Saturday, August 14, 2010

Australian Casino, Poker and Political News, by Greg Tingle - 14th August 2010

Australian Casino, Poker And Political News

Australia is once again home to some of the world's most interesting and unique casino, gambling, poker and political news this week. Movie stars with 3D presentations at Aussie casinos, casino gang crime, Australian rock legend to release slot game to pubs, poker tours, political election betting, shake ups in Australian gaming and gambling landscape and more. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to bring you the best. The late, great Kerry Packer would love this edition, we're sure... proxy if need be... its worth it punters...

Crown Casino Chinatown Crime Figures Busted...

A Crown Casino VIP high roller and a Chinatown restaurateur personality are accused of heading up a Melbourne crime syndicate targeted by police over the past 48 hours in a series of explosive raids, arrests and record-breaking asset seizures. The alleged crime bosses of the multi-million dollar Melbourne drug ring that spent massive sums on property, gambling and overseas interests are set to appear in court after overnight out-of-sessions hearing. Crown Casino high roller Thi Nho Le and husband Thanh Hai Pham, both 46, spent the night in police cells with 6 other alleged members of the syndicate. Police allege it trafficked more than 30 kilograms of heroin in Melbourne and earned over $20 million in the past 9 months. Named and known as the Le Syndicate after the family that allegedly controls it, Ms Le's younger sister Thi Nho Em Le, her brother and their partners all faced a court hearing at St Kilda Road police complex early yesterday morning. Thi Nho Em Le's partner, businessman and restaurateur Kai Sin Mong, is also alleged to be a key player in the syndicate that police state has built a business empire including a Chinatown restaurant and a western-suburbs based petrol station. The group is accused of manufacturing and distributing large amounts of heroin, from locations including a flat in Napier Street, Fitzroy, laundering money and loaning money to other drug cartels and gamblers. Detective Acting Sergeant James Cole told the court that members did business at James Packers' Crown Casino's high-roller Mahogany Room, purchased a number of properties and businesses to conceal the proceeds of crime and sent money offshore to Vietnam, including a recent whopping $920,000 money transfer. This was allegedly used to create a multi-million dollar property portfolio, which may have been kicked along by plans to purchase a United States $2.5 million hotel. The mob aka triad were among 21 people arrested in a series of raids at properties in Melbourne's western and inner-northern suburbs, including Fitzroy commission flats, after a painstaking 10-month investigation.

Stay tuned to Gambling911 and Media Man for more details.

Jupiters Hotel and Casino: Avatar 3D Celebs Connection...

Film director James Cameron is backing up at the Australian International Movie Convention (AIMC) on the Gold Coast this season showing footage of his 3D underwater epic Sanctum. Cameron impressed delegates away when he showed exclusive footage from his blockbuster Avatar last year, now, 12 months later, he plans to wow the town again. Star of the Sanctum, Rhys Wakefield, and producer Andrew Wight, will attend the happening at Jupiters Hotel and Casino this Wednesday when Universal Studios will present the scenes. The media opp will help combat some mixed media reports on the crime rate at the Tabcorp owned casino. Sanctum, shot (pun intended) at Surfers Paradise - Gold Coast earlier this year, is understood to be in post-production down south in Melbourne (home to 'Underbelly' - real and TV) where the visual effects and the like are being meshed in. Director Alister Grierson says it will be a 'very exciting' event. "It won't be the fully finished version but what you will see will be in 3D. Universal pictures are really excited and pumped up to do the release and it's rare an Australian film gets this amount of positive review and anticipation before it's out. We're doing some pick-up shots and have built a mini set here for visual effects, so we're very close to finishing." He won't be present, nor will exec producer Cameron. "I flew over to LA and screened a version for Jim about a month ago and he really enjoyed that. He had some tips on how to improve it and a few nips and tucks." Sanctum is just one of the dozens of films that will be previewed over the 5 day convention, which commences with the Queensland premiere of Tomorrow When The War Began at Jupiters Hotel and Casino tomorrow night. Hollywooders Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell will walk the red carpet at Event Cinemas, Robina, this Wednesday night for the Australian premiere of The Other Guys. Great to see Jupiter's playing the Aussiewood - Hollywood card.

ANZPT - Australian New Zealand Poker Tour - Jupiters Hotel And Casino, Gold Coast - 14th August...

42 players are in the ANZPT on the Gold Coast for day 3. 32 players are going to at least break even. Mainly short stacks and a couple of big stacks. Hong Kong shark, er player, Nick Wong has the largest stack at time to press. Chip leading at 376,500. The top 5 players at this time are Nauv Kashyap, Darko Balaban, Liam O'Rourke and PokerStars branded Aaron Benton. Hello PartyPoker... pick up your game Tyron Krost and what's the story with your name Stewart Scott... you guys don't get paid the big bucks for nothing. You're only as good as your last game. Benton is on a roll winning at the season-ending APPT Grand Final in Sydney last December. Benton cashed at the ANZPT in Perth, before reaching the final table at the ANZPT Canberra for win of $12 grand. Journeyed to the WSOP and returned to get runner up spoils at ANZPT in Queenstown.

