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2006/12/07
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29893
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Manne wrote:
The Greek government has confirmed that it will introduce new online gambling legislation in 2016, and next week parliament will vote on a proposal to increase gaming taxes to 35 percent of gross gaming revenue.
Both proposals originate in the Greek economic crisis which shows little sign of abating.
They were submitted to the Troika of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), European Central Bank (EC😎 and EU as part of a budget deal to trigger further loans.
Changes in taxation rules then created an almost untenable situation for online poker. Income taxes are now calculated on the amount won in any 24 hour period—losses the following day cannot be offset against winnings.
PokerStars.gr attempted to provide players with a way around the law, scheduling tournaments that began in one tax day and ending in another, but this was soon disallowed.
Tax revenues from online poker are now tiny, and players are financially incentivized to play at offshore sites not licensed in Greece.
An amendment to the way that income taxes are calculated on winnings would be one the online poker industry would welcome.
The new law aims to raise as much tax revenue as possible, however, the blatant cash grab is unlikely to reach the amounts that the government originally forecast. Its prospects have already been derailed by OPAP.
Substantial tax revenues were expected from permitting the deployment of video lottery terminals (VLTs), but OPAP simply told the government that it would cancel its VLT business since it would not be commercially viable under the government’s tax proposals.
OPAP’s concerns are likely to be taken into account in the new legislation, after several meetings between the company and the government. This gives some hope that the online poker industry will also be able to get the government to rethink the income tax calculations.
A restoration of commercial viability in the Greek online poker market would not only increase government tax revenues, but also boost revenues at the major operators like Amaya.
New Online Gambling Legislation In Greece To Be Aimed At Reaping Tax Benefits
That is one solution.
Join:
2006/12/11
Messages:
1758
It is a known fact that the internet has helped various industries grow significantly in recent years. One of the best examples of this is the online gambling industry, which has expanded to cover the entire world and include hundreds, if not thousands, of major operators catering to countless players.
The internet business model provides great opportunities for casino games since customers can just enjoy their favorite games in a matter of seconds, rather than have to travel to a land-based casino. Known as the iGaming industry, it is now a multibillion dollar industry on the internet and it got here in just a bit over a decade.
Something for Everyone
iGaming can be described as a global phenomenon that covers those of all legal ages and demographic groups and continues to grow every year. The exciting casino games improve and online casinos get bigger and better with various offerings and services. Here we can mention brands like 888 Casino, 21 Dukes Casino and Jackpot City Casino as they each have their own style and collection of games.
Between the top software providers, there are more than one thousand casino games available and the list just keeps getting bigger and bigger with the help of new releases. Graphics improve and the entertainment value goes up.
From 1994 to 2016 and to the Future
The industry has its beginning in 1994, when Antigua and Barbuda became the first jurisdiction to allow online gambling; with the first online casinos going live by the end of the year. While it quickly started gaining momentum, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that online gambling really became an industry of global interest. By 2008, online gambling revenue reached $21 billion.
Since then, iGaming has grown even further and regulations have changed around the world to meet the demand of players. In Europe, online gaming is the right of every adult of legal age. In the United States, online casinos are just starting to catch up due to regulations.
According to statistics, it is estimated that online gaming in 2015 was worth $41.4 billion.
The future looks bright as the growth of mobile usage and internet coverage provide more opportunities for players to join.
Online Gambling Becoming a Global Phenomenon | Online Casino Reports
The internet business model provides great opportunities for casino games since customers can just enjoy their favorite games in a matter of seconds, rather than have to travel to a land-based casino. Known as the iGaming industry, it is now a multibillion dollar industry on the internet and it got here in just a bit over a decade.
Something for Everyone
iGaming can be described as a global phenomenon that covers those of all legal ages and demographic groups and continues to grow every year. The exciting casino games improve and online casinos get bigger and better with various offerings and services. Here we can mention brands like 888 Casino, 21 Dukes Casino and Jackpot City Casino as they each have their own style and collection of games.
Between the top software providers, there are more than one thousand casino games available and the list just keeps getting bigger and bigger with the help of new releases. Graphics improve and the entertainment value goes up.
From 1994 to 2016 and to the Future
The industry has its beginning in 1994, when Antigua and Barbuda became the first jurisdiction to allow online gambling; with the first online casinos going live by the end of the year. While it quickly started gaining momentum, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that online gambling really became an industry of global interest. By 2008, online gambling revenue reached $21 billion.
Since then, iGaming has grown even further and regulations have changed around the world to meet the demand of players. In Europe, online gaming is the right of every adult of legal age. In the United States, online casinos are just starting to catch up due to regulations.
According to statistics, it is estimated that online gaming in 2015 was worth $41.4 billion.
The future looks bright as the growth of mobile usage and internet coverage provide more opportunities for players to join.
Online Gambling Becoming a Global Phenomenon | Online Casino Reports
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
Manne wrote:
It is a known fact that the internet has helped various industries grow significantly in recent years. One of the best examples of this is the online gambling industry, which has expanded to cover the entire world and include hundreds, if not thousands, of major operators catering to countless players.
The internet business model provides great opportunities for casino games since customers can just enjoy their favorite games in a matter of seconds, rather than have to travel to a land-based casino. Known as the iGaming industry, it is now a multibillion dollar industry on the internet and it got here in just a bit over a decade.
Something for Everyone
iGaming can be described as a global phenomenon that covers those of all legal ages and demographic groups and continues to grow every year. The exciting casino games improve and online casinos get bigger and better with various offerings and services. Here we can mention brands like 888 Casino, 21 Dukes Casino and Jackpot City Casino as they each have their own style and collection of games.
Between the top software providers, there are more than one thousand casino games available and the list just keeps getting bigger and bigger with the help of new releases. Graphics improve and the entertainment value goes up.
From 1994 to 2016 and to the Future
The industry has its beginning in 1994, when Antigua and Barbuda became the first jurisdiction to allow online gambling; with the first online casinos going live by the end of the year. While it quickly started gaining momentum, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that online gambling really became an industry of global interest. By 2008, online gambling revenue reached $21 billion.
Since then, iGaming has grown even further and regulations have changed around the world to meet the demand of players. In Europe, online gaming is the right of every adult of legal age. In the United States, online casinos are just starting to catch up due to regulations.
According to statistics, it is estimated that online gaming in 2015 was worth $41.4 billion.
The future looks bright as the growth of mobile usage and internet coverage provide more opportunities for players to join.
Online Gambling Becoming a Global Phenomenon | Online Casino Reports
:1orglaugh Did they know that first now :dance:
Join:
2006/12/20
Messages:
978
The family members behind privately held online betting operator Bet365 have made their first appearance in the top-25 of the most recent Sunday Times Rich List.
The Times’ annual list of the UK’s richest 1,000 individuals showed the Coates family – father/founder Peter, daughter Denise and her brother John – leaping 20 spots to #24 last year with a combined net worth of around £3.8b, 60% higher than in 2014 and more than tripling their 2013 total.
Bet365 also earned the title of the highest ranking digital business on the Times list, while Denise Coates (pictured) was singled out as Britain’s “richest self-made woman.”
Despite the Coates’ meteoric rise, the top gambling-related chart position – and the top position overall – belonged to brothers David and Simon Reuben, whose co-ownership of the Arena Racing Company helped boost their net worth to £13.1b.
Other racing-associated luminaries loomed large on the 2015 list, including horse owner siblings Kirsten and John Raussing, who are worth £8.7b, while Earl Cadogan’s family’s packet was worth £5.7b.
