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An anonymous source in Washington has leaked that the Restoration of America’s Wire Act (RAWA) will get a hearing in the House of Representatives on Thursday, March 5. Sheldon Adelson and other anti-online gambling lobbyists have been pushing for RAWA to be passed by Congress since 2014; the bill would make it illegal to operate online poker rooms, even for those states that already legalized it. Michelle Minton of the Competitive Enterprise Institute reported this update last Thursday, and said that the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations will hear the bill. This will be the first time that RAWA is officially discussed in either house of Congress. Pushing for RAWA Adelson pushed for the introduction of RAWA in 2014 during Congress’ lame duck session, but the bill was unable to receive a hearing. Earlier this year, representative Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) reintroduced RAWA to the House of Representatives, and it is speculated that Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) will do the same in the Senate shortly. Will RAWA Pass? With the majority of both houses made up of Republicans, RAWA certainly has a better chance of being passed this year than it did last year. Still, it is hard to imagine that it will actually happen. Even among the Republican camp, opinions are mixed vis a vis online gambling. And risking a fracture within the party does not seem worthwhile, at least not for an issue like online gambling. Moreover, there is a question about the constitutionality of RAWA; it seems to undermine the rights of individual states, which have traditionally dealt with the issue of land-based and online gambling. So while the March 5 hearing is certainly significant, most proponents of online gambling are not too worried. Many think that the hearing is being held simply to appease Adelson, who is a powerful figure in the Republican party, backed by powerful money.
One of the most enticing matches of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 is tonight's battle between Manchester City vs Barcelona at City of Manchester stadium. This is the first leg of the Round of 16 and both teams will want to get a jump on the other before travelling back to Camp Nou on March 18. Although Barcelona come into tonight's match as slight favorites, you cannot take anything away from Man. City, especially in front of their fans, which should make for an entertaining evening in the Champions League. No Favorites in the Champions League Barcelona's head coach, Luis Enrique recently stated that "It is dangerous to speak of favorites in the Champions League - you have to demonstrate yourself on the field." That statement shows that he has the utmost respect for his rivals from Manchester, especially since his star-studded team just dropped a game to Malaga in La Liga so he might be playing it conservatively before tonight's match. Barcelona are four points back of Real Madrid in league action, but the Champions League is always a different story. If Barcelona manages to make it through to the Round of 8, it will be the ninth straight time they have managed to make the Quarter Finals. Manchester City need to fight through a number of suspensions, while knowing that Edin Dzeko, Sergio Aguero, Pablo Zabaleta and Gael Clichy are all just one yellow card away from a ban. Pellegrini has a lot on his mind before tonight's match and making the correct roster choices is crucial for success tonight. Special In-Play Lines at bet365 Sports Punters looking to get in on the action tonight will have the chance to do so in style with bet365 Sportsbook. Man City are behind in the odds at 3.50, while Barcelona are at 2.15. A draw is marked at 3.60. Qualifying bets are also quite attractive with the home team bringing in 3.10 and the Catalans at 1.36. Place any pre-game bet up to $50 and bet365 will give you a risk-free in-play bet during the match for the same amount. If that in-play bet loses you'll get all your money back. Don't miss out on a number of chances to make lucrative cash on the Champions League tonight.
