InfinityGaming www.gaming-awards.com | Issue OCTOBER 2015
IGA9 JUDGES REVEALED
FRONT COVER - ROGER RAATGEVER WIG NETWORKING EVENT MEL CAMILLERI & KENNY HSI INTERVIEWS
GAMING + ARTICLES + BUSINESS+ GLOBAL+ ONLINE + NEWS+
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18 THROWAWAY APPS Paul Swaddle
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ROGER RAATGEVER CEO Microgaming
MEL CAMILLERI Customer Service Director – William Hill
Opinion Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in all external articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Infinity Gaming Magazine Any content provided by our feature writers or authors are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.
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4 Editor Notes Lana welcomes you to the September edition of Infinity Gaming Magazine.
6 Our Writers Meet our feature writers, the superb writers on our rosta.
12 ROGER RAATGEVER CEO of Microgaming
18 THROWAWAY APPS
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Paul Swaddle article
22 FUTURE ONLINE GAMBLING What can we expect?
THREE WEDDINGS & A FUNERAL Christina Thakor-Rankin
28 Mel CAMELLERI William Hill
FUTURE ONLINE GAMBLING What can we expect?
40 THREE WEDDINGS Christina Thakor-Rankin Article
52 WOODS TALK With Kenny Hsi
+ ALL THE LATEST NEWS & Opinions
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A note from the editor CONTACT US Clever Duck Media Centrix@Keys Keys Park Road Staffordshire WS12 2HA UK Tel: +44(0)1543 478 889 PRODUCTION Clever Duck Media Centrix@Keys Keys Park Road Staffordshire WS12 2HA UK
It’s Autumn and time for Expo season with Infinity Gaming Magazine
PUBLISHING Infinity Gaming Magazine is operated by © Clever Duck Media Ltd ®
Lana Thompson - Editor
Welcome to the October edition of the Infinity Gaming Magazine and we hope you had a super summer Welcome to the October issue of Infin-
We got some interesting interviews for
ity Gaming Magazine.
you this month + great article by Christina Thakor –Rankin about merger and
Hope you all had a wonderful summer!
acquisitions. As always we thank you our contributing writers for fascinating
As the Industry approaching busiest
opinions.
months in the year and we have to remind you that Nominations for the In-
Enjoy the issue
ternational Gaming Awards will close 18 October. Please send your nomina-
So, “To Infinity and Beyond!”
tions on time. To remind you it is Free to nominate all we ask is to make a do-
Regards,
nation to one of our charities. Please donate generously. Preparation for the
Lana
biggest industry charity event is on the way and we are looking forward welcoming you all to historical and glamorous Savoy Hotel London on 1 February 2016.
INFINITY GAMING
The Editor
Company Reg. No. 687 1018 (Registered in England) V.A.T reg. no 972 6372 91
Sponsorship Opportunities Colin@cleverduckmedia.com Business Partnerships Svetlana@gaming-awards.com Marketing & Advertising claire@cleverduckmedia.com Editorial Content & PR media@cleverduckmedia.com
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OCTOBER 2015
Infinity Gaming Magazine
A magazine is only as good as the content inside and with some of the leading specialists within th prducts, technology and current affairs with the sector the Infinity Gaming Magazine is delighted t
Paul Swaddle A self-confessed ‘gadget geek, Paul Swaddle has been working at the leading edge of mobile technology for the past 15 years. He co-founded Pocket App in 2011 to bring the creative and technical development elements of mobile technology together under one roof. This unique approach continues to differentiate Pocket App in today’s increasingly competitive landscape.
Working across a range of communications disciplines such as acquisition, loyalty, retention and customer development, Paul understands the importance of a strategic and coordinated marketing approach, particularly between on and off-line communications. In the past decade he has enabled brands as diverse as Kellogg’s Fruit Winders, Barclays and Loaded magazine to get the best out of mobile.
JJ Woods Director of Operations founded and set up Atlantic Casino Consultants which consults Worldwide, He is also an expert on the Irish Gaming Market and the impending Casino Legislation. He was born in Ireland but left in the Seventies to live in London and for a career in Banking that lasted nearly four years after which he joined the Casino Industry in London where he trained and has over the last 30 years been involved in the setting up, design, management, and opening of Casinos Worldwide.
JJ is also an Author on Gaming and has written for several magazines, spoken at gaming conferences was selected as a Judge for the World Gaming Industry awards and has appeared on TV and Radio discussing Gaming issues. He can be contacted through the website... www. atlanticcasinoconsultants.com
With over ten years experience in the industry, David Newstead has seen online casino trends come and go. Primarily involving himself in the affiliate industry, he has quickly gained an appreciation for the demands of this fast paced marketplace. Today, he refines his efforts into expressing his opinions for numerous industry journals. Read more
about his adventures down at www. slotschoice.com.”
JJ Woods
David Newstead
general manager and CEO
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OCTOBER 2015
Contributing Writers
he gaming industry. With specialised articles covering customer service, the gaming law, new to showcase our superb line-up of contributing writers.
Christina Thakor-Rankin Christina is Principal Consultant at 1710 Gaming Ltd, a specialist betting and gaming consultancy, delivering a range of services including licensing and compliance (incl. regulation, money laundering and social responsibility), business start-up, training and strategic re-engineering, project management, research, business analysis and development, to start-ups and established multi-national
operators and providers, gambling regulators, law enforcement and government agencies, media, and specialist interest groups and associations within the sector, in both established and emerging markets across the world. www.1710gaming.com
Liz Karter – Psychotherapist specializing in women and problem gambling iz Karter is a specialist in gambling and women and has worked as a therapist in gambling addiction since 2001. Liz is also author of the book “Women and Problem Gambling” published in March 2013. In January 2010 having worked with all leading UK problem gambling treatment agencies, and having successfully established the first UK groups for women with gambling addiction, Liz launched Level Ground Therapy. A treatment service in the City of London, Level Ground
specialises in meeting the individual needs of women with gambling addiction. Throughout her career Liz has been regularly consulted by the media regarding her specialisation and has made frequent national TV and radio broadcasts including This Morning, Radio 4 You and Yours and Women’s Hour and given numerous national newspaper and magazine interviews.
Would you like to feature here? Infinity Gaming Magazine is always looking for new feature writers, if you have something to say and feel the global gaming industry would be interested then drop us a line and we can explain the benefits of working with a global reaching industry publication.
Fore more details on becoming a feature writer contact Paul Jordan our Editor at madia@cleverduckmedia.com
general manager and CEO
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THE IGA9 JUDGES 01
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Alison Digges – Brand Director Gala Coral Interactive
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Prof. Dietmar Hoscher – Deputy Chariman of the Supervisory Board of Casinos Austria International Holding
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Andrew Love- Executive Chairman of The Ritz Club (Non Voting Chairman of IGA)
Andrew Cammegh- Sales Director Cammegh Limited
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Desmond Lam Ph.D – Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Macau
Emma Loveday – Head of Marketing for Gaming and Betting at The Sun
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Heikki Rinta-Panttila – International Gaming Consultant
Liz Karter – Psychotherapist specializing in women and problem gambling
Onika Russell – Head of Gambling , Airlines & Travel Strategic Services, PayPal
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Janet Viipola – Executive Coordinator Interactive Gaming Council
Marek Milewski- Operations Manager Casinos Poland
Professor I. Nelson RoseSpeaker & Gaming Law expert
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THE IGA9 JUDGES 13
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Richard Noble – Chief Operating Officer of the Aspers Group
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Roger Raatgever – CEO Microgaming
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Paul Armitage – Operations Director Grosvenor Casinos
Peter Hoetzinger – CoCEO & President, Vice Chairman Century Casinos
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Roger Marris – CEO at The Ritz Club
Stella Dalton – Head of Business Development at GamCare
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Stephanie Cheung – Chief Legal Officer at Melco Crown Entertainment
Tristan Sjoberg –Executive Chairman at TCS John Huxley
TBA - New judge to be announced shortly
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Sylvia Dietz –Vice President Global Gaming Marketing IGT
Vahe Baloulian –CEO BetConstruct
TBA - New judge to be announced shortly
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Interview with Roger Raatgever
CEO at Microgaming
Roger, many thanks for taking time to speak to us today. You have been in charge of Microgaming since 2001, making you the longestserving CEO in the online gaming world. What’s your secret?