Former PokerStars CEO Mark Scheinberg, who has spent the past couple years counting his share of the money earned from the Scheinberg family’s sale of their Rational Group holdings to Canada’s Amaya Gaming in 2014, saw his net worth rise £110m last year to £2.87b.
Playtech founder Teddy Sagi cracked the top 50 for the first time, scoring 44th place with a net worth of £2.5b, proving that little inconveniences like doing time for stock fraud needn’t represent the final nail in one’s career coffin.
Betfred’s bookmaking brothers Fred and Peter Done cracked the top-100 at #82 with a combined haul of £1.3b, having boosted 2014’s figure by an impressive £300m.
The recent merger of Irish betting operator Paddy Power with UK betting exchange Betfair helped many of the associated execs make the lower rungs of the Times list for the first time, including the CEO of the enlarged group Breon Corcoran (£50m), former Paddy boss Patrick Kennedy (£55m) and co-founder Stewart Kenny (£53m).
All told, the Times estimated that the UK’s wealthiest gambling industry figures saw their collective net worth improve nearly £3b last year, pushing their total holdings over £19b. For what it’s worth – and that’s a lot – the richest gambling bosses easily eclipsed their hedge fund counterparts on the 2015 list, who managed only a combined fortune of £13b.
Bet365 Founding Family’s Net Worth Rises 60% in 2015 | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
The Times’ annual list of the UK’s richest 1,000 individuals showed the Coates family – father/founder Peter, daughter Denise and her brother John – leaping 20 spots to #24 last year with a combined net worth of around £3.8b, 60% higher than in 2014 and more than tripling their 2013 total.
Bet365 also earned the title of the highest ranking digital business on the Times list, while Denise Coates (pictured) was singled out as Britain’s “richest self-made woman.”
Despite the Coates’ meteoric rise, the top gambling-related chart position – and the top position overall – belonged to brothers David and Simon Reuben, whose co-ownership of the Arena Racing Company helped boost their net worth to £13.1b.
Other racing-associated luminaries loomed large on the 2015 list, including horse owner siblings Kirsten and John Raussing, who are worth £8.7b, while Earl Cadogan’s family’s packet was worth £5.7b.
Former PokerStars CEO Mark Scheinberg, who has spent the past couple years counting his share of the money earned from the Scheinberg family’s sale of their Rational Group holdings to Canada’s Amaya Gaming in 2014, saw his net worth rise £110m last year to £2.87b.
Playtech founder Teddy Sagi cracked the top 50 for the first time, scoring 44th place with a net worth of £2.5b, proving that little inconveniences like doing time for stock fraud needn’t represent the final nail in one’s career coffin.
Betfred’s bookmaking brothers Fred and Peter Done cracked the top-100 at #82 with a combined haul of £1.3b, having boosted 2014’s figure by an impressive £300m.
The recent merger of Irish betting operator Paddy Power with UK betting exchange Betfair helped many of the associated execs make the lower rungs of the Times list for the first time, including the CEO of the enlarged group Breon Corcoran (£50m), former Paddy boss Patrick Kennedy (£55m) and co-founder Stewart Kenny (£53m).
All told, the Times estimated that the UK’s wealthiest gambling industry figures saw their collective net worth improve nearly £3b last year, pushing their total holdings over £19b. For what it’s worth – and that’s a lot – the richest gambling bosses easily eclipsed their hedge fund counterparts on the 2015 list, who managed only a combined fortune of £13b.
Bet365 Founding Family’s Net Worth Rises 60% in 2015 | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
The share price of European online gambling hub Unibet jumped five per cent today after it announced an almost doubling of profit before tax and a 400,000 jump in users.
Unibet's profit before tax for the first quarter almost doubled, reaching £22.5m, up from £11.3m in the first quarter of 2015.
The company recorded an new all-time high in gross winnings revenue of £122.4m, up 61 per cent from £76.1m last year. Gross winnings revenue was up by 58 per cent in constant currency terms.
Gross winnings revenue in the Nordic region grew by 58 per cent, while Western Europe grew by 63 per cent. However, in both regions organic growth in constant currency terms was approximately 40 per cent.
Net cash generated from operating activities increased by around 90 per cent to £314.4m (up from £16.6m).
The number of active customers at the end of the first quarter edged above one million, up from just over 600,000 in the same period of last year.
Listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm, Unibet's shares jumped by over five per cent.
(Unibet offers online casino and sports betting games)
Unibet's profit before tax for the first quarter almost doubled, reaching £22.5m, up from £11.3m in the first quarter of 2015.
The company recorded an new all-time high in gross winnings revenue of £122.4m, up 61 per cent from £76.1m last year. Gross winnings revenue was up by 58 per cent in constant currency terms.
Gross winnings revenue in the Nordic region grew by 58 per cent, while Western Europe grew by 63 per cent. However, in both regions organic growth in constant currency terms was approximately 40 per cent.
Net cash generated from operating activities increased by around 90 per cent to £314.4m (up from £16.6m).
The number of active customers at the end of the first quarter edged above one million, up from just over 600,000 in the same period of last year.
Listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm, Unibet's shares jumped by over five per cent.
(Unibet offers online casino and sports betting games)
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
ONLINE gambling companies will be banned from offering their clients credit on betting websites.
The government's response to the O'Farrell Review of Illegal Offshore Wagering was released yesterday by Communications Minister Alan Tudge.
The review found $64-$400 million might be lost to offshore gambling websites each year - resulting in lost tax revenue and exacerbating concerns about integrity in sports.
Mr Tudge said the government had accepted 18 of the 19 recommendations, including a ban on online firms offering lines of credit.
The government's response to the O'Farrell Review of Illegal Offshore Wagering was released yesterday by Communications Minister Alan Tudge.
The review found $64-$400 million might be lost to offshore gambling websites each year - resulting in lost tax revenue and exacerbating concerns about integrity in sports.
Mr Tudge said the government had accepted 18 of the 19 recommendations, including a ban on online firms offering lines of credit.
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
1. Admit you have a problem
"Like any addiction, the first step on the road to recovery is accepting that you have a problem," says Karter. "You need to face up to the fact that your gambling habit has got out of control and, by realising that you need to return to some sense of normality, you will be better prepared to put in the work and effort to get there.
"Emotional confusion is very common at this point – with one side of your personality acting rationally and acknowledging that gambling is destroying your life whilst the other is craving the practice with an increased intensity.
"The next step is to rally the right support around you that will help reinforce and strengthen the rational part of you and ease your cravings."
2. Confide in a trusted individual
"Next, you should confide in a supportive friend or family member," advises the addiction therapist. "This tends to be one of the first steps before seeking professional support, as they will likely encourage you to capitalise on your rationality. However, the act of telling a friend or family member is often the most worrying part of the entire process.
"Unlike other addictions, such as with drugs or alcohol, there are no immediate physical signs that an individual may be suffering. Because of this, it is an addiction that is easily hidden and your confidant may have not picked up on your problem. Instead, the indications will have been subtler – you may have started withdrawing from social interactions, been exhibiting mood swings or been unenthused by previously enjoyable activities.
"The general behaviour of a gambling addict is such that partners frequently believe them to be having an affair," reveals Karter.
"But both you and your confidant will feel better once the problem is out in the open," she adds. "It is likely that they suspected something was wrong due to your changing behaviour, and this way they will be relieved that you have finally revealed what it is – despite still being worried for you."
3. Block your access to gambling
"The third step is to block your access to the type of gambling you are addicted to. Then, to all and any forms of gambling.
"This will put an end to your habit and – with the help of your confidant – you will be more likely to stay away from the gambling websites and apps than had you attempted to quit by yourself. This way, you will be letting someone down if you relapse into your gambling ways.