ANZPT - 12th August Update...

PartyPoker sponsored 2010 Aussie Millions Champ Tyron Krost joined the field Thursday, as did PokerStars Team Australia Professional Tony Hachem, ANZPT Canberra champ and high-stakes cash game pro Jason Gray and 2009 Aussie Millions $100k winner David Steicke. PokerStars Qualifier Darko Balaban finished at the top of the list of 63 survivors from the day. Go Aussies Go!

Pokie Rock N Roller With Rose Tatto; Some Angry, Some Not!...

Aristocrat Leisure has done a smart move to kill concerns that its pokie have been largely responsible for murdering the live music scene around Australia. The company has invented a new contraption that will allow pub rock bands and gambling machines to co-exist... get this...a pokie machine based on one of the country's iconic pub rock bands, the Angry Anderson-headed Rose Tattoo. "We are confident that our Rose Tattoo game will be a hit in pubs across Australia, said Aristocrat's MD for Australia, Trevor Croker, at the Australasian Gaming Expo in Darling Harbour, Sydney."The striking red and black colour scheme will make a statement on the gaming floor and patrons will enjoy the experience of playing along with some Rose Tattoo classics," he said. The Aristocrat website describes the game as "Reel Rock 'n' Roll''. "Rose Tattoo multi-game is guaranteed to rock your venue," the company claims. Next an 'Underbelly', 'Madame Lash', 'Mr Sin' or 'Kerry Packer' themed game? Stranger things have happened.

Australian Federal Election Betting Update...

Aussie betting markets moved firmly to Gillard's Labor by about 4.5% on the aggregate implied probability of victory, with all agencies moving in the same direction. Centrebet moved strongest with an 8.5% ALP boost while Sportingbet moved the least with a 3.5% boost to Labor. Betting odds and people putting their money where their mouth is has traditionally been more accurate to pick the winner than other types of political polling. You can still jab ahead Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott... go son...fight to the finish.

Tabcorp VIP Casino Upgrades...

Tabcorp’s casino expansion plans are not much exiting the market. One source said "deep dark money pit"! The press announcement brought a downgrade of the company’s rating and outlook. The Tabcorp plans to capture the Australasian VIP market, one that Crown Limited largely dominates. Ratings agency Standard & Poors (S&P) reduced the Australian-facing company’s A$1.99m debt outlook from “stable” to “negative” over concerns on the further A$285m investment in its Star City casino in Sydney announced as part of full year results last week. This came with the warning that Tabcorp’s capital expenditure plans could further risk its new rating as the company faces the possible loss of its Victorian wagering licence later this year. Gambling industry analyst Andrew Hills (Wilson HTM) said "The capital expenditure required to operate a competitive casino is oppressive and we question whether Tabcorp is throwing good money after bad. The New South Wales and Queensland casinos are attractive for the respective state governments but not for shareholders, in our view." Nathan Gee (Merrill Lynch) advised Tabcorp will either have to protect their new credit rating by an equity raising, or bite the bullet and incur higher debt costs from a further ratings downgrade, which he suggests may be the better option. Last week, Tabcorp chief Elmer Funke Kupper advised the aim of Star City was to create a destination for VIP’s and said the investment was a "no-brainer addition" to the company’s plans. In the full-year results, the Australian casino and gaming operator reported a 9.4% drop in its casino division’s EBITDA, however predicted that it would see an estimated A$130m-140m EBITDA uplift from its Star City investment by 2014. A concern for Tabcorp will be the expiration of its Victorian wagering licence, due to end in 2012. Aussie rival Tatts Group and the UK's Ladbrokes, no stranger to Media Man and Gambling911, have indicated their intentions to compete with Tabcorp for the next 12-year licence which will grant the winner a virtual monopoly on wagering and sports betting in that state of Victoria. Earlier this week the Victorian Government tabled legislation that would give valuable premium wagering tax concessions to the licence holder, but while analysts believe the license to be worth A$4bn, they also reckon renewing it could cost Tabcorp anywhere between A$300m and A$600m! "Tabcorp winning the Victorian wagering licence might put pressure on its S&P credit rating depending on the eventual price paid" said an insider. "Interestingly Tabcorp missing out on the Victoria wagering licence would ease the pressure around a credit rating downgrade or an equity raising," but over-paying for the licence may be better in the long haul than missing out full stop. Tabcorp has a war on its hands for the bid, as Australia’s Productivity Commission specifically recommended at the start of the year that it was against the renewal of wagering monopolies in New South Wales and Victoria. Tabcorp’s main investment program, the Star City Casino, is expected to now cost A$860m in addition to a A$100m payment to the New South Wales government for the pleasure, but Funke Kupper last week argued that the high price of investments would pay off by pulling in the big spending VIPs. That's his vision, but not that of the whole markets. The company reported that Star City’s 10% year-on-year EBITDA growth was offset by a 29% drop year-on-year in the company’s 3 "banana bender" Queensland casinos. Tabcorp is in negotiations with the government over increasing investment in its Queensland properties, where sliding trade is being caused by weak economic conditions in the region. A no-brainer? Readers, you be the judge.