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RR: There’s no secret. You just have to enjoy what you do and work incredibly hard at it. I love the challenge and fast-paced, ever-changing nature of my work. That’s one of the few aspects of being CEO that hasn’t changed in
14years.Ourpeople,ourcompetitiveness, our innovations; I am so proud of what we achieve collectively, and that makes what I do all the more rewarding.
OCTOBER 2015
The longest serving boss in iGaming speaks to Infinity Gaming Magazine
In 2001 the online gaming world was a very different place with only a small pool of suppliers and operators. Are you amazed at the sheer growth of the industry over the last 14 years? RR: I wouldn’t say I’m amazed by that, no. Microgaming recognised the potential of online gaming back in 1994, so by 2001 we were pretty confident about where the industry was heading even if predicting specific change was next to impossible. Growth was inevitable. We knew that smaller gaming companies and independent developers, many of whom we now work with through Quickfire, would emerge in force. The landscape for operators has evolved in tandem, and it’s absolutely fantastic that players are able to choose from such a vast selection of games, providers and platforms. But even though we had anticipated and prepared for huge industry growth, comparing where we are now with where we were 14 years ago is still an eye opener for me. We started out with just a handful of operators. Today we have hundreds. Our team could be counted on one hand when we set up shop on the Isle of Man. Now we have access to a global talent pool of more than 2,500 industry experts. We’vegonefromofferingamodestselectionofgamestoliterallythousands if we count all variants. Whatever way you look at it, that level of growth is amazing. Did the online gaming industry give you an easier life then, or do
you prefer the very competitive world it is now? RR: It’s never been easy. Back then, we were still very much blazing a trail. Everything was new: the industry, technology, markets. We’d been in the business for seven years by 2001, but online gaming was still in its infancy. Player numbers were skyrocketing. It was generally easier for suppliers and operators to carve out a niche for themselves or try something different. While leading the way with game and platform development, we worked tirelessly in those early years to champion player protection and responsible gaming, helping to establish the bedrock of self-governance that has given our industry the chance to flourish amid increasing regulation. The market today is certainly more complex and competitive than it was. And we like it that way. We thrive on pressure and love being challenged. We’re at our best when we’re being
pushed. So as proud as I am that we were involved in shaping our industry early on, I don’t look back. I prefer to focus on where we are now and crucially where we are heading. It’s the challenge of today and promise of tomorrow that excites me. For our international readers who may not know Microgaming so well, can you please tell us what the company does today and whereabouts in the world it operates? RR: Microgaming is an award-winning supplier of software to the online gaming industry. We developed the world’s first true online casino back in 1994 and have since grown our product range to include Bingo, Poker, Live Dealer, Sportsbook and Quickfire. Our back office is the most intelligent and powerful in the business. Our progressive jackpot network has paid out nearly half a billion euros. We pioneer on every platform: online, mobile, land-based and wearables. We
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Supplying our products to more than 400 gaming brands worldwide, our reach extends to every inhabited continent. Microgaming is based on the Isle of Man and has been for a long time. Many of the world’s largest online gaming firms are based there too. What makes it such a good place for business? RR: The Isle of Man has been our home since 2001. It’s a great place to live and bring up a family. We’re able to attract and retain such talented individuals in no small part because of the scenery, security and stability people enjoy here. I’d like to point out that we don’t merely have a legal presence on the island like some of our competitors; we are very much integrated with the community. Construction of our new headquarters is well under way, we’ve supported local business in numerous ways, and we give plenty back through Microgaming PlayItForward. We’re here for the long term. Local gaming companies benefit
INFINITY GAMING
from a first-class IT infrastructure, responsive government and rich heritage – let’s not forget that the Isle of Man was one of the first jurisdictions in the world to legislate for online gaming. Considering the commercial and logistic benefits of being here, it’s really no surprise that e-gaming recently surpassed insurance to become the largest single economic sector on the island. In your opinion, what makes Microgaming a step or two ahead of its competitors? RR: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: our people keep Microgaming at the top. We employ exceptionally talented individuals who all work together to create the strongest product and service available. We are innovators. Being first to market has become the norm for us, and we’re always looking ahead. We are opportunistic too. Unfettered by budgets and forecasts, we have the capacity to move quickly when an opportunity arrives and the firepower to take full advantage of it.
We are hurtling into the exhibition season. What does Microgaming have up its sleeve? Anything you can tell us? RR: Our branded ice cream van at the iGaming Super Show in June went down a treat with affiliates. We always aim to do something fun like that. Right now we’re gearing up for EIG, where we’ll be sponsoring the bar once again. ICE is very much on our minds too – we love making a splash there, having rocked up to the venue with an animatronic dinosaur, Game of Thrones green screen and luxury yacht in recent years. Marketing would eat me alive if I spilled the beans on what we have planned for next year, so all I will say is watch this space! Microgaming has decided to sponsor the 9th International Gaming Awards as a Gold Sponsor. What made the company decide to sponsor the global awards ceremony for the industry, this year?
OCTOBER 2015
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Interview with Roger Raatgever CEO Microgaming
It’s all about celebrating success. We’ve sponsored many awards ceremonies over the years and will continue to do so for as long as they recognise outstanding achievement in our industry. Supporting the International Gaming Awards at The Savoy in London on the eve of the biggest gaming show of the year was a no-brainer to be honest. We’re really looking forward to the evening.
ers have been with us for over 20 years, so when we say we’re always building for the future you will understand what that means to us in this respect. Our commercial relationships are based on a solid foundation of trust, giving us the freedom to plan and act with openness towards common objectives. That level of unity and understanding is more valuable than any industry award.
then, and it just goes to show how we’ve always had an eye on innovation. There’s no hiding from the fact that mobile is continuing to grow at an incredible rate. We give our customers all the tools they need to succeed on this platform, offering the industry’s largest selection of games in multiple languages across thousands of mobile and tablet devices. But we’re equally focused on what’s coming next.
As we all know, an award does not make or break a company but enhances and showcases its success. The biggest award we know is the loyalty of customers – how does Microgaming achieve this?
The rise of mobile gaming has been phenomenal; indeed, every person on the planet has downloaded 10 apps on average. How important a market is this for Microgaming now and in the future?
RR: That’s an easy one: by working with our customers, not against them. Loyalty is our reward for listening and responding to their needs. For us it’s all about collaboration, sharing success and growing together. Some of our custom-
RR: It’s incredibly important. We recognised the value of mobile long before it became mainstream in our industry; in fact, we developed the world’s first mobile casino slot back in 2004. The Internet was a very different place back
Having introduced autoplay, built-in disconnection insurance, player device messaging and the revolutionary swipe-and-taptouchscreeninterface, we set our sights on wearables. We demoed The Dark Knight Rises™ online slot on the Samsung Galaxy Gear at ICE Totally Gaming and Mobile World Congress early last year. We then took Thunderstruck to market on Android Wear and ported a proof-of-concept real-time sports betting app to Google Glass. We’re basically playing with the latest technology, coming up
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Interview with Roger Raatgever CEO Microgaming On that note, and this is a question we have asked many CEOs over the past few years, what apps do you have on your phone Roger and which is your favourite? I should mention our superb virtual and augmented reality apps, available on Google Play. Last year we released the industry’s first real-money casino app in the Windows Phone Store, and we’re doing a great job developing for wearable devices. Which apps do I use? I won’t name names, but I have many of the leading travel, sports and health apps installed on my phone. Travel because I’m always on the move and sports to keep in touch with the latest scores and developments. I like to stay as fit as possible, and I’m planning to complete an Ironman event next year, so health apps are especially important to me right now. But I have to say, nothing beats my Fitbit at the moment – absolutely love it! Before we let you go Roger, how do you see the company progressing over the next few years? Could the ever popular merger be on the cards? RR: That’s certainly the hot topic at present. We’re watching developments with great interest, and of course anything is possible,
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but we believe so strongly in organic growth that M&A is a distraction we can do without. We’ve nurtured an entrepreneurial culture at Microgaming, so if we need to extend our reach or change our focus, we have the people and resources to do it ourselves. We don’t seek out short-term gains. We don’t dance to the City’s tune. And why risk upsetting the applecart when we are confident we have chosen the right path? As has always been our way, we are laying sensible foundations for long-term growth by increasing our talent pool, extending and improving our product range, venturing into new markets, innovat-
ing with new technologies and looking after our customers, new and old. But of course we think on our feet no matter how far we plan ahead, and we’re agile enough to make a move if the right opportunity presents itself.
