" talks alongside other researchers and video game executives. He described Vice President Joe Biden's take on the matter as "agnostic."
"He didn't think the evidence was there, and if there was something it would be just a tiny piece of the puzzle. It really wasn't the most significant issue," he says.
[PHOTOS: Cyclists Ride From Newtown to D.C. for Gun Control]
Biden did warn the industry executives present in the meeting that they had a PR issue on there hands, says Ferguson. And so far it appears they and the movie industry are taking his advice. Both have emphasized giving parents the tools to supervise their children's habits, with the MPAA and the ESRB (which regulates video game ratings) touting a FTC study that found an all-time high compliance with their ratings systems.
Yet the N.Y. Daily News reports that the video game lobby has put pressure on another legislative attempt to research violent video games. Earlier this month Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, offered a Department Justice study of violent video games' connection to mass shootings as an amendment to gun control legislation. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., then proposed an amendment to Grassley's proposal that would expand the study to 13 additional areas associated with violence like bullying, mental illness and child abuse. According to the Daily News report, Senate sources say video game lobbyists were behind Coon's move in attempt to water down the study.
Even if Grassley's, Rockefeller's or any study proved a conclusive and significant link between violent media and violent behavior, the legislative steps to be taken next are unclear. In the wake of Columbine, some states passed laws to regulate the video game industry, all of which were knocked down by courts on First Amendment grounds. Most notably, in Brown v. Electronic Merchants Association, the Supreme Court struck down a California law prohibiting the sale or rental of violent video games to minors, rend
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Lawmakers pushing to expand gambling in Illinois hope the third time is a charm with a more finely tuned proposal that could make Illinois the fourth state to allow Internet gaming.
The latest proposal includes some familiar ideas: five new casinos, including one in Chicago; thousands of slot machines, including at Chicago's two airports. But it also includes Internet gambling, which would allow Illinois residents to play games like blackjack on their computers or smart phones.
The biggest obstacle to adding more casinos and slot machines in Illinois has been Gov. Pat Quinn, who's twice rejected proposals sent to his desk, citing a lack of ethical safeguards, regulation and oversight.
Lately, the Chicago Democrat has signaled that he's open to the idea, even mentioning it in his March budget speech. And the new bill addresses some of Quinn's concerns by including a ban on political contributions from the gambling industry, appointing an inspector general to monitor gaming and giving the state gaming board more authority over a Chicago casino.
"The stars are probably lining up better than they've ever lined up," said Sen. Terry Link, a Waukegan Democrat who's a lead sponsor of the legislation. "We're doing a lot of the things that the governor wanted."
But the new proposals still could be held up because of the state's focus on fixing its nearly $100 billion pension problem — Quinn has said that must come first — and the governor's skepticism of so-called "iGaming," which the bill's supporters say might help fix the state's financial problems.
"There hasn't been much review on that at all," Quinn told reporters last week. "Any time you have something brand new, it shouldn't just be thrown into a bill at the last minute."
However, other prominent Democrats point out that it isn't a new idea, and say Illinois already has been a national leader.
When Illinois became the first state to sell lottery tickets online last year, Senate President John Cullerton introduced legislation that would create a Division of Internet Gaming within the state lottery. Under his proposal, that new division would have made Illinois the first state to jump into the world of online gambling.
But that proposal didn't get much traction, and three states — Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey — since have legalized Internet gambling, though none has it up and running. The process in those states also was fraught with questions about regulation, something Quinn's office says needs to be watched closely before Illinois can approve it.
Read More: Advocates call for Internet gambling in Illinois - Top Stories - Springfield, IL - The State Journal-Register
The latest proposal includes some familiar ideas: five new casinos, including one in Chicago; thousands of slot machines, including at Chicago's two airports. But it also includes Internet gambling, which would allow Illinois residents to play games like blackjack on their computers or smart phones.
The biggest obstacle to adding more casinos and slot machines in Illinois has been Gov. Pat Quinn, who's twice rejected proposals sent to his desk, citing a lack of ethical safeguards, regulation and oversight.
Lately, the Chicago Democrat has signaled that he's open to the idea, even mentioning it in his March budget speech. And the new bill addresses some of Quinn's concerns by including a ban on political contributions from the gambling industry, appointing an inspector general to monitor gaming and giving the state gaming board more authority over a Chicago casino.
"The stars are probably lining up better than they've ever lined up," said Sen. Terry Link, a Waukegan Democrat who's a lead sponsor of the legislation. "We're doing a lot of the things that the governor wanted."