NSW Government Keno Jackpot...

24 months after permitting Keno into hotels, the NSW state government has approved the installation into pubs and clubs of an expected 800 electronic Keno gambling machines which knockers say are a "gateway" to pokies. WSW will be #1 state to provide 'Touch Keno' after the government reviewed the results of a 3 month trial of 30 terminals at 15 venues including Star City Casino and Souths Juniors Rugby League Club. The devices are due to be installed in clubs from the coming month. Unlike the existing version, in which punters mark numbers with a pencil and paper and place bets at the bar, Touch Keno allows players to feed cold hard cash directly into the mouth of the machine, but payouts must still be collected from an human operator. Tabcorp, co-owner of the NSW Keno licence with ClubsNSW, is kindly offering to pay the cost of installing the machines if venues sign up for at least 24 months. Long enough to get the gambling bug. The government advised the terminals must be placed in a restricted area that cannot be accessed by minors". This may be a venue's lounge, bar area or gaming area. The government has recently introduced a $250 bet limit and said machines must carry information about gambling counselling and self-exclusion services. "The terminals were subject to a comprehensive trial to assess technology and harm minimisation issues," the Minister for Gaming and Racing, Kevin Greene, told press. There's no proposal to phase out the old form of Keno in favour of the new terminals. The "traditional" Keno game must be retained when a terminal is installed. The ClubsNSW chief executive, Anthony Ball, said the terminals would remove the need for punters to wait for a bartender to finish serving drinks before placing a bet. "This new technology means customers will instead be able to walk up to a screen and play Keno with, in most cases, no delay or waiting line. Self-service technology has existed at the TAB for a number of years and has proved very successful in reducing player waiting times." The anti-gambling campaigner, Senator Nick Xenophon aka "Mr X", advised the introduction of Touch Keno was worrying. "My concern is that Touch Keno will serve as a kind of gateway for casual gamblers to become poker machine gamblers. And as the Productivity Commission reported earlier this year, poker machines are far and away the biggest source of problem gambling." World Vision chief executive, Tim Costello, said he was concerned about the removal of an attendant from the betting process. "Human intervention is a natural restraint on access for problem gamblers." Last week, Tabcorp reported annual revenue of $157.2 million from its Keno operations in NSW, Queensland and Victoria. NSW down for $32 million, an annual increase of 5.4 per cent. Last month, the government said it would allow a Tabcorp-owned virtual racing game, Trackside, into pubs and clubs to pay for the refurbishment of Randwick Racecourse.

Both punters and insiders continue to enjoy the weekly Australian Casino Wars, largely dominated by Tabcorp and Crown Limited, but always watch out for an X Factor, be it PartyGaming, Ladbrokes, Genting or other.

Punters, er readers, stay glued to Media Man reports via Gambling911 for more "can't miss" information on the Australian media, gaming, casino and political wars.

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Wrap Up...

Readers... er, punters, what's your view on online poker, online casinos, censorship, internet censorship and freedom of the press? Who will win the Aussie Casino Wars? Could you live without online poker? Do you enjoy adult content (that is legal)? Who are your betting on, and why? Make your voice heard. Tell us in the forum. The big wigs of Australian politics and business read and hang on every word at your beloved Gambling911. From Australia's answer to 'Casino Jack' to 'Outback Jack', they're all her folks. Keep checking daily for updates, Yes Minister, and have another cup of Full Strength Coffee (no caffeine or web filter thanks).

The Late News...

If your going to have a bet, please bet your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.

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PartyCasino News: PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

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6th August 2010 – This year marks the 200th Oktoberfest and what promises to be the biggest, best and most memorable edition of one of the world’s biggest parties ever! Palladium VIP’s on PartyCasino.com can secure their place there very simply: be one of the first 10 players to collect 10,000 PartyPoints by playing slots and jackpot slots between 16th and 31st August and they will win a package.

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: “Once all 10 packages have been claimed the promotion is over, so it is first come first served! The Palladium VIP hospitality at Oktoberfest is already legendary and with the big beer party celebrating its 200th birthday this year promises to be even bigger. PartyCasino.com has the most frequent game launches and largest jackpots in the industry so customers are spoiled for choice for games through which to earn the points needed to secure the trip to Germany’s biggest party.”

The package is from 24th – 26th September and includes:

·Two night’s accommodation, with breakfast, at a five-star hotel in Munich for the winner and a guest.
·Dinner with an open bar followed by a poker tournament in the Davidoff Lounge at the Allianz Arena.
·Activity or Spa treatment.
·Two passes to the Oktoberfest on Saturday night.
·Entry to a VIP party at Pacha nightclub.
·Exclusive VIP hospitality provided by Palladium VIP’s expert events team, on hand and available to you throughout your trip.

Please note that customers have to opt-in to this promotion.