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The rise of the ‘throwaway’ app By Paul Swaddle - CEO Pocket App
W
ithover two million mobile apps available on iOS and android, and with these numbers rising all the time, the stark reality is that only apps with quality content and an exceptional customer experience will have any chance of being installed. Whilst the proliferation of smartphones has certainly fueled rapid demand for more and more mobile apps, today too many consumers view apps as ‘throwaway’ accessories when it comes to the software on their handsets. In fact
according to recent research by helpshift blog, you only have a moment to make a good impression with your mobile apps, as 80% are deleted after just one use.
noted that they regularly delete apps within three months of downloading them. All of these statistics leave software on mobile devices looking pretty disposable.
I’m not surprised by this statistic, in fact I was reading a piece of research last week in IT Pro Portal conducted by web hosting company 34SP.com, which surveyed 1000 UK mobile users and found that two in five said they deleted apps from their smartphone “often”. One in five even
A major factor behind these statistics is the storage constraints of mobiles, especially on cheaper devices with small amounts of on-board memory. However, as an app developer, what I do find surprising is that I see so many businesses investing a lot of time, resources and money into creating innovative apps for their customers, in the hope of hooking them for the long-term, and then the app fails almost immediately. So why is this? In my experience, it all comes down to the quality of the app, ease of use, the consumer experience and its usefulness. According to Helpshift, the number one reason users delete apps is if they display an error or crash when downloading. Other reasons apps are deleted is that they either don’t launch or are slow to launch, or quite simply because they don’t function as expected. Also as I said earlier, it’s not
THROWAWAY APPS?
uncommon for users to hit storage capacity on their phones and apps are often the first thing to go before music, videos, or photos. So if you are about to embark on the development of a new app, how do you ensure it is future-proof? Here are my top tips:
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OCTOBER 2015
Paul Swaddle is CEO of Pocket App a leading design company in the App Construction world
Here are my top tips: 1. Make sure you’ve done complete testing Clearly technical issues are the number one reason why apps get deleted. Users are unforgiving when it comes to apps that have bugs, crashes or a slow response time. Therefore ensure that by the time you submit your app to the app store, you’ve done complete testing at your end as well as through a set of signed up Beta users who can give feedback across use cases. 2. Is your app valuable to the consumer?
How you communicate the value that your app offers the user makes a huge difference to whether consumers continue to use the app or delete it. When consumers are looking for a solution to a specific problem, ensure you have the right keywords for app discovery. Once you’ve got their attention, clearly state the app’s value proposition up front in the description or the sub-text in the app name. The more clearly you can state how a person can use your app to solve their problem, the longer your app is likely to stay in the user’s phone. 3. Is it easy to use?
Poor UX will confuse the consumer, therefore user experience and interface design is key to the value of the app. If a user finds the navigation confusing and cannot get to the gratification quickly, they’re likely to simply delete your app. UI and UX are not just about how the app looks, but also about how easy it is for the users to quickly get their problems resolved through your app. A good UX is a factor of how well you understand the user’s problem that you intend to solve and also evidence of understanding who your customers are. Equally if with the first version of your app you’re trying to perform too many
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It all comes down to the quality of the app, ease of
The rise of the ‘throwaway’ app
use, the consumer experience and its usefulness. According to Helpshift, the number one reason users delete apps is if they display an error or crash when downloading. Other reasons apps are deleted is that they either don’t launch or are slow. functions within the same app, you won’t build a strong value proposition for your customers. The best apps are those that do one thing really well. Of course, over a period of time and with regular customer feedback the scope of features may increase, but keep it simple at launch.ever closer together so too do the dual concerns around those players in both camps who are unable to manage their play. If skill is to successfully unite the worlds of gambling and gaming - it must also work in parallel to unite the concepts of responsible gambling and gaming.
perienced it themselves. For a user, the app’s proposition will only work once it’s demonstrated. In this case, helping them get to that point of experience is key. Asking for too much information upfront before you even communicate value can be detrimental to your app’s future engagement with the user. If you must collect a whole lot of information from the user, stagger it at various points in the app where it becomes necessary for a good user experience. 5. Have you incentivised consumers to carry on using your app? And finally, offering regular perks to those that download your app is a good way of keeping a consumer that isn’t necessarily loyal to a brand engaged, and this will prevent them from deleting your app. With so many apps hitting the market on a daily basis it is vital that you get your app value proposition and user experience right from the off. This way, you won’t produce a ‘throwaway’ app and you can make sure your app is not part of the 80% stat that I quoted in the first paragraph!
4. Don’t ask for too much information upfront
6. Wide Compatibility
Oftentimes, it’s challenging to communicate the complete value of a mobile app until the user has ex-
The number of different devices capable of downloading apps is constantly growing, and so a successful
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app is one that is compatible with as many of the most widely used devices as possible. It will do you no good to develop an app that functions only on an Android device, as this halves your potential audience. The wider known your app is, the more successful it will be, and the best way to raise its profile is to make the app available to the widest audience possible. This does make development slightly trickier. The Android market is very fragmented, posing a particular challenge, and orchestrating regular OS updates to be compatible with multiple devices will require additional effort, but when the pay-off is a larger following for your app, the extra work is easily worthwhile. 7. Re-engagement With Your Audience The best way to see your app deleted is to assume that the job is done once the user has downloaded it. Brands like Facebook and Snapchat will regularly send users messages that their app has been upgraded, usually prompting the user to investigate, even if it isn’t an app that they regularly use. By sending regular messages to the user and therefore keeping the app fresh in their mind, you raise its importance above those that are forgotten within a few weeks and stand a better chance of saving it from deletion.
OCTOBER 2015
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OCTOBER 2015
bwin.party deal gets more expensive for GVC
A recent article in a national newspaper
Philip Yea, chairman of bwin.party, said
has cast some doubt over the deal to
at the time of the deal that the board
purchase bwin.party by GVC Holdings
had taken into account “many factors”
However an insider involved in the deal
following the fall in share prices of GVC
of the bid, listing the headline value per
has indicated that the GVC share deal
in the wake of the deal being accepted
share as one of the standout features.
for bwin.party was a fixed rate at the
by board members at bwin.party.
Yea said.
130p per share offer, making the deal “In recommending the offer from GVC,
now more expensive than before for
Previously when the deal was struck
the board has taken into account many
GVC as they will have to make up the
and bwin.party dropped 888 for GVC
factors including, but not limited to,
difference for bwin.party or indeed face
the share price stood at 130p now GVC
the headline value per share and the
the prospect of losing the prize after a
stands at 116p, that equates the same
consideration being offered, the level,
long and arduous battle with 888 over
value as 888 Holdings offered as the
timing and deliverability of the finan-
control of the struggling online gaming
GVC deal centered on the value of their
cial synergies to be generated and the
operator.
shares at 130p.
enlarged group’s growth strategy in an increasingly competitive marketplace,”
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OCTOBER 2015
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Skill based games approved in Nevada
The Nevada Gaming Commission unani-
categories:
chance-based
have been pushing hard for the intro-
mously approved to adopt rules pro-
games, skill games, where a player’s
duction of these new skill based games
moting “innovative, alternative and
abilities largely govern the outcome,
which is hoped will help boost manu-
advanced technology” in casino games.
and hybrid games, where a combination
facturers in the coming decade.
The approval from regulators in Nevada
of skill and chance affect the result.
traditional
will pave the way for skill based gaming machines.
