Australian Site Floats

According to Australian media, the Sydney-based Internet gambling firm is expected to list publicly in the United Kingdom before the end of 2006. Although the firm's management has refused to confirm or deny the rumors so far, they have reportedly indicated that their final decision will be announced in the coming months.

Analysts have suggested that a British listing is imminent due to the interest generated by the 2006 FIFA World Cup in sports betting on football events. Currently, wagers made by European gambling fans make up approximately half of Centre Bets sports betting revenue.

Similar rumors have also focused on British gambling company Gala Coral this week, after a statement made by its chief executive officer was interpreted as hinting at a possible float. According to analysts, Gala Coral may be planning an IPO of 5.5 billion pounds sterling within the next 18 months.