Thursday, July 30, 2009

Gibraltar Gaming Commission & Authority

Gibraltar is located at the southern most tip of Europe. It was always known as a well-regulated financial center and therefore a natural choice for a gaming jurisdiction. Today the Gibraltar Gaming Commission, known as the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, licenses sports books, online casinos and betting exchanges with the total number of licensees for online gambling being 21. Over 10% of its workforce is employed by the gaming industry.

Online gambling commenced in the mid 1990s and started growing around the end of the last century. The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority issued its first online gaming licenses in 1998. The first operators who came to Gibraltar were Victor Chandler and Ladbrokes. Today the Gibraltar jurisdiction boasts of some of the biggest names in online gaming. These include the Belle Rock Entertainment group that offers popular online casinos like JackpotCity and River Belle, 888 Holdings that runs 888.com and Pacific Poker, and the PartyGaming group that offers PartyPoker and PartyCasino.

The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority does not charge any initial licensing fee, even though it undertakes a very rigorous initial inspection. The licensees pay an annual fee of £2,000 and a gaming tax of 1% of their turnover subject to an annual cap of £42.5 million.

Initially the Gibraltar jurisdiction operated under the 1958 Gaming Ordinance. However with the tremendous growth in online gaming and the attendant social issues Gibraltar's House of Assembly updated its gaming legislation in 2005 and passed the Gambling Act 2005, under which the Gambling Regulatory Authority was appointed as the Gambling Commissioner. One of the reasons that Gibraltar has few licensees is that it has set strict standards and enforces them ruthlessly. The new act focuses on regulation, transparency and social obligations.

Gibraltar is the only United Kingdom overseas territory that is a part of the European Union. Also the Gibraltar jurisdiction is covered by the new U.K. Gaming Act. Both these associations have brought greater credibility and popularity to online gambling sites licensed in Gibraltar.

The responsibilities of the Gibraltar Regulatory authority include framing regulatory policies, evaluating applications for new licenses, investigating breach of license conditions and resolving disputes between player and operator. Among the numerous requirements that a potential licensee has to fulfill two are most important. The applicant has to produce a certificate confirming the integrity of the software from an approved inspection agency. The agencies approved for this purpose by the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority are Technical Systems Testing, eCOGRA, iTech Labs Australia and Gaming Associates Pty Ltd. The applicants also have to demonstrate their commitment to responsible gambling. They have to provide links from their sites to problem gambling help sites, have to incorporate self-exclusion features in their software and also have to take steps to prevent underage gambling.

References: Wikipedia, Gibraltar Gaming Commission

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Wednesday, July 29, 2009

10million US Poker players despite UIEGA ban

Despite US restrictions, America still remains as the largest online poker market.

Market research company, Poker players research (PPR) has found that despite the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIEGA) which banned online gambling back in 2006, there are still over 10million real money poker player in the USA. This figure shows more than 5 times the amount of players in the UK, the second largest market in the world with 1.9million poker fans.

Germany came in third from the research, with a market size of 1.6million which was slightly ahead of France who has 1.3 million players. Scandinavia’s mature market has just 1.4 million real money players.

PokerStars and Full Tilt have taken more than half of the market share as they stayed in the US throughout the legislative struggles, at the expense of those who pulled out after the UIEGA was passed. Operators that pulled out include PartyGaming, the new owners of Cashcade, who settled with authorities for $105m in April.

PartyGaming took a calculated risk by settling with the authorities, so that it may be able to re-enter the market if efforts to regulate the American online gambling industry succeeds. However operators 888 haven’t shown any signs of moving towards a settlement with the US Department of Justice.

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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

China bans online games which glamorize gangs

BEIJING - China has banned websites featuring or publicizing online games which glamorize mafia gangs, saying violators will be "severely punished," state media reported on Tuesday.

The Culture Ministry said such games "advocate obscenity, gambling, or violence," and "undermine morality and Chinese traditional culture," the official Xinhua news agency said.

"These games encourage people to deceive, loot and kill, and glorify gangsters' lives. It has a bad influence on youngsters," the report said, citing a ministry circular.

In games like "Godfather" people can play at being hitmen or gangsters, Xinhua said.

"The ministry ordered its law enforcement bodies to step up oversight and harshly punish those sites that continue to run such games," it added, without elaborating.

In the early years of Communist rule, the government almost totally extinguished mafia-like gangs, but they have made a comeback in recent decades as China relaxed its social and economic controls.

Despite their involvement in unsavory activities like human trafficking and drugs, movies and television series made in Taiwan and Hong Kong about gangs are very popular in China.

The online game industry in China is expected to grow by between 30 percent and 50 percent this year, with a sales revenue of 24 billion yuan ($3.51 billion) to 27 billion yuan, according to officials.

China has about 200 million online game players, and more than 300 million Internet users, the largest number in the world.

The Chinese government has closed hundreds of websites in an ongoing crackdown on online porn and "vulgar content" that in some cases has netted dissident sites.

The campaign is part of a broader tightening of the media ahead of October's 60th anniversary of the founding of Communist China.

But the government backed down on a plan to require that Green Dam filter software be pre-installed on all new computers to block supposedly pornographic or other vulgar content. ($1=6.830 Yuan)

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Sunday, July 26, 2009

Chinese casino city Macau set to anoint new leader

HONG KONG — The upcoming election of Macau's new leader offers something of a rarity in this Chinese gambling city: a sure thing.

There's one candidate, Fernando Chui, and odds are overwhelming he'll be rubber-stamped Sunday by a 300-member election panel in the former Portuguese colony's first change of leadership since its return to Chinese rule a decade ago.

But his all-but-assured victory comes at an uncertain time.

Macau is the only place in China where casinos are legal, but this world-leading gambling center has been reeling from the economic crisis.

The territory's white-hot growth has cooled as gambling revenues have fallen. With fewer visitors, hotel rooms sit empty and multibillion dollar projects have been shelved. A city that couldn't hire workers fast enough to build and staff its new resorts now faces creeping unemployment.

Chui, 52, a former culture minister from a prominent local family, has said little about his plans for the gaming industry. The industry has its own wish list, including cuts to a gambling tax they say is too high and blunts Macau's edge over lower-taxed Singapore, where new casinos are due next year.

But few expect radical changes for now. Analysts say Chui will likely maintain existing policies governing taxes, licenses and the number of gambling tables. Significant shifts would likely need Beijing's tacit approval.

"There's nothing much he can do because everything is in the pipeline," said political analyst Larry So of Macau Polytechnic Institute. "Everyone accepts gambling policy in the near future is designed to slow the industry because it grew too fast."
The incumbent, Edmund Ho, announced last year that Macau will not issue new casino licenses and approve new applications for additional gambling tables or slot machines in the near future.

However, there are hopes that Chui's election might lead Beijing, as a goodwill gesture to a new administration, to end visa restrictions that curb visits by mainland Chinese, Macau's biggest customers by far. The rules were imposed last year by China — in what was seen as an attempt to cool the local economy — stop government officials from gambling and control money laundering. They are often blamed for sliding revenue growth.

Chui has pledged to diversify the territory's gambling-driven economy. He talks of luring more visitors with conferences, exhibitions and Macau's many cultural and historical sites.