“With these games, a player’s dexterity By allowing the new set of rules ma-
in driving a racecar, their strategic abil-
chine manufacturers hope to attract a
ity in military game or their knowledge
On the new approval on the rules that
new band of players, the younger age
of movie trivia will be the subject of
will control the new innovation which
bracket that have not been engaged in
gaming play,” said attorney Dan Reaser,
was proposed by machine manufactur-
traditional slot machines that use a ran-
who represented the manufacturers’
ers and the Gaming Control Board.
domiser and has no skill based advan-
group. “It may be several people on a
tage to them.
machine or several machines that are
With the introduction of the regulations which will create three distinct game
linked together. It will be a more dyThe Association of Gaming Equipment
namic and social event.”
Macau smoking ban possible 30% decline in revenues Macau casino operators are trying to
$17 packets of cigarettes.
pull the plug on the proposed new bill
So far, they have lost $113 billion in market value after Beijing launched an
banning all smoking from the casino re-
While a blanket ban would be a vic-
anti-corruption crackdown last year. “A
sorts, currently smoking is banned from
tory for public health, businesses in the
full smoking ban will have a disastrous
the mass gaming areas for a year now
special administrative region relying on
impact on Macao and VIP operators,”
but a new bill being proposed would
Chinese mainland high-stakes gamblers
said Kwok Chi-chung, president of Ma-
then ban anyone from smoking within
say it will be another blow to casino
cao’s Association of Gaming & Enter-
the casino areas totally.
operators.
tainment Promoters. “It’s like adding hail to snow.”erators.
The fear is with Macau casinos suffering constant revenue falls over the last year the introduction of a total ban on smoking could add another 30% in loss of total revenues to an industry that has seen $113 billion wiped of its value since the anti-corruption campaign was brought in over a year ago now by Chinese mainland President. Operators are arguing that this puts them at a huge disadvantage to other regions such as Singapore where gamblers can smoke freely while gambling and even have waitresses bring them
INFINITY GAMING
Clever Duck Media Presents
9th INTERNATIONAL GAMING AWARDS Nominations Open till 18th October Charity Event of the Year AWARDS CEREMONY 1ST FEBRUARY 2016 THE SAVOY HOTEL - LONDON
WWW.GAMING-AWARDS.COM
GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
When NOT IF for online poker in California
A
maya Gaming still believe that California who closed their legislative session without making any decision on introducing online poker in the state will one day legalise for online poker, in fact their CEO David Baazov said it is a matter of when not if online poker happens in California. The company that owns both PokerStars and Full Tile Poker tow of the world’s largest online poker sites strongly believes their strong lobbying in the state will pay off eventually. With the California legislature closing on the 11th of September for the year many observers called it the death nell for online poker in what most believe would be the biggest market in the US for online poker. However Eric Hollreiser Amaya’s vice-president of corporate communications said, “We see a lot of momentum and it’s really a question of when not if, and obviously we’re hoping that it’s sooner rather than later,” David Baazov the boss of Amaya thinks that the main worries for states like California can be addressed by Amaya saying, “Regulation ensures licence holders have the correct auditing, fraud and fund protection in place to protect consumers and allow strict government over
sight,” “To achieve those objectives it’s important to support and lobby for clarity and regulation that will allow consumers and governments to feel secure in knowing that they’re protected by a legitimate, forward-looking industry.” PokerStars is also awaiting final clearance in New Jersey to allow it to once again enter the US market there, which is expected to happen as early as October.
NY lawmakers to consider online gambling The Senate Standing Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering will today look at possibility of legalising online gambling in the state.
within the state.
Legislation on legalising online gambling is to be reviewed today as the panel look at what obstacles would be presented if it was to go to the state assembly, where many observers say there would be large opposition.
Committee chairman Senator. Jon Bonacic, is a supporter of internet gambling but getting it through the state Assembly faces big obstacles.
Inside the legislation that involves online poker only it is understood covers taxation and also barring under 21’s from taking part in online gambling
Observers say that is it only a matter of time for New York to pass legislation for online gambling, whether this effort will be successful is unlikely but is a step in the right direction many believe.
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26
OCTOBER 2015
What Can We Expect In the Future for online gambling
In the face of rising taxation and stricter
strangers on the other side of the
as the overall global figure came in at an
guidelines, the gaming industry is look-
world has never been more simple and
estimated $417 billion.
ing at ways to attract new customers
straightforward, it seems as though
and secure more business online.
smartphones and tablets will be at the
Of all the world’s major betting regions,
forefront of what lies ahead for online
the UK market was described in a 2014
At the same time, backers and betters
gaming and, if anything, that experience
report by Deloitte as “one of the most
want instantaneous access to their fa-
will only be enhanced.
developed Western markets for remote
vourite games and the ability to have a
betting and gaming due to its size and
flutter with the greatest of ease.
Current state of affairs
maturity.”
This means technology will play a cru-
Despite the fact online channels con-
With a growth rate of 12 per cent, it
cial role in the future of online gaming.
tributed $33.8 billion to the real money
was predicted that the UK market could
Even though visiting a virtual casino
and gaming industry in 2012, this was
reach total consumer expenditure of
to play poker online against complete
only eight per cent of total net revenue
nearly £4.4 billion by 2018. At the heart
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OCTOBER 2015
There are several reasons why smartphones and tablets are becoming a more popular betting option than regular highstreet outlets. Above all else these mobile devices are incredibly convenient and practical, enabling anyone to place bets or play
lar high-street outlets. Above all else
betting shops, but in many respects,
games wherever they
these mobile devices are incredibly
fellow retailers on the high-street have
convenient and practical, enabling any-
already recognised and adapted to to-
may be.
one to place bets or play games wher-
day’s increasingly online world and
ever they may be.
shunned the overheads-heavy business model of the past.
For example, punters no longer need to visit their local betting shop in order to
The future of online gaming
lay money on a specific football score line and wait for it to come through.
The Global Online Gambling & Betting
of this would be sports betting, which
Instead, they can go to the pub, share
Market 2014 predicted that mobile
achieved a gross gambling yield of just
predictions with friends, listen to the
gambling will grow at double-digit rates
over £1.1 billion in 2013 according to
pre-match build-up, and make a more
and reach over 40 per cent of the total
Mintel.
informed decision via their mobile de-
online gambling market by 2018.
vice. Although most of this activity still took place in betting shops, predictions sug-
But the benefits of gaming on smart-
gested that smartphones and tablets
phones and tablets aren’t just limited to
So, even though desktop-based soft-
would soon take over. In fact, some ana-
sports betting. Operators that develop
ware will continue to have a place in the
lysts went so far as to say mobile bet-
immersive gambling apps or exciting
market, the accessibility and availabil-
ting had reached a tipping point where
card playing games can tempt custom-
ity of mobile applications is what gam-
it started to surpass retail betting.
ers to place bets whenever they have a
blers really want in today’s day and age,
bit of time to spare. The payment infra-
keeping pace with the modern world of
structure of mobile operating systems
instant access and on demand thrills.
The rise of smartphones and tablets
mean that purchases can be made inThere are several reasons why smart-
stantaneously too.
COURTESY from The Economic Voice Ltd
phones and tablets are becoming a more popular betting option than regu-
This could spell the end for traditional
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27
28
OCTOBER 2015
Interview with Mel Camilleri
Customer Service Director – William Hill
The Infinity Gaming Magazine speaks to one of UK Bookmaker William Hill’s leading stars who is making a charge in raising customer services levels even higher for the UK’s leading gambling firm.
Mel thank you for speaking to the Infinity Gaming Magazine, for our international readers can you explain your role at William Hill please?
My time has been spent understanding the gaming sector, working with my peers, understanding my team and understanding what customers need from us. Strategies and tactics that worked
Previously Mel you worked outside the online gambling sector, how have you found the change of sector and the people within the business?
in the past are less effective and require more effort to execute. In an era where
I have loved the change of sector, it’s
I have a very full yet very fulfilling set
service has become a defining factor for
been challenging and a steep learn-
of responsibilities in my role as the Cus-
customers, we need to find the unique
ing curve however an interesting ver-
tomer Service Director for William Hill
balance between delivery of a service,
tical and leading edge. William Hill is
Online.
My role involves setting the
the cost of the delivery and customer
an excellent company to work for not
Customer Service strategy and leading
expectations. A lot of time has been
only the association with a prestigious
and managing a team of people to de-
spent ensuring I have the right team to
brand/organisation but also because
liver exceptional service to our custom-
execute our strategy long term. I be-
William Hill look after their people.
ers.
lieve I have this team in place.