"This step will allow you to realise that gambling is not the escape you believed it to be," says the addiction expert. "People use online gambling as an escape – something to distract them from the stresses and pressure of juggling what they feel are overwhelming work and home commitments. However, eventually, you will realise that it is not a solution, and that the inevitable losses begin a cycle of problems, and the issues from which you were initially trying to run are intensified."
4. Relinquish control of your finances
"Another common problem that only serves to exacerbate the secrecy of the habit is that the gambler is afraid that their addiction will be misunderstood and viewed as greed," Karter reveals. "Many also simply can’t comprehend the actual odds of them winning, and this drives the problem deeper underground.
"Therefore, the next step is to overcome this shame and embarrassment, realise that your confidant will not think that it is greed, and ask them if they will help you manage your finances for a short period of time – four weeks is a good start.
"By giving someone else control of your money," Karter continues, "be this a bank account or credit cards, you will have the burden lifted from your shoulders momentarily, and this will make it easier to move on. During this time, it is advisable to seek debt management – as unmanageable debt simply drives the addictive cycle of loss chasing. Loss chasing, when you keep gambling to win back money you've already lost, is one of the hardest habits to break."
5. Stay busy to overcome withdrawal
"Taking away your access to gambling will not take away your cravings to gamble," warns the addiction therapist. "So – as is the case with beating any addiction – you will experience a withdrawal period. This tends to feel the worst for the first week or so after quitting gambling, so it is imperative to stay busy during this time – preferably in the company of others to distract yourself.
"It is of paramount importance that you don’t think about how one more gamble could give you the big win that would sort out all of your problems – this is a fantasy. When you are addicted to gambling you are in a no win situation.
"But, if this withdrawal becomes unbearable and you begin to feel stressed, depressed or anxious, talk to your GP."
6. Look to others who have successfully stopped
"After four weeks free from gambling, you should begin to feel better," Karter forecasts. "The cravings should have lessened and, if you sought out a friend to help you with your debt, your finances should also be on the path to recovery. This month can also be made a lot easier if professional help is sought.
"However, this time can also be uncertain – it hasn’t been that long since you gave up the force that was driving your life. As a result, you should focus on how everyone who has successfully given up online gambling and is now leading a rewarding and wholesome life once felt as you do now. Simply keep telling yourself that you are not the first person to be going through this process, and that it is entirely possible for you - like others have before - to free yourself of addictive online gambling."
"Like any addiction, the first step on the road to recovery is accepting that you have a problem," says Karter. "You need to face up to the fact that your gambling habit has got out of control and, by realising that you need to return to some sense of normality, you will be better prepared to put in the work and effort to get there.
"Emotional confusion is very common at this point – with one side of your personality acting rationally and acknowledging that gambling is destroying your life whilst the other is craving the practice with an increased intensity.
"The next step is to rally the right support around you that will help reinforce and strengthen the rational part of you and ease your cravings."
2. Confide in a trusted individual
"Next, you should confide in a supportive friend or family member," advises the addiction therapist. "This tends to be one of the first steps before seeking professional support, as they will likely encourage you to capitalise on your rationality. However, the act of telling a friend or family member is often the most worrying part of the entire process.
"Unlike other addictions, such as with drugs or alcohol, there are no immediate physical signs that an individual may be suffering. Because of this, it is an addiction that is easily hidden and your confidant may have not picked up on your problem. Instead, the indications will have been subtler – you may have started withdrawing from social interactions, been exhibiting mood swings or been unenthused by previously enjoyable activities.
"The general behaviour of a gambling addict is such that partners frequently believe them to be having an affair," reveals Karter.
"But both you and your confidant will feel better once the problem is out in the open," she adds. "It is likely that they suspected something was wrong due to your changing behaviour, and this way they will be relieved that you have finally revealed what it is – despite still being worried for you."
3. Block your access to gambling
"The third step is to block your access to the type of gambling you are addicted to. Then, to all and any forms of gambling.
"This will put an end to your habit and – with the help of your confidant – you will be more likely to stay away from the gambling websites and apps than had you attempted to quit by yourself. This way, you will be letting someone down if you relapse into your gambling ways.
"This step will allow you to realise that gambling is not the escape you believed it to be," says the addiction expert. "People use online gambling as an escape – something to distract them from the stresses and pressure of juggling what they feel are overwhelming work and home commitments. However, eventually, you will realise that it is not a solution, and that the inevitable losses begin a cycle of problems, and the issues from which you were initially trying to run are intensified."
4. Relinquish control of your finances
"Another common problem that only serves to exacerbate the secrecy of the habit is that the gambler is afraid that their addiction will be misunderstood and viewed as greed," Karter reveals. "Many also simply can’t comprehend the actual odds of them winning, and this drives the problem deeper underground.
"Therefore, the next step is to overcome this shame and embarrassment, realise that your confidant will not think that it is greed, and ask them if they will help you manage your finances for a short period of time – four weeks is a good start.
"By giving someone else control of your money," Karter continues, "be this a bank account or credit cards, you will have the burden lifted from your shoulders momentarily, and this will make it easier to move on. During this time, it is advisable to seek debt management – as unmanageable debt simply drives the addictive cycle of loss chasing. Loss chasing, when you keep gambling to win back money you've already lost, is one of the hardest habits to break."
5. Stay busy to overcome withdrawal
"Taking away your access to gambling will not take away your cravings to gamble," warns the addiction therapist. "So – as is the case with beating any addiction – you will experience a withdrawal period. This tends to feel the worst for the first week or so after quitting gambling, so it is imperative to stay busy during this time – preferably in the company of others to distract yourself.
"It is of paramount importance that you don’t think about how one more gamble could give you the big win that would sort out all of your problems – this is a fantasy. When you are addicted to gambling you are in a no win situation.
"But, if this withdrawal becomes unbearable and you begin to feel stressed, depressed or anxious, talk to your GP."
6. Look to others who have successfully stopped
"After four weeks free from gambling, you should begin to feel better," Karter forecasts. "The cravings should have lessened and, if you sought out a friend to help you with your debt, your finances should also be on the path to recovery. This month can also be made a lot easier if professional help is sought.
"However, this time can also be uncertain – it hasn’t been that long since you gave up the force that was driving your life. As a result, you should focus on how everyone who has successfully given up online gambling and is now leading a rewarding and wholesome life once felt as you do now. Simply keep telling yourself that you are not the first person to be going through this process, and that it is entirely possible for you - like others have before - to free yourself of addictive online gambling."
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
UK Gambling industry is an essential part of the country’s economy and contributes more than 2.3 billion pounds to the British GDP. Currently, the country has 140 casinos and two poker clubs. In addition, the UK operates 690 bingo clubs.
Today the Gambling Commission has conducted three such studies – in 1999, 2007 and 2010. It can be concluded that the gambling industry is very popular in the Great Britain on the basis of the data obtained. According to a recent study, approximately three-quarters (73%) of UK adults (aged 16 and above) are engaged in gambling.
Australia, in its turn, is different from many countries for its liberal approach to gambling. The situation with gambling in Australia is similar to that of Britain, but at the same time has a little difference. Both Australia and UK provide a lot of services for optimization of gambling and gamer skills improvements, such as CasinoMonster Australia or Bestbettingsites UK, which will help you choose the best place to gamble. In Australia, virtual casinos are much more popular than in the UK, which at one time was the progenitor of the bookmakers. New virtual bookmakers do not have such a strong pressure from competitors. Annual revenues from Australian gambling account for 7.3 billion US dollars. Australia’s legalization of gambling has already formed a whole “army” of players. Political debate has always been focused on such matters, which are the consequences of legalization of gambling for disadvantaged groups.