"If I am elected, I shall take an integrated approach to development and make great efforts to promote the sustainable growth of gaming-related industries," he wrote on his campaign Web site.

Chui comes from Macau's elite. His family has sprawling business interests in property, construction, tourism and commodities. He has a doctorate in public health from the U.S., was culture minister for 10 years and served as a lawmaker before that.

He was a front-runner from the start of the race to elect a successor to Ho, who has served for 10 years.

In the nomination phase, the election commission — which is stacked with Beijing loyalists — gave Chui 286 of the 300 votes. None of the three other candidates was able to garner the minimum 50 nomination votes required to challenge him. But under the electoral rules, a poll is still required Sunday, and Chui must receive 151 votes to win his five-year term as the new chief executive — which appears to be a mere formality.

He would take office on Dec. 20 when Macau marks the 10th anniversary of its reversion to Chinese rule.

Unlike neighboring Hong Kong, Macau has a history of strong pro-China sentiment and only a token presence of pro-democracy opposition lawmakers. (Credit: AP)

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Saturday, July 25, 2009

PartyCasino Jackpot Tops $3 Million Mark

24 July 2009

GIBRALTAR - (PRESS RELEASE) - In recent minutes the PartyCasino Gold Mega Jackpot has exceeded a record $3,000,000! To celebrate this landmark, the world's largest online casino has introduced the chance to win a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S to the player who has earned the most PartyPoints by the time the jackpot is won, starting today!

If the jackpot is won within two weeks from today (Friday 24th July) the player who earns the most PartyPoints by playing the Gold Mega Jackpot games: The Godfather, Mega Fortune Wheel, Super Joker, Super Mystic, Super Fortune Wheel and Super Star wins the sports car. There is a leaderboard running through PartyAccount and if the jackpot is won within two weeks one of PartyGaming's Palladium Lounge VIP hosts will call with the news that the Porsche has been won.

If the Gold Mega Jackpot is not won within two weeks from the 24th July cash prizes will be awarded to players 1st - 300th on the leaderboard. 1st to 5th ranked players will share a prize pool of $50,000.* From there on, players ranked in every 10th place will get $1,000. Winners will have the choice of a cash alternative of $80,000 in place of the Porsche. In all cases PartyCasino.com will pay the value of the Porsche or the Porsche itself only (worth £67,000), but will not pay any taxes that may apply to the winner in their country of residence. This is based on UK prices of a new Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. For more details and terms and conditions please see your individual PartyAccount.

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: "The Gold Mega Jackpot has exceeded a staggering $3,000,000 and the Porsche promotion has kicked-in. The Gold Mega Jackpot may not have hit for a while but the Super Jackpot has been hit three times this week alone and twice within 24 hours! Three separate players have walked away with $285,831.61, $56,746.14 and $51,386.44."

PartyCasino now offers over 120 games and pays out well over $10 million EVERY DAY to players. The world's largest online casino continues to expand rapidly - in fact the number of games on PartyCasino.com has DOUBLED in just six months and there are a lot more games to come! Recent popular additions include old school classics such as King Kong and Wheel of Fortune.

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Thursday, July 23, 2009

Internet Gambling Makes Push in Asia Pacific Region

The past month has seen a surge of both established and not so established Internet Gambling and other gaming companies make a push into the Asia Pacific region. Greg Tingle, Special Contributor to the Gambling911.com website and Australian correspondent, takes a look at the Internet gambling sector in that region. He also looks at the online poker component. Tingle is also the proprietor of Media Man out of Australia.

It appears apparent that some of the gaming entities have more than just a casual interest in Australia, judging by some of the game titles. Try "Goanna Gold", "Cool Bananas", "Kangaroo Zoo", and "Shaaark" on for size!

PartyGaming saw some of their PartyCasino.com titles enjoy a rise in popularity as Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible and Top Gun) fame, and his partner, Katie Holmes, have been spending time in Melbourne, using James Packer's Crown Towers as a base.

Aspinalls are making a push with their Aspinalls Online Casino and Aspinalls Online Poker. Aspinalls have quite a colourful history, with the late, great, John Aspinall said to have ties and friendships with Australia's Packer family. In recent years it has been reported that Australia's James Packer has done business deals with Damian Aspinall. No doubt Aspers would be most welcome to accommodate the needs of casino whales, in both an online and offline capacity. Aspinall Jr has been spotted out and about with Australia's Elle "The Body" MacPherson a number of times over the past year, so Aspers wins points for that alone.

Titan Casino and Titan Poker both Playtech powered casinos have also identified the Asia Pacific region as a go ahead region for growth. Titan have come up with some impressive and generous bonuses for signing up at their online casino brands.

JackpotCity and Lucky Nugget Online Casino, both part of the Belle Rock Entertainment family, rose to prominence in Australia last year with their promotion of blockbuster movie hits, Tomb Raider and Hitman. JackpotCity is powered by Microgaming, which incidentally is also the software that powers Australia's Captain Cooks Casino. Captain Cooks Casino is by all accounts a favorite with the Aussies, so it looks like a battle of sorts may be on the horizon for the patronage of players who prefer Microgaming.

Casino Club and Slots Club, both powered by Boss Media, proudly have "Kangaroo Zoo" in their casino game stable. In recent months they have added more games, revamped the websites, and enhanced multi currency options.

Euro Partners, the European gaming powerhouse is embarking on a campaign pushing forward their highly respect casino brands into the Asia Pacific. Sources advise to be watching out for Casino Tropez and Europa Casino, to name but a few.

Virgin Games maintains presence in Australia and their Transformers online slot game is impossible to miss, thanks to the blockbuster movie launch last month. Virgin looks to have taken a page out of the Marvel Entertainment book, pushing forward a traditional entertainment brand. Marvel Entertainment is working on a Thor movie, so one would expect the Thor slot game to enjoy some renewed popularity. Virgin Casino top brass has recently gone on record via the Virgin.com website portal about the ups and downs of the online casino and igaming industry. Virgin's Richard Branson has approximately 200 companies in a range of industry verticals, so Virgin are certainly spreading their risk. Virgin recently ceased their Pikum! brand, however they remain one of the world's strongest and most respected brands. Let us not forget that celebrated film producer and director, Steven Spielberg has made a financial killing in the gaming sector over the decades, however it's his movie making that most of the world knows him for.

PKR.com have ramped up their progressive games and online slot game offerings, so they can expect to see more casino fans flocking to their casino, better known for the 3D casino and online poker experience. PKR are looking to continue their red hot streak in media, building upon their recent promotions tied in with the World Series of Poker, and are said to be sponsoring a number of upcoming events including the Asian Poker Tour, which is enjoying strong presence in Macau and Philippines of late.