You have been with William Hill now for a couple of years, how has your time currently been at the company?
How challenging is your role with William Hill compared to your previous job?
Most of your career has been involved in the customer care arena, how important do you think that area of work is important to any customer facing industry?
I have an exciting and challenging role with William Hill.
My previous roles
With so many options these days Cus-
have been challenging for different
tomer Service is more important than
vergence between the lottery, gaming,
reasons however I do crave those chal-
ever. I feel my years in the customer
and interactive facets of our business. I
lenges as I want to learn a lot of new
care arena having worked from the
love being able to meet with a customer
things to continually grow and continu-
ground up has provided me with a good
and offer such a broad suite of solutions
ally grow my teams. So the roles I have
appreciation and insight with regards
for their business – products that offer
had have provided these things for me.
to customer changing needs and being
a great return on investment and help
able to adapt to this quickly otherwise
drive revenue and operating efficien-
you are left behind.
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OCTOBER 2015
Mel Camilleri Customer support Director at William Hill celebrating at the recent Women oin Gaming Awards.
What are the biggest mistakes companies make in their customer service outlook?
No matter what channel we serve our
$82 billion by 2017, it is growing faster
customers it needs to be consistent and
and becoming more competitive than
offer an enjoyable and memorable ex-
ever before.
perience. In simple terms if you do not create a memorable and enjoyable experience that customers love and trust, then you have not offered a distinctive experience.
With the online gambling sector which actually does not interact with customers face to face, what are the challenges to ensure customer care is the highest?
If you are not transforming your busi-
Now you have been in the online business for a couple of years now, is the industry any better or worse than other industries for customer care?
ness to keep up with the changing needs then I would say you are worse off. I believe regardless of what industry you are in you have to increasingly
I wouldn’t say it is any better or worse.
look for a point of competitive differen-
It is well documented that the games
tiation, for many, it is customer service
industry is experiencing unprecedented
that will enable them to compete suc-
growth. Indeed, with Forbes magazine
cessfully in this fast maturing market.
predicting that the sector will grow to
Moreover, the industry is realizing that
INFINITY GAMING
29
OCTOBER 2015
customer service can be more than just a cost factor; it can be a significant revenue generator.
Of course from a bottom line perspective customer service makes the company no money and costs them, how would you explain to a company how important customer service/satisfaction is and how it does reflect to the companies profits?
in Gaming Awards, was it a surprise to win and was it interesting to meet so many women from different companies in the gambling world? It was a huge surprise and an absolute honour to have won such a prestigious
that comes from loving the job you do.
Before we let you go Mel, how do you see the future for Customer Care/Service will it be a part of the business that will improve or will it be something that will be sacrificed?
award, an award that sits proudly in my office and one which I hope inspires my
For sure it will be a part of the business
team members. I was amazed by the
that will improve, it’s a key differentia-
many talented women in the gaming in-
tor.
dustry and hope this continues to grow. I would take it a step further and also
enue generator.
add the importance of employee satisfaction too. Why? Profit and growth are stimulated primarily by customer loyalty. Loyalty comes as a direct result of customer satisfaction. In turn satisfaction is largely influenced by the value of
Creating a customer-centric organisation is a top priority in order to thrive
What did you make of the Women in Gaming Awards and do you support helping women attain their potential in what is one of many male focused industries?
services provided to customers. Value
and differentiate in a fast moving environment. We’ve seen plenty of data that shows that being focused on taking care of customers will put your company ahead of the pack as well as showing how a great customer experience goes
is then created by satisfied, loyal, and
I was honoured to have attended and
a long way toward building a business
productive employees. Employee sat-
thoroughly support and encourage
that lasts, however embedding this sort
isfaction, in turn, results primarily from
women to continue their strong belief
of thinking throughout your company
high-quality support services and poli-
that they are making a difference, their
requires quite a bit of finesse. The belief
cies that enable employees to deliver
ability to turn adversity into learning
in superior service has to be genuine
results to customers.
opportunities. To persist in building re-
and must be a motivating factor for all
lationships with sponsors and others.
our employees and not just the custom-
Willingness to step outside the comfort
er facing ones.
This year you attended and indeed won the “Inspiration of the Year” Award at the 6th Annual Women
INFINITY GAMING
zones and challenge the status quo. Very importantly is the positive energy
Women in Gaming
NETWORKING
Event
Professional Networking Event
1st February 2016 Savoy Hotel - London Networking Lunch
A platform where women can grow, inspire, empower, educate, and encourage one another, by sharing stories of courage and success. Join out networking event: INSPIRE Others CONNECT build strong business connections with successful like-minded women. SUCCEED become an icon, brand yourself as a leader in your industry. The Women in Gaming Networking Event provides a platform where real women can share their stories of success and inspire the next generation of professional women while making new connections and build strong connections within business.
+(44) 01543 478 818
|
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twitter.com/gamingawards
|
media@cleverduckmedia.com
GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
Mr Green Sponsors Auction item in Support of charity
C
lever Duck Media is proud to announce that Mr Green – the multi-award award winning online casino operator as a Sponsor for the charity focused – 9th International Gaming Awards Ceremony. Colin Thompson, organizer of IGA, commented: “We are very happy that such a well known and reputable, multi award winning operator as Mr Green is helping us to raise money for our charities. We will be announcing details of the amazing auction items very soon. Mr Green helped IGA to raise much needed funds for Care International charities via sponsorship and participating in auctions. Over the years we offered some remarkable items to our participants from Tiffanys & Cartier and are looking to surprise you all again on 1 February 2016, thanks to Mr Green’s support.” The 9th International Gaming Awards annual chic event is taking place in London’s historic venue, the Savoy Hotel in London, on the 1 February 2016. It will unite industry professionals from across the world and allow them to network with talented insiders from across the industry. The 9th IGA, once again, promises an exquisite line up of sponsors, judges, guests and industry achievers. Following in the footsteps of its previous successful awards, it will be hosting the biggest and best charity event within the gaming industry.
showcase your product to the receptive audience of industry connoisseurs. International Gaming Awards as always welcomes the most successful operators from around the globe, outstanding leaders and philanthropists.
IGA9 Nominations open The 9th Annual International Gaming Awards (IGA) have announced that the categories and nominations for the 1st February 2016 event are now open and as always free to enter. Celebrating the very best the global gaming industry has to offer over the last twelve months hosts and organisers Clever Duck Media have added some new categories to the list. To find out more about the IGA and how to enter go to http://www.gaming-awards.com
The 9TH IGA as always will provide first opportunity to
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33
34
OCTOBER 2015
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INFINITY GAMING
OCTOBER 2015
Playing to Win; Gambling in the AB Social Grade By Liz Karter
To find out more about Liz Karter and her work visit these links: www.levelgroundtherapy.uk - www.lizkarter.com & Liz Karters Books
D
o you ever nudge up against your doctor at the roulette table on a night out your local casino? The recent Trends in Gambling Behaviour report from the UK Gambling Commission says that that is now more likely than ever with a rise from 50% to just under 54% of gamblers belonging to the AB social grade category .In other words, the most financially well off in society. Before you start planning to look for your lawyer in the local betting office, it is interesting to note that the Gambling Commission report highlights the rise in AB classes now gambling on Smartphones. In 2008 it was just over 11.8% (1 in 10) and in 2014 it rose to 18.7% (1 in 5) of ABs reporting to be remote gamblers. When I read the findings of the Gambling Commission report I was not surprised, as within my own central London and Sussex practice, where I have historically seen men and women from all walks of life, I too have noticed a significant increase in the wealthy professional classes seeking help for gambling addiction. What is it then that is making gambling more appealing to the professional and affluent? To answer that question, let us divide gambling into land based and remote, as the two platforms might provide similar
games, but very different experiences. Whether a woman man, if you are a member of the AB classes, for example a high flyer in the world of business, you are used to living a life jam packed full of adrenalin and the addictive buzz which that creates may not be easy to leave behind at the office. Heading to casino is a way to keep the action pumping after hours. You are likely to be highly competitive and so the anticipation of win replicates the chasing of a business deal. If your high status and being seen as a winner at work is a part of the deal that keeps you in business then the high from a win at the casino table, and having an audience when you win, feels thrilling and reinforces your successful image and self esteem. Women are occupying more AB positions, providing them with an independent, disposable income and gambling advertising making them feel as welcome as the male counterparts to participate in gambling and gaming. The casino no longer belongs exclusively to the aspiring James Bond.