PartyPoker.com also has 35 Oktoberfest prize packages available through a promotion that is running now until the 29th August. See: PartyPoker.com

Palladium VIP’s had a memorable trip to the Oktoberfest last year. See: Palladium Lounge

PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar, Italy and France 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 counselling 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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Thursday, August 12, 2010

PartyCasino News: There's No Business Like Snow Business

PartyCasino News: There's No Business Like Snow Business

New Slot Offering Industry's Largest Progressive Seeded Jackpot

Gibraltar - 11th August 2010 – PartyCasino.com, the world’s largest online casino, is pleased to announce the arrival of new polar themed jackpot slot ‘Snow Business’. 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 brought in classic slot Melon Madness as the slot to crack it. Now Snow Business has joined Melon Madness in offering access to ‘The Big One!’

The Big One is structured as a five tiered pool. The highest tier - Colossal Cash - seeds at $1.5 million, the biggest online jackpot seed in the industry and currently stands at over $2.1 million. Snow Business is a five-reel, 30 line jackpot slot game with a Free Spins feature. When three or more scattered iceberg symbols appear anywhere in view, the feature screen is displayed where the player is required to catch a random number of fish, each of which reveals a random number of free spins or a random free spins multiplier.

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: "One great feature is Snow Business' super-cool expanding wilds. Love wild slot features but hate hitting them in the wrong place? Just hit the wild symbol and watch as it casts a frosty spell over its neighbours. The wild could expand up, down, left, right or even in all directions across the reels, triggering paylines and landing you more coins. Crack three iceberg symbols and progress to Snow Business's bonus round. hook the fish that bob through the ice to net free spins and rewarding multipliers."

For more information see PartyCasino.com

PartyCasino.com has the most frequent game launches and largest jackpots in the industry and offers over 150 games, including over 100 slots. PartyCasino.com pays out easily over $10 million EVERY DAY to players. This year marks the 200th Oktoberfest in Germany and what promises to be the biggest, best and most memorable edition of one of the world’s biggest parties ever! Palladium VIP’s on PartyCasino.com can secure their place there very simply: be one of the first 10 players to collect 10,000 PartyPoints by playing slots and jackpot slots between 16th and 31st August and they will win a package. Please note these packages are for the weekend of the 1st – 3rd October. See: PartyCasino.com for more information.

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Monday, August 9, 2010

Australian Casino Wars: Tabcorp No Casualty (Yet), by Greg Tingle - 9th August 2010

Australian casino wars continue on as Tabcorp defends its position to further invest into its Star City Casino based in Sydney, Jupiters Hotel and Casino on the Gold Coast, Conrad Treasury in Brisbane, Queensland, and whispers of another casino or two in the works. Crown Limited's casino James Packer may be sailing the high seas abroad in his Arctic P vessel, but rest assured this army generals, chief of staff, second lieutenant and the like are in the war room plotting as the 'Art Of War' continues. Media Man and Gambling911 on the battlefield... ah, incoming!...

Tabcorp Holdings told the press it is gradually becoming a casino company to take advantage of favourable regulatory conditions and boost its bottom line.

Tabcorp chief Elmer "Funky Fudd" (affectionate satire tag) Funke Kupper told ABC TV's Inside Business program on Sunday that casinos would play a larger role as a consequence of the way the business was structured.

Funke Kupper said significant investment in its New South Wales casino business was expected to generate a return of approximately 14 to 15% and eventually comprise 50% or more of the firm, while gaming would fall to roughly 22% of the company.

"In Victoria, the licence would fall away in 2012. That will make gaming a smaller part of our business and at the same time we're making very significant investments in our casinos business," he told the press.

"We're doing that because that's where we have the right conditions - long-term licences, attractive markets and opportunity for growth. So the outcome is that we'll become more of a casino business as a result of the investments that we're making."

This past Thursday, Funke Kupper attributed Tabcorp's lower normalised net profit on weak gaming market conditions in Victoria and Queensland. Competitor Crown Limited isn't talking up the "week gaming market conditions" as much as Tabcorp according to a number of Asia Pacific based analysts.

Tabcorp booked a 10% fall in reported net profit for the 2010 financial year to $469.5 million, down from $521.7 million in the prior year.

Normalised net profit, which takes into account variations in the win rate against high-rolling gamblers, was down 3.8% at $477.3 million.

Tabcorp also announced it would spend an extra $285 million on the redevelopment of Star City, boosting total capital investment on its Sydney casino to $860 million, up from $575 mill.

Funke Kupper said the addition to Star City Casino of a 3000-seat, multi-purpose entertainment venue for major events, conferences and exhibitions plus VIP customer facilities would fulfill the total potential of the market.

The entertainment venue would generate traffic (people - likely not internet) and a brand that would work for the entire casino, he said.

"It will be OK in its own right but, of course, the profitability of things like gaming is higher. What we're creating here is not an events centre; what we're creating is an entertainment destination, and if you look at the size of Sydney relative to any other market in this country, it's by far the biggest market, and if you look at what other casinos are investing, an investment of close to a billion dollars actually makes sense."

Funk Kupper said VIP investment was warranted because it was a high-growth market with untapped potential.

"With the infrastructure we're building at Star City, we have the opportunity to offer the right product to that consumer so we think the business case for that is actually the easiest one out of all the things that we're doing, given the attraction of Sydney, the property that we're building and the size of that market."