To help cope with the current interest from the world's igaming and gaming entities, Australia's Media Man Australia, the media and publicity company, has ramped up portal development operations and also plans to launch more website portals including more for the gaming sector. MMA's Casino News Media, Australian Casino News and Classic Slots Online have been reporting a rise in rankings in recent months, as they strive to achieve Hitwise Australia top ten status. Media Man director, Greg Tingle, reckons its online a matter of time before Australian gaming figures, John "Singo" Singleton and Gerry Harvey, make a major play into Australian online gaming space, most certainly in the horse racing sector. Pokies baron, Bruce Mathieson, continues to do very well out of his pub pokies deal with Woolworths and the like. Media Man Australia is preparing a pitch to put to their connections at TVS Channel 31 Community TV, and sees the igaming and gaming sector as a new source of revenue for the community media sector. The gaming sector is said to be a significant source of revenue to fund Media Man's philanthropic and community endeavours, so TVS would do well to consider their pitch. Australia's SBS are said to also be open to approaches on new revenue streams, and ABC online has increased their online gaming involvement, with an online "Grandstand's Ultimate Ashes" game available, adding to their "Good Game" offerings.

The Australian government would be watching the igaming developments unfold in the US and Europe, as the game of skill vs games of chance debate continues. Now many sports betting experts are arguing that sports betting is largely a game of skill, following recent court findings on poker. You can bet that the UFC is watching this space closely and a number of sports betting operations in the US are said to have broken records with UFC 100, including BetUS.com, with the Brock Lesnar fight being the prime money maker, both for betting and Pay-Per-View buy rates. One can bet that Sen Stephen Conroy's office would have now heard of the upcoming motion picture staring Kevin Spacey, 'Casino Jack'. Spacey plays lobbyist Jack Abramoff, known for his Indian casino connections and lobbying. His career sees him land him in jail. Expect to hear whispers about the movie by the Tabcorp and Crown Casino fraternity.

Australia has seen a number more incidents at bricks and mortar hotels, pubs and casinos, so having a bet on the pokies at an online casino may be even safer and more enjoyable that one might have first thought. As always, take note of the casino and brand names and reputation, and gamblers are advised to know their limits, meaning set a financial limit and stick to it. In addition, gamblers are advised to ensure their gambling stays enjoyable, and if it stops being fun, its most likely time to stop. As the old Aussie term goes, Bet with your head, not over it.

Our friends at Gambling911, CAP, GPWA and eGaming Review see the gaming and igaming industry as being one of the world's most recession resistant industries, but certainly not recession proof.

Certainly mainstream press in Australia is starting to cover the industry in more details, with regular coverage being offered to the likes of PartyGaming, Joe Hachem (PokerStars connection) and the World Series of Poker.

Whatever side of the gaming, igaming and gambling sector you look into, there's plenty of exciting developments, be it technology advancements, legal developments or just new games, as the industry does its best to be a good corporate citizen and do the right thing by authorities, gaming regulators and players.

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Wednesday, July 22, 2009

New Design for SlotsClub.com

July 21, 2009 (CAP Newswire) - SlotsClub.com has announced the redesign of its website. The goal was to create an enhanced user-friendliness and website navigation for players, and initial results indicate that the new design and features accomplish just that, according to company representatives.

In addition to the new layout, the site is now available in four languages: English, Spanish, Italian and French. Live chat, where players can chat instantly with a SlotsClub.com support representative, has also been added to the line-up of customer service benefits.

At SlotsClub.com, players can choose from an impressive variety of non-downloadable, instant-play slots games. In addition, Blackjack, Baccarat and Roulette can be played against a live dealer. A welcome bonus of 50% up to €300 is offered to all first time depositing players.

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009

PartyGaming, Aspinalls, Titan Casino, Titan Poker, JackpotCity, Casino Club, Slots Club, Belle Rock, Euro Partners and others target Asia Pacific

The past month has seen a surge of both established and not so established igaming and gaming companies make a push into the Asia Pacific region.

It appears apparent that some of the gaming entities have more than just a casual interest in Australia, judging by some of the game titles. Try "Goanna Gold", "Cool Bananas", "Kangaroo Zoo", and "Shaaark" on for size!

PartyGaming saw some of their PartyCasino.com titles enjoy a rise in popularity as Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible and Top Gun) fame, and his partner, Katie Holmes, have been spending time in Melbourne, using James Packer's Crown Towers as a base.

Aspinalls are making a push with their Aspinalls Online Casino and Aspinalls Online Poker. Aspinalls have quite a colorful history, with the late, great, John Aspinall said to have ties and friendships with Australia's Packer family. In recent years it has been reported that Australia's James Packer has done business deals with Damian Aspinall. No doubt Aspers would be most welcome to accommodate the needs of casino whales, in both an online and offline capacity. Aspinall Jr has been spotted out and about with Australia's Elle "The Body" MacPherson a number of times over the past year, so Aspers wins points for that alone.

Titan Casino and Titan Poker both Playtech powered casinos have also identified the Asia Pacific region as a go ahead region for growth. Titan have come up with some impressive and generous bonuses for signing up at their online casino brands.

JackpotCity and Lucky Nugget Online Casino, both part of the Belle Rock Entertainment family, rose to prominence in Australia last year with their promotion of blockbuster movie hits, Tomb Raider and Hitman. JackpotCity is powered by Microgaming, which incidentally is also the software that powers Australia's Captain Cooks Casino. Captain Cooks Casino is by all accounts a favorite with the Aussie's, so it looks like a battle of sorts may be on the horizon for the patronage of players who prefer Microgaming.

Casino Club and Slots Club, both powered by Boss Media, proudly have "Kangaroo Zoo" in their casino game stable. In recent months they have added more games, revamped the websites, and enhanced multi currency options.

Euro Partners, the European gaming powerhouse is embarking on a campaign pushing forward their highly respect casino brands into the Asia Pacific. Sources advise to be watching out for Casino Tropez and Europa Casino, to name but a few.

Virgin Games maintains presence in Australia and their Transformers online slot game is impossible to miss, thanks to the blockbuster movie launch last month. Virgin looks to have taken a page out of the Marvel Entertainment book, pushing forward a traditional entertainment brand. Marvel Entertainment is working on a Thor movie, so one would expect the Thor slot game to enjoy some renewed popularity. Virgin Casino top brass has recently gone on record via the Virgin.com website portal about the ups and downs of the online casino and igaming industry. Virgin's Richard Branson has approximately 200 companies in a range of industry verticals, so Virgin are certainly spreading their risk. Virgin recently ceased their Pikum! brand, however they remain one of the world's strongest and most respected brands. Let us not forget that celebrated film producer and director, Steven Spielberg has made a financial killing in the gaming sector over the decades, however it's his movie making that most of the world knows him for.

PKR.com have ramped up their progressive games and online slot game offerings, so they can expect to see more casino fans flocking to their casino, better known for the 3D casino and online poker experience. PKR are looking to continue their red hot streak in media, building upon their recent promotions tied in with the World Series of Poker, and are said to be sponsoring a number of upcoming events including the Asian Poker Tour, which is enjoying strong presence in Macau and Philippines of late.