But the new proposals still could be held up because of the state's focus on fixing its nearly $100 billion pension problem — Quinn has said that must come first — and the governor's skepticism of so-called "iGaming," which the bill's supporters say might help fix the state's financial problems.
"There hasn't been much review on that at all," Quinn told reporters last week. "Any time you have something brand new, it shouldn't just be thrown into a bill at the last minute."
However, other prominent Democrats point out that it isn't a new idea, and say Illinois already has been a national leader.
When Illinois became the first state to sell lottery tickets online last year, Senate President John Cullerton introduced legislation that would create a Division of Internet Gaming within the state lottery. Under his proposal, that new division would have made Illinois the first state to jump into the world of online gambling.
But that proposal didn't get much traction, and three states — Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey — since have legalized Internet gambling, though none has it up and running. The process in those states also was fraught with questions about regulation, something Quinn's office says needs to be watched closely before Illinois can approve it.
Read More: Advocates call for Internet gambling in Illinois - Top Stories - Springfield, IL - The State Journal-Register
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Ob cuts and pay curbs at some of the City’s biggest banks are creating hiring opportunities for companies in other sectors, which are snapping up banking staff seeking better prospects.
In the past two months both JPMorgan Chase and HSBC announced plans to cut thousands of jobs. Many banks have also imposed pay cuts that appear to be structural rather than cyclical.
The combination of shrinking banks and pressure on pay is starting to drive staff to look for work further afield. This shift in talent is particularly notable for those with specialist technology skills who are increasingly considering gambling and online gaming companies.
“There was a time when the banks would have a lot of those [technology specialist] guys and they could pay more, so people would go work for the banks. We’re starting to see a shift in people’s appetite to go back the other way,” said Mark Cameron, chief operating officer at Astbury Marsden, a City headhunter.
“The [pay] gap that used to exist between the gaming sector and the banking sector is thinner that it was before,” he added.
Mr Cameron said that the people moving sectors were predominantly technology developers and computer programmers, whose skills are transferable to sectors such as spread betting, or to tech start-ups at Silicon Roundabout.
Banc De Binary, a Cyprus-based company that does binary options trading, said that it has hired 60 ex-banking staff in the past three to four months, including many from City-based banks. It is planning to open an office in the UK in about a month.
The company, which describes binary option trading as simpler than spread betting, allows investors to bet on whether the price of assets such as a share, commodity or index will increase or decrease. Traders bet with a more limited risk than in spread betting.
“We have recruited mostly from UK investment banks so far, and because of the situation in Cyprus at the moment, we expect some of our new recruits to come from the Cypriot banking industry,” said Oren Laurent, chief executive, alluding to the country’s recent €10bn rescue deal that includes plans to restructure its banking sector.
Aeria Games Europe, an online gaming company with a presence in the US, Germany and Brazil, has also hired former banking staff who perform roles such as mobile marketing for the company.
“We run multiple in-game economies, issue a worldwide currency, and sell millions of goods while effectively monitoring inflation and monetary policy. This is massively appealing to bankers, economists and people with strong analytical skills in general,” said Dr Pascal Zuta, chief executive of Aeria.
He added: “The number of redundancies in the banking sector contributes to the [staff] migration we are seeing in the industry.”
Headhunter Mr Cameron said that the shift in staff from the banking sector to online gaming and spreading betting was likely to continue. “People have less incentive to go into the banking sector.”
Online gaming sector snaps up ex-bankers - FT-com
In the past two months both JPMorgan Chase and HSBC announced plans to cut thousands of jobs. Many banks have also imposed pay cuts that appear to be structural rather than cyclical.
The combination of shrinking banks and pressure on pay is starting to drive staff to look for work further afield. This shift in talent is particularly notable for those with specialist technology skills who are increasingly considering gambling and online gaming companies.
“There was a time when the banks would have a lot of those [technology specialist] guys and they could pay more, so people would go work for the banks. We’re starting to see a shift in people’s appetite to go back the other way,” said Mark Cameron, chief operating officer at Astbury Marsden, a City headhunter.
“The [pay] gap that used to exist between the gaming sector and the banking sector is thinner that it was before,” he added.
Mr Cameron said that the people moving sectors were predominantly technology developers and computer programmers, whose skills are transferable to sectors such as spread betting, or to tech start-ups at Silicon Roundabout.
Banc De Binary, a Cyprus-based company that does binary options trading, said that it has hired 60 ex-banking staff in the past three to four months, including many from City-based banks. It is planning to open an office in the UK in about a month.
The company, which describes binary option trading as simpler than spread betting, allows investors to bet on whether the price of assets such as a share, commodity or index will increase or decrease. Traders bet with a more limited risk than in spread betting.