The government is trying to restrict online gambling due to its unprecedented popularity among the Australian population. According to world studies, 80% of adult Australians are playing in an online casino. Australia is recognized as a world leader in the number of offers of online games. Expansion of the overall gambling market is not more than 5% per year, however, the increase in proposals for virtual gambling and betting has already exceeded 30% level.
According to a study by Australian economists, residents spend around $ 19 billion on gambling entertainment annually. Thus, every Australian gambler spends three times more than the Chinese gamer for example. These figures are giving reason to conclude that Australia is one of the most gambling nations in the world.
Britain ranks first among all other countries in the world in terms of gambling market turnover – today it is 2 billion pounds, despite the fact that the industry is still developing. According to a study on gambling in 2010, 10.7% of the 8,000 survey participants took part in an online gambling. By 2014, this figure has tripled.
However, in December 2014 a law on the taxation of sensational online gambling based on the residence of players has come into force. These changes are designed to minimize the loss of taxes due to offshore gambling. Now, companies that want to provide services to online casinos in the UK and advertise these services in the domestic market must obtain a license from the Gambling Commission and pay a consumption tax in the amount of 15% of total revenues.
British and Australian Gambling Habits - Are They Different? - Anglotopia-net
Today the Gambling Commission has conducted three such studies – in 1999, 2007 and 2010. It can be concluded that the gambling industry is very popular in the Great Britain on the basis of the data obtained. According to a recent study, approximately three-quarters (73%) of UK adults (aged 16 and above) are engaged in gambling.
Australia, in its turn, is different from many countries for its liberal approach to gambling. The situation with gambling in Australia is similar to that of Britain, but at the same time has a little difference. Both Australia and UK provide a lot of services for optimization of gambling and gamer skills improvements, such as CasinoMonster Australia or Bestbettingsites UK, which will help you choose the best place to gamble. In Australia, virtual casinos are much more popular than in the UK, which at one time was the progenitor of the bookmakers. New virtual bookmakers do not have such a strong pressure from competitors. Annual revenues from Australian gambling account for 7.3 billion US dollars. Australia’s legalization of gambling has already formed a whole “army” of players. Political debate has always been focused on such matters, which are the consequences of legalization of gambling for disadvantaged groups.
The government is trying to restrict online gambling due to its unprecedented popularity among the Australian population. According to world studies, 80% of adult Australians are playing in an online casino. Australia is recognized as a world leader in the number of offers of online games. Expansion of the overall gambling market is not more than 5% per year, however, the increase in proposals for virtual gambling and betting has already exceeded 30% level.
According to a study by Australian economists, residents spend around $ 19 billion on gambling entertainment annually. Thus, every Australian gambler spends three times more than the Chinese gamer for example. These figures are giving reason to conclude that Australia is one of the most gambling nations in the world.
Britain ranks first among all other countries in the world in terms of gambling market turnover – today it is 2 billion pounds, despite the fact that the industry is still developing. According to a study on gambling in 2010, 10.7% of the 8,000 survey participants took part in an online gambling. By 2014, this figure has tripled.
However, in December 2014 a law on the taxation of sensational online gambling based on the residence of players has come into force. These changes are designed to minimize the loss of taxes due to offshore gambling. Now, companies that want to provide services to online casinos in the UK and advertise these services in the domestic market must obtain a license from the Gambling Commission and pay a consumption tax in the amount of 15% of total revenues.
British and Australian Gambling Habits - Are They Different? - Anglotopia-net
Join:
2006/12/07
Messages:
29893
According to official government figures, total online gambling revenue from Italian-licensed operators in the three months ending March 31 was €267m, up 21% from the same period last year.
The casino vertical claimed the lion’s share of the overall revenue pie at €106m, representing a hefty 38% year-on-year improvement. The surge was even higher than the 31% rise the casino vertical posted throughout all of 2015. Lottomatica (GTech) is the market’s leading online casino operator, claiming nearly 15% of 2015’s casino revenue.
Online sports betting reported an even larger year-on-year surge, rising 42% to €96m. The gains were spurred by extremely favorable sporting results in January, during which online sportsbook revenue rose 97% to €36m. Bet365 is the market’s unquestioned online sports betting operator, claiming nearly one-fifth of total online betting handle last year.
Sports betting got an entirely different boost in January via the switch from a tax based on wagering turnover to a more reasonable (albeit still high at 22%) tax on betting revenue, allowing Italian operators the means to offer a product more competitive with the international operators serving the market without an Italian license.
Alas, as with other European ring-fenced markets, Italian online poker continued its downward spiral. Tournament revenue was up 6.6% to €22.4m, based largely on strong gains in March. However, cash game poker revenue fell 18% to €20.7m as players struggled to find opponents among the thinning herds trapped inside this walled garden.
The lesser gambling verticals were all in positive territory, with bingo improving 2.9% to €7.5m, virtual sports up 8.2% to €2.6m and exchange wagering jumping 40% to €875k.
Italy’s Online Gambling Revenue Up One-Fifth in Q1 | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
The casino vertical claimed the lion’s share of the overall revenue pie at €106m, representing a hefty 38% year-on-year improvement. The surge was even higher than the 31% rise the casino vertical posted throughout all of 2015. Lottomatica (GTech) is the market’s leading online casino operator, claiming nearly 15% of 2015’s casino revenue.
Online sports betting reported an even larger year-on-year surge, rising 42% to €96m. The gains were spurred by extremely favorable sporting results in January, during which online sportsbook revenue rose 97% to €36m. Bet365 is the market’s unquestioned online sports betting operator, claiming nearly one-fifth of total online betting handle last year.
Sports betting got an entirely different boost in January via the switch from a tax based on wagering turnover to a more reasonable (albeit still high at 22%) tax on betting revenue, allowing Italian operators the means to offer a product more competitive with the international operators serving the market without an Italian license.
Alas, as with other European ring-fenced markets, Italian online poker continued its downward spiral. Tournament revenue was up 6.6% to €22.4m, based largely on strong gains in March. However, cash game poker revenue fell 18% to €20.7m as players struggled to find opponents among the thinning herds trapped inside this walled garden.
The lesser gambling verticals were all in positive territory, with bingo improving 2.9% to €7.5m, virtual sports up 8.2% to €2.6m and exchange wagering jumping 40% to €875k.
Italy’s Online Gambling Revenue Up One-Fifth in Q1 | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
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2006/12/07
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Manne wrote:
1. Admit you have a problem
"Like any addiction, the first step on the road to recovery is accepting that you have a problem," says Karter. "You need to face up to the fact that your gambling habit has got out of control and, by realising that you need to return to some sense of normality, you will be better prepared to put in the work and effort to get there.
"Emotional confusion is very common at this point – with one side of your personality acting rationally and acknowledging that gambling is destroying your life whilst the other is craving the practice with an increased intensity.
"The next step is to rally the right support around you that will help reinforce and strengthen the rational part of you and ease your cravings."
2. Confide in a trusted individual
"Next, you should confide in a supportive friend or family member," advises the addiction therapist. "This tends to be one of the first steps before seeking professional support, as they will likely encourage you to capitalise on your rationality. However, the act of telling a friend or family member is often the most worrying part of the entire process.
"Unlike other addictions, such as with drugs or alcohol, there are no immediate physical signs that an individual may be suffering. Because of this, it is an addiction that is easily hidden and your confidant may have not picked up on your problem. Instead, the indications will have been subtler – you may have started withdrawing from social interactions, been exhibiting mood swings or been unenthused by previously enjoyable activities.