To help cope with the current interest from the world's igaming and gaming entities, Australia's Media Man Australia, the media and publicity company, has ramped up portal development operations and also plans to launch more website portals including more for the gaming sector. MMA's Casino News Media, Australian Casino News and Classic Slots Online have been reporting a rise in rankings in recent months, as they strive to achieve Hitwise Australia top ten status. Media Man director, Greg Tingle, reckons its online a matter of time before Australian gaming figures, John "Singo" Singleton and Gerry Harvey, make a major play into Australian online gaming space, most certainly in the horse racing sector. Pokies baron, Bruce Mathieson, continues to do very well out of his pub pokies deal with Woolworths and the like. Bodog's Calvin Ayre is rumored to still being eyeing off Australia, and is making a splash on Facebook and Twitter. Media Man Australia is preparing a pitch to put to their connections at TVS Channel 31 Community TV, and sees the igaming and gaming sector as a new source of revenue for the community media sector. The gaming sector is said to be a significant source of revenue to fund Media Man's philanthropic and community endeavors, so TVS would do well to consider their pitch. Australia's SBS are said to also be open to approaches on new revenue streams, and ABC online has increased their online gaming involvement, with an online "Grandstand's Ultimate Ashes" game available, adding to their "Good Game" offerings.

The Australian government would be watching the igaming developments unfold in the US and Europe, as the game of skill vs games of chance debate continues. Now many sports betting experts are arguing that sports betting is largely a game of skill, following recent court findings on poker. You can bet that the UFC is watching this space closely and a number of sports betting operations in the US are said to have broken records with UFC 100, including BetUS.com, with the Brock Lesnar fight being the prime money maker, both for betting and Pay-Per-View buy rates. One can bet that Sen Stephen Conroy's office would have now heard of the upcoming motion picture staring Kevin Spacey, 'Casino Jack'. Spacey plays lobbyist Jack Abramoff, known for his Indian casino connections and lobbying. His career sees him land him in jail. Expect to hear whispers about the movie by the Tabcorp and Crown Casino fraternity.

Australia has seen a number more incidents at bricks and mortar hotels, pubs and casinos, so having a bet on the pokies at an online casino may be even safer and more enjoyable that one might have first thought. As always, take note of the casino and brand names and reputation, and gamblers are advised to know their limits, meaning set a financial limit and stick to it. In addition, gamblers are advised to ensure their gambling stays enjoyable, and if it stops being fun, its most likely time to stop. As the old Aussie term goes, Bet with your head, not over it.

Our friends at Gambling911, CAP, GPWA and eGaming Review see the gaming and igaming industry as being one of the world's most recession resistant industries, but certainly not recession proof.

Certainly mainstream press in Australia is starting to cover the industry in more details, with regular coverage being offered to the likes of PartyGaming, Joe Hachem (PokerStars connection) and the World Series of Poker.

Whatever side of the gaming, igaming and gambling sector you look into, there's plenty of exciting developments, be it technology advancements, legal developments or just new games, as the industry does its best to be a good corporate citizen and do the right thing by authorities, gaming regulators and players.

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Monday, July 20, 2009

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Endeavor president Mark Shapiro promises not to ‘over-commercialize’ WWE - May 2023





The president of Endeavor says they will look at ways to increase WWE's sponsorship revenue, but they are not going to "over-commercialize" the product. 

Mark Shapiro appeared on the Sports Media Podcast on Wednesday and was asked about WWE sponsorship opportunities that could potentially involve putting brand logos on wrestlers' ring gear. 

Shapiro responded:

"Look, you want to be authentic, you want to be seamless, you want to be organic, you want to be true to your audience. So, no, we're not going to put a brand on somebody's robe walking into the ring. Now, by the way, do UFC fighters wear Venom apparel and Project Rock shoes when they come into the octagon? Yes, they do. Could the WWE benefit from an apparel deal as such? A shoe deal as such? Absolutely but we're not going to over-commercialize it, we're not going to saturate it to the point that we cheap it out, we trick it out, and you turn off the fanbase.

You've gotta figure out what's right in the ring, in the octagon. You've gotta figure out what's right with the arena, indoor, outdoor. You've gotta figure out what's right with the fighters and the participants, and you gotta walk before you run."

However, Shapiro emphasized that the transaction has not been completed and they are not currently in a position to make decisions regarding WWE. 


Shapiro's comments regarding WWE's sponsorship potential echoes what had prevaiously been expressed by Endeavor CEO, Ari Emanuel. During an appearance on CNBC's Squawk on the Street earlier this month, Emanuel noted that they will let WWE "do what they want to do" while his group works to drive revenue. He says it's the same playbook they used with UFC. 

"Right now, we're focused on saving some cost, doing sponsorship, which they didn't have. It's the same formula we used at UFC," Emanuel said.  

Shapiro also commented on the success of this strategy during an interview with Sports Business Journal's John Ourand last month.

Shapiro said:

"That's the strategy. That's how it has successfully played out for the UFC over the last six years. Remember when we bought it for $4.1 billion? People thought that price was crazy. Now, it is valued at $12.1 billion. I mean, what a story. We hope to do the same thing with the WWE." 




WWE Creates Placeholder Company for Endeavor Acquisition, Nick Khan Issues Letter to WWE Shareholders, More - 12th May 2023


WWE has created a new LLC, titled NEW WHALE INC., as a placeholder company for the Endeavor acquisition. The filing reiterates what was said several weeks back, noting that when the merger is finalized later this year, a new name will be revealed for the new company that Endeavor will run to oversee WWE and UFC. The stock market initials, as announced before, will be TKO, and that could be a hint at the planned company name.

The SEC filings included a letter from WWE CEO Nick Khan to stockholders in regards to the Endeavor acquisition. The letter outlines potential risk factors, transactions/closing, and more. WWE also released a Q&A for stockholders, and both can be seen below.

The letter from Khan reads like this:

To Our Stockholders:

On behalf of the board of directors of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a Delaware corporation, which we refer to as “WWE,” we are pleased to enclose the information statement/prospectus relating to the proposed transaction between WWE and Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc., which we refer to as “Endeavor,” pursuant to which WWE and Endeavor propose to combine the businesses of WWE and Zuffa Parent, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a subsidiary of Endeavor, which owns and operates the Ultimate Fighting Championship (“UFC”) and which we refer to as “HoldCo,” which combined business will be managed by a newly public listed company that is currently named New Whale Inc., a Delaware corporation and direct, wholly owned subsidiary of WWE, which we refer to as “New PubCo,” which will be implemented through a sequence of transactions (the “Transactions”).