“We have recruited mostly from UK investment banks so far, and because of the situation in Cyprus at the moment, we expect some of our new recruits to come from the Cypriot banking industry,” said Oren Laurent, chief executive, alluding to the country’s recent €10bn rescue deal that includes plans to restructure its banking sector.
Aeria Games Europe, an online gaming company with a presence in the US, Germany and Brazil, has also hired former banking staff who perform roles such as mobile marketing for the company.
“We run multiple in-game economies, issue a worldwide currency, and sell millions of goods while effectively monitoring inflation and monetary policy. This is massively appealing to bankers, economists and people with strong analytical skills in general,” said Dr Pascal Zuta, chief executive of Aeria.
He added: “The number of redundancies in the banking sector contributes to the [staff] migration we are seeing in the industry.”
Headhunter Mr Cameron said that the shift in staff from the banking sector to online gaming and spreading betting was likely to continue. “People have less incentive to go into the banking sector.”
Online gaming sector snaps up ex-bankers - FT-com
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2006/12/07
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Lindsay Lohan's father is horrified by her latest wild antics in Brazil.
Michael Lohan has posted an open letter to the 26-year-old actress's booking agent Mike Heller, whose father is her lawyer Mark Heller, warning him that he will be held fully responsible if anything happens to Lindsay.
She was reportedly spotted "out of it" in a Sao Paulo nightclub crying underneath a table with her dress up around her waist.
In the letter, posted on the Huffington Post, Michael wrote: "I am telling you now if you are with Lindsay in Rio or you booked it, and anything happens to my daughter, I am holding you personally responsible.
"Judging from what has happened to in the past, and the way she looks down there from the pictures in the media, it's not a good thing. If you have anything to do with her being there, its on you. Count on it. (sic)"
The troubled starlet, who was sentenced to 90 days in rehab last week after pleading "no contest" to charges for lying to police about driving during a car crash last June, was photographed sitting on floor under the DJ booth with her dress pulled up on Thursday night (28.03.13), according to gossip website TMZ.com.
The actress, who is in Brazil to promote a clothing line called John John Denim and was paid $100,000 to appear at the nightclub, was allegedly upset because of fans wanting to take her picture and hid under the table.
She was also spotted partying again on Friday night and seemed in much better spirits.
Meanwhile, Lindsay has been accused of stealing jewellery from the set of 'Anger Management' this week after going home with two bracelets, a necklace, sunglasses, a pair of shoes, gold earrings, a silk bathrobe, lingerie and tap shorts. But she claims she had a deal with producers that she could take whatever she wanted and they would deduct the cost of the items from her salary.
Michael Lohan has posted an open letter to the 26-year-old actress's booking agent Mike Heller, whose father is her lawyer Mark Heller, warning him that he will be held fully responsible if anything happens to Lindsay.
She was reportedly spotted "out of it" in a Sao Paulo nightclub crying underneath a table with her dress up around her waist.
In the letter, posted on the Huffington Post, Michael wrote: "I am telling you now if you are with Lindsay in Rio or you booked it, and anything happens to my daughter, I am holding you personally responsible.
"Judging from what has happened to in the past, and the way she looks down there from the pictures in the media, it's not a good thing. If you have anything to do with her being there, its on you. Count on it. (sic)"
The troubled starlet, who was sentenced to 90 days in rehab last week after pleading "no contest" to charges for lying to police about driving during a car crash last June, was photographed sitting on floor under the DJ booth with her dress pulled up on Thursday night (28.03.13), according to gossip website TMZ.com.
The actress, who is in Brazil to promote a clothing line called John John Denim and was paid $100,000 to appear at the nightclub, was allegedly upset because of fans wanting to take her picture and hid under the table.
She was also spotted partying again on Friday night and seemed in much better spirits.
Meanwhile, Lindsay has been accused of stealing jewellery from the set of 'Anger Management' this week after going home with two bracelets, a necklace, sunglasses, a pair of shoes, gold earrings, a silk bathrobe, lingerie and tap shorts. But she claims she had a deal with producers that she could take whatever she wanted and they would deduct the cost of the items from her salary.
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
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Smith has revealed he turned down the part of Django Freeman - played by Jamie Foxx - because it was not the lead role in the film.
"Django wasn’t the lead," he told Entertainment Weekly, "so it was like, I need to be the lead. The other character was the lead!"
The "other character" he was referring to was the bounty hunter - and Django's mentor - Dr. King Schultz played by Christoph Waltz.
Smith said he tried to convince director Quentin Tarantino to give Django a more central role in the film.
"I was like, 'No, Quentin, please, I need to kill the bad guy!'"