Queensland Government To Allow More Poker Machines?...

The Queensland Government is under missile attack also. Not by casinos, but by anti gambling and gaming campaigners (not again we hear you sigh). The heat...policy towards poker machines apparently.

Tabcorp is of course plotting and planning to expand its casinos in Queensland, including Brisbane City, but it the acquisition of 1,000 gaming machine licences is part of its 'Art Of War' war chest... a not so secret weapon. It involves Tabcorp purchasing existing licences from pubs and clubs. World Vision Australia (a god - religion based charity) chief exec Tim Costello has been lobbying hard against poker machines for years. The man of God says Queensland has an oversupply, with 47,000 machines compared to Victoria's 30,000. "It's because your Government has been able to slip them in under the radar rather than raising taxes ... almost certainly without telling the public that pokies, after drugs, are the second source of crime at the Victorian Justice Department report," he said. Treasurer Andrew Fraser says the Government has yet to decide whether to permit the trading of licences between the casino industry and pubs and clubs.

"By no means are we as a Government saying that that's something that we are endorsing. But it is something that we've said we'll talk to the clubs and hotels about - what does this deliver? It means no net new increases in poker machines but it does mean the potential for significant tourism redevelopment on the Gold Coast and also a brand new five-star hotel in Brisbane."

For the record team Media Man believes in God and Jesus, but is not in a bible bashing type sector.

A Media Man International spokesperson said "Media Man is spiritual and believes in God, but doesn't let it dirty the water with politics and law. MM is more into sharing wealth... sort of like a Robin Hood... from the rich, to the poor. Helping spread funds across society. The gaming industry has remained one of the most recession resistant sectors of the 12 we cover. Our friends at Crown Limited and Tabcorp are also weathering the storm better than many also. State and Federal government also appear to have seen the light. Little wonder that land based casinos are starting to integrate more igaming and online elements into their operation - its the future".

This past Friday Tabcorp shares closed 10 cents lower, or 1.5% at $6.66 (superstitious readers may note that a variation on the "devils number". Aussie Mark 'The Turkey' Webber got #6 off pole position in last weeks F1 race, but went on to win. 6 - a good or bad omen?

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The Late News...

Crown Casino and Burswood Entertainment Complete budgets likely to further open up, partly in response to aggressive moves and counter strike by Tabcorp. City Of Dreams, Macau, part of Packer's holistic approach. More world class events planned for City of Dreams and Crown, adding to total entertainment experience. Crown playing cards right with Australian government powers that be and further online strategy in the works. Crown aware of public's online gaming wish list. PartyGaming and IGT online games on radar of Crown Limited. PartyPoker b2b online poker satellite qualifiers likely to start again circa November 2010, ready for January 2011 'Aussie Millions'.

Readers, know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun. And that's an order, Sergent Slaughter. Stand at ease soldiers. Speak easy.

Shares

Tabcorp $6.66

Crown Limited $8.090

Tatts Group Ltd $2.41

Centrebet $1.375

Aristocrat Leisure Limited $3.670

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Wrap Up...

Readers, do you think Tabcorp are doing the right thing by investing so much money in their Australian casinos? Who will win in the Tabcorp VS Crown Limited war? Tell us in the forum.

More background on the Australian Casino Wars...

'Australian Casino Wars: Casualties Upcoming?'
http://www.gambling911.com/gambling-news/australian-casino-wars-causalities-upcoming-080510.html

Readers, another friendly reminder...know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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Saturday, August 7, 2010

PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

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PartyGaming PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com World Poker Tour WPT Casino WPT Poker
Palladium Lounge
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6th August 2010 – This year marks the 200th Oktoberfest and what promises to be the biggest, best and most memorable edition of one of the world’s biggest parties ever! Palladium VIP’s on PartyCasino.com can secure their place there very simply: be one of the first 10 players to collect 10,000 PartyPoints by playing slots and jackpot slots between 16th and 31st August and they will win a package.

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: “Once all 10 packages have been claimed the promotion is over, so it is first come first served! The Palladium VIP hospitality at Oktoberfest is already legendary and with the big beer party celebrating its 200th birthday this year promises to be even bigger. PartyCasino.com has the most frequent game launches and largest jackpots in the industry so customers are spoiled for choice for games through which to earn the points needed to secure the trip to Germany’s biggest party.”

The package is from 24th – 26th September and includes:

·Two night’s accommodation, with breakfast, at a five-star hotel in Munich for the winner and a guest.
·Dinner with an open bar followed by a poker tournament in the Davidoff Lounge at the Allianz Arena.
·Activity or Spa treatment.
·Two passes to the Oktoberfest on Saturday night.
·Entry to a VIP party at Pacha nightclub.
·Exclusive VIP hospitality provided by Palladium VIP’s expert events team, on hand and available to you throughout your trip.

Please note that customers have to opt-in to this promotion.

