PartyCasino Brings Back The Porsche Promotion!
Get Out Of My Dreams! Get Into My Car!
Gibraltar – 16th March 2010 – PartyCasino.com, the world’s largest online casino, is pleased to announce the return of its Porsche Promotion! If the Gold Mega Jackpot is won between 18th – 31st March 2010 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 between 18th – 31st March cash prizes will be awarded to players 1st – 600th on the leaderboard with a total value of $80,000.* For more details and terms and conditions please see your individual PartyAccount.
Players ranked 1st – 5th will be rewarded as follows: 1st - $15,000, 2nd - $12,500, 3rd - $10,000, 4th - $7,500, 5th – 9th - $1,000. Hotspots for every 10 ranks between 10th and 300th pays $750 cash bonus. Hotspots for every 10 ranks between 310th and 600th pays $250 cash bonus.
A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: "The Porsche promotion is back and if someone doesn’t win a flashy car there is still going to be real cash rewards for customers! If the Gold Mega Jackpot doesn’t take your fancy then Colossal Cash, the biggest online jackpot seed in the industry, currently stands at over $2.5 million – it really is a big one!"
At the start of 2010, PartyCasino.com launched the largest progressive seeded jackpot in the online gaming industry in the form of ‘The Big One’ and introduced classic slot Melon Madness. The Big One is structured as a five tiered pool. The highest tier - Colossal Cash - seeds at $1.5m, the biggest online jackpot seed in the industry. Melon Madness is designed to be a classic 30 line video slot. Play is fast and the free spin feature is played in-reel.
PartyCasino.com now offers over 140 games, including 100 slots, and pays out easily over $10 million EVERY DAY to players. The world’s largest online casino continues to expand rapidly. The record Gold Mega Jackpot was hit with a fateful spin at 20.42ET on December 2nd 2009. The stake was $45 on popular PartyCasino.com Gold Mega Jackpot game, the Mega Fortune Wheel. The screen exploded with congratulations and colour as ‘gamago’ turned $45 into a record busting $4,978,336.62!
PartyGaming Plc is the world’s leading listed online gaming company. The Group is a constituent of the FTSE 250 share index and the FTSE4Good Index Series, which measures the performance of companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards. PartyGaming’s shares are listed on The London Stock Exchange under the ticker: PRTY
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Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
MGM picks Ho, will quit Atlantic City - 15th March 2010
HONG KONG: MGM Mirage has confirmed it will sell its stake in a US casino resort to settle a fight with US gambling regulators over its Macau business partner.
MGM said it would sell its half stake in the Borgata hotel-casino in Atlantic City within the next 30 months so that it could keep a joint venture in the glitzy Asian gambling hub, which has now leapfrogged Las Vegas in terms of gambling revenue.
New Jersey's gambling regulator told MGM in May to cut its ties with Pansy Ho, daughter of the gambling tycoon Stanley Ho, after deeming her unsuitable because of the elder Ho's alleged links to Macau's underworld.
One of his other children, Lawrence Ho, is James Packer's partner in Macau. They were forced to distance their venture Melco International from Stanley Ho in 2006 to obtain regulatory approval from Australian authorities.
Lawrence Ho, who controlled Macau's gambling sector until it was opened to foreign competition in 2002, has denied any ties to organised crime.
MGM Mirage's chairman and chief executive, Jim Murren, said in a statement posted on MGM's website on Friday that he disagreed with the regulator's assessment of Mr Ho.
But he added that the "best course of action for our company and its shareholders is to settle this matter and move forward with the compelling growth opportunities we have in Macau".
MGM operates casinos in several US states, including Nevada, Mississippi and Michigan.
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MGM said it would sell its half stake in the Borgata hotel-casino in Atlantic City within the next 30 months so that it could keep a joint venture in the glitzy Asian gambling hub, which has now leapfrogged Las Vegas in terms of gambling revenue.
New Jersey's gambling regulator told MGM in May to cut its ties with Pansy Ho, daughter of the gambling tycoon Stanley Ho, after deeming her unsuitable because of the elder Ho's alleged links to Macau's underworld.
One of his other children, Lawrence Ho, is James Packer's partner in Macau. They were forced to distance their venture Melco International from Stanley Ho in 2006 to obtain regulatory approval from Australian authorities.
Lawrence Ho, who controlled Macau's gambling sector until it was opened to foreign competition in 2002, has denied any ties to organised crime.
MGM Mirage's chairman and chief executive, Jim Murren, said in a statement posted on MGM's website on Friday that he disagreed with the regulator's assessment of Mr Ho.
But he added that the "best course of action for our company and its shareholders is to settle this matter and move forward with the compelling growth opportunities we have in Macau".
MGM operates casinos in several US states, including Nevada, Mississippi and Michigan.
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Asia Pacific News: SkyCity Half-Year Up 30%, by Greg Tingle - 15th March 2010
We continue our global coverage of the land based and online casino sector with more healthy reports from the Asia Pacific region. Seems Australia's casino king of Crown Limited fame isn't the only one laughing all the way to the bank. The Kiwi's are giving the Yanks and Aussies a run for their money. Skycity's Australian business helps balance the books. Media Man and Gambling911 report.
Casino and hotel operator Skycity Entertainment Group has posted a solid after-tax profit, almost 30% up on last year's half-year to December result, and appears set to deliver double-digit profit growth of up to 15% for the full year. Of course, critics will argue that they are attracting more "problem gamblers".
The positive result was assisted by a combination of factors...lower net interest expenses, which included a $1.9 million gain from the buy-back of an American private placement debt, and better international business growth in Adelaide and Darwin casinos.
SkyCity shares jumped 11c to $3.24, after the announcement.
Total revenue was up 5.9% from $422.1 million to $446.9 million, earnings before interest and tax were up 9.5% at $122.3 million while its after-tax profit was up 29.6% from $54.7 million to $71 million.
Craigs Investment Partners broker Chris Timms advised the figures suggested a "solid result" when overall market conditions for the half were reported to have been challenging.
"Trading was reported to have weakened at the end of the first half.
"In Australia, that was due to the tailing-off of the (Government) fiscal stimulus package," he said. Readers will recall the stimulus that went to homes often ended up in pokie slots and on the table greens, both in Australian and Macau instances.
Forsyth Barr broker Peter Young said the result was in line with the expectations of both Forsyth Barr and market expectations.
"Aussie casinos had 7% growth in ebitda [earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation] and remain the standout, while the key Auckland casino continues to struggle to record growth," Mr Young said.
Mr Timms advised the contribution from the Australian casinos was about 33%.
Adelaide, which was expected to be a "star performer" came in below expectation, while Auckland's contribution was "flat as expected".
The decline in gaming revenue was offset by higher earnings from non-gaming activities.
Skycity reiterated expectations of posting a full-year normalised after-tax profit in the range of 10%-15% higher than the the previous year's result, and excluding the gain from cinema sales, would translate to a profit range of $126.8 million to $132.6 million, Mr Timms said.
"We believe this is a credible target, given the second-half trading will not be getting the support of the cinema business.
"We are currently forecasting at the low end at $127 million, while (analysts') consensus is at $131 million," Mr Timms said.
Mr Young advised in excluding cinema sales and international business growth, revenue was close to expectations, but Auckland's gaming decline disappointed slightly.
"Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation was $160.1 million, up 7.8% on the same period last year, which is a solid result in the operating climate.
"But like recent periods, that was largely driven by Australian operations," Mr Young said.
Last January, Skycity completed the sale of its cinema interests in New Zealand and Fiji, including interests in the Rialto group, for $61 million, to cinema and exhibition operator ASX-listed Amalgamated Holdings Ltd.
The sale included Skycity's core cinema businesses in New Zealand and its joint-venture interests in both Rialto and Fijian interests.
New Zealand may known as the land of sheep, outnumbering humans 12 to 1, but the solid results from our Kiwi friends show that they are anything but sheepish, nor are they following the Las Vegas Strip financial train wreck like results of many. Good punting.
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Casino and hotel operator Skycity Entertainment Group has posted a solid after-tax profit, almost 30% up on last year's half-year to December result, and appears set to deliver double-digit profit growth of up to 15% for the full year. Of course, critics will argue that they are attracting more "problem gamblers".
The positive result was assisted by a combination of factors...lower net interest expenses, which included a $1.9 million gain from the buy-back of an American private placement debt, and better international business growth in Adelaide and Darwin casinos.
SkyCity shares jumped 11c to $3.24, after the announcement.
Total revenue was up 5.9% from $422.1 million to $446.9 million, earnings before interest and tax were up 9.5% at $122.3 million while its after-tax profit was up 29.6% from $54.7 million to $71 million.
Craigs Investment Partners broker Chris Timms advised the figures suggested a "solid result" when overall market conditions for the half were reported to have been challenging.
"Trading was reported to have weakened at the end of the first half.
"In Australia, that was due to the tailing-off of the (Government) fiscal stimulus package," he said. Readers will recall the stimulus that went to homes often ended up in pokie slots and on the table greens, both in Australian and Macau instances.
Forsyth Barr broker Peter Young said the result was in line with the expectations of both Forsyth Barr and market expectations.
"Aussie casinos had 7% growth in ebitda [earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation] and remain the standout, while the key Auckland casino continues to struggle to record growth," Mr Young said.
Mr Timms advised the contribution from the Australian casinos was about 33%.
Adelaide, which was expected to be a "star performer" came in below expectation, while Auckland's contribution was "flat as expected".
The decline in gaming revenue was offset by higher earnings from non-gaming activities.
Skycity reiterated expectations of posting a full-year normalised after-tax profit in the range of 10%-15% higher than the the previous year's result, and excluding the gain from cinema sales, would translate to a profit range of $126.8 million to $132.6 million, Mr Timms said.
"We believe this is a credible target, given the second-half trading will not be getting the support of the cinema business.
"We are currently forecasting at the low end at $127 million, while (analysts') consensus is at $131 million," Mr Timms said.
Mr Young advised in excluding cinema sales and international business growth, revenue was close to expectations, but Auckland's gaming decline disappointed slightly.
"Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation was $160.1 million, up 7.8% on the same period last year, which is a solid result in the operating climate.
"But like recent periods, that was largely driven by Australian operations," Mr Young said.
Last January, Skycity completed the sale of its cinema interests in New Zealand and Fiji, including interests in the Rialto group, for $61 million, to cinema and exhibition operator ASX-listed Amalgamated Holdings Ltd.
The sale included Skycity's core cinema businesses in New Zealand and its joint-venture interests in both Rialto and Fijian interests.
New Zealand may known as the land of sheep, outnumbering humans 12 to 1, but the solid results from our Kiwi friends show that they are anything but sheepish, nor are they following the Las Vegas Strip financial train wreck like results of many. Good punting.
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Sunday, March 14, 2010
Crown Casino News: Bert’s On His Own At TV Logies - 15th March 2010
He first hosted it in 1967 and he has been lead presenter for the past 20 years, but this year Nine’s veteran star Bert Newton is to fly solo as the host of the TV Week Logie Awards from Crown Casino. A copy of TV Week’s exclusive cover story was leaked yesterday, revealing the name of the host and also the special guests: Britain’s Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle, singer-songwriter John Mayer and Aria award-winning artist Gabriella Cilmi are the headline acts. Newton, the host of 20 to 1, is always good value at the Logies as he is the master of the ad lib and he told TV Week he would only do the show unscripted. Anyway, he can’t do worse than former Big Brother host Gretel Killeen last year. (Credit: The Australian)
Media Man - Greg Tingle Analysis and Commentary
Bring on The Logies. Bert Newton is a safe bet as host, that's for sure. Nine's not gambling with this choice. Nothing like those decades of experience to see a host through the night. Bert still has the wit and edge to keep em amused. He's also in tune with the market and society, so it should be relevant. David (and James) can trust this guy not to screw it up, or screw the network. The only other guy I would trust as much would be Hugh "The Wolverine" Jackman, but he may be busy sharpening his claws, or collecting another Marvel Entertainment pay cheque. Look up WWE - WCW - TNA Wrestling for an insider track on risk management and network VS ego scenarios. No Hugh, this doesn't apply to you. It's been said power and money corrupt... The event may be held in a world class casino, but with Bert fronting things and News Limited's The Oz on the trail, this event should be squeaky clean. Drunk footballers and mugs, do us all a favor and stay away, or JP's army may have to bring out the plastic handcuffs! Could be some real life "Underbelly" action coming up too. Media Man books are full, so no phone calls or emails please... try Max at Markson Sparks! or Harry M at you know where. My spies tell me the likes of Betfair, BetUS, Centrebet and PartyBets may be taking bets on a range of potential happenings leading up to and during the festivities. If you want the real inside track you may have to check out the Casino News Media site (as I don't think media embedded ala Bush War On Terrorism, TV Week, is going to let the cat out of the bag). As always, bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, keep it fun. Network Nine, you've hit the jackpot again.
PS: Crown Limited has a plan to initially employ 75 Indigenous Australians, and as part of Generation One, the ultimate goal of the business network is for 75,000 sustainable positions. It will be interesting to see if any new recruits are on duty come the big show, and if so, just what ratbags may keep them busy. Paps, keep those cameras ready, ya never know who will provide the next bingle or wardrobe malfunction. Oh, let Bert vote for himself.
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Media Man - Greg Tingle Analysis and Commentary
Bring on The Logies. Bert Newton is a safe bet as host, that's for sure. Nine's not gambling with this choice. Nothing like those decades of experience to see a host through the night. Bert still has the wit and edge to keep em amused. He's also in tune with the market and society, so it should be relevant. David (and James) can trust this guy not to screw it up, or screw the network. The only other guy I would trust as much would be Hugh "The Wolverine" Jackman, but he may be busy sharpening his claws, or collecting another Marvel Entertainment pay cheque. Look up WWE - WCW - TNA Wrestling for an insider track on risk management and network VS ego scenarios. No Hugh, this doesn't apply to you. It's been said power and money corrupt... The event may be held in a world class casino, but with Bert fronting things and News Limited's The Oz on the trail, this event should be squeaky clean. Drunk footballers and mugs, do us all a favor and stay away, or JP's army may have to bring out the plastic handcuffs! Could be some real life "Underbelly" action coming up too. Media Man books are full, so no phone calls or emails please... try Max at Markson Sparks! or Harry M at you know where. My spies tell me the likes of Betfair, BetUS, Centrebet and PartyBets may be taking bets on a range of potential happenings leading up to and during the festivities. If you want the real inside track you may have to check out the Casino News Media site (as I don't think media embedded ala Bush War On Terrorism, TV Week, is going to let the cat out of the bag). As always, bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, keep it fun. Network Nine, you've hit the jackpot again.
PS: Crown Limited has a plan to initially employ 75 Indigenous Australians, and as part of Generation One, the ultimate goal of the business network is for 75,000 sustainable positions. It will be interesting to see if any new recruits are on duty come the big show, and if so, just what ratbags may keep them busy. Paps, keep those cameras ready, ya never know who will provide the next bingle or wardrobe malfunction. Oh, let Bert vote for himself.
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Saturday, March 13, 2010
Australian Casino Attacks: Perth's Burswood Bouncer In Hospital Following Headbutt, by Greg Tingle - 14th March 2010
A man has been questioned by police after a bouncer was allegedly head-butted at Burswood Casino in the early hours of yesterday morning.
Police said a 26-year-old man from Southern Cross would be summonsed to appear
in court on an assault charge after he allegedly head-butted the male security officer (aka "Bouncer") about 3.30am.
The victim was taken to hospital with a suspected broken nose.
The alleged offender was apprehended at the scene by security officers before police arrived to take him away for questioning. Ya bloody mongrel.
Media Man and Gambling911 have been following the history of violent attacks at Australian hotels, pubs and casinos for a number of years. Mugs like the above mentioned have been tarnishing the good name of Australian casinos for too long now.
Burswood Entertainment Complex, owned by James Packer's Crown Limited group, is one of numerous Crown venues that will be implementing a plastic handcuff policy, expected to be rolled out later this year.
Negatives Into Positives...
As reported last month, Mr Packer has vouched to help find employment for masses of Indigenous Australian youth, and by the sound of it there's still room to boost the numbers of security offers at the Crown group of facilities. Insiders tip Crown to initially open up close to 100 vacancies for suitably qualified staff, but the overall plan from the Packer - Andrew Forrest - Kerry Stokes - Rupert Murdoch connection is looking to cater to 50,000! Readers, you will be hearing lots more about The Covenant and Generation One.
Burswood and Crown Casino remain iconic Australian tourism landmarks, despite detractors staying otherwise. Last year golfing great Tiger Woods brought in $10 million to Crown coffers alone, largely due in part to a large contingent of casino and golfing whales and dolphins who followed him down under. Tiger's Aussie tour brought more excitement and headlines than expected and witnesses say a certain Miss was seen in Crown Towers... you know, the one who grasped international headlines et Rachel Uchitel. What a bingle that was, of the Aussie Lara Bingle magnitude.
We're hoping things settle down for Tiger and Australian casinos, and the next wave of news will be more positive in nature. We applaud media giants News Limited and Fairfax, both of which have been filing numerous balanced and positive reports on Australian casino king, James Packer, and his substantial empire. Insiders are calling Packer's return to the uppers of the BRW Rich List "the comeback of the decade", likely the only thing he shares in common with Hollywood toughman Mickey Rourke.
No plastic handcuffs required for online casinos, online poker or sports betting, but always bet with your head, not over it.
Big Business Opportunities...
Last call... Media Man thinks Crown might do well to get a b2b deal in place for online casino games with the likes of PartyGaming. Party's PartyPoker secured a large number of online poker players for Crown's Aussie Millions Poker Championship via satellites last January. Party subsequently signed Crown winner Tyron Krost to a lucrative contact. Krost claims he learned to play online poker via PartyPoker.com Party's themed and branded slots such as The Godfather, Mission: Impossible and Top Gun (both featuring Packer's mate Tom Cruise).