Research from tech analyst App Annie has revealed that Google Play and the App Store, respectively, account for the most app downloads and generate the highest revenues in app distribution. Consequently, leading online casino operators are distributing many of their mobile apps through those platforms. Casinos Developing Multiple Apps There is a wealth of online gambling apps in existence, encompassing casino games, live dealers, sports betting, poker, and bingo. Many of the highest grossing casino sites in the industry have sought to accommodate their mobile users by creating dedicated apps for each of their platforms. And this makes sense because the functionality requirements will differ a casino compared to sports betting. Personalization In contrast to playing on the mobile browser version of the site, the variety of apps is more personalized for players needs. Sports bettors can download the sportsbetting app, instead of the entire casino. Poker players can benefit from just the poker app, instead of having to sort through the casino, bingo, roulette games, etc. Localization Another benefit of apps is that they can be tailored for countries, which allows for international online gambling operators to look after players by ensuring legality and catering to language requirements. And in spite of the rise of HTML5 browser-based casinos, apps will continue to be popular. Most Recommended Casino Apps Two of the most successful casinos for app provision are outlined below. These casinos stand out for their variety, high-quality graphics and games, commitment to excellence, and overall innovation in staying on top of the technology trends. Winner Casino – Winner was one of the first online casinos to develop an app, showing an understanding of the future trends of the online gambling industry. Winner Casino can be accessed within the mobile browsers of Android, Apple iOS, Symbian, and Windows. Players do not have to download any application software because the casino functions in their browser. Another option for accessing Winner Casino is for Apple users to download the dedicated casino app via the App Store. Additional Winner apps cover slots, football, horse racing, sports, and bingo. bet365 Casino – A solid industry favorite, bet365 has a terrific selection of personalized apps for both Android and iOS. Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world, which is why bet365 has developed a new casino app for Android smartphones and tablets. Players who download the app will have access to a wide range of mobile slots plus baccarat, blackjack, and roulette. Apple iOS is the next priority for mobile compatibility. bet365 users who visit the App Store will find apps waiting for casino, sports, live dealer, poker, and bingo. Lottery Apps on the Rise While many channels of the online gambling industry have been developed, there are still others to expand. Based on what we have seen, online lottery tickets are due to grow in 2015. This is because players can now access the most lucrative international draws from their mobile. Online-Lottery-Tickets.com has a standout app. Download the app free for details on upcoming draws, tickets, and how to play.
In heavily regulated Italy, a firm ceiling on web taxation has been placed. Cap on GGR The new law to take effect in coming weeks will conclude the prevailing turnover levy take and cap taxation of Gross Gaming Revenues GGR at 20%. The new regulations will provide substantial relief for bingo and sportsbook operators now set to be taxed at a uniform rate on gross revenues, with the provision slated to be lowered even further if the market does not meet specific performance levels. Bingo, Betting and Poker Join the Fold Casino, cash poker and exchange betting are already subject to the uniform cap, and the new rules will bring bingo, sports betting and poker tournament games under the same umbrella. The regulations will come into effect immediately, devoid of any schedule of gradualised implementation. Giulio Corragio, who oversees Italian gambling practices at DLA Piper, explained to eGaming Review that the single tax across all online games will end what he referred to as the overtaxing of those games until now. Corragio further clarified the Italian position, whereby uniform parameters will facilitate competitive market rates compared to non-Italian licensing platforms, in the interests of attracting new operators and suppliers to the Italian market. Italian Reform This is a big step in the rigid Italian system for opening European markets up to healthy competition that is open and also most effectively supports government taxation systems, the whole rationale behind all countries in the EU liberalizing their online gambling restrictions once and for all. This is part of a greater reform of gambling guidelines initiated by last year's delegation law granting government 12 months in which to adopt changes, and the online changes represent just one sector with a plethora of land-based measures also in the works.
The first leg of the round of 16 games in the Champions League continues today with a promising head-on clash between Arsenal and Monaco at London's Emirates Stadium (19:45 UK time). The last time these two teams met was in last August's Emirates Cup at the same venue, in a game that ended 1-0 in favor of the guests. Arsenal Line-up Lacking To reach today's round of 16, Arsenal finished second to Borussia Dortmund in Group D with 13 points with a 4 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger meets his former club Monaco today, and he might be in a bit of a pickle. Five players are injured including Abou Diaby, Mathieu Debuchy, Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey whose absence will weigh on the Gunners' offense. More will be on the shoulders and legs of Mesut Ozil who'll have to lead the midfield against Monaco's strong defense. In goalscorers, look for Alexis Sanchez and Oliver Giroud which were prolific so far this season in terms of hitting the back of the net. Berbatov to Lead Monaco Monaco finished first in Group C to qualify for today, with 11 points composed of 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss. The team has a good history with English teams at knockout rounds, having shown the door to teams like Chelsea and Manchester United in the Champions League history. The French team will rely on 34-year old striker Dimitar Berbatov who is a learned veteran of Premier League teams, having played for Tottenham, Manchester United and Fulham. Berbatov is in good shape, making him a good candidate for goalscorer bets tonight. Live Betting Bookie Winner Sports is offering pre-match and live betting markets on the match. In full time result Arsenal was 1/2 to win, Monaco at 13/2 and a draw at 3/1. Log-in Winner today before or during the match for a full range of over 100 betting markets.