"The general behaviour of a gambling addict is such that partners frequently believe them to be having an affair," reveals Karter.
"But both you and your confidant will feel better once the problem is out in the open," she adds. "It is likely that they suspected something was wrong due to your changing behaviour, and this way they will be relieved that you have finally revealed what it is – despite still being worried for you."
3. Block your access to gambling
"The third step is to block your access to the type of gambling you are addicted to. Then, to all and any forms of gambling.
"This will put an end to your habit and – with the help of your confidant – you will be more likely to stay away from the gambling websites and apps than had you attempted to quit by yourself. This way, you will be letting someone down if you relapse into your gambling ways.
"This step will allow you to realise that gambling is not the escape you believed it to be," says the addiction expert. "People use online gambling as an escape – something to distract them from the stresses and pressure of juggling what they feel are overwhelming work and home commitments. However, eventually, you will realise that it is not a solution, and that the inevitable losses begin a cycle of problems, and the issues from which you were initially trying to run are intensified."
4. Relinquish control of your finances
"Another common problem that only serves to exacerbate the secrecy of the habit is that the gambler is afraid that their addiction will be misunderstood and viewed as greed," Karter reveals. "Many also simply can’t comprehend the actual odds of them winning, and this drives the problem deeper underground.
"Therefore, the next step is to overcome this shame and embarrassment, realise that your confidant will not think that it is greed, and ask them if they will help you manage your finances for a short period of time – four weeks is a good start.
"By giving someone else control of your money," Karter continues, "be this a bank account or credit cards, you will have the burden lifted from your shoulders momentarily, and this will make it easier to move on. During this time, it is advisable to seek debt management – as unmanageable debt simply drives the addictive cycle of loss chasing. Loss chasing, when you keep gambling to win back money you've already lost, is one of the hardest habits to break."
5. Stay busy to overcome withdrawal
"Taking away your access to gambling will not take away your cravings to gamble," warns the addiction therapist. "So – as is the case with beating any addiction – you will experience a withdrawal period. This tends to feel the worst for the first week or so after quitting gambling, so it is imperative to stay busy during this time – preferably in the company of others to distract yourself.
"It is of paramount importance that you don’t think about how one more gamble could give you the big win that would sort out all of your problems – this is a fantasy. When you are addicted to gambling you are in a no win situation.
"But, if this withdrawal becomes unbearable and you begin to feel stressed, depressed or anxious, talk to your GP."
6. Look to others who have successfully stopped
"After four weeks free from gambling, you should begin to feel better," Karter forecasts. "The cravings should have lessened and, if you sought out a friend to help you with your debt, your finances should also be on the path to recovery. This month can also be made a lot easier if professional help is sought.
"However, this time can also be uncertain – it hasn’t been that long since you gave up the force that was driving your life. As a result, you should focus on how everyone who has successfully given up online gambling and is now leading a rewarding and wholesome life once felt as you do now. Simply keep telling yourself that you are not the first person to be going through this process, and that it is entirely possible for you - like others have before - to free yourself of addictive online gambling."
The biggest step to overcoming a gambling addiction is realizing that you have a problem
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2016/02/05
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Manne wrote:
According to official government figures, total online gambling revenue from Italian-licensed operators in the three months ending March 31 was €267m, up 21% from the same period last year.
The casino vertical claimed the lion’s share of the overall revenue pie at €106m, representing a hefty 38% year-on-year improvement. The surge was even higher than the 31% rise the casino vertical posted throughout all of 2015. Lottomatica (GTech) is the market’s leading online casino operator, claiming nearly 15% of 2015’s casino revenue.
Online sports betting reported an even larger year-on-year surge, rising 42% to €96m. The gains were spurred by extremely favorable sporting results in January, during which online sportsbook revenue rose 97% to €36m. Bet365 is the market’s unquestioned online sports betting operator, claiming nearly one-fifth of total online betting handle last year.
Sports betting got an entirely different boost in January via the switch from a tax based on wagering turnover to a more reasonable (albeit still high at 22%) tax on betting revenue, allowing Italian operators the means to offer a product more competitive with the international operators serving the market without an Italian license.
Alas, as with other European ring-fenced markets, Italian online poker continued its downward spiral. Tournament revenue was up 6.6% to €22.4m, based largely on strong gains in March. However, cash game poker revenue fell 18% to €20.7m as players struggled to find opponents among the thinning herds trapped inside this walled garden.
The lesser gambling verticals were all in positive territory, with bingo improving 2.9% to €7.5m, virtual sports up 8.2% to €2.6m and exchange wagering jumping 40% to €875k.
Italy’s Online Gambling Revenue Up One-Fifth in Q1 | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
Regulated online gambling is positive in my world :thumbsup
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2016/02/05
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The Isle of Man has proposed allowing its online gambling licensees – including Amaya Gaming’s PokerStars brand – to accept virtual currencies like Bitcoin as part of their menu of deposit options.
On April 20, the Isle of Man’s Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) released a document detailing a number of proposed secondary legislative changes approved by both the GSC board and the Isle of Man Treasury. Stakeholders will have until May 20 to comment on the proposals.
The Gambling Regulation Package 2016 (viewable here) involves six proposed changes, including allowing sub-licensees to use more of a licensee’s “back office” non-gaming functions, allowing the GSC to accept test certificates from other licensing jurisdictions and allowing punters a wider range of elective controls over their gambling activity.
The GSC also wants to allow its licensees to be able to accept deposits made in convertible virtual currencies (CVCs). In 2014, the GSC considered whether to permit its licensees to accept CVC deposits but the Department of Economic Development (DED) determined that crytocurrencies such as Bitcoin were more akin to property than currency
The GSC’s existing regulations restrict the opening of accounts except by “a deposit of money” by credit or debit card or “by such other means as may be approved by the Commissioners.”
The GSC is proposing that this wording be changed to “a deposit of money or the deposit of something which has a value in money or money’s worth.” The document states that “the format of the money’s worth will still require the Commission’s specific approval” and the GSC intends to seek guidance on how best to frame this change in law.
The GSC maintains that the acceptance of CVCs will be subject to regulatory safeguards on the protection of value and the security of the way value is stored. A CVC exchange run by an online gambling licensee will also have a reporting requirement to a “credible financial intelligence unit” to uphold anti-money laundering procedures.
The GSC’s announcement became public knowledge just as Australian academic Dr. Craig Wright outed himself as the real Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous entity that introduced Bitcoin and blockchain technology to the world in 2009.
Isle of Man To Let Online Gambling Licensees Accept Bitcoin | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
On April 20, the Isle of Man’s Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) released a document detailing a number of proposed secondary legislative changes approved by both the GSC board and the Isle of Man Treasury. Stakeholders will have until May 20 to comment on the proposals.
The Gambling Regulation Package 2016 (viewable here) involves six proposed changes, including allowing sub-licensees to use more of a licensee’s “back office” non-gaming functions, allowing the GSC to accept test certificates from other licensing jurisdictions and allowing punters a wider range of elective controls over their gambling activity.
The GSC also wants to allow its licensees to be able to accept deposits made in convertible virtual currencies (CVCs). In 2014, the GSC considered whether to permit its licensees to accept CVC deposits but the Department of Economic Development (DED) determined that crytocurrencies such as Bitcoin were more akin to property than currency
The GSC’s existing regulations restrict the opening of accounts except by “a deposit of money” by credit or debit card or “by such other means as may be approved by the Commissioners.”
The GSC is proposing that this wording be changed to “a deposit of money or the deposit of something which has a value in money or money’s worth.” The document states that “the format of the money’s worth will still require the Commission’s specific approval” and the GSC intends to seek guidance on how best to frame this change in law.