On April 2, 2023, Endeavor, WWE, Endeavor Operating Company, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Endeavor, which we refer to as “EDR OpCo,” HoldCo, New PubCo, and Whale Merger Sub Inc., a Delaware corporation and a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of New PubCo, which we refer to as “Merger Sub,” entered into a transaction agreement, which, as the same may be amended from time to time, we refer to as the “transaction agreement.” In connection with the transaction agreement, WWE formed New PubCo and Merger Sub. The Transactions include (i) an internal reorganization of WWE (the “Pre-Closing Reorganization”), (ii) following the Pre-Closing Reorganization, the merger of Merger Sub with and into WWE, with WWE surviving the merger as a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of New PubCo (the “merger”)—as a result of the merger, (x) each outstanding share of WWE’s Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “WWE Class A common stock”) and (y) each outstanding share of WWE’s Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “WWE Class B common stock,” and together with the WWE Class A common stock, the “WWE common stock”) that is outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger (the “effective time”), but excluding any cancelled WWE shares (as defined herein), will, in each case, be converted automatically into the right to receive one share of New PubCo Class A common stock, par value $0.00001 per share (the “New PubCo Class A common stock”), (iii) following the merger, the conversion of the surviving corporation in the merger to a Delaware limited liability company (“WWE LLC”) (the “conversion”), which will be wholly owned by New PubCo immediately prior to the WWE transfer, (iv) following the conversion, (x) the contribution by New PubCo of all of the equity interests in WWE LLC to HoldCo in exchange for 49% of the membership interests in HoldCo on a fully diluted basis after giving effect to any issuance of membership interests in HoldCo in connection with such exchange (such contribution, the “WWE transfer”, and such membership interests, the “WWE Transfer Consideration”) and (y) the issuance to EDR OpCo and certain of its subsidiaries of a number of shares of New PubCo Class B common stock, par value $0.00001 per share (the “New PubCo Class B common stock”), representing, in the aggregate, 51% of the voting power of New PubCo on a fully diluted basis and no economic rights in New PubCo, in exchange for a payment equal to the par value of such New PubCo Class B common stock.

Upon the effective time, each issued and outstanding share of WWE common stock (other than cancelled WWE shares) will be converted automatically into one validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable share of New PubCo Class A common stock, which we refer to as the “transaction consideration,” and all such converted shares will then cease to exist and will no longer be outstanding. WWE Class A common stock currently trades on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “WWE.” On March 31, 2023, the closing price of WWE Class A common stock was $91.26 per share.

Upon completion of the Transactions, including the merger, which we refer to as the “Closing,” subsidiaries of Endeavor are expected to collectively own 51% of the voting power of New PubCo and 51% of the economic interests in HoldCo, with former securityholders of WWE common stock indirectly owning 49% of the economic interests in HoldCo, 49% of the voting power of New PubCo and 100% of the economic ownership of New PubCo, in each case, on a fully diluted basis. Shares of New PubCo Class A common stock are expected to be listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange, which we refer to as the “NYSE,” under the ticker symbol “TKO.”

At a meeting of the board of directors of WWE, which we refer to as the “WWE Board,” the WWE Board unanimously adopted resolutions (i) determining that it was advisable and in the best interests of WWE and the WWE stockholders to enter into the transaction agreement and to consummate the Transactions, (ii) approving the execution, delivery and performance of the transaction agreement and the consummation of the Transactions and (iii) resolving to recommend that WWE stockholders adopt the transaction agreement.

The adoption of the transaction agreement and, therefore, the approval of the Transactions, including the merger, required the affirmative vote of holders of at least a majority of the voting power of the shares of WWE common stock entitled to vote on such matters. On April 2, 2023, Vincent K. McMahon (“Mr. McMahon”), who, as of the date thereof, was the record holder of 69,157 shares of WWE Class A common stock and 28,682,948 shares of WWE Class B common stock, representing approximately 81.0% of the aggregate voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of WWE common stock on such date, delivered a written consent, which we refer to as the “Written Consent,” adopting and, therefore, approving the transaction agreement and the Transactions, including the merger. Accordingly, the delivery of the Written Consent was sufficient to adopt the transaction agreement and, therefore, approve the Transactions, on behalf of WWE stockholders. WWE has not solicited and is not soliciting your adoption of the transaction agreement or approval of the Transactions, including the merger.

No further action by any Endeavor stockholder or WWE stockholder is required under applicable law, and neither Endeavor nor WWE will solicit the votes of their respective stockholders for the adoption or approval of the transaction agreement or the Transactions, including the merger. Neither Endeavor nor WWE will call a special meeting of their respective stockholders for purposes of voting on adoption or approval of the transaction agreement or the Transactions, including the merger. This information statement/prospectus and notice of action by written consent is being provided to you for informational purposes only and shall be considered the notice required under Section 228(e) of the DGCL. You are not being asked for a proxy, and you are requested not to send a proxy.

Endeavor and WWE are not required to complete the Transactions, including the merger, unless a number of conditions are satisfied or waived, which we refer to as the “closing conditions,” including: (i) the expiration of the waiting period under the U.S. Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, (ii) obtaining other applicable regulatory approvals, (iii) the absence of any order or legal requirement that enjoins, restrains or otherwise prevents the consummation of the Transactions, (iv) the effectiveness of New PubCo’s registration statement on Form S-4, of which the accompanying information statement/prospectus forms a part, and the absence of any stop order or other proceeding that suspends or otherwise threatens such effectiveness, (v) the registration, and the authorization of listing on the NYSE, of New PubCo Class A common stock, and (vi) the consummation of the Pre-Closing Reorganization. The closing date of the Transactions will be at least 20 business days after the mailing of the accompanying information statement/prospectus to WWE stockholders, in accordance with Rule 14c-2(b) promulgated under the Exchange Act.

We encourage you to read the entire accompanying information statement/prospectus carefully, in particular the risk factors set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 31 of the accompanying information statement/prospectus.

On behalf of WWE, thank you for your consideration and continued support.

Nick Khan
Chief Executive Officer
World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

The Q&A reads like this:

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE TRANSACTIONS

The following questions and answers are intended to briefly address some commonly asked questions regarding the transaction agreement and the Transactions, including the merger. You are encouraged to carefully read the remainder of this information statement/prospectus, its annexes and exhibits and the documents that are referred to in this information statement/prospectus and to pay special attention to the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” beginning on pages 31 and 29, respectively, of this information statement/prospectus, because the information contained in this section may not provide all the information that might be important to you with respect to the transaction agreement and the Transactions, including the merger. For further information, please read the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information” beginning on page 288 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: Why am I receiving this information statement/prospectus?
A: On April 2, 2023, Endeavor, EDR OpCo, HoldCo, WWE, New PubCo and Merger Sub entered into the transaction agreement, pursuant to which WWE and Endeavor propose to combine the businesses of WWE and HoldCo, which owns and operates UFC, which combined business will be managed by New PubCo, a new publicly listed company, once the Transactions, including the merger, are implemented.

In connection with the transaction agreement, WWE formed two wholly owned subsidiaries, New PubCo and Merger Sub. Subject to the terms and conditions of the transaction agreement, (i) WWE will undertake the Pre-Closing Reorganization, (ii) following the Pre-Closing Reorganization, Merger Sub will merge with and into WWE, with WWE surviving the merger as a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of New PubCo, (iii) following the merger, the surviving corporation will be converted to WWE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which will be wholly owned by New PubCo, immediately prior to the WWE transfer and (iv) following the conversion, New PubCo will (a) contribute all of the equity interests in WWE LLC to HoldCo in exchange for 49% of the membership interests in HoldCo on a fully diluted basis after giving effect to any issuance of membership interests in HoldCo in connection with such exchange and (b) issue to EDR OpCo and certain of its subsidiaries a number of shares of New PubCo Class B common stock, par value $0.00001 per share, representing, in the aggregate, 51% of the voting power of New PubCo on a fully diluted basis and no economic rights in New PubCo, in exchange for a payment equal to the par value of such New PubCo Class B common stock. As a result of the Transactions, including the merger, subsidiaries of Endeavor are expected to collectively own 51% of the voting power of New PubCo and 51% of the economic interests in HoldCo, with former securityholders of WWE common stock indirectly owning 49% of the economic interests in HoldCo, 49% of the voting power of New PubCo and 100% of the economic ownership of New PubCo, in each case, on a fully diluted basis. In addition, New PubCo will be renamed “[ ]” immediately following the completion of the Transactions, including the merger.