Let's face it, some of the attacks at Australian land based casinos are likely going to keep some punters away, but most will have access to an internet connection, thus the online casino. History shows us via the Las Vegas experience that casinos who embrace the internet appropriately are likely to stay ahead of competitors. Packer said himself, "Internet is like electricity".
U.S casino and gaming Giant, Harrah's Entertainment, is the latest U.S casino to make a big splash in online b2b, and we think Packer's Crown should be Australia's first. We understand that Crown competitors TAB and Centrebet are currently making moves to be able to offer Australian's a wide range of online casino games and we think that the Packer People's Army would do well to beat the comp to the punch, pardon the pun, and offer some games featuring some unique Aussie culture. How about a Kerry Packer, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, Underbelly, The Man From Snowy River and Ned Kelly slot? Now I'd be prepared to pay for that, as one would expect from masses of passionate Aussies. Crown shares on 8.170 (share price, not blood alcohol reading). Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor to Gambling911
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company, gaming being just one of a bakers dozen of sectors covered
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Police said a 26-year-old man from Southern Cross would be summonsed to appear
in court on an assault charge after he allegedly head-butted the male security officer (aka "Bouncer") about 3.30am.
The victim was taken to hospital with a suspected broken nose.
The alleged offender was apprehended at the scene by security officers before police arrived to take him away for questioning. Ya bloody mongrel.
Media Man and Gambling911 have been following the history of violent attacks at Australian hotels, pubs and casinos for a number of years. Mugs like the above mentioned have been tarnishing the good name of Australian casinos for too long now.
Burswood Entertainment Complex, owned by James Packer's Crown Limited group, is one of numerous Crown venues that will be implementing a plastic handcuff policy, expected to be rolled out later this year.
Negatives Into Positives...
As reported last month, Mr Packer has vouched to help find employment for masses of Indigenous Australian youth, and by the sound of it there's still room to boost the numbers of security offers at the Crown group of facilities. Insiders tip Crown to initially open up close to 100 vacancies for suitably qualified staff, but the overall plan from the Packer - Andrew Forrest - Kerry Stokes - Rupert Murdoch connection is looking to cater to 50,000! Readers, you will be hearing lots more about The Covenant and Generation One.
Burswood and Crown Casino remain iconic Australian tourism landmarks, despite detractors staying otherwise. Last year golfing great Tiger Woods brought in $10 million to Crown coffers alone, largely due in part to a large contingent of casino and golfing whales and dolphins who followed him down under. Tiger's Aussie tour brought more excitement and headlines than expected and witnesses say a certain Miss was seen in Crown Towers... you know, the one who grasped international headlines et Rachel Uchitel. What a bingle that was, of the Aussie Lara Bingle magnitude.
We're hoping things settle down for Tiger and Australian casinos, and the next wave of news will be more positive in nature. We applaud media giants News Limited and Fairfax, both of which have been filing numerous balanced and positive reports on Australian casino king, James Packer, and his substantial empire. Insiders are calling Packer's return to the uppers of the BRW Rich List "the comeback of the decade", likely the only thing he shares in common with Hollywood toughman Mickey Rourke.
No plastic handcuffs required for online casinos, online poker or sports betting, but always bet with your head, not over it.
Big Business Opportunities...
Last call... Media Man thinks Crown might do well to get a b2b deal in place for online casino games with the likes of PartyGaming. Party's PartyPoker secured a large number of online poker players for Crown's Aussie Millions Poker Championship via satellites last January. Party subsequently signed Crown winner Tyron Krost to a lucrative contact. Krost claims he learned to play online poker via PartyPoker.com Party's themed and branded slots such as The Godfather, Mission: Impossible and Top Gun (both featuring Packer's mate Tom Cruise).
Let's face it, some of the attacks at Australian land based casinos are likely going to keep some punters away, but most will have access to an internet connection, thus the online casino. History shows us via the Las Vegas experience that casinos who embrace the internet appropriately are likely to stay ahead of competitors. Packer said himself, "Internet is like electricity".
U.S casino and gaming Giant, Harrah's Entertainment, is the latest U.S casino to make a big splash in online b2b, and we think Packer's Crown should be Australia's first. We understand that Crown competitors TAB and Centrebet are currently making moves to be able to offer Australian's a wide range of online casino games and we think that the Packer People's Army would do well to beat the comp to the punch, pardon the pun, and offer some games featuring some unique Aussie culture. How about a Kerry Packer, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, Underbelly, The Man From Snowy River and Ned Kelly slot? Now I'd be prepared to pay for that, as one would expect from masses of passionate Aussies. Crown shares on 8.170 (share price, not blood alcohol reading). Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor to Gambling911
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company, gaming being just one of a bakers dozen of sectors covered
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Virgin Casino Adds Thor, Amazon Wild, King Kong, Call of Duty 4 Slot Games and more; Richard Branson planning international expansion - March 2010
Virgin Casino Adds Thor, Amazon Wild, King Kong, Call of Duty 4 Slot Games and more; Richard Branson planning international expansion
Richard Branson's VirginCasino.com continues to put out a world class product and service and this month is tipped to make the finals of the Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory Online Casino Of The Month Awards.
The Online Slot Games:
Thor
The Mighty Thor of Nordic mythology and & the Marvel universe is presented in this 9 line video slot. Win up to 4,000 times your bet. As Marvel icon Stan Lee says, Excelsior!
King Kong
Experience the fury and excitement as King Kong takes on New York City. Play 1 to 25 lines and go bananas over the wild bonus!
Amazon Wild
Exciting Aztec action awaits you in Amazon Wild – the 100 line slot!
Call of Duty 4
Fill your enemy so full of lead you'll have to use him as a pencil instead in this famous title slot!
Promotion
Win up to £500 in bonus cash at Virgin Casino.
Collect exclusive V*Points which can be used on a wide variety of Virgin Group goods and services.
Sorry no U.S or Australian players. See World Casino Directory.
The late news... AWOMO (A World Of My Own) games portal to offer non gambling games on global scale. Virgin Games have teamed up with GDI (Game Domain International). More details here in the coming days and weeks.
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Richard Branson's VirginCasino.com continues to put out a world class product and service and this month is tipped to make the finals of the Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory Online Casino Of The Month Awards.
The Online Slot Games:
Thor
The Mighty Thor of Nordic mythology and & the Marvel universe is presented in this 9 line video slot. Win up to 4,000 times your bet. As Marvel icon Stan Lee says, Excelsior!
King Kong
Experience the fury and excitement as King Kong takes on New York City. Play 1 to 25 lines and go bananas over the wild bonus!
Amazon Wild
Exciting Aztec action awaits you in Amazon Wild – the 100 line slot!
Call of Duty 4
Fill your enemy so full of lead you'll have to use him as a pencil instead in this famous title slot!
Promotion
Win up to £500 in bonus cash at Virgin Casino.
Collect exclusive V*Points which can be used on a wide variety of Virgin Group goods and services.
Sorry no U.S or Australian players. See World Casino Directory.
The late news... AWOMO (A World Of My Own) games portal to offer non gambling games on global scale. Virgin Games have teamed up with GDI (Game Domain International). More details here in the coming days and weeks.
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VirginCasino.com
Friday, March 12, 2010
Australia: Internet In Peril as Big Brother Is Still Watching, by Greg Tingle - 13th March 2010
Gaming, news media, entertainment and freedom of expression fans, your Internet is in danger, at least if you're one of our Australian readers.
The folks down under in Australia have spoken loud and clear...for almost a year now... they don't want their internet (or coffee as a general rule), filtered by the powers that be in the Australian government.
This most important of news stories has been covered in considerable detail by Media Man, Gambling911, and many of the world's leading news outlets.
What's at stake? Human rights and censorship, and that's just the tip of the iceberg folks.
Media rights watchdog Reporters Without Borders has now listed Australia along with Iran and North Korea in a report on countries that pose a threat regarding internet censorship.
Paris-based RWB (Reporters Without Borders) put Australia and South Korea on its list of countries "under surveillance" in its "Internet Enemies" report delivered last Thursday.
Australia was listed for the government's plan to block access to websites featuring material such as rape, drug use, bestiality and child sex abuse. Gambling911 and Media Man do not support those vices, however we do believe that if people want to enjoy online poker, casino games and even a bit of regular porn, they should be able to! You're beloved Maxim, FHM, Penthouse and Playboy Poker Babes could even be in danger of becoming "illegal"!
Detractors are saying that the plan is a seriously misguided measure that will harm civil liberties by blocking a broader range of content than just "net nasty" content.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has advised he plans to introduce legislation by the end of next week that would require ISPs to block a blacklist of "refused classification" websites for all Australians.
It is not currently certain if the government will meet this deadline; a spokeswoman for Senator Conroy said the legislation would be introduced "after it has been considered by caucus and cabinet".
The inclusion on "Internet Enemies" follows the naming of Senator Conroy as the "Internet Villain Of The Year" last July at the Internet Service Providers' Association annual awards in London, a honour that Sen. Conroy shrugged off.
The latest report was of particular interest to Aussie campaigner Peter Coroneos, the MD of the IIA (Internet Industry Association), who told the press that it showed the international reception to the proposed internet filter.
"This regrettably puts Australia on notice that, despite the Rudd Government's best intentions, any mandatory filtering policy is likely to be perceived internationally in ways that will not benefit our reputation as a free and open society," he said.
"It will likely be used by less open societies as a vindication of their internet censorship regimes, despite any domestic attempts to draw distinctions. Mandatory filtering is mandatory filtering by whatever colour it is painted."
Senator Conroy's spokeswoman defended the internet filtering, advising RC content is already prohibited in physical media distributed offline.
"Under Australia's existing Classification regulations this material is not available in newsagencies, it is not on library shelves, you cannot watch it on a DVD or at the cinema and it is not shown on television," she said.
There's hope yet however...Whether the internet filtering scheme gets up will likely depend on the position of the Liberal party, as the Greens have already pledged to oppose the legislation.
The opposition has yet to come to a final position on the matter but in a speech to the Grattan Institute earlier this week shadow treasurer Joe Hockey said the policy was "likely to be unworkable in practice". He expressed concerns that the scope of blocked websites could be expanded in the future and said it was up to parents, not governments, to regulate their childrens' internet use.
A spokeswoman for Hockey said today that the shadow treasurer's comments should not be interpreted as confirmation that the opposition would oppose the filtering legislation, as a decision had not yet been made at this this time.
In South Korea, the RSF report added, "draconian laws are creating too many specific restrictions on web users by challenging their anonymity and promoting self-censorship".
"These countries are worrying us because they have measures that could have repercussions for freedom of expression on the internet," RSF secretary general Jean-Francois Julliard said at an internet rights award ceremony on Thursday.
Russia and Turkey were also added to the watchlist, which is a stage below RSF's top "Enemies of the internet", the countries it considers the 12 worst web freedom violators.
These include Saudi Arabia, Burma, China, North Korea, Iran and Vietnam.
"The world's largest netizen prison is in China, which is far out ahead of other countries with 72 detainees, followed by Vietnam and then by Iran, which have all launched waves of brutal attacks on websites in recent months," RSF's report said.
A senior manager of Google, David Drummond, said there was an "alarming trend" of government interference in online freedom, not only in countries that are judged to have poor human rights records.
He pointed to Australia's plans as a classic example, saying that there "the wide scope of content prohibited could include socially and politically controversial material".
The Australian case "is an example of where these benign intentions can result in the spectre of true censorship".
"Here in Europe, even in France, at this very moment, some are tempted by this slippery path of network filtering."
As recently as last month, after Senator Conroy called on YouTube to censor videos in accordance with his filtering scheme, the search giant's head of policy in Australia, Iarla Flynn, said: "The scope of RC is simply too broad and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information. RC includes the grey realms of material instructing in any crime from [painting] graffiti to politically controversial crimes such as euthanasia, and exposing these topics to public debate is vital for democracy."
Gambling911 and Media Man International are advising Aussie punters to enjoy online poker and casino games while they can at websites such as PartyPoker, PartyCasino, PKR, PokerStars and Betfair.
Management at Gambling911 is hopeful that their own website (which reports on poker, gaming, gambling, sports betting and politics) doesn't end up being banned by the Aussie government.
A little birdie has told us that the Australian government should expect more attacks on their own websites in retribution, and rumours are circulating of more protests being arranged on Australian soil, and one disturbing report of a public riot being organised. Stay tuned for more on this developing situation.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is a member of Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the National Press Club
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com
Greg Tingle, Gambling911.com
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Manager
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Global Gaming Directory.net
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Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
The folks down under in Australia have spoken loud and clear...for almost a year now... they don't want their internet (or coffee as a general rule), filtered by the powers that be in the Australian government.
This most important of news stories has been covered in considerable detail by Media Man, Gambling911, and many of the world's leading news outlets.
What's at stake? Human rights and censorship, and that's just the tip of the iceberg folks.
Media rights watchdog Reporters Without Borders has now listed Australia along with Iran and North Korea in a report on countries that pose a threat regarding internet censorship.
Paris-based RWB (Reporters Without Borders) put Australia and South Korea on its list of countries "under surveillance" in its "Internet Enemies" report delivered last Thursday.
Australia was listed for the government's plan to block access to websites featuring material such as rape, drug use, bestiality and child sex abuse. Gambling911 and Media Man do not support those vices, however we do believe that if people want to enjoy online poker, casino games and even a bit of regular porn, they should be able to! You're beloved Maxim, FHM, Penthouse and Playboy Poker Babes could even be in danger of becoming "illegal"!
Detractors are saying that the plan is a seriously misguided measure that will harm civil liberties by blocking a broader range of content than just "net nasty" content.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has advised he plans to introduce legislation by the end of next week that would require ISPs to block a blacklist of "refused classification" websites for all Australians.
It is not currently certain if the government will meet this deadline; a spokeswoman for Senator Conroy said the legislation would be introduced "after it has been considered by caucus and cabinet".
The inclusion on "Internet Enemies" follows the naming of Senator Conroy as the "Internet Villain Of The Year" last July at the Internet Service Providers' Association annual awards in London, a honour that Sen. Conroy shrugged off.
The latest report was of particular interest to Aussie campaigner Peter Coroneos, the MD of the IIA (Internet Industry Association), who told the press that it showed the international reception to the proposed internet filter.
"This regrettably puts Australia on notice that, despite the Rudd Government's best intentions, any mandatory filtering policy is likely to be perceived internationally in ways that will not benefit our reputation as a free and open society," he said.
"It will likely be used by less open societies as a vindication of their internet censorship regimes, despite any domestic attempts to draw distinctions. Mandatory filtering is mandatory filtering by whatever colour it is painted."
Senator Conroy's spokeswoman defended the internet filtering, advising RC content is already prohibited in physical media distributed offline.
"Under Australia's existing Classification regulations this material is not available in newsagencies, it is not on library shelves, you cannot watch it on a DVD or at the cinema and it is not shown on television," she said.
There's hope yet however...Whether the internet filtering scheme gets up will likely depend on the position of the Liberal party, as the Greens have already pledged to oppose the legislation.
The opposition has yet to come to a final position on the matter but in a speech to the Grattan Institute earlier this week shadow treasurer Joe Hockey said the policy was "likely to be unworkable in practice". He expressed concerns that the scope of blocked websites could be expanded in the future and said it was up to parents, not governments, to regulate their childrens' internet use.
A spokeswoman for Hockey said today that the shadow treasurer's comments should not be interpreted as confirmation that the opposition would oppose the filtering legislation, as a decision had not yet been made at this this time.
In South Korea, the RSF report added, "draconian laws are creating too many specific restrictions on web users by challenging their anonymity and promoting self-censorship".
"These countries are worrying us because they have measures that could have repercussions for freedom of expression on the internet," RSF secretary general Jean-Francois Julliard said at an internet rights award ceremony on Thursday.
Russia and Turkey were also added to the watchlist, which is a stage below RSF's top "Enemies of the internet", the countries it considers the 12 worst web freedom violators.
These include Saudi Arabia, Burma, China, North Korea, Iran and Vietnam.
"The world's largest netizen prison is in China, which is far out ahead of other countries with 72 detainees, followed by Vietnam and then by Iran, which have all launched waves of brutal attacks on websites in recent months," RSF's report said.
A senior manager of Google, David Drummond, said there was an "alarming trend" of government interference in online freedom, not only in countries that are judged to have poor human rights records.
He pointed to Australia's plans as a classic example, saying that there "the wide scope of content prohibited could include socially and politically controversial material".
The Australian case "is an example of where these benign intentions can result in the spectre of true censorship".
"Here in Europe, even in France, at this very moment, some are tempted by this slippery path of network filtering."
As recently as last month, after Senator Conroy called on YouTube to censor videos in accordance with his filtering scheme, the search giant's head of policy in Australia, Iarla Flynn, said: "The scope of RC is simply too broad and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information. RC includes the grey realms of material instructing in any crime from [painting] graffiti to politically controversial crimes such as euthanasia, and exposing these topics to public debate is vital for democracy."
Gambling911 and Media Man International are advising Aussie punters to enjoy online poker and casino games while they can at websites such as PartyPoker, PartyCasino, PKR, PokerStars and Betfair.
Management at Gambling911 is hopeful that their own website (which reports on poker, gaming, gambling, sports betting and politics) doesn't end up being banned by the Aussie government.
A little birdie has told us that the Australian government should expect more attacks on their own websites in retribution, and rumours are circulating of more protests being arranged on Australian soil, and one disturbing report of a public riot being organised. Stay tuned for more on this developing situation.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is a member of Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the National Press Club
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com
Greg Tingle, Gambling911.com
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Manager
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Poker News Media
Property News Media
Australian Casino News
Casino Travel Media
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
PartyCasino New Games: Rubiks Slot, Slotbox, Sands Of Fortune, Beat the Bank and more - March 2010
PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com Releases New Games
Rubiks Slot, Slotbox, Sands Of Fortune, Beat the Bank and more
Multi currency
Multi language
24/7/365 support
Multi-time award winning casino
Australian, European, South African, South African players welcome.