Not everyone within the AB socialgrade craves an audience. People who spend all day dealing on an intense level with other people, such as doctors and lawyers may be desperate for time out and a zone of their own. Gambling on a Smartphone provides a welcome focus for the frazzled mind with a monetary win sometimes feeling secondary to the gain of escapism which online gambling or gaming provides. The ability to gamble or game online has leapt the social divide, especially for women who now are trying out gambling products that they would not traditionally have accessed. Women from the AB classes who never normally would have entered a bingo hall or adult entertainment centre are now playing bingo and slots online. Many women report to me that having gambling handily available in their home, office and handbag gives them that similar sense of something for themselves, as the woman quoted above spoke of in the casino; a world between business at the office and the equally demanding business of running home, husband and kids’ play dates. Chasing the win and even chasing loss-
“It is something for me, a nice environment where I am safe as a woman on my own. It is my world.� (AB business woman gaming commenting on her casino gaming)
es when gambling is all part of the fun, but it is very much easier to keep it fun if you do not feel that your self esteem is riding on every roll of the dice.
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35
OCTOBER 2015
Clever Duck Media Presents
9th INTERNATIONAL GAMING AWARDS Nominations Open till 18th October Charity Event of the Year AWARDS CEREMONY 1ST FEBRUARY 2016 THE SAVOY HOTEL - LONDON
WWW.GAMING-AWARDS.COM
INFINITY GAMING
GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
37
Caesars Entertainment hit with $9.5 million AML fine PayPal back in US online gambling business
C
aesars Entertainment which is currently in bankruptcy has been fined a total of $9.5 million by Nevada & US regulators for failing to enforce proper anti-money laundering controls at their VIP rooms in Caesars Palace Las Vegas which caters mainly to Chinese high rollers. The stricken gambling giant agreed to pay out $8 million in civil penalty fines after admitting it had allowed many large gamblers to play at their VIP tables without knowing who they were and where the money had come from. In addition to the $8 million Caesars agreed also to pay $1.5 million civil penalty for violating state laws regarding money laundering practices.
organization is committed to full compliance with the requirements applicable to casinos and to taking effective risk-based measures to prevent and detect money laundering,� adding that Caesars Palace has already made substantial improvements to its anti-moneylaundering program. The US authorities are aware that while the Chinese government are cracking down on corruption and large gamblers are staying clear of Macau to gamble they would try the US casinos to play in. With Caesars having no presence in Macau their Hong Kong office was cited as a main source for bringing Chinese large gamblers to the US.
A
fter some 13 years from stepping out of the US online gambling payments sector it looks like industry giant PayPal is moving back into online gaming.
When eBay purchased PayPal in 2002 it immediately pulled its presence from the online gambling payments sector in the US but now thirteen years on it has now been introduced again on the Caesars Interactive websites in Nevada. Now that PayPal has been given its freedom from eBay as a separate entity, PayPal wants to prove itself and has recently hired some well-known online gambling industry payments professionals to ensure the success in the online gambling business US side. Before it pulled out of the US online gambling business PayPal was generating more than 6% of its total revenues from online gambling and it sees the US market as a huge potential for growth again says industry watchers.
A Caesars spokesperson said: “The entire Caesars
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GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
39
New poker malware sees your cards
A
ccording to findings from ESET
download.
mean it is not there.
Once downloaded it will search for the
PokerStars response to report:
security research a new malware program is infecting online
poker players game time on PokerStars &
PC users poker software and send a
Full Tilt Poker and taking images of their
screenshot of the players ID online so
“PokerStars and Full Tilt are aware that
hands and then sending them back to the
allowing the author to search for them
some players’ computers have been
user so they have a huge advantage when
online and sit against them on the same
targeted by malicious software. An initial
playing against them.
poker tables.
review of gameplay for those accounts where we believe this malware was pres-
The virus called Win32/Spy.Odlanor, or
ESET say that at present they only know
ent found no evidence that these players
just Odlanor focuses solely on poker
of PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker that is
have lost funds due to unfair play. In line
players online and allows the author of
being infected by this new virus that was
with our constant goal for utmost secu-
the virus to take screenshots of the un-
first spotted in March 2015.
rity, we recommend that players protect
suspecting opposing players hands.
themselves against this sort of attack by Currently the virus is most active in
practicing good computer security. Play-
Many players download the virus without
Eastern European countries such as Rus-
ers should keep their operating system
knowing as it can hide itself in pro-
sia, Ukraine, Kazahstan, Belarus, Poland,
updated, use reliable anti-virus software,
grams such as Tournament Shark, Poker
Hungary, and the Czech Republic. There
and only install software from reputable
Calculator Pro, Smart Buddy, and Poker
are no known cases in the UK and west-
sources.” Said A PokerStars Spokesper-
Office, which many online poker players
ern countries but ESET says this does not
son.
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OCTOBER 2015
Espoused, Engaged, Eloped Gaming’s new take on merger and acquisition (or three weddings and a funeral) By Christina Thakor-Rankin
T
he regulatory changes of the
Over the last year alone we have seen
moving is the same: people, and their
last few years have had the
some of the biggest names in the sector
interaction with other people. In par-
dual impact of increasing the
linked with mergers. Is this really how-
ticular, marriage, and why people do it.
cost of doing business whilst simulta-
ever the sector entering a new phase of
neously reducing the places in which
mass consolidation, or just coincidental,
Starting with the first power couple of
business can be conducted. According
and if the bandwagon is to continue to
this century Bwin.Party, and the ad-
to many analysts, this can only mean
roll on, how might the success of these
age marry in haste, repent at leisure.
one thing - a greater drive towards
new super-companies be predicted. The
A shotgun wedding in anticipation of
consolidation – those who ‘do not
answer to this may lie, not in the board-
the birth of regulation in the US, failed
have’ partnering up with those who ‘do
room and on the balance sheet, but in
have’ in a bid to cover more products
the wider concept of being human.
and markets quickly and cost effectively. The new mantra will be ‘stronger
The betting and gaming sector, possibly
together’.
more so than other sectors, has always been something of a microcosm of soci-
The sector is no stranger to consolida-
ety. Whether its companies, customers
tion. From the Playtech ‘hoover’ and
or associated interests, look closely and
Amaya’s takeover of Poker Stars, to the
the goldfish bowl of gaming is noth-
big-bucks flirtations with social, and
ing more than a reflection of all that it
even the sector’s first real ‘power-cou-
good, bad (and ugly) in life – whether
ple’, Bwin.Party - mergers and acquisi-
it’s the less attractive sins: lust, glut-
tions have been the lifeblood of the
tony, avarice, sloth, wrath, envy, (and
industry for as long as anyone can re-
my personal favourite), ‘vainglory’ - or
member. Equally, it has become routine
the more worthier human traits cham-
for any significant movement, or indeed
pioning for good under the banner of
stagnation, in the regulatory world, cou-
social responsibility in all its forms.
pled with a dip in results and rumours or actual deals to bring out the ‘consolida-
This mirror-imaging of life is hardly sur-
tion-ists’ in force. What may be different
prising however, when one considers
this time is that they could be right.
that the oil which keeps the machinery of both society and the gaming sector
INFINITY GAMING
This mirror-imaging of life is hardly surprising however, when one considers that the oil which keeps the machinery of both society and the gaming sector moving is the same: people, and their interaction with other people.