Upon completion of the Transactions, including the merger, former securityholders of WWE common stock will own shares of New PubCo Class A common stock, which is expected to be listed for trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “TKO.” For further information on the rights of such shares, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement— Transaction Consideration; Conversion of Shares; Exchange of Certificates” beginning on page 144 of this information statement/prospectus.

We have included in this information statement/prospectus important information about the Transactions, including the merger, and the transaction agreement (a copy of which is attached as Annex A). You should carefully read this information and the documents referred to therein in their entirety.

Please note that the delivery of the Written Consent is sufficient to adopt and approve the transaction agreement and the Transactions (including the merger) on behalf of stockholders of WWE. You are not being asked for a proxy, and you are requested not to send a proxy.

Q: Why is WWE proposing the Transactions?
A: The WWE Board has unanimously approved the transaction agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, and determined that the transaction agreement and the transactions contemplated by the transaction agreement, are in the best interest of WWE and its stockholders. WWE believes that the Transactions, including the merger, will benefit WWE stockholders. For further information, please read the sections entitled “The Transactions—WWE’s Reasons for the Transactions; Recommendation of the WWE Board of Directors” beginning on page 95 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: What will WWE stockholders receive in the Transactions?
A: At the effective time, each issued and outstanding share of WWE Class A common stock and WWE Class B common stock (other than cancelled WWE shares) will be converted automatically into one validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable share of New PubCo Class A common stock, and all such converted shares will then cease to exist and will no longer be outstanding. For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement— Transaction Consideration; Conversion of Shares; Exchange of Certificates” beginning on page 144 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: What will holders of WWE equity awards receive in the Transactions?
A: At the effective time, each award of WWE RSUs and WWE PSUs, including any dividend equivalent rights granted with respect thereof, that is outstanding immediately prior to the effective time will be converted into an equivalent award of restricted stock units or performance stock units of New PubCo, respectively, on the same terms and conditions as were applicable under the award of WWE RSUs or WWE PSUs immediately prior to the effective time (including any provisions for acceleration); provided, that, any applicable performance-vesting conditions will be equitably adjusted, as necessary, including by the WWE Compensation Committee in good faith, following consultation and reasonable consideration of comments from Endeavor and in a manner consistent with past practice, to take into account the effects, if any, of the Transactions, including the merger.

Prior to the effective time, the WWE Board (or an appropriate committee thereof) will take necessary actions such that any offering period under the WWE ESPP during which the effective time would otherwise have occurred will be deemed to have ended on the fifth business day prior to the closing date and each outstanding purchase right under the WWE ESPP will automatically be exercised on such date.

For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement— Transaction Consideration; Conversion of Shares; Exchange of Certificates” beginning on page 144 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: Should I send in my share certificates now for exchange?
A: No, you should not send in your WWE share certificates now for exchange. At the effective time, each WWE share certificate will automatically be converted into an equivalent number of shares of New PubCo Class A common stock. Following the effective time, stockholders may request to exchange their WWE stock certificates for New PubCo stock certificates by contacting New PubCo’s transfer agent (as defined below). For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement— Transaction Consideration; Conversion of Shares; Exchange of Certificates” beginning on page 144 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: Who will serve on New PubCo’s board of directors and as management?
A: The New PubCo Board will consist of 11 members who will be determined at a date prior to the closing of the Transactions, five of whom will be selected by WWE (the “WWE Designees”), of whom (x) two will be members of the WWE management team (one of whom will be Mr. McMahon) and (y) three will be independent, and six of whom will be selected by Endeavor (the “EDR Designees”), of whom (x) three will be members of the Endeavor management team or Endeavor directors (one of whom will be Ariel Emanuel (“Mr. Emanuel”)) and (y) three will be independent. As such, New PubCo will be a controlled company with a majority of New PubCo directors that will be independent.

Following the Closing, New PubCo is expected to be led by Mr. Emanuel as Chief Executive Officer (who is expected to also continue in his role as Chief Executive Officer of Endeavor); Mr. McMahon as Executive Chair of the New PubCo Board; Mark Shapiro (“Mr. Shapiro”) as President and Chief Operating Officer (who is expected to also continue in his role as President and as Chief Operating Officer of Endeavor); Andrew Schleimer (“Mr. Schleimer”) as Chief Financial Officer (who is expected to also continue in his role as Deputy Chief Financial Officer of Endeavor); and Seth Krauss (“Mr. Krauss”) as Chief Legal Officer (who is expected to also continue in his role as Chief Legal Officer of Endeavor). For further information, please read the section entitled “Management and Directors of New PubCo After the Transactions” beginning on page 221 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: What equity stake will WWE stockholders hold in New PubCo and HoldCo?
A: WWE stockholders will receive one share of New PubCo Class A common stock for each share of WWE common stock that they hold. As of the Closing, subsidiaries of Endeavor are expected to collectively own 51% of the voting power of New PubCo and 51% of the economic interests in HoldCo, with former securityholders of WWE common stock indirectly owning 49% of the economic interests in HoldCo, 49% of the voting power of New PubCo and 100% of the economic ownership of New PubCo, in each case, on a fully diluted basis.

For further information, please read the section entitled “The Transactions—Ownership of New PubCo after the Transactions” beginning on page 84 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: How do I calculate the value of the transaction consideration?
A: WWE stockholders will receive one share of New PubCo Class A common stock for each share of WWE common stock that they hold. As of the Closing, subsidiaries of Endeavor are expected to collectively own 51% of the voting power of New PubCo and 51% of the economic interests in HoldCo, with former securityholders of WWE common stock indirectly owning 49% of the economic interests in HoldCo, 49% of the voting power of New PubCo and 100% of the economic ownership of New PubCo, in each case, on a fully diluted basis. The value of the transaction consideration the WWE stockholders will receive in the Transactions, including the merger, will therefore depend on the combined value of HoldCo and WWE at the effective time.

The values of WWE common stock and of HoldCo have fluctuated since the date of the announcement of the transaction agreement and will continue to fluctuate from the date of this information statement/prospectus until the date the Transactions, including the merger, are completed. Because the ownership percentages described above will not be adjusted to reflect any changes in the values of WWE common stock or HoldCo, the value of the transaction consideration may be higher or lower than the value of the WWE common stock on earlier dates. Therefore, until the completion of the Transactions, including the merger, the WWE stockholders will not know or be able to determine the value, on a fully diluted basis, of the New PubCo Class A common stock that they will receive pursuant to the transaction agreement.

On March 31, 2023, which was the last trading day before the public announcement of the Transactions, the closing price on the NYSE was $91.26 per share of WWE Class A common stock. On [ ], 2023, which was the latest practicable date before the printing of this information statement/prospectus, the closing price on the NYSE was $ [ ] per share of WWE Class A common stock.