Up to $500 bonus for new players via PartyCasino.com
PartyGaming has also recently launched WPTCasino.com which also carries many new game titles and is currently offering up to $600 welcome bonus for new players.
Websites
PartyCasino.com
WPTCasino.com
WPT.com
PartyPoker.com
PartyBets.com
PartyBingo.com
PartyGammon.com
Rubiks Slot, Slotbox, Sands Of Fortune, Beat the Bank and more
Multi currency
Multi language
24/7/365 support
Multi-time award winning casino
Australian, European, South African, South African players welcome.
Up to $500 bonus for new players via PartyCasino.com
PartyGaming has also recently launched WPTCasino.com which also carries many new game titles and is currently offering up to $600 welcome bonus for new players.
Websites
PartyCasino.com
WPTCasino.com
WPT.com
PartyPoker.com
PartyBets.com
PartyBingo.com
PartyGammon.com
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Poker Babes: Maxim Men's Magazine Top 20 For 2010
Men's magazine Maxim have released their 20 hottest poker babes.
The list mainly consists of Hollywood celebs who have had minor poker involvement such as charity tournaments, however there are a handful of poker babes who can also play well, and even a couple of champions!
Vanessa Rousso enjoyed a win at the EPT Grand Final High Rollers and was runner-up at the NBC National HU Championship and has made 11 final table appearances. Her total tournament cashes are 2.5 million dollars.
Jennifer Tilly and Shannon Elizabeth are two celebrities known also as passionate players. Jenn has a WSOP bracelet and both have made the semifinals at the NBC National HU Championship.
Tiffany Michelle's biggest brag is 17th place and $334,000 at the World Series of Poker 2008 Main Event.
Us, we like Kara Scott from PartyPoker.com and remain very high on Paris Hilton, Jenny McCarthy and Pam Anderson.
Cameron Diaz
Heather Graham
Jenna Fischer
Jennie Garth
Jennifer Love Hewitt
Jennifer Tilly
Jenny McCarthy
Joanna Krupa
Lacey Chabert
Laura Prepon
Mena Suvari
Odette Yustman
Pamela Anderson
Rosario Dawson
Sarah Silverman
Serinda Swan
Shannon Elizabeth
Tiffany Michelle
Traci Bingham
Vanessa Rousso
Profiles
Poker Babes
Casino Babes
Babes
Poker
Website Network
Poker News Media
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Australian Sports Entertainment
Sports Entertainment News
Media Man
Media Man International
The list mainly consists of Hollywood celebs who have had minor poker involvement such as charity tournaments, however there are a handful of poker babes who can also play well, and even a couple of champions!
Vanessa Rousso enjoyed a win at the EPT Grand Final High Rollers and was runner-up at the NBC National HU Championship and has made 11 final table appearances. Her total tournament cashes are 2.5 million dollars.
Jennifer Tilly and Shannon Elizabeth are two celebrities known also as passionate players. Jenn has a WSOP bracelet and both have made the semifinals at the NBC National HU Championship.
Tiffany Michelle's biggest brag is 17th place and $334,000 at the World Series of Poker 2008 Main Event.
Us, we like Kara Scott from PartyPoker.com and remain very high on Paris Hilton, Jenny McCarthy and Pam Anderson.
Cameron Diaz
Heather Graham
Jenna Fischer
Jennie Garth
Jennifer Love Hewitt
Jennifer Tilly
Jenny McCarthy
Joanna Krupa
Lacey Chabert
Laura Prepon
Mena Suvari
Odette Yustman
Pamela Anderson
Rosario Dawson
Sarah Silverman
Serinda Swan
Shannon Elizabeth
Tiffany Michelle
Traci Bingham
Vanessa Rousso
Profiles
Poker Babes
Casino Babes
Babes
Poker
Website Network
Poker News Media
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Australian Sports Entertainment
Sports Entertainment News
Media Man
Media Man International
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Asia Pacific Games News: Pachinko Parlours Winner From Asian Baby Bonus, by Greg Tingle - 11th March 2010
Things continue to heat up for gaming in the Asia Pacific region, but the latest developments in Japan could giving local gaming numerous positive spin-offs.
Asia Pacific's Media Man reports...
Japan's up and down gaming and gambling sector is likely to be an unlikely benefactor from the countries National Child Subsidy Scheme, a program that aims to give couples cash and encourage newlyweds to have families.
Pachinko parlours aka cacophonous pinball arcades that snatch about 23 trillion yen ($278 billion) in apparent illegal gambling revenues per year are likely to fare particularly well Asian gambling insiders tell us.
The Japanese monthly family benefit payment are beautifully matched up for a couple of hours' game play.
The Japanese Government is attempting to get a yes sir for a Y2.2 trillion program giving families Y13,000 a month for each child. The payments would then rise to Y23,000 a month in the second year.
It hopes to combat the effects of a birth rate that has been in decline for 20 years and to ease demographic concerns ranging from a lack of elderly care provision to long-term fiscal catastrophe.
But in a note to investors, analysts at Daiwa Securities have pointed out the reality of what happens when governments suddenly make hefty cash payments.
As the benefit is not distributed in the form of vouchers, Daiwa says, it represents a "hidden" bonus for the gambling industry. Government bonuses to Australian households last year saw an increase in money going into the slots of land based clubs, hotels and casinos, in addition to further lifting the internet casino sector.
Investors have taken note. Beneficiaries would be likely to include the makers of children's clothes and baby goods.
Theme parks and game makers such as Nintendo and other toy and videogame makers also appear winners of stocks that could gain as parents get cash to give into pester power.
Because of the legal "grey" (recently used by Virgin Games) zone in which they operate, pachinko parlour operators are not currently listed on the stock exchange.
The machine makers are tipped to perform strongly. Heiwa, Sankyo, SegaSammy and Aruze all appear on Daiwa's list of "stocks to watch".
Flow on from stimulus cash to pachinko has history. Last April, the Government's stimulus programme involved Y2000 cash handouts to families and was intended to trigger spending across the retail and services sector.
Pachinko stocks were the best-performing equities in the market over the following six months. In 2007, pachinko revenues are believed to have exceeded those of the Japanese restaurant sector.
Numerous analysts have questioned the wisdom of the child subsidy scheme. The Kansai Institute of Social and Economic research found that slightly more than half of Japanese were positive about the idea and more than a third intended to use any cash that they receive into savings or paying-off loans.
The Japanese gaming and gambling market looks like it onto a winner, and perhaps Japan may soon be in a better position to give Macau and Philippines casino and games sector a run for their money.
Media Man and Gambling911 expect that a percentage of the Japanese handouts will eventually end up going to the online casino and gambling sector, so countries such as Gibraltar and The Isle Of Man may also benefit, as the gaming sector is certainly part of the globally economy, and internet medium is suited well to punters who seek the world for their gaming entertainment of choice. Sayonara baby baby, and good fortune.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com http://www.mediaman.asia
Asia Pacific's Media Man reports...
Japan's up and down gaming and gambling sector is likely to be an unlikely benefactor from the countries National Child Subsidy Scheme, a program that aims to give couples cash and encourage newlyweds to have families.
Pachinko parlours aka cacophonous pinball arcades that snatch about 23 trillion yen ($278 billion) in apparent illegal gambling revenues per year are likely to fare particularly well Asian gambling insiders tell us.
The Japanese monthly family benefit payment are beautifully matched up for a couple of hours' game play.
The Japanese Government is attempting to get a yes sir for a Y2.2 trillion program giving families Y13,000 a month for each child. The payments would then rise to Y23,000 a month in the second year.
It hopes to combat the effects of a birth rate that has been in decline for 20 years and to ease demographic concerns ranging from a lack of elderly care provision to long-term fiscal catastrophe.
But in a note to investors, analysts at Daiwa Securities have pointed out the reality of what happens when governments suddenly make hefty cash payments.
As the benefit is not distributed in the form of vouchers, Daiwa says, it represents a "hidden" bonus for the gambling industry. Government bonuses to Australian households last year saw an increase in money going into the slots of land based clubs, hotels and casinos, in addition to further lifting the internet casino sector.
Investors have taken note. Beneficiaries would be likely to include the makers of children's clothes and baby goods.
Theme parks and game makers such as Nintendo and other toy and videogame makers also appear winners of stocks that could gain as parents get cash to give into pester power.
Because of the legal "grey" (recently used by Virgin Games) zone in which they operate, pachinko parlour operators are not currently listed on the stock exchange.
The machine makers are tipped to perform strongly. Heiwa, Sankyo, SegaSammy and Aruze all appear on Daiwa's list of "stocks to watch".
Flow on from stimulus cash to pachinko has history. Last April, the Government's stimulus programme involved Y2000 cash handouts to families and was intended to trigger spending across the retail and services sector.
Pachinko stocks were the best-performing equities in the market over the following six months. In 2007, pachinko revenues are believed to have exceeded those of the Japanese restaurant sector.
Numerous analysts have questioned the wisdom of the child subsidy scheme. The Kansai Institute of Social and Economic research found that slightly more than half of Japanese were positive about the idea and more than a third intended to use any cash that they receive into savings or paying-off loans.
The Japanese gaming and gambling market looks like it onto a winner, and perhaps Japan may soon be in a better position to give Macau and Philippines casino and games sector a run for their money.
Media Man and Gambling911 expect that a percentage of the Japanese handouts will eventually end up going to the online casino and gambling sector, so countries such as Gibraltar and The Isle Of Man may also benefit, as the gaming sector is certainly part of the globally economy, and internet medium is suited well to punters who seek the world for their gaming entertainment of choice. Sayonara baby baby, and good fortune.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com http://www.mediaman.asia
Aristocrat's Mega Millioni$er Penny Slot Makes a Lucky Player an Instant Millionaire at Foxwoods Casino
LAS VEGAS, NV - March 9 2010 - March came in like a lion for a lucky player on an Aristocrat Mega Millioni$er™ penny slot. Playing Aristocrat's Mega Millioni$er progressive game at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., the player hit the top jackpot for an incredible $1,052,083.
Aristocrat's Mega Millioni$er™ is a multi-site progressive that offers higher jackpots and a life-changing multi-million dollar top award on a penny slot. This fun penny slot has grand jackpots that start at $1,000,000 in GLI jurisdictions and at $2,000,000 in Nevada.
Mega Millioni$er™ is as flexible as it is rewarding, because it is available on both video and on Aristocrat's new RFX™ 5-reel stepper. Adding to the fun, operators have the option to run one side of the bank in RFX stepper and one side of the bank in video, all running on one controller, giving players the ultimate choice in fun and jackpot potential.
For video slots, Mega Millioni$er™ has a wide range of top-performing base games from Aristocrat's Player's World Deluxe™ multi-game pack, including Geisha®, 50 Lions® and new games Polynesian Pearl® and African Storm®. The RFX 5-reel stepper base games include Big Ride®, Vegas Hitched®, Sun & Moon® and Pompeii®.
Mega Millioni$er comes stacked with a second-screen "touch coins" feature that enables players to choose three-of-a-kind and win one of four progressive jackpots. In the bonus, 10 gold coins appear on the screen, and the player chooses coins until a 3-of-a-kind match is made, and one of four progressive jackpots is awarded. The Hyperlink® Jackpot Feature can be won at random during any bought game.
Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL), a leading global provider of gaming solutions. The Company is licensed by more than 200 regulators and its products and services are available in more than 90 countries around the world. Aristocrat offers a diverse range of products and services including electronic gaming machines, interactive video terminal systems, electronic tables, and casino management systems. For further information visit the company's website at www.aristocratgaming.com.
Website Network
American Casino News
American Gaming News
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Media Man
Aristocrat's Mega Millioni$er™ is a multi-site progressive that offers higher jackpots and a life-changing multi-million dollar top award on a penny slot. This fun penny slot has grand jackpots that start at $1,000,000 in GLI jurisdictions and at $2,000,000 in Nevada.
Mega Millioni$er™ is as flexible as it is rewarding, because it is available on both video and on Aristocrat's new RFX™ 5-reel stepper. Adding to the fun, operators have the option to run one side of the bank in RFX stepper and one side of the bank in video, all running on one controller, giving players the ultimate choice in fun and jackpot potential.
For video slots, Mega Millioni$er™ has a wide range of top-performing base games from Aristocrat's Player's World Deluxe™ multi-game pack, including Geisha®, 50 Lions® and new games Polynesian Pearl® and African Storm®. The RFX 5-reel stepper base games include Big Ride®, Vegas Hitched®, Sun & Moon® and Pompeii®.
Mega Millioni$er comes stacked with a second-screen "touch coins" feature that enables players to choose three-of-a-kind and win one of four progressive jackpots. In the bonus, 10 gold coins appear on the screen, and the player chooses coins until a 3-of-a-kind match is made, and one of four progressive jackpots is awarded. The Hyperlink® Jackpot Feature can be won at random during any bought game.
Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL), a leading global provider of gaming solutions. The Company is licensed by more than 200 regulators and its products and services are available in more than 90 countries around the world. Aristocrat offers a diverse range of products and services including electronic gaming machines, interactive video terminal systems, electronic tables, and casino management systems. For further information visit the company's website at www.aristocratgaming.com.
Website Network
American Casino News
American Gaming News
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Media Man
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
PartyGaming News: PartyCasino and WPT Casino Get New Online Slot Games: Rubiks Slot, Slotbox, Sands Of Fortune, Beat the Bank and more - March 2010
PartyCasino.com and WPTCasino.com, both owned and operated by PartyGaming, have just released some great new online slot games.
New players can get up to $500 bonus.
Play for free or play for money. Multi language and multi currency. The casinos offer the exclusive PartyGaming PartyPoints rewards system providing players with world class rewards and bonuses.
Rubiks Slot
Rubiks game is a fixed odds game based on the popular Rubik’s Cube® Puzzle. The player selects the stake and then presses the Play button and gets wins based on how many lines and/or sides get completed on the 3 visible sides after the cube is automatically rotated several times. All wins are paid as per the paytable. Rubik's game also introduces Free Plays. Free Plays is triggered when all six letters in the Rubik's logo are highlighted, in which the player is awarded free plays and extra cubes.
Slotbox
Line up a fortune in Slotblox. Take a classic, line-building puzzle game, remove the stress and add plenty of chances to win lots of cash. That’s Slotblox.
Slotblox couldn’t be simpler. When you start playing different shaped blocks fall down the screen into your game grid. Don’t worry about controlling the blocks, the game does that for you.
You can build your way to big money when these blocks create cash-winning lines. Winning lines then disappear, creating more space in the grid and giving your further chances to win.
Get a winning line with the special ‘magic’ blocks and you’ll trigger the free plays feature where’s there’s double money to be won.
See if a fortune’s about to fall your way.
Sands Of Fortune
Sands of Fortune is a five-reel, nine-paylines slot game with a bonus feature game that gives you the chance to win extra prizes. Random number of picks of up to 5 is awarded. You get to select any 1 door in each pick to reveal a prize. 3 or more BONUS symbols appear anywhere in view triggers the bonus feature.
Beat the Bank
Beat the bank is a five-reel, twenty-paylines slot game with a 'free game' and a ‘Beat The Bank’ feature. The Free Games Feature is triggered when Thief appears any where on reels 2, 3 and 4 at the same time. 15 free games are awarded, during which all prizes are tripled, except for Beat The Bank feature win, even though it is triggered during Free Spins. The feature can be retriggered when Thief appears any where on reels 2, 3 and 4 at the same time. The Beat The Bank Feature is awarded when 3 or more Scattered Safe occur anywhere.
Thief appears on Reels 2, 3 and 4 only and substitutes for all other symbols except Scattered Safe.
PartyCasino.com is a multi time Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Online Casino Of The Month winner and WPTCasino.com is a Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Online Casino finalist.
PartyGaming is widely regarded as the world's leading igaming company. They are listed on the London Stock Exchange and were established in 1997.
Websites
PartyCasino.com
WPTCasino.com
New players can get up to $500 bonus.
Play for free or play for money. Multi language and multi currency. The casinos offer the exclusive PartyGaming PartyPoints rewards system providing players with world class rewards and bonuses.
Rubiks Slot
Rubiks game is a fixed odds game based on the popular Rubik’s Cube® Puzzle. The player selects the stake and then presses the Play button and gets wins based on how many lines and/or sides get completed on the 3 visible sides after the cube is automatically rotated several times. All wins are paid as per the paytable. Rubik's game also introduces Free Plays. Free Plays is triggered when all six letters in the Rubik's logo are highlighted, in which the player is awarded free plays and extra cubes.
Slotbox
Line up a fortune in Slotblox. Take a classic, line-building puzzle game, remove the stress and add plenty of chances to win lots of cash. That’s Slotblox.
Slotblox couldn’t be simpler. When you start playing different shaped blocks fall down the screen into your game grid. Don’t worry about controlling the blocks, the game does that for you.
You can build your way to big money when these blocks create cash-winning lines. Winning lines then disappear, creating more space in the grid and giving your further chances to win.
Get a winning line with the special ‘magic’ blocks and you’ll trigger the free plays feature where’s there’s double money to be won.
See if a fortune’s about to fall your way.
Sands Of Fortune
Sands of Fortune is a five-reel, nine-paylines slot game with a bonus feature game that gives you the chance to win extra prizes. Random number of picks of up to 5 is awarded. You get to select any 1 door in each pick to reveal a prize. 3 or more BONUS symbols appear anywhere in view triggers the bonus feature.