PartyPoker.com also has 35 Oktoberfest prize packages available through a promotion that is running now until the 29th August. See: PartyPoker.com

Palladium VIP’s had a memorable trip to the Oktoberfest last year. See: Palladium Lounge

PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar, Italy and France 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 counselling 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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Friday, August 6, 2010

PartyGaming News: Half year report for the six months ended 30 June 2010

PartyGaming News: Half year report for the six months ended 30 June 2010

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Total revenue up 30% to €181.2m (2009: €139.9m) driven by acquisitions and strong growth in casino and sports betting

Continuing Clean EBITDA* up 14% to €48.1m (2009: €42.3m)

Continuing Basic Clean EPS* of 6.0 € cents (2009: 6.7 € cents); Total Basic Clean EPS of 6.0 € cents (2009: 6.6 € cents)

Transformational Proposed Merger with bwin expected to complete in first quarter 2011
Solid progress in newly regulated markets (France and Italy); Denmark is on-track to open early in 2011

Net cashflow from Continuing operations up 65% to €55.3m (2009: €33.5m) with net cash at 30 June 2010 of €146.8m (2009: €166.7m)

* EBITDA/EPS before the provision for costs associated with the Group’s Non-Prosecution Agreement, reorganisation costs, and before non-cash charges relating to share-based payments (see reconciliation of Clean EBITDA to operating profit (loss) below).

# Operations located physically outside of the US but which relate to US customers that were no longer accepted following the enactment of the UIGEA.
Commenting on today’s results announcement, Jim Ryan, PartyGaming Chief Executive Officer, said:

“We delivered another robust financial performance in the first half and also made great progress in executing our strategy. While poker was impacted by the football World Cup and remained difficult from a competitive perspective, our other verticals continued to perform strongly. Total revenue was up 30% and Clean EBITDA from Continuing Operations was up 14% versus the prior year. As previously announced, Clean EBITDA margins in the first half were slightly lower than expected due to the delayed launch of cash game poker in Italy but we retain our previous full year guidance of approximately 28%, subject to the returns achieved on planned marketing spend in both France and Italy where we are continuing to expand the share of our respective poker networks.

‘‘Our proposed merger with bwin is a transformational opportunity for the Group and we expect that it will provide significant strategic, operational and financial benefits for the shareholders of both companies. Whilst there is much work to do ahead of completion in early 2011, we are excited about the prospects for what will then be the clear market leader in online gaming with strong positions in all key product verticals and territories.”

On current trading and outlook Jim Ryan added:

“Since 30 June 2010, the Group has continued to perform in-line with the Board’s expectations. Seizing a strong position in newly regulated markets is a key focus for us. Our strategy of combining a strong B2C franchise with significant local brands is already proving to be a powerful force as evidenced by our network’s position in French poker. As other markets follow Italy and France, we expect that a limited number of large networks and brands will emerge to become market leaders – we are determined that together PartyGaming/bwin will be one of them. This natural consolidation of the marketplace will accelerate through corporate mergers and acquisitions and as one of the largest players in the sector we remain committed to continue playing an active role. Whilst the macroeconomic and competitive environments remain challenging, we remain confident about the Group’s prospects for the rest of the year and beyond.”

Contacts:
PartyGaming Plc +44 (0) 207 337 0100
Peter Reynolds, Director of Corporate Affairs
John Shepherd, Director of Corporate Communications

Interview with Jim Ryan and Martin Weigold
An interview with Jim Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, and Martin Weigold, Group Finance Director, in video/audio and text will be available from 7.00am BST on 6 August 2010 on: http://www.partygaming.com and on http://www.cantos.com.

Analyst meeting, webcast, dial-in and conference call details: 6 August 2010
There will be an analyst meeting for invited UK-based analysts at Numis Securities, The London Stock Exchange Building, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LT starting at 9.30am BST. There will be a simultaneous webcast and dial-in broadcast of the meeting. To register for the live webcast, please pre-register for access by visiting the Group website (www.partygaming.com). Details for the dial-in facility are given below. A copy of the webcast and slide presentation given at the meeting will be available on the Group’s website later today.

Dial-in details to listen to the analyst presentation: 6 August 2010
9.20 am Please call +44 (0) 20 3003 2666
Title PartyGaming Interim Results
9.30 am Meeting starts
A recording of the meeting will be available for a period of seven days from 6 August 2010. To access the recording please dial the following replay telephone number:
Replay telephone number +44 (0) 208 196 1988
Replay passcode: 9050397#

About PartyGaming Plc

The Group 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 ended 31 December 2009, PartyGaming’s Continuing operations generated revenue of €310.1m and Clean EBITDA of €93.8m.

PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar, Italy and France 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 counselling 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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Thursday, August 5, 2010

Australian Gambling And Political News, by Greg Tingle - 5th August 2010

Australia is currently enjoying a boon in interesting and colourful gambling, gaming and political news, thanks in part to the upcoming federal election and the bush tucker bag or pro and anti casino, gaming and internet filter campaigners. Media Man and Gambling911 pound the pavement gauging the vibe of the Australian gambling and political landscape even bumping into a couple of billionaires and political legends in the process...

Casino Casino Expansion Raises Ire Of Anti Gaming Campaigners Once Again...