OCTOBER 2015
to produce the progeny of success
of an old flame, when Ladbrokes and
Maybe it will, and it is tempting to think
when the American regulatory band-
Coral announced that they were en-
that between them they have a chance
wagon lost a wheel. Like many caught
gaged in merger talks. These two have
to build something new, but all the early
in the moment whirlwind romances, the
been here before, when back in 1998,
murmurings suggest that they will be
cost of getting together and staying to-
their plans were de-railed by the Mo-
joining on paper only, the plan being
gether turned out to be too high. One
nopolies and Mergers Commission duly
to maintain the two brands as separate
can only imagine the behind closed
answering the call of ‘is there anyone
entities, for the immediate future at any
doors domestics, but suffice to say
here who knows just cause for why
case. This suggests that whilst they see
Bwin’s approach to its second marriage,
these two should not wed’.
that there could be a mutual benefit in
appears to be based less on impulse
the principal of working together, they
and the promise of riches, and more on
The intervening years have seen both
may not as yet be entirely sure as to
the prospect of assured long-term fu-
go through some of the most challeng-
how this would work in the real world –
ture security, stability and compatibility.
ing and trying periods in their respec-
not least because anything which works
tive histories, having to sit back and
to the benefit of one could come pro-
And what of Bwin’s rejected suitor 888.
watch arch rival William Hill’s star and
portionately weaken the other. For ex-
Having started the year being courted
fortunes rising as theirs faded. There
ample, Ladbrokes may have the larger
by, and subsequently rejecting William
must have been more than one wistful
shop estate, but Coral is undeniably
Hill’s proposal, 888 failed to also meet
moment of what might have been had it
winning the battle of multi-channel.
Bwin’s request for as higher offer. This is
not been for that pesky MMC.
Taking technology and replicating it
now the third time (having dallied with
elsewhere is fine, but in doing this that
Ladbrokes a few years ago) that 888
Perhaps William Hill courting 888 was
which makes them different and gives
could have walked down the aisle, but
the reason for a re-engagement, but
each its own brand identity will be lost
on each occasion has bailed, leading
the question must be is it really a case
– how will keeping the two brands alive
to the question of whether their heart
of things working out the second time
actually work in practice if the only dif-
is really in marriage, especially as they
around, or are they about to make the
ference is the name on the door?
must be only too acutely aware of the
age old mistake of believing that if they
fact that the number of fish left in the
had got together in the first place they
Is this the modern couple that wants the
sea of prospective partners is rapidly
wouldn’t be where they are now and
comfort of having a significant other but
dwindling?
hooking up now, better late than never,
without any of the hassle and commit-
is going to fix everything?.
ment that co-habiting brings – separate
The big news in July was the re-kindling
houses, separate lifestyles, and most
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41
42
OCTOBER 2015
definitely separate bank accounts - or is
prise will be Playtech?) – a long engage-
and this is not surprising at all. Behind
this just the couple that wants the com-
ment would be a very clever way of
the façade of PR stunts and tongue in
fort of a significant other because that’s
taking both companies out of the con-
cheek tom-foolery are two very, very
what everyone else has?
solidation hoo-hah and buy both CEOs
savvy, very solid, incredibly successful
a bit more breathing space whilst they
businesses, and who even without a
get on with the job in hand.
shared CEO, have very similar personali-
The other benefit to being engaged of course is safety. Wearing an engage-
ties, characteristics, drive, ambition and
ment ring is often the best way of repel-
Whilst the gaming world was ruminating
a huge amount of mutual respect and
ling all but the most determined of un-
on the Ladbrokes – Coral engagement,
admiration for each other.
welcome suitors. Both companies have
out came the news that Paddy Power
relatively new CEOs tasked with reviv-
and Betfair had eloped. Not some fan-
This is a very grown up business deal. It
ing the fortunes of their charges, and
cy, glitzy, oversized pant-waving media
is in fact, closer to a political alliance -
both seem to have had some early wins
frenzy, but just a quiet announcement –
two individual entities, hugely success-
in their respective businesses. In a pe-
almost an understatement in fact – and
ful in their own right, but who see the
riod of increasing noise about consoli-
the new name: Paddy Power Betfair.
benefit in working together to achieve
dation being the only route to survival,
mutual and individual ambitions. There
one might be tempted to reassure nervy
This was on the face of it, surprising for
will be no public falling outs, no ru-
shareholders with a play that shows that
two reasons. Firstly, neither party is shy
mours of bad behaviour and no histri-
both CEOs are in tune with the market.
when it comes to courting publicity, one
onics. They are playing the long game
having managed to gridlock London
and they will do whatever is required to
Given that both have stated that this
with a giant plastic octopus last year,
make the relationship work.
will be a long process, and it is common
and the other having its own personal-
knowledge that William Hill is unlikely
ised seat on the ASA naughty step. Sec-
As power-couplings go - this is not
to sit back and let a signature rob them
ondly, given the creative genii available
‘Brangelina’ or ‘Kim-ye’ - this is Bill and
of their current position of UK’s largest
to each business and the social media
Hilary, or George and Amal. Having said
bookmaker and will be looking to the
banter around ‘Betty Power’ one might
all that - it would not come as a huge
MMC to reprise their 1998 act (this time
have expected a bit more imagination in
surprise if their first joint-venture was
round also perhaps casting their eye
the naming stakes.
to take on a fairly flat bingo market un-
on the providers, for surely the biggest winner in any Co-brokes/Lad-al enter-
INFINITY GAMING
der the guise of Betty Power. Look at the actual businesses however,
44
OCTOBER 2015
INFINITY GAMING
GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
Did Trump want Florida casino? Most likely yes
M
any media outlets in the US have focussed on the recent Republican election debate
squabble with Jeb Bush and Donald Trump, with Bush accusing Trump of trying to buy his favour on allowing casino gambling in Florida back in 1998. Trump denies every asking Bush for casinos to be allowed in the state, but Bush says that Trump wanted to link up with the Seminole Tribe of Florida to build a casino resort there. However Bush says he was against expanding gambling
dates back to Bush’s first campaign
preventing casinos on Native Ameri-
in Florida even thou Trump donated
for governor, when his father, George
can land that Trump was pushing for.
some $50,000 to the Republican party
H.W. Bush, asked Trump to host a fun-
in Florida.
draiser for Jeb. Trump agreed, in what
Political observers say that the
the Tampa Bay Times describes as a
squabble over who is telling the truth
“Don’t make things up, Jeb,” Donald
bid to get gambling, beyond bingo,
is not hurting Trump as many in the
Trump said dismissively “If I’d wanted it,
established in Florida so Trump could
US know of Trump and his business
I promise, I would’ve gotten it,” Trump
manage it.
dealings. However the debate was
stated.
more a positive for Bush showing Bush, however, was strongly opposed
himself a man of moral and one that
According to the Tampa Bay Times, the
to expansion of gaming, and after
cannot be swayed. Will it impact on
friction between Bush and Trump over
he took office as governor in 1999,
the choice for the nomination in the
gambling in the Sunshine State
Florida never eased its restrictions,
Republican party, most likely not.
Australia to tackle offshore online gambling sites
A
reporters.
ustralia is to look into the on-
60% of the total gambled.
line gambling business and see
Social Services Minister Scott Morri-
what can be done to stop al-
son on Monday announced the review
The new review will hope to address
most 60% of all gambling bets made on-
into online wagering operators, to be
the 2% of Australian gamblers who
line going to offshore online operators
conducted by former NSW premier
have a gambling problem and use il-
that are not licensed in the country. At
Barry O’Farrelll.
legal offshore websites. The review is expected to make its findings by the
present only 30 operators are licensed and legal to offer online gambling in
“For the vast majority of Australians
what is a $1.6 billion annual market, but
having a punt is part of a recreational
there are some 2,000 offshore websites
past time for many generations and
offering online gambling that is taking
it’s part of who we are,” he told
end of the year.
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45
GAMING NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
47
Borgata babes weight ruling upheld
T
he Borgata Casino in New Jersey has won the right to fire its cocktail waitresses if their weight exceeds the casinos expectations of what is the standard for their staff. A State appeals court has ruled that Borgata casino’s personal appearance standards are lawful. But it also said a portion of the lawsuit bright by 21 servers should be returned to a lower court to determine if 11 of the woman were subjected to a hostile work place over the standards’ enforcement. Following the ruling the Borgata management said they were pleased their weight policy was upheld saying that all female and male “costumed beverage servers” were aware of the rule when they were hired as “Borgata Babes.” “We have long held that Borgata’s personal appearance policy is fair and reasonable,” said Joe Corbo, the casino’s vice president and legal counsel. “We are pleased that the three appellate court judges agreed with prior rulings that our policy is lawful and non-discriminatory to women.”