The GSC maintains that the acceptance of CVCs will be subject to regulatory safeguards on the protection of value and the security of the way value is stored. A CVC exchange run by an online gambling licensee will also have a reporting requirement to a “credible financial intelligence unit” to uphold anti-money laundering procedures.
The GSC’s announcement became public knowledge just as Australian academic Dr. Craig Wright outed himself as the real Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous entity that introduced Bitcoin and blockchain technology to the world in 2009.
Isle of Man To Let Online Gambling Licensees Accept Bitcoin | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
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2006/12/07
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The Regulatory Reform Committee in the Michigan Senate will hold a hearing on May 4 to discuss two gambling bills submitted by Senator Mike Kowall (R).
SB 889 creates a Lawful Internet Gaming Act which will allow state to offer regulated online poker and casino games. SB 890 is a one-clause bill amending the Michigan penal code to make an exemption for gambling authorized under SB 889.
Mike Kowall is the senate majority floor leader. Tory Rocca, who chairs the Regulatory Reform Committee, is also a Republican.
SB 889 creates a Lawful Internet Gaming Act which will allow state to offer regulated online poker and casino games. SB 890 is a one-clause bill amending the Michigan penal code to make an exemption for gambling authorized under SB 889.
Mike Kowall is the senate majority floor leader. Tory Rocca, who chairs the Regulatory Reform Committee, is also a Republican.
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2006/12/07
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On Wednesday, the Michigan legislature’s Regulatory Reform Committee held an informational hearing to discuss two related online poker bills: SB 889, which would legalized and regulate online gambling in the state and SB 890, which would amend Michigan’s penal code to permit for the online gambling that is legalized in SB 889. From the sounds of it, it was a solid hearing filled with reasonable people interested in educating themselves on internet gaming, unlike hearings we have seen on Capitol Hill.
USPoker-com’s Steve Ruddock was on hand in Lansing providing live updates on the hearing, so credit to him – I’m just lounging around in Georgia (look, man, my kid had a Little League game tonight). Amongst the witnesses at the hearing were three representatives from Amaya/PokerStars: Jeanne David, head of PokerStars’ responsible gaming efforts, Steven Winter, Amaya’s director of operations, and Matthew Robins, director compliance.
Ruddock reported that all three gave excellent, detailed presentations on how they protect their customers. He called Jeanne David’s explanation of the company’s responsible gaming protocols “eloquent.” She demonstrated the options players have on placing limits on their play, such as setting restrictions on stakes or losses, both on a daily or even per-hand basis (the latter would be for casino games, presumably).
Steven Winter discussed how the company combats gaming fraud and detects problem gambling behavior. He went over a host of things such as how the site makes sure players are who they say they are via identity technologies and geolocation. He also explained how PokerStars maintains the integrity of its games.
Matthew Robins focused on how PokerStars works with different jurisdictions on their varying money laundering protocols and how, despite what opponents of online gambling will say, it is harder to launder money online because of the data trail.
One of the stars of the hearing was Poker Players Alliance executive director John Pappas. In a lengthy (twelve page!) statement, which can be found on the PPA website, Pappas dropped knowledge on the Committee.
“S.B. 889 should not be viewed as an expansion of gambling in Michigan, but rather as an opportunity to protect consumers and add a new distribution channel for the state’s existing, and tightly regulated, gaming industry,” he said. “To be clear, citizens of this state have access to online poker, online casino games and online sports betting – but they play on foreign sites, none of which are properly licensed or regulated by this government.”
He then made the bold move of bringing up an instance in which poker players were ripped off by a poker site, something that some people would probably prefer wasn’t brought up in front of lawmakers.
This void in consumer protection is all too real for Michigan residents who played on Lock Poker, an online site based in Curacao, which abruptly shut down in April 2015, and took millions in player deposits. Sadly, because of zero regulatory oversight, there’s nothing affected customers can do to get their money back and to hold this rogue website accountable. S.B. 889 changes this dynamic and puts Michigan in control of internet gaming by corralling the unregulated market and turning it into a state-based industry that is safe for consumers and accountable to regulators.
His point was an excellent one. It is not that a poker site couldn’t do bad things in a regulated environment – after all, companies run afoul of the law every day – it’s that customers would have recourse if they were wronged.
Michigan Legislative Committee Holds Online Gaming Hearing
USPoker-com’s Steve Ruddock was on hand in Lansing providing live updates on the hearing, so credit to him – I’m just lounging around in Georgia (look, man, my kid had a Little League game tonight). Amongst the witnesses at the hearing were three representatives from Amaya/PokerStars: Jeanne David, head of PokerStars’ responsible gaming efforts, Steven Winter, Amaya’s director of operations, and Matthew Robins, director compliance.
Ruddock reported that all three gave excellent, detailed presentations on how they protect their customers. He called Jeanne David’s explanation of the company’s responsible gaming protocols “eloquent.” She demonstrated the options players have on placing limits on their play, such as setting restrictions on stakes or losses, both on a daily or even per-hand basis (the latter would be for casino games, presumably).
Steven Winter discussed how the company combats gaming fraud and detects problem gambling behavior. He went over a host of things such as how the site makes sure players are who they say they are via identity technologies and geolocation. He also explained how PokerStars maintains the integrity of its games.
Matthew Robins focused on how PokerStars works with different jurisdictions on their varying money laundering protocols and how, despite what opponents of online gambling will say, it is harder to launder money online because of the data trail.
One of the stars of the hearing was Poker Players Alliance executive director John Pappas. In a lengthy (twelve page!) statement, which can be found on the PPA website, Pappas dropped knowledge on the Committee.
“S.B. 889 should not be viewed as an expansion of gambling in Michigan, but rather as an opportunity to protect consumers and add a new distribution channel for the state’s existing, and tightly regulated, gaming industry,” he said. “To be clear, citizens of this state have access to online poker, online casino games and online sports betting – but they play on foreign sites, none of which are properly licensed or regulated by this government.”
He then made the bold move of bringing up an instance in which poker players were ripped off by a poker site, something that some people would probably prefer wasn’t brought up in front of lawmakers.
This void in consumer protection is all too real for Michigan residents who played on Lock Poker, an online site based in Curacao, which abruptly shut down in April 2015, and took millions in player deposits. Sadly, because of zero regulatory oversight, there’s nothing affected customers can do to get their money back and to hold this rogue website accountable. S.B. 889 changes this dynamic and puts Michigan in control of internet gaming by corralling the unregulated market and turning it into a state-based industry that is safe for consumers and accountable to regulators.
His point was an excellent one. It is not that a poker site couldn’t do bad things in a regulated environment – after all, companies run afoul of the law every day – it’s that customers would have recourse if they were wronged.
Michigan Legislative Committee Holds Online Gaming Hearing
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2006/12/07
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In the past week, we have seen a new point of emphasis in the battle to legalize and regulate online gambling: Consumer protection. First, it came up in California, then again in Michigan.
During hearings in both states, Poker Players Alliance Executive Director John Pappas was asked to show — via a live demo on the internet — how easy it is to access offshore sites from the two jurisdictions.
It’s not as if the idea that offshore, unregulated online gambling sites are easily accessible to Americans had never come up previously. But to say that it had been a point of emphasis over other concerns — like revenue that could be generated by states — would be inaccurate.
So why the change from iGaming proponents? And can it help the progress of bills?
Does this give online gambling bills a better chance?
In theory, yes, the consumer protection angle should provide some more hope for iGaming legislation.
First, trying something new when old methods have resulted in little tangible success is a welcome change.