Aussie Anti-gambling campaigners have criticised a proposed expansion of Melbourne's Crown Casino. The casino wants to redevelop or replace 6 waterside restaurants and introduce new landscaping. The project would also make more room, paving the way for 150 new gambling tables approved by the Victorian Government last year. Anti-gambling campaigner, the Reverend Tim Costello told the media the extra tables are effectively expanding the casino by half. "No-one objects to extra restaurants. But the extra restaurants are only there not because they subsidise themselves. They are massively subsidised by this increase in gambling which is really driving this refurbishment," he advsised.

Regulator Endorses Poker Machine Licences...

The Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation has endorsed licences for more than 650 poker machines across the Wimmera-Mallee. The State Government held an auction in May to allow pubs and clubs across Victoria to bid for 10 year pokie licences. Licences were approved for venues in Mildura, Merbein, Red Cliffs, Horsham, Swan Hill, Ouyen, Kerang, Stawell and St Arnaud. The biggest spender was the Horsham Sports and Community Club, with $6.8 million for 78 licences. Licences will not be finalised until locals council give their approval. The pokies auction was a major happening in the history of the Australian gambling industry.

Gambling Addict Won't Get Jail...

A South Australian gambling addict who nicked more than $170,000 from her boss has been given a suspended jail sentence by the Adelaide District Court. Susan Jayne Sykes, aged an even 50, stole the money over a 17 month period while working as an accounts clerk for the Midway Tavern at Elizabeth Downs. Judge Julie McIntyre said the woman had not been a gambler until she began playing poker machines in 2005. The jail sentence was suspended in favour of a 2-year bond and Sykes was ordered to do 120 hours of community service. Sykes is paying back the money at $60 per week. She is understood to be very pleased with the outcome.

Bally Technology (BYI) Returns To Australia...

Bally Technologies announced this week that they are a few months ahead of scheduled plans, originally announced in January, to re-enter the Australian gaming market by 2011. Bally Technologies Chief Operating Officer Gavin Isaacs said they would use the Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) at the Sydney Convention and Expo Centre on August 8 through August 10 to bring “years of innovation back to the Australian market.”
The Expo will be used to showcase Bally’s award winning portfolio of slot machines, player-tracking and marketing systems. Since the original announcement Bally has established a sales and service office in Sydney and staffed it with gaming industry experts that can oversee daily operations and help lead their re-entrance into the countries casino market. Bally Australia will be led by Michael McNee as Managing Director and Ron Jeffrey as Sales Manager. “This experienced team’s understanding of the gaming market in Australia and New Zealand ensures that we will hit the ground running as we introduce our award-winning portfolio of industry-leading games and systems technology to Australia.” commented Isaacs.

Aristocrat Commands Strong Presence at Australasian Gaming Expo...

Australia's leading gaming machine provider, Aristocrat, will display new games tailored for the Australian market and the latest innovations in gaming from around its global operations at this year's Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE), to be held in Sydney from August 8 to 10, 2010. Trevor Croker, Aristocrat's Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand, said, "For more than 50 years, Aristocrat has been leading the gaming industry in Australia with innovative games that players love and powerful management systems that help increase the bottom line for our customers. "We plan to enhance our position by becoming more responsive to customer feedback, making market-specific games and introducing more customer-focused sales model -- all of which will be on display at the AGE," he added. Aristocrat will debut new titles for the Australian hotel market at AGE, including Rose Tattoo™ and Player's Choice™ Class Act. The new Rose Tattoo™ game is themed around the iconic Australian cult rock band, Rose Tattoo™, featuring rock legend Angry Anderson. Mr. Croker said, "We are confident that our Rose Tattoo™ game will be a hit in pubs across Australia. The striking red and black colour scheme will make a real statement on the gaming floor while patrons will enjoy the experience of playing along with some Rose Tattoo™ classics." The number one performing multigame product in New South Wales, Player's Choice™ by Demand(1), will be joined at AGE by the new Player's Choice™ Class Act, which contains the popular games 5 Dragons™, Lucky 88™, Dollar Bear™ and Top Banana™.
Also being introduced at AGE is Beat the Bandits™, an innovative new hyperlink with a central wild western theme supported by two exciting base games. Each jackpot feature involves player interaction, giving players a chance to win one of the four jackpot levels. Operators can also expect to see Fa Fa Fa™, a leading one cent link product in NSW, and Hit The Heights™ series (four games), both of which are proving very popular in overseas markets. Aristocrat will also provide operators with a glimpse of the exciting future innovations, with the VERVE hd™ cabinet. Developed in the United States, the VERVE hd™ features better ergonomics for player comfort, a wider screen and improved sound, providing greater levels of player entertainment. Mr. Croker concluded, "AGE is one of the key opportunities we have to showcase our product and we looking forward to meeting hoteliers and discussing how we can grow their business through innovative product and services." The Aristocrat display will be at stand 320. Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL) is a leading global provider of gaming solutions. The Company is licensed by more than 200 regulators and its products and services are available in over 90 countries around the world. Aristocrat offers a diverse range of products and services including electronic gaming machines, interactive video terminal systems and casino management systems.