Mexico typically attracts 23 million tourists a year, many of whom travel to the country to spend time at its various hotel resorts. In other parts of the world, some of the most popular hotel resorts also have their own casinos. Attempting to follow suit, Mexico is increasing the appeal of its most visited hotel resorts by expanding the volume of land-based casino licenses. Statistics from the Interior Ministry have revealed that there are 297 Mexican gambling venues. However, the appeal for those venues is currently limited for tourists because they are said to be reluctant to travel into the highly populated cities where they are located. Mexico’s largest cities are not without risk for international tourists. The increase in gambling licenses could rise close to 800, as suggested by some media sources. Popular tourist resorts such as Acapulco and Cancun could soon have casinos to add an extra dimension of appeal for travellers. Change Coming for Online Gambling? The decision to dramatically increase the volume of land-based gambling licenses is a clear indicator that Mexico is willing to reconsider its dated gambling regulations, which are close to 70 years old. In modifying the existing legislation, the government will also increase the legal gambling age to 21, when previously it was 18. At present, there is no wording in the Federal Betting and Raffles Law that permits resort casinos, but that is expected to change, with on-going discussions occurring between politicians. Online gambling is another area not currently covered in the legislation, so patience will be required for operators hoping to enter the Mexican market. As for what to expect from legalisation, it is said that the key decision-makers in the Mexican government favour a landscape where just a few operators would be present, which is in stark contrast to the increasing land-based casino market.
Ladbrokes – one of the biggest high street sports betting outlets in the United Kingdom – have closed down another 50 of their shops in the country, following poor figures. Ladbrokes is due to announce its fourth quarter report and the stats for the 2014 financial year on Thursday, after which they are set to close a further 50 shops. More Shop Closures Ladbrokes had already announced earlier in the year that a total of around 90 outlets were set to face the chop. Throw another fifty shops on top of that list, and you might be wondering if Ladbrokes are going to have any high street outlets left open? Ladbrokes will still have over 2,150 shops in operation, though, for the moment at least. Reasons Many believe the new closures are to do with the new Machine Games Duty, which begins on March 1. The new tax rate will be bumped to 25% (from an already existing 20%), for all fixed odds betting terminals in the country. William Hill has also been feeling the pinch of this new move, as well as others by the government. They closed down over 100 outlets last spring. Not Wanted The move comes at a time when many local councils are trying to obtain new powers which will allow them to block the opening of new betting shops in the area. The bookmakers are also struggling when it comes to the Online Consumption Tax, which was introduced on December 1, as a further 15% duty on gambling. With so much working against the betting shops and bookmakers, the outcome is likely to be the same as that which forced so many bingo halls to close in the last decade.