Highlighting the idea that people are playing online poker and casino games anyway — without the benefit of any government oversight or protection — could, and should, be a topic that resonates with those in government. It is one that is clearly resonating with many regarding DFS, which has many of the same concerns in play.
Will a new emphasis on consumer protection help any iGaming bills get to the finish line? It’s too early to tell, but it’s certainly worth a try.
Can Consumer Protection Concerns Help Online Gambling Regulation?
During hearings in both states, Poker Players Alliance Executive Director John Pappas was asked to show — via a live demo on the internet — how easy it is to access offshore sites from the two jurisdictions.
It’s not as if the idea that offshore, unregulated online gambling sites are easily accessible to Americans had never come up previously. But to say that it had been a point of emphasis over other concerns — like revenue that could be generated by states — would be inaccurate.
So why the change from iGaming proponents? And can it help the progress of bills?
Does this give online gambling bills a better chance?
In theory, yes, the consumer protection angle should provide some more hope for iGaming legislation.
First, trying something new when old methods have resulted in little tangible success is a welcome change.
Highlighting the idea that people are playing online poker and casino games anyway — without the benefit of any government oversight or protection — could, and should, be a topic that resonates with those in government. It is one that is clearly resonating with many regarding DFS, which has many of the same concerns in play.
Will a new emphasis on consumer protection help any iGaming bills get to the finish line? It’s too early to tell, but it’s certainly worth a try.
Can Consumer Protection Concerns Help Online Gambling Regulation?
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2006/12/07
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29893
Russian authorities plan to give regulators more powerful tools to combat online gambling sites serving Russian punters without a local license.
Last September, Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor imposed blocks on a couple dozen gambling sites linked to both domestic and international operators, as part of a clampdown on banned sites offering all manner of unauthorized material, including certain types of porn, pirated intellectual property and the like.
On April 26, Russia’s Ministry of Communications released a proposed amendment to federal law that sought to “address the deficiencies identified as a result of enforcement of rules to limit access to sites on the Internet containing illegal information.”
The text accompanying the amendment explains that the operators of restricted sites have been informing users of ways to circumvent the IP-blocks imposed by Russian authorities, including through the use of ‘mirror’ sites that alter the offending domain just enough to evade the digital censors.
The amendment would require internet service providers to speedily block such mirror sites, while search engines would be required to scrub all references to the offending operators.
The Ministry is seeking public discussion on the amendment until May 16, with an eye towards having the enforcement mechanisms in place by November 2016.
RUSSIA PUTS POKERSTARS ON NOTICE
Meanwhile, Roskomnadzor continues to update its list of officially unapproved sites, and this week’s additions include domains linked to familiar international names such as Bet365, BetUS, GVC Holdings’ Sportingbet and Casino Club brands, Betsson’s Kroon Casino brand, along with domestic operators Fonbet and 1xbet.
Also making the grade were three sites linked to Amaya Gaming’s PokerStars brand, including Pokerstars-com, updatead-pokerstars-eu and realchips-pokerstarscashier-com.
For the record, Stars was first added to the list in 2014, and has earned 46 mentions since its debut, although half of these domains – which include many ‘mirror’ type variants – were added within the past month, which, if nothing else, suggests that Russia is taking a much closer interest in the company.
Amaya has made no secret of wishing to acquire the legal right to operate in Russia, from which PokerStars derives a significant percentage of its players. However, at present, the government appears to be interested in authorizing only online sports betting, not poker.
The recent flurry of PokerStars-related additions to Russia’s register of prohibited sites could pose significant problems for Amaya’s New Jersey-licensed online operations, similar to those stemming from Australia’s recent decision to take more aggressive steps against operators deemed to be serving the market without authorization.
Last month, New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) announced a policy that allowed its online licensees to continue to operate in so-called ‘grey’ markets, provided the licensees weren’t the subject of “affirmative, concrete actions to actively enforce” online gambling restrictions in these markets.
It’s unclear how much more explicit Russian authorities need to get to confirm their desire to have PokerStars cease its activities in their country. Assuming Amaya has no intention of cutting off its Russian revenue stream, it’s equally unclear how the company will be able to legally justify Stars’ continued operations in Russia.
Amaya isn’t alone in potentially facing fallout from the updated Russian list. GVC is currently sweating its own DGE inspection stemming from its acquisition of Bwin.party digital entertainment, which is licensed to operate in New Jersey. With both Sportingbet and Casino Club in Russia’s sights, the DGE may find itself with little option but to reject GVC’s application, which in turn would make it doubly hard to give PokerStars a pass.
PokerStars New Jersey Faces Regulatory Threat From Russian Blacklist | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
Last September, Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor imposed blocks on a couple dozen gambling sites linked to both domestic and international operators, as part of a clampdown on banned sites offering all manner of unauthorized material, including certain types of porn, pirated intellectual property and the like.
On April 26, Russia’s Ministry of Communications released a proposed amendment to federal law that sought to “address the deficiencies identified as a result of enforcement of rules to limit access to sites on the Internet containing illegal information.”
The text accompanying the amendment explains that the operators of restricted sites have been informing users of ways to circumvent the IP-blocks imposed by Russian authorities, including through the use of ‘mirror’ sites that alter the offending domain just enough to evade the digital censors.
The amendment would require internet service providers to speedily block such mirror sites, while search engines would be required to scrub all references to the offending operators.
The Ministry is seeking public discussion on the amendment until May 16, with an eye towards having the enforcement mechanisms in place by November 2016.
RUSSIA PUTS POKERSTARS ON NOTICE
Meanwhile, Roskomnadzor continues to update its list of officially unapproved sites, and this week’s additions include domains linked to familiar international names such as Bet365, BetUS, GVC Holdings’ Sportingbet and Casino Club brands, Betsson’s Kroon Casino brand, along with domestic operators Fonbet and 1xbet.
Also making the grade were three sites linked to Amaya Gaming’s PokerStars brand, including Pokerstars-com, updatead-pokerstars-eu and realchips-pokerstarscashier-com.
For the record, Stars was first added to the list in 2014, and has earned 46 mentions since its debut, although half of these domains – which include many ‘mirror’ type variants – were added within the past month, which, if nothing else, suggests that Russia is taking a much closer interest in the company.
Amaya has made no secret of wishing to acquire the legal right to operate in Russia, from which PokerStars derives a significant percentage of its players. However, at present, the government appears to be interested in authorizing only online sports betting, not poker.
The recent flurry of PokerStars-related additions to Russia’s register of prohibited sites could pose significant problems for Amaya’s New Jersey-licensed online operations, similar to those stemming from Australia’s recent decision to take more aggressive steps against operators deemed to be serving the market without authorization.
Last month, New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) announced a policy that allowed its online licensees to continue to operate in so-called ‘grey’ markets, provided the licensees weren’t the subject of “affirmative, concrete actions to actively enforce” online gambling restrictions in these markets.
It’s unclear how much more explicit Russian authorities need to get to confirm their desire to have PokerStars cease its activities in their country. Assuming Amaya has no intention of cutting off its Russian revenue stream, it’s equally unclear how the company will be able to legally justify Stars’ continued operations in Russia.
Amaya isn’t alone in potentially facing fallout from the updated Russian list. GVC is currently sweating its own DGE inspection stemming from its acquisition of Bwin.party digital entertainment, which is licensed to operate in New Jersey. With both Sportingbet and Casino Club in Russia’s sights, the DGE may find itself with little option but to reject GVC’s application, which in turn would make it doubly hard to give PokerStars a pass.
PokerStars New Jersey Faces Regulatory Threat From Russian Blacklist | Online Gambling News : CalvinAyre-com
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2006/12/07
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29893
President Obama on Friday warned that presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump is not fit for the nation's highest office, saying that "this is not a reality show."