Beat the Bank
Beat the bank is a five-reel, twenty-paylines slot game with a 'free game' and a ‘Beat The Bank’ feature. The Free Games Feature is triggered when Thief appears any where on reels 2, 3 and 4 at the same time. 15 free games are awarded, during which all prizes are tripled, except for Beat The Bank feature win, even though it is triggered during Free Spins. The feature can be retriggered when Thief appears any where on reels 2, 3 and 4 at the same time. The Beat The Bank Feature is awarded when 3 or more Scattered Safe occur anywhere.
Thief appears on Reels 2, 3 and 4 only and substitutes for all other symbols except Scattered Safe.
PartyCasino.com is a multi time Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Online Casino Of The Month winner and WPTCasino.com is a Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Online Casino finalist.
PartyGaming is widely regarded as the world's leading igaming company. They are listed on the London Stock Exchange and were established in 1997.
Websites
PartyCasino.com
WPTCasino.com
Tiger Airways (Not Woods) Offers Private Flights To Singapore New Casino, by Greg Tingle - 10th March 2010
Singapore budget air carrier Tiger Airways will provide a chartered aircraft that will exclusively fly foreign guests visiting the city's first casino resort. Perfect to fly casino whales and would be's... dolphins, into gambling heaven... or hell.
The airline advised it signed an agreement with Resorts World Sentosa under which the casino operator will take over the lease of the aircraft.
The plane will be staffed by pilots and cabin crew from Tiger Airways, and we understand no gambling (or sex in the washroom ala Australia's "Mile High Hostie") will be permitted mid flight.
"Yet to be named, the private flight service, operated by Tiger Airways, will have an aircraft operating as a dedicated charter service for Resorts World Sentosa, transporting guests between Singapore and other cities around the region," it says.
The service is scheduled to start late this year.
Resorts World Sentosa has opened Singapore's first casino, which is part of a $US4.4 billion ($A4.9 billion) complex that also includes a Universal Studios movie theme park, premium hotels, restaurants and convention facilities.
Media Man and Gambling911 understands that by law the casino has to provide a range of services, thus becomes a "hotel - resort - theme park" scenario, but the lions share of the income comes straight from the casinos, and the whales and dolphins that visit. Aw well, we all have to make a dollar, and we wish punters good luck at Resorts World Sentosa.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The Media Man group includes Media Man, Media Man Australia and Media Man Asia
http://www.mediamanint.com http://www.mediamanaustralia.com http://www.mediaman.asia
The airline advised it signed an agreement with Resorts World Sentosa under which the casino operator will take over the lease of the aircraft.
The plane will be staffed by pilots and cabin crew from Tiger Airways, and we understand no gambling (or sex in the washroom ala Australia's "Mile High Hostie") will be permitted mid flight.
"Yet to be named, the private flight service, operated by Tiger Airways, will have an aircraft operating as a dedicated charter service for Resorts World Sentosa, transporting guests between Singapore and other cities around the region," it says.
The service is scheduled to start late this year.
Resorts World Sentosa has opened Singapore's first casino, which is part of a $US4.4 billion ($A4.9 billion) complex that also includes a Universal Studios movie theme park, premium hotels, restaurants and convention facilities.
Media Man and Gambling911 understands that by law the casino has to provide a range of services, thus becomes a "hotel - resort - theme park" scenario, but the lions share of the income comes straight from the casinos, and the whales and dolphins that visit. Aw well, we all have to make a dollar, and we wish punters good luck at Resorts World Sentosa.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The Media Man group includes Media Man, Media Man Australia and Media Man Asia
http://www.mediamanint.com http://www.mediamanaustralia.com http://www.mediaman.asia
Monday, March 08, 2010
Australia's Crown Management Tight Lipped On Macau Dreams, by Greg Tingle - 9th March 2010
Crown management has remains tight-lipped regarding a potential disposal of the casino group's interest in Melco Crown Entertainment, a 32 per cent owned Macau joint venture.
Thus far Media Man and Gambling911 are getting a "nonsense" reply back from the powers that be at Crown.
The matter was again raised at the company's half-year results briefing and was shrugged off. We reckon Mr Packer may be bluffing, perhaps something he crafted up on from former Media Man client, Keith "Bendigo" Sloan (poker trainer and events organiser).
Melco Crown's earnings have been in a slump, falling 90 per cent to $US2.7 million ($A3 million) in the December quarter, however earlier indicators are they are bouncing back, following the Melbourne based Crown Casino and Perth's Burswood Entertainment Complex.
Plans for a number 3 Macau casino have been scrapped and speculation builds that a significant capital injection will be required to keep the bankers at bay.
With all things considered, Crown Melco remains in a better position that most land based casino operators. Land based casino operator licences in Macau are as rare as hen's teeth, and U.S casino and gaming monster Harrah's is on the prowl for a physical presence in the region. Harrah's MD Gary Loveman acknowledged that Macau is a "big omission in our portfolio, and we would like to solve it."
Harrah's Entertainment interest in Crown's Macau interests shot up numerous months ago when an analyst report noted that legal eagle's hacking for Macau's chief executive, Fernando Chui Sai On, had been requested to examine "a potential transfer of ownership" of shares from Crown to Harrah's Entertainment!
Mr Loveman refused to be drawn on the status of discussions with Melco or Crown as of time of publication, noting only that "We are well acquainted with the principals of that company and have been for quite some time."
The late mail... Macau gambling and property billionaire king, Mr Stanley Ho, long time friend and associate to Australia's Packer family, has been released from hospital after 7 months in hospital for unspecified surgery.
Mr Ho is understood to be doing well. Daughter Pansy Ho told the press gathering "He just woke up from a nap. I don't want him to be too stimulated". The news on Mr Ho's release is expected to see gains for Macau in the property, investor and shares sector. The good news dice just keeps flowing for Macau, where many a journalist last year was referring to the Macau region as a City Of Nightmares, not Dreams!
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling 911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Thus far Media Man and Gambling911 are getting a "nonsense" reply back from the powers that be at Crown.
The matter was again raised at the company's half-year results briefing and was shrugged off. We reckon Mr Packer may be bluffing, perhaps something he crafted up on from former Media Man client, Keith "Bendigo" Sloan (poker trainer and events organiser).
Melco Crown's earnings have been in a slump, falling 90 per cent to $US2.7 million ($A3 million) in the December quarter, however earlier indicators are they are bouncing back, following the Melbourne based Crown Casino and Perth's Burswood Entertainment Complex.
Plans for a number 3 Macau casino have been scrapped and speculation builds that a significant capital injection will be required to keep the bankers at bay.
With all things considered, Crown Melco remains in a better position that most land based casino operators. Land based casino operator licences in Macau are as rare as hen's teeth, and U.S casino and gaming monster Harrah's is on the prowl for a physical presence in the region. Harrah's MD Gary Loveman acknowledged that Macau is a "big omission in our portfolio, and we would like to solve it."
Harrah's Entertainment interest in Crown's Macau interests shot up numerous months ago when an analyst report noted that legal eagle's hacking for Macau's chief executive, Fernando Chui Sai On, had been requested to examine "a potential transfer of ownership" of shares from Crown to Harrah's Entertainment!
Mr Loveman refused to be drawn on the status of discussions with Melco or Crown as of time of publication, noting only that "We are well acquainted with the principals of that company and have been for quite some time."
The late mail... Macau gambling and property billionaire king, Mr Stanley Ho, long time friend and associate to Australia's Packer family, has been released from hospital after 7 months in hospital for unspecified surgery.
Mr Ho is understood to be doing well. Daughter Pansy Ho told the press gathering "He just woke up from a nap. I don't want him to be too stimulated". The news on Mr Ho's release is expected to see gains for Macau in the property, investor and shares sector. The good news dice just keeps flowing for Macau, where many a journalist last year was referring to the Macau region as a City Of Nightmares, not Dreams!
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling 911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Boyfriend of Victorian Premier daughter ejected from Australia's Crown Casino, by Greg Tingle - 9th March 2010
We can now confirm that state police have questioned the boyfriend of Elizabeth Brumby, the daughter of Victorian Premier John Brumby, over an incident at Crown Casino in Melbourne.
The 23-year-old man was ejected from a private function on Friday night after security guards accused him of being drunk. The guards had no need to use plastic handcuffs on this occasion, a unique initiative getting mixed reactions from the Australian hotel, club and casino sector.
No charges have been laid at the time of publishing.
In a brief media statement, Mr Brumby said his daughter tried to defuse the situation and described it as a "private matter".
Crown Limited shares remain strong at 8.270 (share price, not blood alcohol reading)
Media Man and Gambling911 will continue to report from the sometimes battlefield that is the Australian land based casino sector. PS: no plastic handcuffs required in online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is the founder and director of Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com , primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
The 23-year-old man was ejected from a private function on Friday night after security guards accused him of being drunk. The guards had no need to use plastic handcuffs on this occasion, a unique initiative getting mixed reactions from the Australian hotel, club and casino sector.
No charges have been laid at the time of publishing.
In a brief media statement, Mr Brumby said his daughter tried to defuse the situation and described it as a "private matter".
Crown Limited shares remain strong at 8.270 (share price, not blood alcohol reading)
Media Man and Gambling911 will continue to report from the sometimes battlefield that is the Australian land based casino sector. PS: no plastic handcuffs required in online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is the founder and director of Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com , primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Gambling News and Findings From Australia Get Mixed Reviews, by Greg Tingle - 9th March 2010
It's been a painstaking process, but Gambling911 via the Media Man down under in Aussie Land, has got their hands on some interesting data of substance, released by our "friends" at the New South Wales government no less!
The good news is that a recent survey by the NSW government has demonstrated that rate of problem gambling in the state is declining and that it now has fewer "problem gamblers" per head of population than the southerly friends in Victoria. Yeah, The State Of Origin is on... go The Blues.
Not to any great surprises, the scientific (whaling term ala Japanese whaling) findings have been greeted with furious scepticism by an academic expert and by anti-pokies campaigner Senator Nick Xenophon, who has named the survey a ''snow job'' from a government dependent on gambling revenue. If there was one man in Australia that possibly hated the pokes more than Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, that would be Nicky X, coming out of the blue corner.
The gambling and gaming survey, which was included in the New South Wales Population Health Survey at the request of Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene, found that only 0.4 per cent of the state's adult population are "problem gamblers", down from the last survey in 2006 that found the rate to be 0.8 per cent. It concluded 2.5 per cent were low-risk gamblers and 1.2 per cent were moderate-risk gamblers.
The results of the telephone based survey also found that Victoria had a "problem gambling" rate of 0.7 per cent, while South Australia and the "banana benders" in Queensland were on a par with NSW.
Minister Greene advised that the findings showed measures introduced by the NSW government to help problem gamblers were making a positive impact. Its Responsible Gambling Fund, taken from a levy on casino profits, has poured money into front-line and telephone counselling services. Measures introduced last year included further capping machine numbers and banning credit card cash withdrawals from ATMs in gaming venues.
''These findings are very encouraging and we hope it's a sign that our high-quality counselling service and strict harm minimisation laws are making a real difference,'' Mr Greene said.
However Senator Xenophon as can be expected queried how a telephone survey could accurately gauge the level of problem gambling in the community, arguing many "problem gamblers" were either in denial or already had had their landlines disconnected!
''This survey shows just how desperate the NSW Government is to cover up the extent of problem gambling, he said.
''The NSW government is hopelessly compromised when it rakes in well over $1 billion in poker machine taxes a year.''
Monash University senior lecturer in Health Social Sciences Dr Charles Livingstone, a board member of the journal International Gambling Studies, agreed that telephone surveys of problem gambling tended to contain a "selection bias". His interpretation of gambling data collected in NSW in the past decade showed a problem gambling rate about 2.5 per cent in the adult population, which had remained largely unchanged. ''Gambling continues to be very much out of control in New South Wales'' Dr Livingstone said.
The survey also interestingly contradicts the findings of a draft Productivity Commission report released last October, which found that measures introduced by state governments to limit problem gambling in the past decade had been largely ineffective.
Media Man can advise from from first hand accounts that its basically impossible to enter a venue such as a pub, hotel or casino in Australia without seeing a number of extremely visible warnings and alerts as to the potential dangers of problem gambling. Be it Bondi Icebergs Bergs Gaming, Bondi Hotel's Stardust Rooms, or the good ol Crown Casino, they all carry substantial signage. One of the signs even read something to the effect of "Generally your chances of winning a substantial prize are less than one in a million".
Trusted and highly ethical casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Virgin Games Virgin Casino also carry quality information about harm prevention and minimization, the odds of winning, and who to contact if you think you may have a gambling problem. One in million hey...Aw well, you got to be in it to win it.
The Productivity Commission has just handed its final report on gambling to the federal government and is receiving mixed reports.
Gambling policy, health and internet censorship remain of great interest to voters for state and federal elections, and yes, you can bet on election outcomes at agencies such as Centrebet International, who are now also taking bets on the financial markets, following the lead from PartyGaming with their InterTrader deal with London Capital Group last January.
Media Man and Gambling911 remind the readership and punters to know your limits and keep it fun, be it at a land based gambling den or at any number of online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company http://www.mediamanint.com
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino and is a pro active member of Richard Branson's Virgin Unite
Website Network
Media Man
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
The good news is that a recent survey by the NSW government has demonstrated that rate of problem gambling in the state is declining and that it now has fewer "problem gamblers" per head of population than the southerly friends in Victoria. Yeah, The State Of Origin is on... go The Blues.
Not to any great surprises, the scientific (whaling term ala Japanese whaling) findings have been greeted with furious scepticism by an academic expert and by anti-pokies campaigner Senator Nick Xenophon, who has named the survey a ''snow job'' from a government dependent on gambling revenue. If there was one man in Australia that possibly hated the pokes more than Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, that would be Nicky X, coming out of the blue corner.
The gambling and gaming survey, which was included in the New South Wales Population Health Survey at the request of Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene, found that only 0.4 per cent of the state's adult population are "problem gamblers", down from the last survey in 2006 that found the rate to be 0.8 per cent. It concluded 2.5 per cent were low-risk gamblers and 1.2 per cent were moderate-risk gamblers.
The results of the telephone based survey also found that Victoria had a "problem gambling" rate of 0.7 per cent, while South Australia and the "banana benders" in Queensland were on a par with NSW.
Minister Greene advised that the findings showed measures introduced by the NSW government to help problem gamblers were making a positive impact. Its Responsible Gambling Fund, taken from a levy on casino profits, has poured money into front-line and telephone counselling services. Measures introduced last year included further capping machine numbers and banning credit card cash withdrawals from ATMs in gaming venues.
''These findings are very encouraging and we hope it's a sign that our high-quality counselling service and strict harm minimisation laws are making a real difference,'' Mr Greene said.
However Senator Xenophon as can be expected queried how a telephone survey could accurately gauge the level of problem gambling in the community, arguing many "problem gamblers" were either in denial or already had had their landlines disconnected!
''This survey shows just how desperate the NSW Government is to cover up the extent of problem gambling, he said.
''The NSW government is hopelessly compromised when it rakes in well over $1 billion in poker machine taxes a year.''
Monash University senior lecturer in Health Social Sciences Dr Charles Livingstone, a board member of the journal International Gambling Studies, agreed that telephone surveys of problem gambling tended to contain a "selection bias". His interpretation of gambling data collected in NSW in the past decade showed a problem gambling rate about 2.5 per cent in the adult population, which had remained largely unchanged. ''Gambling continues to be very much out of control in New South Wales'' Dr Livingstone said.
The survey also interestingly contradicts the findings of a draft Productivity Commission report released last October, which found that measures introduced by state governments to limit problem gambling in the past decade had been largely ineffective.
Media Man can advise from from first hand accounts that its basically impossible to enter a venue such as a pub, hotel or casino in Australia without seeing a number of extremely visible warnings and alerts as to the potential dangers of problem gambling. Be it Bondi Icebergs Bergs Gaming, Bondi Hotel's Stardust Rooms, or the good ol Crown Casino, they all carry substantial signage. One of the signs even read something to the effect of "Generally your chances of winning a substantial prize are less than one in a million".
Trusted and highly ethical casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Virgin Games Virgin Casino also carry quality information about harm prevention and minimization, the odds of winning, and who to contact if you think you may have a gambling problem. One in million hey...Aw well, you got to be in it to win it.
The Productivity Commission has just handed its final report on gambling to the federal government and is receiving mixed reports.
Gambling policy, health and internet censorship remain of great interest to voters for state and federal elections, and yes, you can bet on election outcomes at agencies such as Centrebet International, who are now also taking bets on the financial markets, following the lead from PartyGaming with their InterTrader deal with London Capital Group last January.
Media Man and Gambling911 remind the readership and punters to know your limits and keep it fun, be it at a land based gambling den or at any number of online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company http://www.mediamanint.com
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino and is a pro active member of Richard Branson's Virgin Unite
Website Network
Media Man
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Tiger Woods Turns Down $75 Million Offer From Paddy Power Poker; Online Poker And Gambling Firms Looking For Celeb Edge, by Greg Tingle - 7th March 10
Media Man reports it's been a big year for The Tiger, and an equally huge year for the online poker and gambling sector.
Tiger Woods has just turned down a $75 million sponsorship offer from the online firm Paddy Power.
Paddy Power enjoys a strong position in the Irish sector and has aspirations to kick big goals in a number of overseas regions.
Various news sources and wires such as TMZ and Poker News Daily report "Tiger Woods just blew off a $75 million endorsement offer from an Irish gambling company – and that is how you know you’re rich." It was a long term deal, but tiger has recently made it clear what his major priorities are.
In other celeb - poker news, five-time NBA champion Dennis Rodman has signed with Cake Poker Network site Only Poker. Rodman is managed by Prince Marketing Group, as is fellow NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and boxing legend Smokin' Joe Frazier.
PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com is said to be delighted with their poker celeb and pro signings including Aussie's Stewart Scott and Tony G, Canadian-Brit Kara Scott, German Dragan Galic and Italian football living legend, Francesco Totti.
Mike Sexton, Poker Hall of Famer remains the face of Party's World Poker Tour, which PartyGaming purchased last year.
PartyPoker is not currently accepting American players, but is taking on Aussies. PokerStars continues to accept Americans, Canadians, Aussies, and just about anyone else, as does PKR Poker.
Media Man can report that PartyGaming an a number of other online poker and gaming brands have their eyes and ears open to sign the right celebs and celebrity poker and sports starts as the high stakes business of online poker and casino continues.
These developments come as many governments of the world are considering fully regulating the online poker and casino industry.
Website Network
Poker News Media
Media Man International
Casino News Media
Australian Sports Entertainment
Sports Entertainment News
Global Gaming Directory
Tiger Woods has just turned down a $75 million sponsorship offer from the online firm Paddy Power.
Paddy Power enjoys a strong position in the Irish sector and has aspirations to kick big goals in a number of overseas regions.
Various news sources and wires such as TMZ and Poker News Daily report "Tiger Woods just blew off a $75 million endorsement offer from an Irish gambling company – and that is how you know you’re rich." It was a long term deal, but tiger has recently made it clear what his major priorities are.
In other celeb - poker news, five-time NBA champion Dennis Rodman has signed with Cake Poker Network site Only Poker. Rodman is managed by Prince Marketing Group, as is fellow NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and boxing legend Smokin' Joe Frazier.
PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com is said to be delighted with their poker celeb and pro signings including Aussie's Stewart Scott and Tony G, Canadian-Brit Kara Scott, German Dragan Galic and Italian football living legend, Francesco Totti.
Mike Sexton, Poker Hall of Famer remains the face of Party's World Poker Tour, which PartyGaming purchased last year.
PartyPoker is not currently accepting American players, but is taking on Aussies. PokerStars continues to accept Americans, Canadians, Aussies, and just about anyone else, as does PKR Poker.
Media Man can report that PartyGaming an a number of other online poker and gaming brands have their eyes and ears open to sign the right celebs and celebrity poker and sports starts as the high stakes business of online poker and casino continues.
These developments come as many governments of the world are considering fully regulating the online poker and casino industry.
Website Network
Poker News Media
Media Man International
Casino News Media
Australian Sports Entertainment
Sports Entertainment News
Global Gaming Directory
Friday, March 05, 2010
Casino, Poker, Bingo, Table Games, Hollywood Slot Games, Casino Classics: PartyGaming Does It All, by Greg Tingle
PartyCasino, PartyPoker, World Poker Tour - London Stock Exchange powerhouse - meet the Ace of the igaming world
The world's leading igaming company, PartyGaming is on a roll.
Having come to terms with the United States Department of Justice earlier this year, PartyGaming have become quite the darling of the igaming, gaming and news media world.
PartyGaming has been on a purchasing and acquisitions mission recently picking up Cashcade and World Poker Tour, and is poised to come to more major business deals in the European, Asia Pacific and South American regions. It's global strategy also sees Party eyeing off India and France, whose government's appear open, even positive, to see a deal inked. PartyGaming has also been able to talk shop with Australia's Crown Casino resulting in sending online poker players in the direction of Crown's Aussie Millions Poker Tournament via its celebrated PartyPoker.com brand.
As PartyGaming CEO, Jim Ryan, has pointed out a number of times this financial year, PartyCasino is a key driver in the business and the Hollywood themed online slot games have been a huge success, as has their "Live Dealer" product, enabled by Evolution Gaming. While PartyCasino secured the rights to WagerWorks classic titles last year, Cleopatra, Monopoly and Cluedo, Party was able to build the portfolio with its own in-house team know as 'The Games Studio'.
Online poker remains the company's bread and butter, despite PartyPoker.com not currently accepting U.S customers. However, Party's purchase and running of World Poker Tour (including World Poker Tour website, World Poker Tour casino website) and Club WPT) means that United States citizens can now enjoy a PartyGaming product without any question of legals. The World Poker Tour brand will also almost certainly enable PartyGaming to facilitate some major news media and television deals, which will further grow the company's bottom line and brand.
Numerous sports and entertainment celebrities have been lining up to represent the brand including cricket and TV star Phil 'Tuffers' Tufnell, Italian football legend Francesco Totti, Germany poker pro Dragan Galic, Australian poker sensations, Tony G and Stewart Scott, and poker babe and TV presenter, Canadian-Brit Kara Scott.
Casino fans... now the information you've been waiting for... more world class online slot games are on the cards for PartyCasino following the recent releases, Call of Action 4: Modern Warfare, Melon Madness, Tarzan, Sinatra, High Noon, Resident Evil and The Naked Gun. Names being speculated include Andre The Giant, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, The Expendables, The Sopranos, Sonic, Underbelly, Hilton, UFC, TNA and Marvel. Again, those brands are speculation, but some of these have made print, and as they say, where there's smoke, there's fire!
PartyGaming already offers four Marvel themed online slot games and the Marvel Hero Jackpot, and modern classic, The Godfather, remains one of the most popular slots networked into the world famous Gold Mega Jackpot, currently exceeding $1 million dollars! If you got excited by Cleo, Rambo and Tarzan, just wait till you see what lurks around the corner. Australia's NextGen Gaming has been teasing some journalists and insiders on some massive brands going live on PartyCasino, and that's no spin. The online casino brand also offers 24/7/365 support and comes in a wide range of multi currency and multi language options. Not convinced yet? Players and potential players can also play for free or play for money, so you know your in safe hands. New casino players can currently get up to $500 bonus for signing up.
PartyGaming is listed on the London Stock Exchange and has been operating for over a decade, which is like a lifetime in the gaming world. PartyGaming has also made last year's eGaming Review shortlist for a number of awards and commendations. In addition, PartyGaming and its PartyCasino, PartyPoker and World Poker Tour brands have made the Media Man and Casino News Media shortlist for monthly and yearly awards.
While some of PartyGaming's competitors are putting out some impressive products from time to time, those in the know state that there is only one PartyGaming and that their track record of stability, service, security, innovation and fun speaks for itself.
*the writer has a b2b agreement in place with a number of PartyGaming brands, as they do with dozens of brands in the gaming, igaming media and entertainment sector, the details of which are commercially sensitive in nature. The writer is the founder and director of Media Man, Media Man International and Global Gaming Directory.
Global Gaming Directory Profiles
PartyGaming
PartyCasino.com
PartyPoker.com
Club WPT
Websites
PartyCasino.com
PartyCasino.com Marvel Slots
PartyCasino.com Sinatra Slot
PartyPoker.com
World Poker Tour casino
World Poker Tour
Club WPT
The world's leading igaming company, PartyGaming is on a roll.
Having come to terms with the United States Department of Justice earlier this year, PartyGaming have become quite the darling of the igaming, gaming and news media world.
PartyGaming has been on a purchasing and acquisitions mission recently picking up Cashcade and World Poker Tour, and is poised to come to more major business deals in the European, Asia Pacific and South American regions. It's global strategy also sees Party eyeing off India and France, whose government's appear open, even positive, to see a deal inked. PartyGaming has also been able to talk shop with Australia's Crown Casino resulting in sending online poker players in the direction of Crown's Aussie Millions Poker Tournament via its celebrated PartyPoker.com brand.
As PartyGaming CEO, Jim Ryan, has pointed out a number of times this financial year, PartyCasino is a key driver in the business and the Hollywood themed online slot games have been a huge success, as has their "Live Dealer" product, enabled by Evolution Gaming. While PartyCasino secured the rights to WagerWorks classic titles last year, Cleopatra, Monopoly and Cluedo, Party was able to build the portfolio with its own in-house team know as 'The Games Studio'.
Online poker remains the company's bread and butter, despite PartyPoker.com not currently accepting U.S customers. However, Party's purchase and running of World Poker Tour (including World Poker Tour website, World Poker Tour casino website) and Club WPT) means that United States citizens can now enjoy a PartyGaming product without any question of legals. The World Poker Tour brand will also almost certainly enable PartyGaming to facilitate some major news media and television deals, which will further grow the company's bottom line and brand.
Numerous sports and entertainment celebrities have been lining up to represent the brand including cricket and TV star Phil 'Tuffers' Tufnell, Italian football legend Francesco Totti, Germany poker pro Dragan Galic, Australian poker sensations, Tony G and Stewart Scott, and poker babe and TV presenter, Canadian-Brit Kara Scott.
Casino fans... now the information you've been waiting for... more world class online slot games are on the cards for PartyCasino following the recent releases, Call of Action 4: Modern Warfare, Melon Madness, Tarzan, Sinatra, High Noon, Resident Evil and The Naked Gun. Names being speculated include Andre The Giant, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, The Expendables, The Sopranos, Sonic, Underbelly, Hilton, UFC, TNA and Marvel. Again, those brands are speculation, but some of these have made print, and as they say, where there's smoke, there's fire!
PartyGaming already offers four Marvel themed online slot games and the Marvel Hero Jackpot, and modern classic, The Godfather, remains one of the most popular slots networked into the world famous Gold Mega Jackpot, currently exceeding $1 million dollars! If you got excited by Cleo, Rambo and Tarzan, just wait till you see what lurks around the corner. Australia's NextGen Gaming has been teasing some journalists and insiders on some massive brands going live on PartyCasino, and that's no spin. The online casino brand also offers 24/7/365 support and comes in a wide range of multi currency and multi language options. Not convinced yet? Players and potential players can also play for free or play for money, so you know your in safe hands. New casino players can currently get up to $500 bonus for signing up.
PartyGaming is listed on the London Stock Exchange and has been operating for over a decade, which is like a lifetime in the gaming world. PartyGaming has also made last year's eGaming Review shortlist for a number of awards and commendations. In addition, PartyGaming and its PartyCasino, PartyPoker and World Poker Tour brands have made the Media Man and Casino News Media shortlist for monthly and yearly awards.
While some of PartyGaming's competitors are putting out some impressive products from time to time, those in the know state that there is only one PartyGaming and that their track record of stability, service, security, innovation and fun speaks for itself.
*the writer has a b2b agreement in place with a number of PartyGaming brands, as they do with dozens of brands in the gaming, igaming media and entertainment sector, the details of which are commercially sensitive in nature. The writer is the founder and director of Media Man, Media Man International and Global Gaming Directory.
Global Gaming Directory Profiles
PartyGaming
PartyCasino.com
PartyPoker.com
Club WPT
Websites
PartyCasino.com
PartyCasino.com Marvel Slots
PartyCasino.com Sinatra Slot
PartyPoker.com
World Poker Tour casino
World Poker Tour
Club WPT
Virgin Games seeks investors for marketing and international development, by Greg Tingle - 6th March 2010
It's been a huge news week for Richard Branson's Virgin Games.
Reports from various media outlets including eGaming Review, Gambling911, Casino News Media and various wires reveal that Virgin Games are on the lookout for external investors to help facilitate entering new markets and increase marketing spend.
The Virgin powerhouse is seriously considering entering markets such as France, Spain and South Africa where online gambling is regulated. In addition Virgin Games are eyeing off California and Florida where the legalization of intrastate online gambling has been proposed and is a hot subject in political and media rounds.
The online gaming brand is part of the AWOMO (A World Of My Own) push and is also seeking investors to increase marketing in established markets after the completion of its platform build which has been ramping up since 2007. The company is seeing increased player sign ups to both AWOMO and other Virgin Games brands such as VirginCasino.com and with dozens of new games being added its massive growth comes as no surprise.
Virgin boss Simon Burridge explains, "We do a lot of successful marketing and want to do more of it, but we can’t always throw appropriate sums behind it. We are limited in the profile that we can generate on our own behalf and with so many operators and markets opening up at the same time, we are going to need some cash."
Virgin Games is also expanding beyond online gambling to become a "total gaming destination" via its business arrangement with GDI (Game Domain International) offering 200 plus titles to download. This strategy could likely see Virgin Games move its non-gambling products in geo markets ahead of future legalisation of online gambling.
"Going into new markets is going to require a new advertising budget, and the amounts of money that Bwin and others have been spending would be impossible for us to match," Mr Burridge said. Every new market will require £5-10m of investment he forecasts. PartyGaming currently looks to have the lead on Virgin Games developing igaming business in Australia and the United States, however situations can change very quickly in the gaming sector, evidenced by Virgin releasing almost two dozen new casino games in the past few months.
VirginCasino.com has just released Amazon Wild and at AWOMO be on the lookout for Total War, Tomb Raider: Legend, Fifa Football Manager and Warhammer: Mark of Chaos.
Virgin Games strongest market is in the UK including much of Europe.
Americans and Australians seeking to participate in online gambling are advised to see the Media Man International World Casino Directory and Global Gaming Directory.
Media Man's Virgin Worlds Media will be providing more updates on the exciting developments at Virgin and GDI as more details come to light.
*The writer has a b2b agreement with a number of brands in the Virgin Enterprises Limited group, as they do with dozens of companies in the gaming, igaming, media and entertainment sector.
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Reports from various media outlets including eGaming Review, Gambling911, Casino News Media and various wires reveal that Virgin Games are on the lookout for external investors to help facilitate entering new markets and increase marketing spend.
The Virgin powerhouse is seriously considering entering markets such as France, Spain and South Africa where online gambling is regulated. In addition Virgin Games are eyeing off California and Florida where the legalization of intrastate online gambling has been proposed and is a hot subject in political and media rounds.
The online gaming brand is part of the AWOMO (A World Of My Own) push and is also seeking investors to increase marketing in established markets after the completion of its platform build which has been ramping up since 2007. The company is seeing increased player sign ups to both AWOMO and other Virgin Games brands such as VirginCasino.com and with dozens of new games being added its massive growth comes as no surprise.
Virgin boss Simon Burridge explains, "We do a lot of successful marketing and want to do more of it, but we can’t always throw appropriate sums behind it. We are limited in the profile that we can generate on our own behalf and with so many operators and markets opening up at the same time, we are going to need some cash."
Virgin Games is also expanding beyond online gambling to become a "total gaming destination" via its business arrangement with GDI (Game Domain International) offering 200 plus titles to download. This strategy could likely see Virgin Games move its non-gambling products in geo markets ahead of future legalisation of online gambling.
"Going into new markets is going to require a new advertising budget, and the amounts of money that Bwin and others have been spending would be impossible for us to match," Mr Burridge said. Every new market will require £5-10m of investment he forecasts. PartyGaming currently looks to have the lead on Virgin Games developing igaming business in Australia and the United States, however situations can change very quickly in the gaming sector, evidenced by Virgin releasing almost two dozen new casino games in the past few months.
VirginCasino.com has just released Amazon Wild and at AWOMO be on the lookout for Total War, Tomb Raider: Legend, Fifa Football Manager and Warhammer: Mark of Chaos.
Virgin Games strongest market is in the UK including much of Europe.
Americans and Australians seeking to participate in online gambling are advised to see the Media Man International World Casino Directory and Global Gaming Directory.
Media Man's Virgin Worlds Media will be providing more updates on the exciting developments at Virgin and GDI as more details come to light.
*The writer has a b2b agreement with a number of brands in the Virgin Enterprises Limited group, as they do with dozens of companies in the gaming, igaming, media and entertainment sector.
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PartyGaming still in M&A talks - 4th March 2010
Online gambling group PartyGaming said it remained in talks over potential deal opportunities and was optimistic about a possible return to the U.S. as its 2009 earnings beat expectations.
"We are certainly in discussions with a few parties on a number of different opportunities," Chief Executive Jim Ryan told reporters on a conference call on Thursday.
However, he stressed that talks remained at a preliminary stage and declined to comment on the size or identity of the companies PartyGaming is talking to.
Analysts say the online gaming industry is fragmented and rife for consolidation and PartyGaming has been linked to a possible merger with Austria's bwin.
"There are a list of suspects who one would expect us to be talking to given that our focus is consolidating the online gaming sector," Ryan said.
PartyGaming said earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) from continuing operations fell to $135 million (90 million pounds) from $144.2 million the year before, reflecting a decline in poker revenues.
That was ahead of the consensus forecast of $133.3 million, according to a poll of analysts supplied by the company.
PartyGaming's poker revenues have been hit by competition from online gaming businesses which continue to offer services to U.S.-based players despite the industry being made illegal in that country in 2006.
Ryan said he was encouraged by recent moves in the U.S. to overturn the legislation. U.S. congressmen Barney Frank and Jim McDermott are attempting to push through a new bill to regulate the industry. They argue that, if it was introduced, it would generate tax revenues of about $42 billion over ten years.
PartyGaming has already reached agreement with U.S. authorities which will protect it from being prosecuted over its past activities there.
Ryan said the settlement will make it easier for PartyGaming to re-enter the U.S. market and also clears the way for it to engage in M&A activity.
"We are talking to a number of U.S. entities about doing business with them when the U.S. market regulates. It's positioned us for growth from an M&A perspective and, from an operational perspective, I think it's our ticket back into the United States."
Other operators such as 888 and Sportingbet have yet to reach a deal with the Department of Justice.
Ryan said he thinks the U.S. is moving closer to re-opening to online gaming companies.
"We're hearing rumours that we're going to get support from the land-based operators for online gaming so it seems like momentum is building," he said, adding it was "not impossible" new legislation could be introduced this year.
Shares in PartyGaming, which have risen by 17 percent in the last 3 months, were up 0.13 percent to 303.4 pence at 1106 GMT.
"PartyGaming is remarkably well prepared for a whole variety of changes. Although there is no new information on a possible game-changing acquisition, we believe it is more likely than not," said Numis analyst Wyn Ellis.
"We are certainly in discussions with a few parties on a number of different opportunities," Chief Executive Jim Ryan told reporters on a conference call on Thursday.