Aussie Scratchies Scam Warning Issued...

Punters who think they have scratched their way to a a lottery prize could be duped by overseas scammers. The police Major Fraud Section has received "a number of reports from members of the public" about the scam. The scratch tickets are mailed with a glossy travel brochure. One ticket reveals the punter as winning a "substantial monetary prize" and they must contact the promoter via international phone. "The victims are then advised of the need to cover legal fees and are required to make a payment via a money transfer agent to enable the prize to be released," police said. However, after the initial funds are sent there are further demands for cash payments, then personal information including bank details for prize payment.
"Once these requests are complied with the victims are unable to re-establish contact with the company. No prize winnings have been paid."Police said the tickets and brochure link back to a website which is "professional in appearance and provides significant credibility to the company". However, they warn punters to be "wary" of any lotteries which require "winners" to send funds or provide bank account details.

Australia has a long history of gambling scams and crime. Read the Gambling911 classic...
'Australia Lotto Goose Doesn’t Lay Golden Gambling Egg'
http://www.gambling911.com/gambling-news/australia-lotto-goose-doesn%E2%80%99t-lay-golden-gambling-egg-040210.html

and

'Crown Casino Client Ferrari Stolen With Virgin Valet'
http://www.gambling911.com/gambling-news/crown-casino-client-ferrari-stolen-virgin-valet-051410.html

Tabcorp increases investment at Star City...

Tabcorp Holdings Limited today announced plans to invest an additional $285 million on the redevelopment of Star City, including a 3,000-seat multi-purpose entertainment venue and new VIP customer facilities.

Australian Politics: 'No Bull' Turnbull To Host Anti-Filter Forum...

Former Opposition leader and Federal member of Wentworth, Malcolm Turnbull, is hosting an Internet filtering forum in Sydney this Saturday. The panel members will include former Telstra BigPond group manager, Justin Milne, Getup! national director, Simon Sheikh, and Mr Turnbull himself! Internet projects of Mr Turnbull helped make him a millionaire including the famed OzEmail. "The proposed filter is a hot issue in Wentworth, with many voters expressing concerns over the Government’s plans," the Facebook events page said. "… Informed discussion among forum participants will ensure community views on the filter are heard. The internet forum will consider adopting community resolutions to capture the views. The event will be held on August 7 at Paddington RSL Club. Go the diggers! "If adopted, these resolutions will be presented to Senator Steven Conroy and Prime Minister Gillard as a reminder of the community’s determination to fight the proposal," the events page outlaid. Mr Turnbull is widely regarded as Australia's most internet savvy member of Parliament.
He was dumped by as Liberal Leader in December 2009, with his views on climate change seen to be a key factor. Mr Turnbull was replaced by Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott, however Media Man street surveys indicated many Australian's think the "No Bull" man will be a future Australian Prime Minister if he wants to be. He remains one of Australia's most respected and financially wealthy politicians and is seen as quite the 'Peoples Champion'.

Punters, er readers, stay glued to Media Man reports via Gambling911 for more "can't miss" information on the Australian casino and political wars.

Gambling911 Politics
http://www.gambling911.com/politics.html

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Wrap Up...

Some online poker and online casino brands are understand to have made secret Australian internet blacklist. The Gillard Government is staying on messages that its mainly about protecting children, however the vast majority of media companies and the population at large now firmly believes its more about attempting to censor the news, filter out negative political commentary (as done in China) and banning things that don't fit their political agenda. The government is trying to get Australian ISP's to agree to enforcing its laws. Overall the current government trying to control the population and this is documented on various Australian newspaper reports. The reader could be forgiven for having flashbacks to movies such as 'They Live', '1984', 'Clockwork Orange' and 'The Net'. Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull is the representative for Wentworth, a Liberal Party member, and many people believe is a future Australian Prime Minister. Liberal's Tony Abbott is the current leader of the Liberal party and Lib's are now favored to become the new government of Australia is a few short weeks, with political betting trends at Centrebet and elsewhere backing this up. Mr Turnbull enjoys a colourful history with Australia's original casino and gambling tycoon, Kerry Packer, and has spoken highly of James Packer friend and associate, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, who spearheads GenerationOne which is focused on creating sustainable employment opportunities for thousands of Indigenous Australians. Packer has already employed hundreds and Turnbull has been encouraged, some say even inspired, by the Forrest - Packer collaboration. Packer is a resident in Turnbull's political electorate which includes Bondi Beach. Turnbull, being a team player, fully supports Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott in his quest to become the new Aussie Prime Minister. The smart money says Liberal will win the election and that this weekends Anti-Filter forum will be a rip snorter.

The Late News...

Aussie casino players rejoice in the release of the new PartyGaming - PartyCasino 3D online slot game: Heist. As reported by Gambling911 earlier in the week, PartyGaming is to merge with bwin forming the world's undisputed biggest igaming company. Maybe Australia might get the Kerry Packer and Underbelly online slot games now hey. Party have also just released the Rocky online slot with Pink Panther on the way (good timing after the Crown Casino 'Shaft Man' incident).

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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