"He has a long record that needs to be examined," Obama said during a news conference at the White House. "I think it is important for us to take seriously statements he’s made in the past. But most importantly, I just want to emphasize the degree to which we are in serious times. This is not entertainment. ... This is a contest for president of the United States."
Taking up a message he delivered last month at an awards banquet for journalists, Obama implored reporters to dig into the statements and policy proposals of candidates. On Trump, he added that "taking a position where you threaten war, where you're upending critical relations with other countries or you would potentially break the financial system--that needs to be reported on."
Obama said that he has concerns "about the degree of reporting and information that emphasizes the spectacle or circus. That's not something we can afford."
"He has a long record that needs to be examined," Obama said during a news conference at the White House. "I think it is important for us to take seriously statements he’s made in the past. But most importantly, I just want to emphasize the degree to which we are in serious times. This is not entertainment. ... This is a contest for president of the United States."
Taking up a message he delivered last month at an awards banquet for journalists, Obama implored reporters to dig into the statements and policy proposals of candidates. On Trump, he added that "taking a position where you threaten war, where you're upending critical relations with other countries or you would potentially break the financial system--that needs to be reported on."
Obama said that he has concerns "about the degree of reporting and information that emphasizes the spectacle or circus. That's not something we can afford."
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2006/12/07
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ELECTRONIC games with names such as Bingo Blitz or Big Fish Casino feature on a new government watch list designed to help parents prevent their children from learning to gamble.
Following inquiries by The Advertiser, the government has revealed the watch list, which ranks games under red or yellow classifications depending on how much they may encourage young players to gamble.
At least 64 games have been added to the list so far, many of which can be downloaded free to play on mobile phones or tablet devices.
The most concerning games, in the red category, use elements of “simulated casino-style gambling” such as noises, flashing lights or encouraging players to risk something of value in the hope of gaining a reward.
Games in this category include Bingo Blitz, Big Fish Casino, Dice Poker 3D, Jackpot Slots, 8-Ball Pool and Slots Romance.
The yellow-rated games may allow players to win bonuses through chance or to build or visit virtual casinos.
They may also normalise attending casinos and race tracks or playing poker card games, or promote other casino-style games.
Games in this category include Bingo Bash, the Solitaire card game, a Coin Dozer arcade game and Megapolis, a city-building game.
Parents can search the list by their child’s age range or search for the name of a specific game.
The State Government promised to develop the watch list ahead of the 2014 state election.
Attorney-General John Rau said it “allows parents to make educated choices about the appropriateness of certain games by providing an easy and clear rating system”.
Pokies Anonymous leader Julia Karpathakis said many parents would have “no idea” of the potential risk some games posed.
“What they’re doing is normalising it (gambling) and instilling a seed in children for the future,” she said.
“I think most parents would want to know, so they can warn their children.”
Mr Rau said he was also working with federal Justice Minister Michael Keenan on new classifications for such games.
A trial of a new system — which assigns ratings based on answers to an online questionnaire given to game developers about the content of their products — will finish on June 30.
A report will be provided to governments.
An Adelaide University study, released in late 2013, found teenagers who use gambling-style games on phones and other devices were up to three times more likely to engage in real gambling.
The study of more than 1200 children aged 12 to 17 found a third had tried one or more types of simulated gambling online.
Separate research, prepared for the SA Government, found half of problem gamblers began gambling in their teens.
While many games are free to download some can impose in-game costs.
It is possible for children to pay theses online without a parent’s credit card or password by purchasing preloaded cards sold at post offices or supermarkets.
Some games can give players free credits but then encourage them to purchase more to keep playing.
The games watch list is administered by the Australian Council on Children and the Media.
You can see the list here.
Following inquiries by The Advertiser, the government has revealed the watch list, which ranks games under red or yellow classifications depending on how much they may encourage young players to gamble.
At least 64 games have been added to the list so far, many of which can be downloaded free to play on mobile phones or tablet devices.
The most concerning games, in the red category, use elements of “simulated casino-style gambling” such as noises, flashing lights or encouraging players to risk something of value in the hope of gaining a reward.
Games in this category include Bingo Blitz, Big Fish Casino, Dice Poker 3D, Jackpot Slots, 8-Ball Pool and Slots Romance.
The yellow-rated games may allow players to win bonuses through chance or to build or visit virtual casinos.
They may also normalise attending casinos and race tracks or playing poker card games, or promote other casino-style games.
Games in this category include Bingo Bash, the Solitaire card game, a Coin Dozer arcade game and Megapolis, a city-building game.
Parents can search the list by their child’s age range or search for the name of a specific game.
The State Government promised to develop the watch list ahead of the 2014 state election.
Attorney-General John Rau said it “allows parents to make educated choices about the appropriateness of certain games by providing an easy and clear rating system”.
Pokies Anonymous leader Julia Karpathakis said many parents would have “no idea” of the potential risk some games posed.
“What they’re doing is normalising it (gambling) and instilling a seed in children for the future,” she said.
“I think most parents would want to know, so they can warn their children.”
Mr Rau said he was also working with federal Justice Minister Michael Keenan on new classifications for such games.
A trial of a new system — which assigns ratings based on answers to an online questionnaire given to game developers about the content of their products — will finish on June 30.
A report will be provided to governments.
An Adelaide University study, released in late 2013, found teenagers who use gambling-style games on phones and other devices were up to three times more likely to engage in real gambling.
The study of more than 1200 children aged 12 to 17 found a third had tried one or more types of simulated gambling online.
Separate research, prepared for the SA Government, found half of problem gamblers began gambling in their teens.
While many games are free to download some can impose in-game costs.
It is possible for children to pay theses online without a parent’s credit card or password by purchasing preloaded cards sold at post offices or supermarkets.
Some games can give players free credits but then encourage them to purchase more to keep playing.
The games watch list is administered by the Australian Council on Children and the Media.
You can see the list here.
Join:
2006/12/07
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morten wrote:
The biggest step to overcoming a gambling addiction is realizing that you have a problem
Theres alot of people with gambling addiction. I have some friends how are crazy about gambling. With so much advertising on the TV it's not strange people getting addicted!
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2006/12/20
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Both proposals originate in the Greek economic crisis which shows little sign of abating.
They were submitted to the Troika of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), European Central Bank (EC😎 and EU as part of a budget deal to trigger further loans.
Changes in taxation rules then created an almost untenable situation for online poker. Income taxes are now calculated on the amount won in any 24 hour period—losses the following day cannot be offset against winnings.
PokerStars.gr attempted to provide players with a way around the law, scheduling tournaments that began in one tax day and ending in another, but this was soon disallowed.
Tax revenues from online poker are now tiny, and players are financially incentivized to play at offshore sites not licensed in Greece.
An amendment to the way that income taxes are calculated on winnings would be one the online poker industry would welcome.
The new law aims to raise as much tax revenue as possible, however, the blatant cash grab is unlikely to reach the amounts that the government originally forecast. Its prospects have already been derailed by OPAP.
Substantial tax revenues were expected from permitting the deployment of video lottery terminals (VLTs), but OPAP simply told the government that it would cancel its VLT business since it would not be commercially viable under the government’s tax proposals.
OPAP’s concerns are likely to be taken into account in the new legislation, after several meetings between the company and the government. This gives some hope that the online poker industry will also be able to get the government to rethink the income tax calculations.
A restoration of commercial viability in the Greek online poker market would not only increase government tax revenues, but also boost revenues at the major operators like Amaya.
New Online Gambling Legislation In Greece To Be Aimed At Reaping Tax Benefits