Changes in the market price of WWE common stock may result from a variety of factors that are beyond the control of WWE, including, but not limited to, changes in their businesses, operations and prospects, regulatory considerations, governmental actions, and legal proceedings and developments. You are encouraged to obtain up-to-date market prices for shares of WWE common stock.

Q: What conditions must be satisfied to complete the Transactions, including the merger?
A: Endeavor and WWE are not required to complete the Transactions, including the merger, unless a number of conditions are satisfied or waived, which we refer to as the “closing conditions.” These closing conditions include, among others:
• the adoption of the transaction agreement by WWE stockholders (which was satisfied by the delivery of the Written Consent);
• the completion of the Pre-Closing Reorganization;
• the absence of certain legal restraints that would prohibit or seek to prohibit the Transactions;
• the receipt of certain regulatory approvals;
• the approval for listing on the NYSE of the shares of New PubCo Class A common stock to be issued to WWE stockholders;
• the ancillary agreements being in full force and effect;
• the absence, since the date of the transaction agreement, of any event, change, occurrence or development that has had a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results of operations of WWE or HoldCo;
• delivery by Endeavor to WWE of certain required audited financial statements of HoldCo, and the operating income reflected in such financial statements not being less than a defined threshold (which was satisfied on April 23, 2023 by the delivery of such audited financial statements reflecting such level of operating income for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022); and
• the prior mailing and effectiveness of the registration statement on Form S-4, of which this information statement/prospectus forms a part.

In addition, each of Endeavor’s and WWE’s respective obligations to complete the Transactions, including the merger, is subject to, among other conditions, the accuracy of the other party’s representations and warranties described in the transaction agreement (subject in most cases to “materiality” and “material adverse effect” qualifications) and the other party’s compliance with its covenants and agreements in the transaction agreement in all material respects.

For a more complete summary of the closing conditions that must be satisfied or waived prior to the completion of the Transactions, including the merger, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement—Conditions to the Closing” beginning on page 170 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: When do you expect the Transactions, including the merger, to be completed?
A: Endeavor and WWE are working to complete the Transactions, including the merger, as soon as possible. As described above, certain closing conditions must be satisfied or waived before Endeavor and WWE can complete the Transactions, including the merger. For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement—Conditions to the Closing” beginning on page 170 of this information statement/prospectus.

Assuming timely satisfaction or waiver of the closing conditions, the Transactions, including the merger, are expected to close in the second half of 2023. The closing date of the Transactions, including the merger, will be at least 20 business days after the mailing of this information statement/prospectus to WWE stockholders, in accordance with Rule 14c-2(b) promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Q: Is New PubCo expected to hold any assets other than the common units?
A: In addition to the common units, New PubCo is expected to hold an amount of cash that will be distributed by WWE LLC to New PubCo in connection with the closing of the Transactions, as further described immediately below.

Q: Does WWE expect to distribute cash to New PubCo?
A: Yes, WWE is permitted to distribute cash to New PubCo prior to the closing of the Transactions. It is expected that an amount of cash, if any, in excess of the WWE Minimum Cash Requirement (as defined in the transaction agreement) will be distributed by WWE LLC to New PubCo. For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement—Cash Distributions” beginning on page 143 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: What happens if the Transactions, including the merger, are not completed?
A: If the Transactions, including the merger, are not completed for any reason, (1) WWE stockholders will not receive the transaction consideration, (2) WWE will remain an independent public company, (3) WWE Class A common stock will continue to be traded on the NYSE, (4) New PubCo, which is currently a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of WWE, will not become a publicly traded corporation, (5) the WWE RSUs and the WWE PSUs will not be converted into equivalent restricted stock units and performance stock units, respectively, of New PubCo, and (6) to the extent applicable, any then-current offering period under the WWE ESPP will remain outstanding through its original end date and will not be truncated.

As a result of the delivery of the Written Consent, no termination fees are payable in respect of the termination of the transaction agreement. For further information, please read the section entitled “Summary of the Transaction Agreement—Effect of Termination; Termination Fees; Expenses” beginning on page 174 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: What approval by WWE stockholders is required to adopt the transaction agreement and, therefore, approve the Transactions, including the merger?
A: The adoption of the transaction agreement and, therefore, the approval of the Transactions, including the merger, required the affirmative vote of holders of a majority of the voting power of the shares of WWE common stock entitled to vote on such matters. On April 2, 2023, Mr. McMahon, who, as of the date thereof, was the record holder of 69,157 shares of WWE Class A common stock and 28,682,948 shares of WWE Class B common stock, representing approximately 81.0% of the aggregate voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of WWE common stock on such date, delivered a written consent adopting and, therefore, approving the transaction agreement and the Transactions, including the merger. Accordingly, the delivery of the Written Consent was sufficient to adopt the transaction agreement and, therefore, approve the Transactions, including the merger, on behalf of WWE stockholders. WWE has not solicited and is not soliciting your adoption of the transaction agreement or approval of the Transactions, including the merger. No further action by any other WWE stockholder is required under applicable law, and WWE will not solicit the vote of WWE stockholders for the adoption of the transaction agreement or approval of the Transactions, including the merger and will not call a special meeting of WWE stockholders for purposes of voting on the adoption of the transaction agreement or approval of the Transactions, including the merger. For this reason, the accompanying information statement/prospectus is being provided to you for informational purposes only. You are not being asked for a proxy, and you are requested not to send a proxy.

For further information, please read the section entitled “Further Stockholder Approval Not Required” beginning on page 138 of this information statement/prospectus

Q: What are the expected United States federal income tax consequences of the transactions for holders of WWE Class A common stock?
A: For United States federal income tax purposes, the merger and the conversion are, taken together, intended to qualify as a reorganization under the provisions of Section 368(a) of the Code. Assuming that the merger and the conversion will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, holders of WWE Class A common stock are not expected to recognize any gain or loss as a result of the merger and conversion.

For a more complete discussion of the United States federal income tax consequences of the Transactions, including the merger, please read the section entitled “Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences” beginning on page 233 of this information statement/prospectus. Tax matters can be complicated, and the tax consequences of the Transactions, including the merger and the conversion, to a particular holder of WWE common stock will depend on such holder’s particular facts and circumstances. All securityholders of WWE should consult with their own tax advisors to determine the specific United States federal, state, or local or foreign income or other tax consequences of the Transactions, including the merger and the conversion, to them.

Q: Are stockholders of WWE entitled to dissenters’ or appraisal rights in connection with the Transactions?
A: No. Under Delaware law, holders of shares of WWE common stock will not have dissenters’ rights or appraisal rights in connection with the Transactions, including the merger. For more information, please read the section entitled “No Dissenters’ or Appraisal Rights” beginning on page 284 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: Are there any important risks about the Transactions, including the merger, or WWE’s business of which I should be aware?
A: Yes, there are risks involved. WWE encourages you to carefully read in its entirety the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 31 of this information statement/prospectus.