However, he stressed that talks remained at a preliminary stage and declined to comment on the size or identity of the companies PartyGaming is talking to.
Analysts say the online gaming industry is fragmented and rife for consolidation and PartyGaming has been linked to a possible merger with Austria's bwin.
"There are a list of suspects who one would expect us to be talking to given that our focus is consolidating the online gaming sector," Ryan said.
PartyGaming said earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) from continuing operations fell to $135 million (90 million pounds) from $144.2 million the year before, reflecting a decline in poker revenues.
That was ahead of the consensus forecast of $133.3 million, according to a poll of analysts supplied by the company.
PartyGaming's poker revenues have been hit by competition from online gaming businesses which continue to offer services to U.S.-based players despite the industry being made illegal in that country in 2006.
Ryan said he was encouraged by recent moves in the U.S. to overturn the legislation. U.S. congressmen Barney Frank and Jim McDermott are attempting to push through a new bill to regulate the industry. They argue that, if it was introduced, it would generate tax revenues of about $42 billion over ten years.
PartyGaming has already reached agreement with U.S. authorities which will protect it from being prosecuted over its past activities there.
Ryan said the settlement will make it easier for PartyGaming to re-enter the U.S. market and also clears the way for it to engage in M&A activity.
"We are talking to a number of U.S. entities about doing business with them when the U.S. market regulates. It's positioned us for growth from an M&A perspective and, from an operational perspective, I think it's our ticket back into the United States."
Other operators such as 888 and Sportingbet have yet to reach a deal with the Department of Justice.
Ryan said he thinks the U.S. is moving closer to re-opening to online gaming companies.
"We're hearing rumours that we're going to get support from the land-based operators for online gaming so it seems like momentum is building," he said, adding it was "not impossible" new legislation could be introduced this year.
Shares in PartyGaming, which have risen by 17 percent in the last 3 months, were up 0.13 percent to 303.4 pence at 1106 GMT.
"PartyGaming is remarkably well prepared for a whole variety of changes. Although there is no new information on a possible game-changing acquisition, we believe it is more likely than not," said Numis analyst Wyn Ellis.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Call of Duty creators sue Activision for $40m - 5th March 2010
Activision Blizzard was sued by the executives who created the Call of Duty video game franchise over claims the company used “false” insubordination charges to fire them and avoid paying royalties.
Jason West and Vince Zampella, who co-founded Activision's Infinity Ward studio, sued the company in Los Angeles Superior Court yesterday, claiming breach of contract and wrongful termination. They seek at least $US36 million ($40 million) and control over Modern Warfare, a subset of the “Call of Duty” combat games, according to a copy of the complaint.
Activision, the world's largest video-game publisher, conducted a “pretextual” investigation to fire the Infinity Ward co-heads and avoid making a royalty payment due on March 31, according to the complaint.
“Activision terminated their employment weeks before they were to be paid substantial royalty payments as part of their existing contracts for Modern Warfare 2,” West and Zampella's lawyers at O'Melveny & Myers LLP wrote in a statement.
Maryanne Lataif, a spokeswoman for Santa Monica, California-based Activision Blizzard, called the complaint “meritless.” She said Activision owns the Call of Duty franchise and will continue making new versions.
“Activision shareholders provided these executives with the capital they needed to start Infinity Ward, as well as the financial support, resources and creative independence that helped them flourish and achieve enormous professional success and personal wealth,” Lataif said in an emailed statement.
Call of Duty unit
Activision said in a March 1 regulatory filing that two senior executives who led Modern Warfare were leaving and said it was investigating insubordination and breach of contract.
The company said on March 2 that it formed a new unit to run the Call of Duty franchise, naming Philip Earl to lead the unit.
West and Zampella oversaw creation of the World War II video-game Call of Duty and Modern Warfare sequels set in later periods. “Call of Duty” titles have generated about $US3 billion in revenue, Activision said in its 2009 annual filing.
Activision's top three titles, Call of Duty, Guitar Hero and World of Warcraft, accounted for 68 per cent of Activision Blizzard's $US4.3 billion in revenue last year, it said in the filing.
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Jason West and Vince Zampella, who co-founded Activision's Infinity Ward studio, sued the company in Los Angeles Superior Court yesterday, claiming breach of contract and wrongful termination. They seek at least $US36 million ($40 million) and control over Modern Warfare, a subset of the “Call of Duty” combat games, according to a copy of the complaint.
Activision, the world's largest video-game publisher, conducted a “pretextual” investigation to fire the Infinity Ward co-heads and avoid making a royalty payment due on March 31, according to the complaint.
“Activision terminated their employment weeks before they were to be paid substantial royalty payments as part of their existing contracts for Modern Warfare 2,” West and Zampella's lawyers at O'Melveny & Myers LLP wrote in a statement.
Maryanne Lataif, a spokeswoman for Santa Monica, California-based Activision Blizzard, called the complaint “meritless.” She said Activision owns the Call of Duty franchise and will continue making new versions.
“Activision shareholders provided these executives with the capital they needed to start Infinity Ward, as well as the financial support, resources and creative independence that helped them flourish and achieve enormous professional success and personal wealth,” Lataif said in an emailed statement.
Call of Duty unit
Activision said in a March 1 regulatory filing that two senior executives who led Modern Warfare were leaving and said it was investigating insubordination and breach of contract.
The company said on March 2 that it formed a new unit to run the Call of Duty franchise, naming Philip Earl to lead the unit.
West and Zampella oversaw creation of the World War II video-game Call of Duty and Modern Warfare sequels set in later periods. “Call of Duty” titles have generated about $US3 billion in revenue, Activision said in its 2009 annual filing.
Activision's top three titles, Call of Duty, Guitar Hero and World of Warcraft, accounted for 68 per cent of Activision Blizzard's $US4.3 billion in revenue last year, it said in the filing.
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PartyCasino Casino Conquest promotion
Casino Conquest Promotion
Website
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Huge cash rewards when you prove yourself in the Casino Conquest
Starts: 00:00 ET, 3rd March
Ends: 23:59 ET, 14th March
In the Casino Conquest, we give away thousands in cash to players who rank on our two leader boards. The first board is worth over $35,000 and is for regular players and the second, for our Palladium Lounge VIPs, is worth more than $65,000. That's a total of over $100,000 in prize money.
Here's how Casino Conquest works
All the PartyPoints you collect during a Casino Conquest day will count towards your leader board placing. The higher you climb on our leader board, the more cash you'll get. Just keep playing our fabulous games like our big-money jackpot slots to reach the more rewarding prizes.
If you’re one of our VIPs, take a look at the Casino Conquest Palladium Lounge leader board to see how much you could win.
Anyone can reign supreme in the Casino Conquest: all you’ve got to do is opt-in to the promotion from 3rd March and play your favourite games.
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PartyCasino.com
Huge cash rewards when you prove yourself in the Casino Conquest
Starts: 00:00 ET, 3rd March
Ends: 23:59 ET, 14th March
In the Casino Conquest, we give away thousands in cash to players who rank on our two leader boards. The first board is worth over $35,000 and is for regular players and the second, for our Palladium Lounge VIPs, is worth more than $65,000. That's a total of over $100,000 in prize money.
Here's how Casino Conquest works
All the PartyPoints you collect during a Casino Conquest day will count towards your leader board placing. The higher you climb on our leader board, the more cash you'll get. Just keep playing our fabulous games like our big-money jackpot slots to reach the more rewarding prizes.
If you’re one of our VIPs, take a look at the Casino Conquest Palladium Lounge leader board to see how much you could win.
Anyone can reign supreme in the Casino Conquest: all you’ve got to do is opt-in to the promotion from 3rd March and play your favourite games.
Website
PartyCasino.com
Sands S’pore to open in April
SINGAPORE – US gaming giant Las Vegas Sands said on February 24 its casino project in Singapore will open on April 27, months behind the original schedule of late 2009.
The opening of the US$5.5-billion Marina Bay Sands casino resort complex will come two months after the start of gaming operations at Resorts World Sentosa, a development owned by Malaysia’s Genting Group.
Las Vegas Sands said that 963 hotel rooms, part of the shopping mall and convention centre will also open together with the casino.
The second phase of the opening slated for June 23 will include a massive sky garden on top of the development’s three hotels as well as more retailers.
“Our dedication to completing this development never wavered” despite the challenging economic climate, Las Vegas Sands chairman and chief executive Sheldon Adelson said.
Construction of the complex – the US gaming firm’s first development in Southeast Asia – had been delayed by materials shortages and financial difficulties faced by subcontractors due to the recent global economic slump.
Las Vegas Sands, which also has operations in Macau, described its Singapore development as “the most expensive stand-alone integrated resort property ever built”.
The Singapore casino combined with those in Macau will make the company less dependent on operations in locations “where the economy is still working to recover”, said Michael Leven, Las Vegas Sands president.
The group said earlier this month that soaring revenue at its Macau operations helped reduce losses in the fourth quarter of last year.
The opening of the US$5.5-billion Marina Bay Sands casino resort complex will come two months after the start of gaming operations at Resorts World Sentosa, a development owned by Malaysia’s Genting Group.
Las Vegas Sands said that 963 hotel rooms, part of the shopping mall and convention centre will also open together with the casino.
The second phase of the opening slated for June 23 will include a massive sky garden on top of the development’s three hotels as well as more retailers.
“Our dedication to completing this development never wavered” despite the challenging economic climate, Las Vegas Sands chairman and chief executive Sheldon Adelson said.
Construction of the complex – the US gaming firm’s first development in Southeast Asia – had been delayed by materials shortages and financial difficulties faced by subcontractors due to the recent global economic slump.
Las Vegas Sands, which also has operations in Macau, described its Singapore development as “the most expensive stand-alone integrated resort property ever built”.
The Singapore casino combined with those in Macau will make the company less dependent on operations in locations “where the economy is still working to recover”, said Michael Leven, Las Vegas Sands president.
The group said earlier this month that soaring revenue at its Macau operations helped reduce losses in the fourth quarter of last year.
PartyGaming Plc 2009 Full Year Results
PartyGaming News
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4th March 2010
PartyGaming Plc
Audited results for the year ended 31 December 2009
Total revenue of $446.2m (2008: $472.9m) with a softer performance in poker mitigated by growth in all other verticals
Continuing Clean EBITDA* of $135.0m (2008: $144.2m); slightly ahead of market expectations
Continuing Clean EPS* of 21.5 cents (2008: 24.9 cents); total Clean EPS of 21.3 cents (2008: 22.2 cents)
Non-Prosecution Agreement reached with the US authorities with associated costs of $105.0m of which $15.0m was paid in 2009, resulting in a loss after tax of $26.5m
Acquisition of Cashcade and World Poker Tour completed
Net cashflow from Continuing operations of $120.5m (2008: $125.2m) with net cash at the year end of $164.7m (2008: $201.4m)
Commenting on today’s results announcement, Jim Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, said:
“We delivered a solid performance during 2009 which demonstrated the resilience of our business model that continues to generate strong cashflow, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Leading brands and market position, supported by a strong balance sheet underpin our business strategy. With some acquisitions and major B2B deals already under our belt, we plan to do more in 2010 and I believe we are on course to meet our objective of becoming the world’s most valuable online gaming company.”
Regarding current trading he added:
“The Group has continued to perform in-line with the Board’s expectations. In the two month period ended 28 February 2010, average gross daily revenue was $2,074,000 (Q409: $2,090,800) reflecting a 1% reduction from the fourth quarter of 2009 that included an exceptionally strong performance in casino. All other verticals increased average gross daily revenue from the previous quarter. In poker, new player sign-ups increased to an average of 1,700 per day (Q409: 1,400), and there were on average 55,900 active players per day (Q409: 51,700) generating average gross daily poker revenue of $709,000 (Q409: $690,000). In casino, average gross daily revenue was $775,600 (Q409: $854,800). In bingo, average gross daily revenue was $493,800 (Q409: $452,600) and in sports betting, average gross daily revenue was $95,600 (Q409: $93,400).
“Whilst the macroeconomic environment remains uncertain, we remain focused on executing our stated strategy and are confident about the Group’s prospects.”
About PartyGaming Plc
PartyGaming Plc is the world’s leading listed online gaming company. It is a constituent of the FTSE 250 share index with its shares listed on The London Stock Exchange under the ticker: PRTY. In the year to 31 December 2009, PartyGaming’s Continuing operations generated revenues of $446.2m and Clean EBITDA of $135.0m. PartyGaming’s principal brands are PartyPoker.com, one of the world’s largest online poker rooms, EmpirePoker.com, PartyCasino.com, PartyBingo.com, PartyGammon.com, PartyBets.com, Intertrader.com, FoxyBingo.com, ThinkBingo.com, BingoScotland.com, CheekyBingo.com, GetMinted.com, WorldPokerTour.com and Gamebookers.com. None of the Group’s sites accept real money customers located in the US.
PartyGaming Group companies are regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar and Italy and by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. The Group is also certified as a responsible gaming operator by GamCare, the leading UK authority on the provision of advice, practical help, support and counseling in addressing the social impact of gambling. PartyGaming’s shares are also a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which enables investors to identify companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
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4th March 2010
PartyGaming Plc
Audited results for the year ended 31 December 2009
Total revenue of $446.2m (2008: $472.9m) with a softer performance in poker mitigated by growth in all other verticals
Continuing Clean EBITDA* of $135.0m (2008: $144.2m); slightly ahead of market expectations
Continuing Clean EPS* of 21.5 cents (2008: 24.9 cents); total Clean EPS of 21.3 cents (2008: 22.2 cents)
Non-Prosecution Agreement reached with the US authorities with associated costs of $105.0m of which $15.0m was paid in 2009, resulting in a loss after tax of $26.5m
Acquisition of Cashcade and World Poker Tour completed
Net cashflow from Continuing operations of $120.5m (2008: $125.2m) with net cash at the year end of $164.7m (2008: $201.4m)
Commenting on today’s results announcement, Jim Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, said:
“We delivered a solid performance during 2009 which demonstrated the resilience of our business model that continues to generate strong cashflow, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Leading brands and market position, supported by a strong balance sheet underpin our business strategy. With some acquisitions and major B2B deals already under our belt, we plan to do more in 2010 and I believe we are on course to meet our objective of becoming the world’s most valuable online gaming company.”
Regarding current trading he added:
“The Group has continued to perform in-line with the Board’s expectations. In the two month period ended 28 February 2010, average gross daily revenue was $2,074,000 (Q409: $2,090,800) reflecting a 1% reduction from the fourth quarter of 2009 that included an exceptionally strong performance in casino. All other verticals increased average gross daily revenue from the previous quarter. In poker, new player sign-ups increased to an average of 1,700 per day (Q409: 1,400), and there were on average 55,900 active players per day (Q409: 51,700) generating average gross daily poker revenue of $709,000 (Q409: $690,000). In casino, average gross daily revenue was $775,600 (Q409: $854,800). In bingo, average gross daily revenue was $493,800 (Q409: $452,600) and in sports betting, average gross daily revenue was $95,600 (Q409: $93,400).
“Whilst the macroeconomic environment remains uncertain, we remain focused on executing our stated strategy and are confident about the Group’s prospects.”
About PartyGaming Plc
PartyGaming Plc is the world’s leading listed online gaming company. It is a constituent of the FTSE 250 share index with its shares listed on The London Stock Exchange under the ticker: PRTY. In the year to 31 December 2009, PartyGaming’s Continuing operations generated revenues of $446.2m and Clean EBITDA of $135.0m. PartyGaming’s principal brands are PartyPoker.com, one of the world’s largest online poker rooms, EmpirePoker.com, PartyCasino.com, PartyBingo.com, PartyGammon.com, PartyBets.com, Intertrader.com, FoxyBingo.com, ThinkBingo.com, BingoScotland.com, CheekyBingo.com, GetMinted.com, WorldPokerTour.com and Gamebookers.com. None of the Group’s sites accept real money customers located in the US.
PartyGaming Group companies are regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar and Italy and by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. The Group is also certified as a responsible gaming operator by GamCare, the leading UK authority on the provision of advice, practical help, support and counseling in addressing the social impact of gambling. PartyGaming’s shares are also a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which enables investors to identify companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Virgin Casino Gets King Kong, Amazon Wild, Beat the Bank and Call of Duty 4 Online Slot Games
Virgin Casino Gets King Kong, Amazon Wild, Beat the Bank and Call of Duty 4 Online Slot Games.
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Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Boyd Still ‘Actively Pursuing’ Station Casinos - 2nd March 2010
Boyd Gaming Corp. said Tuesday it’s still interested in buying the assets of Las Vegas rival Station Casinos Inc. out of bankruptcy protection.
In a conference call Tuesday, Boyd Chief Executive Keith Smith said the company stood by its $2.45 billion bid for Station’s assets.
“This offer stands and we are still actively pursuing these assets,” Smith said of his company’s December offer for Station’s assets.
Station Casinos said last week it had struck a tentative deal with a key group of mortgage lenders to restructure its casino business while allowing the founding Fertitta family to continue running the Las Vegas company.
Smith acknowledged that Station “asserted” it “may” have a deal with some lenders but pointed out that it only involved four of Station’s 18 properties. That would leave “a considerable number of assets in play,” he said, adding “we’ll continue to work diligently” to complete a deal “when permitted.”
Station, which filed for bankruptcy protection in July is operating under the Bankruptcy Code’s “exclusive period,” which bars creditors from interfering in a company’s restructuring efforts.
Smith said “Station’s assets would be a great fit” for Boyd’s business as well as the company’s growth strategy for the market catering to local residents.
A Station Casinos spokeswoman wasn’t immediately available for comment.
Boyd has been pursing Station for more than a year. The December bid followed an earlier $950 million offer for some of Station’s gaming assets, an offer the company rejected before opting to reorganize under bankruptcy protection. Station Casinos’ lawyers have accused Boyd of trying to turn its Chapter 11 reorganization into a “shopping spree.”