On the global stage, La Fleur’s World Lottery Almanac found that the online lottery industry was worth $275 billion in 2012, and that was after an increase of 7%. Now, the potential is greater than ever, with leading lottery competitions now open to entrants from countries from all over the world. To serve the ever-expanding global lottery industry, Lottonetix is always developing industry leading lottery software with a view to fostering player appeal and inspiring long-term loyalty. The latest innovative feature is the provision of live lottery games hosted by real-life dealers. Players can select their numbers and buy tickets remotely for draws taking place every couple of minutes. Playing Live Lottery Online Lottonetix hosts live lottery games in the form of 7 Out of 42 and 5 Out of 36, but does not stop there in its provision of live digital content. Players also have the choice of playing live games such as Wheel of Fortune, Bet On Poker, and Baccarat. Providing a diverse range of options allows for players to enjoy a fresh experience time and time again. When participating in the live games, it is really simple. Lottonetix has created a live screen that changes depending on the current game. After a new game appears, you will be provided with clear odds for all of the different outcomes. Live is a major trend in the global online gambling industry, with players now able to indulge in live sports betting and live dealer games. Adding a new platform will increase the attractiveness of operators, while players will benefit from greater choice. Lottonetix is always developing new features and has already supplied white label software to many operators, including LottoBird, Play Euro Lotto, Lotto booking, and Lotto Dealer, among many others. The clear appeal of working with Lottonetix is access to proven software that represents the height of innovation in the online lottery market.
Even though Spain recently expanded its online gambling opportunities, granting a number of new licenses to operators in the country, local authorities are now seeking to restrict advertisements from these operators. The proposal filed by Spanish lawmakers would see serious limits placed on gambling-related advertisements, including sports sponsors. Why the Crack Down? Why are Spanish authorities now cracking down on the advertisements of operators who just months ago were allowed to open up shop in Spain? It seems that a number of Spanish senate members are concerned about responsible gambling, especially when it comes to teens. The senate would like to reduce the negative impact that online gambling has on these vulnerable members of Spanish society, and to do so they are tackling the problem at the only source available: advertisements. As of now, advertisements of gambling products and services are not regulated by the Spanish government, but it is expected that at some point in 2015, that will change. Which Ads Will be Restricted? The main ads that lawmakers are seeking to restrict are those on broadcasting channels and mobile devices. They would also like ads that are directed at underaged citizens to be completely banned. Of course, it is too early to say for sure what will pass into law and what will not. Paula Gonzalez de Castejón, a gaming lawyer of DLA Piper, stated that the chances that some amendments will not make it into the regulations are fairly high. However, even if not all of the amendments pass, the new bill will certainly affect large online operators such as bwin.party and 888poker in a negative way. Spotlight on Responsible Gambling The entire debate emphasizes the importance of encouraging responsible gambling, as this is a serious issue that affects not only Spain, but societies across the globe. In this vein, a number of sponsorship deals between Spanish sports teams and gambling websites have been cancelled.
The Hotspurs travel to Florence to do battle with Fiorentina in the second leg of the round of 32. It was a late goal by Josa Maria Basanta, which tied the game 1-1 for Fiorentina and experts are saying that Tottenham do not have much of a chance in Italy. Only time will tell but one thing is for sure, the odds for Tottenham are looking great. Team Roundup: Odds Against Tottenham It will be a tough few days for Tottenham Hotspur and head coach Mauricio Pochettino. They need to make the decision what is more important. Going with their first-team starters to try to beat Fiorentina tonight, or saving their strength for the Capital One Cup in three days where they face Chelsea. Given that the winners of the Europa League will also get a Champions League berth next season, the answer should be obvious. The last time that the Spurs won a game was on February 7 against Arsenal, which was an excellent win but since then they have lost one and drawn twice. Fiorentina is just as good and even better, staying unbeaten in their last ten games. The Italians may be without their first-team goalkeeper, the Romanian Ciprian Tatarusanu, which would mean they might need to recall the trouble making Neto who was dropped earlier in the season. They will be without Giuseppe Rossi, Federico Bernardeschi and most-likely Borja Valero too. Bet365 Sportsbook: Betting Lines and Odds The markets are competitive for tonight’s match-up with Tottenham coming in as severe underdogs at 4.00. Fiorentina is at 2.00 and a draw is at 3.60. A bet ono the Spurs looks like the one to make. If you are looking for an exciting bet try Correct Score or Half Time/Full Time Result. Bet365 sports will have live audio throughout the game so punters can keep track of their bets.
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