Q: Who do I contact if I have further questions about the Transactions, including the merger, or the transaction agreement?
A: WWE stockholders who have questions about the Transactions, including the merger, or the transaction agreement or who desire additional copies of this information statement/prospectus or other additional materials should contact:

Attention: Investor Relations
World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
1241 East Main Street
Stamford, Connecticut 06902
Telephone: (203) 352-8600



UFC News

UFC Australia








"Chinese middle class is going to change the world"

James Packer says man-made attractions important

Mr Packer owns casinos in Melbourne, Perth and Macau

Sydney's The Star already attracting high roller VIP's

Non Packer casino and resorts also want in on the action










Gaming and Tourism Biz Flashback

Australian tourism may be saved by Chinese middle class to large casinos


Gaming Biz Flashback

Sunday night's 60 Minutes report 'Packer's punt' got tongues wagging and telephones running hot across Australia - Melbourne and Perth (both home to existing Packer casinos) and 'Sin City' Sydney (site of the Barangaroo development).

Australia's flagging tourism industry can be saved by attracting the Chinese middle class to large casinos, Crown Limited chairman James Packer told the Nine network.

Mr Packer said recognising the Chinese middle class was as important as recognising the internet.

"It's like saying how big a deal is the internet," Mr Packer told his former business co-hearts Channel Nine.

"The Chinese middle class is going to change the world."

He advised Australia cannot rely on its natural beauty alone, because people are more drawn to man-made attractions.

"A lot of the Chinese tourists like man-made attractions as well as natural attractions," he said.

"We need to have better hotels, better restaurants, better shopping."

Mr Packer gave the United States as an example of how man-made attractions win over natural ones.

"Las Vegas gets 40 million people a year," he said.

"I think maybe the greatest natural attraction is the Grand Canyon. It's a half-hour drive from Las Vegas but gets about three million (visitors) a year."

Mr Packer owns casinos in Melbourne, Perth and Macau.

He also pointed out that casinos in The Philippines were doing well and contributed greatly to that country, and that he didn't currently have any casino interests there.

He said he was keen to secure a tables-only Sydney casino complex at Barangaroo to bring in more Chinese tourists.

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week started yesterday and the NSW Government is encouraging problem gamblers to seek help.


Casino King James Packer really aiming for Echo Entertainment...

Gaming analysts believe billionaire James Packer would consider offloading some of Queensland's casinos if he is successful in acquiring the Echo Entertainment Group.

Greg Fraser, a senior analyst at Fat Prophets, said that Mr Packer's real goal in his expected takeover tilt for Echo was to snatch the scandal-plagued Star Casino in Sydney and merge it into his Crown group.


Cairns casino targeting Chinese tourists: Packer's Crown not the only option for Chinese punters...

The famous Pullman Reef Hotel Casino in Cairns is not letting gaming tsar James Packer have all the action when it comes to attracting cashed-up Chinese gamblers to his legal gambling dens.

Mr Packer said the struggling tourism industry could be saved by attracting Chinese middle class visitors to large casinos.

As well, he said many Chinese tourists liked man-made activities as well as natural attractions.

But Cairns casino chief exec Alan Tan said his venue established a China strategy some six years ago.

"I think, while the casino is important, we offer more than just that. The Great Barrier Reef is very important, especially when I talk to the Chinese who say they like to see the Reef and in the evening they like to enjoy time in the casino as well," Mr Tan said.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Rob Giason said the casino was part of the overall experience for Chinese holidaymakers.

Cairns Airport chief executive officer Kevin Brown said the casino complemented other activities the Chinese tourists wanted to experience, including dining, shopping and cultural activities.

Casino marketing executive manager Richard Porter said its China strategy included the relocation of Cafe China restaurant to the casino, Chinese language signage and information.

He said casino reps frequented China at least six times a year, worked closely with inbound operators and leading Chinese businessman Harry Sou.

Mr Porter said when China Southern Airlines started flying to Brisbane the casino experienced a "giant leap forward" in Chinese visitors.

So there you go... Packer is far from the only switched on casino and gambling baron. It's going to be mighty interesting to see how Pullman's Alan Tan continues to fair in the Australian "casino wars", as Packer continues on his quest to also takeover Echo Entertainment operations, as well as push forward for his greater "Sin City" Sydney ambitions.

It's said "The house always wins" in casino talk, but can the trio of Crown, Pullman and Echo Entertainment all continue to win big time, or is something going to give (like a merger or acquisition)? Stay tuned as we continue to probe for developments.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

PartyCasino.com Wins Media Man Australia Online Casino Award

PartyCasino.com has been awarded the Media Man Australia and Casino News Media "Online Casino Of The Month" for the 2nd month in a row.

The accolade was awarded based on a combination of elements including user experience, innovation, trustworthiness, customer service, gameplay, affiliate program offerings, newsworthiness and company values.

PartyCasino.com is one of a number of PartyGaming brands.

The most popular PartyCasino.com games of late include The Godfather, Mission: Impossible, Top Gun, Cleopatra, Monopoly, Goanna Gold and Rambo.

Media Man Australia and Casino News Media do have a b2b relationship with PartyGaming, as they do with dozens of other companies in the gaming and igaming industry.

Media Man Australia Profiles

PartyCasino.com

PartyGaming.com

PartyCasino.com News

Online Casino News

Casino News

Casino News Media

Media Man Australia

Friday, July 17, 2009

Online casino classic slots most popular

Research findings from media, publicity and portal development company, Media Man Australia, and their igaming arm, Casino News Media, indicate that classic slot games remain the most popular online games in most regions of the world.

Original titles such as Cleopatra, Monopoly, Da Vinci Diamonds lead the way in most markets.

Other themed slots which have become part of pop culture enjoying strong following include Wheel Of Fortune, Tomb Raider, Hitman, Transformers and a number of Marvel Comics titles.

Marvel's The Hulk, Spider-Man, Thor, Fantastic Four and Iron Man are also starting to be thought as classics, with their history tracing back to the mid 1950's in many cases when Stan Lee and Jack Kirby were busy developing these super hero characters.

The popularity of these themed slot games has facilitated the creation of a number of themed casino game website portals such as Classic Slots Online, Marvel Slots Online and Marvel Heroes Casino.

A number of industry insiders are predicting that other future classic slot games will include iconic WWE Superstars such as Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan, and the late, great, Andre The Giant.

North Sydney's NextGen Gaming are said to have already started work on an Andre The Giant slot game, and the rumour mill says that PartyGaming's PartyCasino is in the running to pick up the title in either an exclusive or non exclusive deal. PartyGaming already has a connection to the WWE with its relationships and history with such greats as Sly Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, both of which feature in current PartyCasino games, RAMBO and THE TERMINATOR.

New variations of these slots are on the cards, be it MegaJackpots, Gold Mega Jackpot, slots tournaments or multi player promotions.

The competition to put out the best games and promotions possible is fierce with industry giants such as PartyGaming, IGT - International Game Technology - WagerWorks, Boss Media, Microgaming, CryptoLogic, Eidos Interactive, Playtech, Real Time Gaming, NextGen Gaming and others pulling out all the stops to satisfy player and industry demands.

Our top five online slots from the top are:

Cleopatra

Monopoly

RAMBO

TOMB RAIDER

THE TERMINATOR

Classic Slots Online

Marvel Slots Online

Marvel Heroes Casino

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