In a conference call Tuesday, Boyd Chief Executive Keith Smith said the company stood by its $2.45 billion bid for Station’s assets.
“This offer stands and we are still actively pursuing these assets,” Smith said of his company’s December offer for Station’s assets.
Station Casinos said last week it had struck a tentative deal with a key group of mortgage lenders to restructure its casino business while allowing the founding Fertitta family to continue running the Las Vegas company.
Smith acknowledged that Station “asserted” it “may” have a deal with some lenders but pointed out that it only involved four of Station’s 18 properties. That would leave “a considerable number of assets in play,” he said, adding “we’ll continue to work diligently” to complete a deal “when permitted.”
Station, which filed for bankruptcy protection in July is operating under the Bankruptcy Code’s “exclusive period,” which bars creditors from interfering in a company’s restructuring efforts.
Smith said “Station’s assets would be a great fit” for Boyd’s business as well as the company’s growth strategy for the market catering to local residents.
A Station Casinos spokeswoman wasn’t immediately available for comment.
Boyd has been pursing Station for more than a year. The December bid followed an earlier $950 million offer for some of Station’s gaming assets, an offer the company rejected before opting to reorganize under bankruptcy protection. Station Casinos’ lawyers have accused Boyd of trying to turn its Chapter 11 reorganization into a “shopping spree.”
CryptoLogic Announces Full Year 2009 Results
CryptoLogic, a global developer of branded online betting games and Internet casino software, today announced its financial results for the three months and full year ended December 31, 2009.
Full-year 2009 summary:
-- Revenue decreased to $39.8 million (2008: $61.5 million) reflecting
lower wagering activity across the industry, adverse currency factors,
and a reduced contribution from a key licensee
-- Net loss of $35.5 million (2008: $32.7 million), reflecting $24.8
million non-recurring charges for asset impairments and restructuring to
align the company's costs with its revenue base.
-- Total annual recurring cost base, which comprises operating, general and
administrative, finance and amortization expenses, reduced by $20.6
million to $55.0 million
-- Merged poker network with that of GTECH Corporation eliminating costs of
a standalone business
-- Branded games revenue increased to $2.8 million (2008: $0.3 million),
accounting for 7.1% of total revenue (2008: 0.5%) despite slower-than-
anticipated roll-out by licensees
-- Total licensee base expanded by 20 to more than 30 leading Internet
gaming operators including Betfair, Sportingbet, totesport and Virgin
Games
-- Signed deals with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., to develop
betting games featuring Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman; and with
Paramount Digital Entertainment for games based on 20 movies including
Braveheart, Forrest Gump and Ghost
-- Diluted loss per share of $2.78 (2008: $2.55 diluted loss per share)
-- Total dividend for the year amounted to $1.4 million (2008: $5.4
million), no dividend was declared in Q4 2009
Fourth quarter 2009 highlights:
-- Branded games revenue rose 51.7% sequentially to $1.2 million
-- Doubled the number of branded games in production to 66 from 33 in Q3
2009
-- Major relaunch and investment in virtual casino lobby to enhance long
term revenue opportunities
-- Cyprus office to relocate to Malta in line with the company's plan to
streamline operations
-- Signed three major licensees for branded games - BetClic, Rank
Interactive and UniBet
-- Launched first games based on Batman and Wonder Woman as well as Monkeys
to Mars, Triple Action Hold'em and Aces and Faces
2010 Outlook:
-- Improved revenue from hosted casino as new licensees go live and
existing licensees benefit from investment in major rebranding, a new
lobby and advertising initiatives
-- Branded games continue to gain momentum with the annual run rate
currently at $5 million as more games come on stream
-- Number of new branded games launched by licensees to date and generating
revenues currently at 74, with a backlog of approximately 125 games
-- Costs expected to reduce further in 2010 as additional measures are
implemented to manage overheads
Brian Hadfield, CryptoLogic's President and CEO said: "2009 was a tough year as a number of adverse factors including a global economic downturn overshadowed the company's progress in implementing its innovative new strategy to reduce costs and return to growth.
We have entered 2010 in better shape with a substantially reduced cost base that will continue to be managed tightly. At the same time, new business momentum remains encouraging as branded games continue to roll out and hosted casino licensees implement new initiatives. With new licensing activity staying strong and the overall online casino/gaming market showing some improvement, we look to the year with cautious optimism."
Investor/analyst conference call
CryptoLogic will hold a conference call today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. GMT) to update investors on the company's progress. The details of the call are as follows:
Toll Free North America: 1-800-766-6630
Toll Free UK: 00 800-4222-8835
Toll Free International (Country Code) 800-4222-8835
Toronto Dial-In Number: 416-340-8410
To participate, please call five to ten minutes prior to the 8:30 a.m EST / 1:30 p.m GMT start of the teleconference. This conference call will be recorded and available for replay approximately one hour after the completion of the call, up until midnight (EST) March 9, 2010. To listen to the replay, please dial 416-695-5800 or for North America only 1-800-408-3053, passcode 6122324#. A transcript of the call will also be made available on CryptoLogic's website at www.cryptologic.com under Investor Information.
Webcast
To access the live audio webcast, please go to www.cryptologic.com and click on Investor Information/Events, or http://events.digitalmedia.telus.com/cryptologic/030110/index.php prior to 8:30 a.m. EST/1:30 p.m. GMT Windows Media Player is required to listen to the webcast. If you do not have the player, a free download is available at www.microsoft.com. A rebroadcast of the webcast will be available for 120 days.
Overview
2009 was a difficult year for CryptoLogic as the company implemented its innovative new strategy to return to profitability and long term growth against the backdrop of a severe global economic downturn, which blunted the solid progress made by the company to improve its long term performance.
The total annual recurring cost base, consisting of operating, G&A, finance and amortization was reduced by $20.6 million or 27.3% to $55.0 million for the year, partly reflecting a decline in the total workforce to 211 from 276 in 2008 and 310 in 2007. At the same time, new business activity remained strong with more than 30 licensees on CryptoLogic's roster, including two full hosted casino customers' wins during the year. The company also achieved four consecutive quarters of revenue growth from branded games licensed and launched by some of the world's leading online gaming operators such as 888.com, Betfair, BskyB, PartyGaming, Sportingbet and Unibet.
However, the positive underlying picture was more than offset by a number of adverse factors including challenging economic conditions that significantly reduced wagering volumes across the industry and contributed to lower hosted Internet casino and poker revenues at CryptoLogic. In addition, the results were impacted by the strength of the US dollar against the euro and the British pound, accounting for a $3.7 million decline in reported revenues in 2009. Excluding the currency factors, total revenues fell by 29.2% for the year.
As announced previously, the company incurred a $24.8million charge against the carrying value of its assets, together with costs relating to restructuring initiatives in Q4 2009 to lower operating expenses.
Restructuring for growth
The company executed a major restructuring of the business in 2009 aimed at focusing on its strengths as a developer and licensor of content-rich branded online betting games and the provision of hosted virtual casino rooms and associated services for Internet gaming operators worldwide.
In March 2009, the company completed the merger of its poker business with GTECH Corporation's Boss Media subsidiary, thereby eliminating the costs of a standalone network while improving poker room liquidity for players This move, together with a rationalisation of IT infrastructure and operational centres, contributed to a reduction in operating expense by 28.4% or $15.8 million to $39.9 million in 2009 (2008: $55.6 million), significantly ahead of management's expectations.
Approximately $8.3 million of the savings came from headcount related expenses, about $2.6 million from infrastructure and facilities downsizing including a cut in server costs and about $4.9 million in operational savings across the business. The total number of operational data centres was cut from 11 to five.
Management expects operating costs to decrease further in 2010 through new initiatives being implemented to streamline operations and lower overall employee expenses. The company today announced the integration of its Cyprus office with its existing operations in Malta, which is a major EU jurisdiction for the online gaming industry and the primary licensing authority for CryptoLogic. Malta is fully committed to supporting the industry with investment in additional infrastructure. As a result, the relocation, which is to be completed later this year, will enhance our customer service and back office capability where many of CryptoLogic's licensees already have a major presence. Staff based in Cyprus are being offered the opportunity to relocate to Malta.
New customer signings and branded games drive revenue
CryptoLogic significantly increased its customer acquisition activities in 2009 as part of its 'build-once-license often' business model to leverage its strong position as an innovator and creator of branded online betting games. The company signed 20 new multiyear licensing deals during 2009 compared with 10 in 2008, taking the total licensee base to more than 30. Two of the deals were for full casino hosting contracts with The Gaming Network and BetSafe.com. The remainder involved licensing of CryptoLogic's award-winning branded casino and casual games to many leading operators including Bet24, GalaCoral, Paddy Power, Rank Interactive, totesport, Victor Chandler Group and Virgin Games.
Hosted Internet Casino
Revenue from hosted casino decreased 28.4% to $30 million for the year (2008: $41.8 million) reflecting the impact of the economic downturn on wagering volumes and the previously reported transition of two licensees. Hosted casino remains a key element in our strategy. As highlighted above with the signing of two full casino licensees. In addition, the company invested in the development of a new, user-friendly casino lobby; the addition of a new credit card processor; new payment options; the launch of 47 new games and assisted a major licensee in the repositioning of its brand and the development of a new advertising campaign. The revenue benefits will accrue from 2010.
Branded Games
Branded games revenues rose to $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 (2008: $0.3 million), accounting for 7.1% of total revenue in 2009 (2008: 0.5%). During the year, the number of games launched by licensees increased steadily from 3 to 66 at the end of the 2009. The majority of these games went live in the second half of the year including 20 games in third quarter and 33 games in the fourth quarter.
Although branded games revenue increased four quarters in a row, the growth rate was held back by a slower than expected roll-out by some licensees. The company expects branded game revenue to increase in 2010 as it benefits from a full year of revenue on games delivered in 2009 and from more games due to be launched from around a further 125 contracted by licensees.
In early 2009, CryptoLogic expanded its portfolio of branded content by signing an exclusive agreement with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., Digital Distribution and DC Comics to bring characters such as Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman to Internet casinos. This was followed by a deal giving CryptoLogic exclusive rights to offer online slot games based on more than 20 of Paramount Pictures' feature films titles including Braveheart, Forrest Gump, Beowulf and Beverly Hills Cop.
Investing in E-gaming innovation
New games development activity remained strong with 47 new games released during 2009. Following the agreement with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., in October 2009 CryptoLogic launched the first games based on comic heroes Batman and Wonder Woman, further enhancing CryptoLogic's unique offering for its customers, allowing it to expand its licensees for both Internet Casino and branded games.
Batman battles The Joker in the internet world's first and only Batman slot machine. This groundbreaking 50-line game features stacked wilds and a Batman re-spin feature where all prizes are doubled as three free spins are played with one reel completely wild. Armed with a Batarang, players fight through the inmates of Arkham Asylum to stop The Joker, earning cash prizes.
During the year CryptoLogic brought out a slot version of Jenga, one of the world's most popular board games, developed by its Centre for Innovation in record time. Other games launched included Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Street Fighter IV, Savannah Sunrise, Buccaneers' Bounty and Cleo Queen of Egypt. The Centre continues to play a major role in the creation of new games offering high entertainment value to players. Building on its success with Jenga, it developed a portfolio of new games including a new table game called Triple Action Hold'Em; and a video poker game, Aces and Faces.
In addition, the company is actively developing gaming content tailored for the rapidly expanding mobile Internet, social networking and 3-D environments. It anticipates launching its first 3-D games in Q2 2010.
Financial performance
Total Revenue:
Revenue in the fourth quarter was $9.9 million, a decrease of 12.6% as compared with the same period in the prior year (Q4 2008: $11.4 million). Compared with the previous quarter, revenue was up by almost 3.5%.
Internet casino revenue increased 17.4% to $8.7 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2009 when compared to the same period in the prior year (Q4 2008: $7.5 million). Internet casino revenue, when compared to Q3 2009 increased by 23.2% due primarily to a revision of our estimate to discharge future jackpot payouts of $0.8 million, a non recurring $0.8 million benefit associated with the resolution of a commercial matter, which was initially recorded in other revenue in the third quarter but reclassified to casino revenue to be consistent with prior presentation of similar items. The U.S. dollar was relatively weak during the quarter which increased revenue by $0.4 million. Offsetting this increase was a decrease in revenue at one of the company's major licensees.
Q4 2009 Internet poker revenue decreased 79.7% to $0.5 million (Q4 2008: $2.7 million). The decrease in Internet poker revenue was primarily due to the transition of the poker network to GTECH, which reduced the number of the company's poker licensees, fees paid to GTECH, and a decline in the overall poker industry. Internet poker revenue increased by 8.4% when compared to Q3 2009 as the company optimizes the GTECH environment.
Branded games revenue was $1.2 million for the three month period ended December 31, 2009 (2008: $0.3 million). During the quarter, the company's branded games revenue increased by 51.7% sequentially as the number of revenue producing games increased from 33 to 66 games. The majority of the games delivered were late in the fourth quarter. The company expects branded game revenue to increase in 2010 as it benefits from a full year of revenue on games delivered in 2009 and increases the number of revenue producing games.
Operating Expense
Q4 2009 operating expense was $12.6 million. (Q4 2008: $13.3 million) Included in the operating expense for the quarter was a $1.5 million investment in a major relaunch of a virtual casino lobby for the company's major licensees and asset impairments of $1.7 million associated with the company's comprehensive balance sheet review brought on by the difficult macroeconomic conditions. After normalizing for the two non recurring items, operating expense was $9.3 million roughly flat when compared to Q3 2009. Operating expenses were impacted by increased investment in software development capability in lower cost jurisdictions, primarily in Eastern Europe and increased marketing program related costs.
General and Administrative Expense
In Q4 2009, G&A expense was $2.5 million. (Q4 2008: $3.7 million). G&A expense in Q3 2009 was $2.4 million. G&A expense increased 4.0% when compared to the previous quarter due to increased professional fees associated with our annual audit and compliance with Sarbanes Oxley off set in part by decreased consulting fees associated with the protection of our intellectual property.
Asset Impairments
The company regularly reviews its assets for impairment. During Q4 2009, the company completed its review of its long term investments and noted various indicators of impairment including significant financial difficulty, restructuring activities and limited ability to operate a profitable business in the short and medium term. Consequently, the company determined that the carrying value of its long term investments in Mobilebus, Mikoishi, Jingle and 568 Inc. were greater than their respected fair values resulting in an impairment charge of $2.3 million. The company also reviewed certain software development projects as a result of difficult macro-economic conditions and a decline in expected future revenues, which resulted in an impairment charge of $2.7 million.
Reorganization Charges
The company expanded its reorganization plan initially announced in 2008, due to continued unfavorable macroeconomic conditions and will outsource additional technology infrastructure activities, consolidate more of its data centre operations, and migrate additional functions to lower cost jurisdictions resulting in further reduction in headcount and a reduction of its leased office space in both Canada and Cyprus. Reorganization expense recorded in 2009 was $7.1 million and comprises consulting fees required to execute the plan of $1.1 million, severance of $1.1 million, lease termination costs associated with the office space in Canada of $1.8 million and associated asset impairments of $3.1 million. The company expects cash outlays of $3.0 million, primarily on lease termination costs in Toronto and employee severance, to fully execute the restructuring plan.
Earnings and Earnings per Diluted Share:
The company recorded a loss of $24.8 million for the quarter ($1.97 per fully diluted share), due primarily to $19.9 million in non-recurring charges for reorganization of our business, impairments of goodwill and other asset impairments.
Balance Sheet and Cash Flow:
At December 31, 2009, CryptoLogic ended the year with $23.7 million of net cash (comprising cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and security deposits) or $1.71 per diluted share (December 31, 2008: $43.8 million or $3.15 per diluted share). The decrease in net cash of $20.1 million is primarily due to cash impact of operating losses ($10.2 million), dividends paid ($1.4 million), increase in prepaid assets ($2.6 million) due primarily to payments to royalty providers including DC Comics, Marvel and Paramount offset by amortization, increase in accounts receivable ($1.8 million) due primarily to the outsourcing of the poker network and the increase in branded games which each have a one month delay in cash settlement and decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities ($5.2 million) due to decrease in activity consistent with a cost reduction plan and the capital expenditures ($0.4 million), investments in Asia ($0.5 million). These decreases are offset by net tax refunds of $2.0m. CryptoLogic continues to be debt free.
CryptoLogic's working capital at December 31, 2009 was $26.5 million or $1.91 per diluted share (December 31, 2008: $41.2 million or $2.97 per diluted share).
2010 Outlook:
-- Improved revenue from hosted casino as new licensees go live and
existing licensees benefit from investment in major rebranding, a new
lobby and advertising initiatives
-- Branded games continue to gain momentum with the annual run rate
currently at $5 million as more games come on stream
-- Number of new branded games launched by licensees to date and generating
revenues currently at 74, with a backlog of approximately 125 games
-- Costs expected to reduce further in 2010 as additional measures are
implemented to manage overheads
CryptoLogic will hold its annual general meeting in Dublin on May 17, 2010.
CRYPTOLOGIC FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT DISCLAIMER:
Statements in this press release, which are not historical are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on certain factors and assumptions including expected growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, foreign exchange rates and effective income tax rates. While the company considers these factors and assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, risks associated with the company's financial condition, prospects and opportunities, legal risks associated with Internet gaming and risks of governmental legislation and regulation, risks associated with market acceptance and technological changes, risks associated with dependence on licensees and key licensees, risks relating to international operations, risks associated with competition and other risks detailed in the company's filings with securities regulatory authorities. These risks may cause results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are given only as at the date of this release and the company disclaims any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
About CryptoLogic(R) (www.cryptologic.com)
Focused on integrity and innovation, CryptoLogic Limited is a leading public developer and supplier of Internet gaming software. With more than 300 games, CryptoLogic has one of the most comprehensive casino suites on the Internet, with award-winning games featuring some of the world's most famous action and entertainment characters. The company's licensees include many top Internet gaming brands, including the "big four" international operators. CryptoLogic's leadership in regulatory compliance makes it one of the few companies with gaming software certified to strict standards similar to land-based gaming. WagerLogic(R) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CryptoLogic, is responsible for the licensing of gaming software and services to blue-chip customers that offer their games to non-U.S. based players around the world. For information on WagerLogic, please visit www.wagerlogic.com.
CryptoLogic's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (CRY, CXY), the NASDAQ Global Select Market (CRYP) and the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (CRP).
SOURCE: CryptoLogic Limited
Full-year 2009 summary:
-- Revenue decreased to $39.8 million (2008: $61.5 million) reflecting
lower wagering activity across the industry, adverse currency factors,
and a reduced contribution from a key licensee
-- Net loss of $35.5 million (2008: $32.7 million), reflecting $24.8
million non-recurring charges for asset impairments and restructuring to
align the company's costs with its revenue base.
-- Total annual recurring cost base, which comprises operating, general and
administrative, finance and amortization expenses, reduced by $20.6
million to $55.0 million
-- Merged poker network with that of GTECH Corporation eliminating costs of
a standalone business
-- Branded games revenue increased to $2.8 million (2008: $0.3 million),
accounting for 7.1% of total revenue (2008: 0.5%) despite slower-than-
anticipated roll-out by licensees
-- Total licensee base expanded by 20 to more than 30 leading Internet
gaming operators including Betfair, Sportingbet, totesport and Virgin
Games
-- Signed deals with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., to develop
betting games featuring Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman; and with
Paramount Digital Entertainment for games based on 20 movies including
Braveheart, Forrest Gump and Ghost
-- Diluted loss per share of $2.78 (2008: $2.55 diluted loss per share)
-- Total dividend for the year amounted to $1.4 million (2008: $5.4
million), no dividend was declared in Q4 2009
Fourth quarter 2009 highlights:
-- Branded games revenue rose 51.7% sequentially to $1.2 million
-- Doubled the number of branded games in production to 66 from 33 in Q3
2009
-- Major relaunch and investment in virtual casino lobby to enhance long
term revenue opportunities
-- Cyprus office to relocate to Malta in line with the company's plan to
streamline operations
-- Signed three major licensees for branded games - BetClic, Rank
Interactive and UniBet
-- Launched first games based on Batman and Wonder Woman as well as Monkeys
to Mars, Triple Action Hold'em and Aces and Faces
2010 Outlook:
-- Improved revenue from hosted casino as new licensees go live and
existing licensees benefit from investment in major rebranding, a new
lobby and advertising initiatives
-- Branded games continue to gain momentum with the annual run rate
currently at $5 million as more games come on stream
-- Number of new branded games launched by licensees to date and generating
revenues currently at 74, with a backlog of approximately 125 games
-- Costs expected to reduce further in 2010 as additional measures are
implemented to manage overheads
Brian Hadfield, CryptoLogic's President and CEO said: "2009 was a tough year as a number of adverse factors including a global economic downturn overshadowed the company's progress in implementing its innovative new strategy to reduce costs and return to growth.
We have entered 2010 in better shape with a substantially reduced cost base that will continue to be managed tightly. At the same time, new business momentum remains encouraging as branded games continue to roll out and hosted casino licensees implement new initiatives. With new licensing activity staying strong and the overall online casino/gaming market showing some improvement, we look to the year with cautious optimism."
Investor/analyst conference call
CryptoLogic will hold a conference call today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. GMT) to update investors on the company's progress. The details of the call are as follows:
Toll Free North America: 1-800-766-6630
Toll Free UK: 00 800-4222-8835
Toll Free International (Country Code) 800-4222-8835
Toronto Dial-In Number: 416-340-8410
To participate, please call five to ten minutes prior to the 8:30 a.m EST / 1:30 p.m GMT start of the teleconference. This conference call will be recorded and available for replay approximately one hour after the completion of the call, up until midnight (EST) March 9, 2010. To listen to the replay, please dial 416-695-5800 or for North America only 1-800-408-3053, passcode 6122324#. A transcript of the call will also be made available on CryptoLogic's website at www.cryptologic.com under Investor Information.
Webcast
To access the live audio webcast, please go to www.cryptologic.com and click on Investor Information/Events, or http://events.digitalmedia.telus.com/cryptologic/030110/index.php prior to 8:30 a.m. EST/1:30 p.m. GMT Windows Media Player is required to listen to the webcast. If you do not have the player, a free download is available at www.microsoft.com. A rebroadcast of the webcast will be available for 120 days.
Overview
2009 was a difficult year for CryptoLogic as the company implemented its innovative new strategy to return to profitability and long term growth against the backdrop of a severe global economic downturn, which blunted the solid progress made by the company to improve its long term performance.
The total annual recurring cost base, consisting of operating, G&A, finance and amortization was reduced by $20.6 million or 27.3% to $55.0 million for the year, partly reflecting a decline in the total workforce to 211 from 276 in 2008 and 310 in 2007. At the same time, new business activity remained strong with more than 30 licensees on CryptoLogic's roster, including two full hosted casino customers' wins during the year. The company also achieved four consecutive quarters of revenue growth from branded games licensed and launched by some of the world's leading online gaming operators such as 888.com, Betfair, BskyB, PartyGaming, Sportingbet and Unibet.
However, the positive underlying picture was more than offset by a number of adverse factors including challenging economic conditions that significantly reduced wagering volumes across the industry and contributed to lower hosted Internet casino and poker revenues at CryptoLogic. In addition, the results were impacted by the strength of the US dollar against the euro and the British pound, accounting for a $3.7 million decline in reported revenues in 2009. Excluding the currency factors, total revenues fell by 29.2% for the year.
As announced previously, the company incurred a $24.8million charge against the carrying value of its assets, together with costs relating to restructuring initiatives in Q4 2009 to lower operating expenses.
Restructuring for growth
The company executed a major restructuring of the business in 2009 aimed at focusing on its strengths as a developer and licensor of content-rich branded online betting games and the provision of hosted virtual casino rooms and associated services for Internet gaming operators worldwide.
In March 2009, the company completed the merger of its poker business with GTECH Corporation's Boss Media subsidiary, thereby eliminating the costs of a standalone network while improving poker room liquidity for players This move, together with a rationalisation of IT infrastructure and operational centres, contributed to a reduction in operating expense by 28.4% or $15.8 million to $39.9 million in 2009 (2008: $55.6 million), significantly ahead of management's expectations.
Approximately $8.3 million of the savings came from headcount related expenses, about $2.6 million from infrastructure and facilities downsizing including a cut in server costs and about $4.9 million in operational savings across the business. The total number of operational data centres was cut from 11 to five.
Management expects operating costs to decrease further in 2010 through new initiatives being implemented to streamline operations and lower overall employee expenses. The company today announced the integration of its Cyprus office with its existing operations in Malta, which is a major EU jurisdiction for the online gaming industry and the primary licensing authority for CryptoLogic. Malta is fully committed to supporting the industry with investment in additional infrastructure. As a result, the relocation, which is to be completed later this year, will enhance our customer service and back office capability where many of CryptoLogic's licensees already have a major presence. Staff based in Cyprus are being offered the opportunity to relocate to Malta.
New customer signings and branded games drive revenue
CryptoLogic significantly increased its customer acquisition activities in 2009 as part of its 'build-once-license often' business model to leverage its strong position as an innovator and creator of branded online betting games. The company signed 20 new multiyear licensing deals during 2009 compared with 10 in 2008, taking the total licensee base to more than 30. Two of the deals were for full casino hosting contracts with The Gaming Network and BetSafe.com. The remainder involved licensing of CryptoLogic's award-winning branded casino and casual games to many leading operators including Bet24, GalaCoral, Paddy Power, Rank Interactive, totesport, Victor Chandler Group and Virgin Games.
Hosted Internet Casino
Revenue from hosted casino decreased 28.4% to $30 million for the year (2008: $41.8 million) reflecting the impact of the economic downturn on wagering volumes and the previously reported transition of two licensees. Hosted casino remains a key element in our strategy. As highlighted above with the signing of two full casino licensees. In addition, the company invested in the development of a new, user-friendly casino lobby; the addition of a new credit card processor; new payment options; the launch of 47 new games and assisted a major licensee in the repositioning of its brand and the development of a new advertising campaign. The revenue benefits will accrue from 2010.
Branded Games
Branded games revenues rose to $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 (2008: $0.3 million), accounting for 7.1% of total revenue in 2009 (2008: 0.5%). During the year, the number of games launched by licensees increased steadily from 3 to 66 at the end of the 2009. The majority of these games went live in the second half of the year including 20 games in third quarter and 33 games in the fourth quarter.
Although branded games revenue increased four quarters in a row, the growth rate was held back by a slower than expected roll-out by some licensees. The company expects branded game revenue to increase in 2010 as it benefits from a full year of revenue on games delivered in 2009 and from more games due to be launched from around a further 125 contracted by licensees.
In early 2009, CryptoLogic expanded its portfolio of branded content by signing an exclusive agreement with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., Digital Distribution and DC Comics to bring characters such as Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman to Internet casinos. This was followed by a deal giving CryptoLogic exclusive rights to offer online slot games based on more than 20 of Paramount Pictures' feature films titles including Braveheart, Forrest Gump, Beowulf and Beverly Hills Cop.
Investing in E-gaming innovation
New games development activity remained strong with 47 new games released during 2009. Following the agreement with DC Comics, a division of Warner Bros., in October 2009 CryptoLogic launched the first games based on comic heroes Batman and Wonder Woman, further enhancing CryptoLogic's unique offering for its customers, allowing it to expand its licensees for both Internet Casino and branded games.
Batman battles The Joker in the internet world's first and only Batman slot machine. This groundbreaking 50-line game features stacked wilds and a Batman re-spin feature where all prizes are doubled as three free spins are played with one reel completely wild. Armed with a Batarang, players fight through the inmates of Arkham Asylum to stop The Joker, earning cash prizes.
During the year CryptoLogic brought out a slot version of Jenga, one of the world's most popular board games, developed by its Centre for Innovation in record time. Other games launched included Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Street Fighter IV, Savannah Sunrise, Buccaneers' Bounty and Cleo Queen of Egypt. The Centre continues to play a major role in the creation of new games offering high entertainment value to players. Building on its success with Jenga, it developed a portfolio of new games including a new table game called Triple Action Hold'Em; and a video poker game, Aces and Faces.
In addition, the company is actively developing gaming content tailored for the rapidly expanding mobile Internet, social networking and 3-D environments. It anticipates launching its first 3-D games in Q2 2010.
Financial performance
Total Revenue:
Revenue in the fourth quarter was $9.9 million, a decrease of 12.6% as compared with the same period in the prior year (Q4 2008: $11.4 million). Compared with the previous quarter, revenue was up by almost 3.5%.
Internet casino revenue increased 17.4% to $8.7 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2009 when compared to the same period in the prior year (Q4 2008: $7.5 million). Internet casino revenue, when compared to Q3 2009 increased by 23.2% due primarily to a revision of our estimate to discharge future jackpot payouts of $0.8 million, a non recurring $0.8 million benefit associated with the resolution of a commercial matter, which was initially recorded in other revenue in the third quarter but reclassified to casino revenue to be consistent with prior presentation of similar items. The U.S. dollar was relatively weak during the quarter which increased revenue by $0.4 million. Offsetting this increase was a decrease in revenue at one of the company's major licensees.
Q4 2009 Internet poker revenue decreased 79.7% to $0.5 million (Q4 2008: $2.7 million). The decrease in Internet poker revenue was primarily due to the transition of the poker network to GTECH, which reduced the number of the company's poker licensees, fees paid to GTECH, and a decline in the overall poker industry. Internet poker revenue increased by 8.4% when compared to Q3 2009 as the company optimizes the GTECH environment.
Branded games revenue was $1.2 million for the three month period ended December 31, 2009 (2008: $0.3 million). During the quarter, the company's branded games revenue increased by 51.7% sequentially as the number of revenue producing games increased from 33 to 66 games. The majority of the games delivered were late in the fourth quarter. The company expects branded game revenue to increase in 2010 as it benefits from a full year of revenue on games delivered in 2009 and increases the number of revenue producing games.
Operating Expense
Q4 2009 operating expense was $12.6 million. (Q4 2008: $13.3 million) Included in the operating expense for the quarter was a $1.5 million investment in a major relaunch of a virtual casino lobby for the company's major licensees and asset impairments of $1.7 million associated with the company's comprehensive balance sheet review brought on by the difficult macroeconomic conditions. After normalizing for the two non recurring items, operating expense was $9.3 million roughly flat when compared to Q3 2009. Operating expenses were impacted by increased investment in software development capability in lower cost jurisdictions, primarily in Eastern Europe and increased marketing program related costs.
General and Administrative Expense
In Q4 2009, G&A expense was $2.5 million. (Q4 2008: $3.7 million). G&A expense in Q3 2009 was $2.4 million. G&A expense increased 4.0% when compared to the previous quarter due to increased professional fees associated with our annual audit and compliance with Sarbanes Oxley off set in part by decreased consulting fees associated with the protection of our intellectual property.
Asset Impairments
The company regularly reviews its assets for impairment. During Q4 2009, the company completed its review of its long term investments and noted various indicators of impairment including significant financial difficulty, restructuring activities and limited ability to operate a profitable business in the short and medium term. Consequently, the company determined that the carrying value of its long term investments in Mobilebus, Mikoishi, Jingle and 568 Inc. were greater than their respected fair values resulting in an impairment charge of $2.3 million. The company also reviewed certain software development projects as a result of difficult macro-economic conditions and a decline in expected future revenues, which resulted in an impairment charge of $2.7 million.
Reorganization Charges
The company expanded its reorganization plan initially announced in 2008, due to continued unfavorable macroeconomic conditions and will outsource additional technology infrastructure activities, consolidate more of its data centre operations, and migrate additional functions to lower cost jurisdictions resulting in further reduction in headcount and a reduction of its leased office space in both Canada and Cyprus. Reorganization expense recorded in 2009 was $7.1 million and comprises consulting fees required to execute the plan of $1.1 million, severance of $1.1 million, lease termination costs associated with the office space in Canada of $1.8 million and associated asset impairments of $3.1 million. The company expects cash outlays of $3.0 million, primarily on lease termination costs in Toronto and employee severance, to fully execute the restructuring plan.
Earnings and Earnings per Diluted Share:
The company recorded a loss of $24.8 million for the quarter ($1.97 per fully diluted share), due primarily to $19.9 million in non-recurring charges for reorganization of our business, impairments of goodwill and other asset impairments.
Balance Sheet and Cash Flow:
At December 31, 2009, CryptoLogic ended the year with $23.7 million of net cash (comprising cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and security deposits) or $1.71 per diluted share (December 31, 2008: $43.8 million or $3.15 per diluted share). The decrease in net cash of $20.1 million is primarily due to cash impact of operating losses ($10.2 million), dividends paid ($1.4 million), increase in prepaid assets ($2.6 million) due primarily to payments to royalty providers including DC Comics, Marvel and Paramount offset by amortization, increase in accounts receivable ($1.8 million) due primarily to the outsourcing of the poker network and the increase in branded games which each have a one month delay in cash settlement and decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities ($5.2 million) due to decrease in activity consistent with a cost reduction plan and the capital expenditures ($0.4 million), investments in Asia ($0.5 million). These decreases are offset by net tax refunds of $2.0m. CryptoLogic continues to be debt free.
CryptoLogic's working capital at December 31, 2009 was $26.5 million or $1.91 per diluted share (December 31, 2008: $41.2 million or $2.97 per diluted share).
2010 Outlook:
-- Improved revenue from hosted casino as new licensees go live and
existing licensees benefit from investment in major rebranding, a new
lobby and advertising initiatives
-- Branded games continue to gain momentum with the annual run rate
currently at $5 million as more games come on stream
-- Number of new branded games launched by licensees to date and generating
revenues currently at 74, with a backlog of approximately 125 games
-- Costs expected to reduce further in 2010 as additional measures are
implemented to manage overheads
CryptoLogic will hold its annual general meeting in Dublin on May 17, 2010.
CRYPTOLOGIC FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT DISCLAIMER:
Statements in this press release, which are not historical are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on certain factors and assumptions including expected growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, foreign exchange rates and effective income tax rates. While the company considers these factors and assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, risks associated with the company's financial condition, prospects and opportunities, legal risks associated with Internet gaming and risks of governmental legislation and regulation, risks associated with market acceptance and technological changes, risks associated with dependence on licensees and key licensees, risks relating to international operations, risks associated with competition and other risks detailed in the company's filings with securities regulatory authorities. These risks may cause results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are given only as at the date of this release and the company disclaims any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
About CryptoLogic(R) (www.cryptologic.com)
Focused on integrity and innovation, CryptoLogic Limited is a leading public developer and supplier of Internet gaming software. With more than 300 games, CryptoLogic has one of the most comprehensive casino suites on the Internet, with award-winning games featuring some of the world's most famous action and entertainment characters. The company's licensees include many top Internet gaming brands, including the "big four" international operators. CryptoLogic's leadership in regulatory compliance makes it one of the few companies with gaming software certified to strict standards similar to land-based gaming. WagerLogic(R) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CryptoLogic, is responsible for the licensing of gaming software and services to blue-chip customers that offer their games to non-U.S. based players around the world. For information on WagerLogic, please visit www.wagerlogic.com.
CryptoLogic's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (CRY, CXY), the NASDAQ Global Select Market (CRYP) and the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (CRP).
SOURCE: CryptoLogic Limited
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