Sands China name new COO with political ties Sands China has moved to install a new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for their operations in Macau and have announced the position has been filled by a non-gaming executive with strong political links to Beijing. Wilfred Wong was named the new COO and President for Sands China whose previous role was in the construction sector replacing former boss Rob Goldstein who is moving back to Sands Las Vegas. “Wilfred has a unique combination of private and public sector experience we think will be invaluable to the com-
pany at this point in our history,” said Mr Adelson, chairman of both Sands China and Las Vegas Sands, in a statement. With Sands China among others seeing falling revenues the move is seen as one to strengthen ties with the government in China. Mr Wong was a member of China’s National People’s Congress from 2007-2012 and has served in various posts in both the Hong Kong and central government.
INFINITY GAMING
GAMING APP NEWS
OCTOBER 2015
Social media celeb sentenced to 5 years for illegal gambling dens
G
uo Meimei who is one of China’s biggest names in the online blogger world has been found guilty of running illegal gambling dens and sentenced to five years in prison and fines $7,800.
However her fame was her downfall as many questioned how a charity worker could lead such a high profile lavish lifestyle, causing the police to investigate and find that she operated gambling in apartments in Beijing.
The blogger who shot to fame in 2011 claimed she was affiliated to the China Red Cross, something the charity denies but the images of her standing next to expensive cars, boats and mansions created huge interest in her and had over 2 million followers on her Weibo microblog.
At her trial she pleaded not guilty on the grounds that she lacked “legal knowledge” when the crimes occurred. The judge decided against her plea and now will serve her sentence, however her lawyer has yet to announce if Guo Meimei will appeal her sentence.
Canberra Casino extend with $330 million investment Aquis Entertainment the owners of the Canberra Casino wants to spend more than $330 million in developing the casino into a gambling and entertainment venue. The company that bought Canberra Casino last year wants to build onto the Canberra Casino two hotels, restaurants, bars and high-end retail outlets.
Should the plans be approved the development would have 100 five star hotel rooms along with 12 luxury style villas.
Aquis executive director Justin Fung said the project would create 200 full-time jobs new jobs and 420 ongoing jobs.
“We would market it as a integrated resort and give people an opportunity from Sydney to come down to Canberra. It is that type of project that can be a magnet,” Mr Fung said.
“It’s major redevelopment of the existing casino, as well as the adjoining land between our current casino and the Convention Centre,” said Justin Fung the Executive Director of Aquis.
“We are talking about revitalising the southern part of Civic and creating that vibrancy that is lacking here.”
If given go ahead the whole prject is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2018.
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49
50
OCTOBER 2015
WOODS TALK
As someone who has been involved in the Gaming Industry for over 35 years I can say that I have not seen any real stand out changes that have enhanced the customer experience if we look at Slot Rooms. Whilst the manufacturers have constantly upgraded the slot machines themselves with great designs, bonus features and bigger screens and comfortable seating. The operators themselves have created neon lit rooms with jazzy carpets and plasma screens throughout. It begs the question that whilst we are constantly searching for a theme, name and logo for the entire Casino we seem to assume that the Slot Area will just blend in with the
INFINITY GAMING
BY JJ WOODS
overall design and it is on that note that I believe that a Virtual Slots Environment could just be the what the Slot Industry needs right now!
Casino Operations team: Try to imagine the Casino floor as tour of Ancient Greece where bonuses trigger a visit from Zeus himself—appear-
The Virtual Slots Environment (VSE) is a back end proprietary bridge system that ties slot machines inside the VSE to any casino’s gaming systems. The system itself operates 24/7 with a sophisticated back end management system that self heals but in urgent situations will notify the appropriate people immediately.
ing through the rolling clouds, lightning bolts in hand striking a machine and awarding Free Games. Explore Egypt where the player’s might have a chance to see the treasures that lurk inside King Tut’s Tomb. Watch LIVE feeds like sports. Get up close and personal with the game—So close players’s feel like they’re cheering from the stands. Bring live feeds from the Casino’s Event Center to envelop the player’s surroundings
The versatility of the VSE program allows the player’s to experience unique creative environments designed in collaboration with the
with sounds and sights of the show. The creative possibilities are endless.
OCTOBER 2015
Virtual Slots Environment
management of ACG has been in the casino/gaming market for over 25 years
INTERVIEW WITH KENNY HSI C.E.O. of Advanced Creative Gaming - A technology company based in Las Vegas
and this is something that no one has thought of before. With their knowledge and connections in the industry, they have full confidence that this product will be around for a while. The use of this product is endless. As we are the
The Virtual Slot Environment a Tech-
be knowledgeable and well versed in
first company to set the stage for this
nology designed to directly impact the
the field to present our customers with
type of product, we will be in strong
experience of the player’s. It’s a tech-
the best of breed in the technological
shape to keep our clients and will be
nological innovation that in my opinion
market keeping budget, maintenance,
harder and too costly for the new com-
will change the future of the gaming
timeframe and goals of the customers in
petitors to take them away from us. We
industry.
mind at all times to help our customers
will also evolve with the business needs
stand out as leaders in their territories.
of our clients.
Can you tell us about Advance Creative Gaming and the services it offers to the Gaming Industry?
Our continual research and communication with the customer during the project, creates optimal return on investment.
Advanced Creative Gaming, LLC is a highly skilled design firm with a proven
How competitive is the market?
track record in creating stunning, impact
This particular experience of shall we say “Wall of Vision and Sound’’ has never been done before and it seems the possibilities of different themes etc are endless , Will your company confine it to the Gaming Industry or are you looking at other markets ?
rich environments. ACG utilizes the most
We hold the Patent Pending rights to
recent technological breakthroughs in
the Virtual Slot Environment product.
the video projection mapping field re-
There are no other companies that are
sulting in our virtual slot environment
doing what ACG is doing in the gam-
Currently, our product is directed only
being one of the most innovative ca-
ing industry. Others will try to make it
at enhancing gaming products and es-
sino and gaming products the industry
better but as of right now, they are at
tablishments.
has seen in decades. It is our job to
least 6 months to 1 year behind. Ke-
the VSE system, the potential of the
As we further develop
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51
OCTOBER 2015
52
WOODS TALK with JJ Woods speaking to KENNY HSI C.E.O. of Advanced Creative Gaming
system in other markets are endless.
one’s imagination.
we can create a sense of urgency to play in that area. That would create a better
Is your ambition to be a truly global product ? and where do you see emerging markets?
What Gaming shows, exhibitions do you feel are the most important to demonstrate your product?
bottom line, revenue wise, but I do not
This product has so many aspects to it
The major gaming shows around the
where it can be changed to anything
world such as G2E, ICE, NIGC. These
the user wants it to be. The system can
are the 3 largest gaming exhibitions in
be used for any type of entertainment
the world. With these shows and my
venue to make it more exciting and fun.
contacts, we should be able to get the
Your first launch and installation is taking place very soon place at The Seven Feathers Casino / Oregon U.S.A in Sept 2015 , Can you tell us about that ?
We can project anything onto anything.
system in front of most of the casino
It immediately attracts peoples’ atten-
properties if not all.
tion.
market. The system is only limited to
INFINITY GAMING
the VSE for the whole casino area.)
We are in testing mode and we have been doing soft releases with huge
VSE can be easily transformed
to be used for literally anything in any
want to detour customers from using
My understanding is that the system is not dictated to by the size of
positive feedback from employees to guests. Everyone is amazed and can’t
OCTOBER 2015
believe their eyes. They comment on
past but has generated a lot of interest
interest we think it will end up being a
how it’s so real that they think they can
just during the testing phase people
lot better.
touch it and they absolutely love the
are seeing it and coming back by the
fact we can throw a live game up at a
droves. The nice thing about this pro-
moment’s notice.
motion is it is the lighting and you can pick any theme or event you want to
What size is the Slots area at Seven Feathers and what lighting themes did you use?
have every week or every day if you like. It can be anything your imagination can come up with and the image or theme is displayed.
We were able to use an area towards the back of house approx. 4000 sq. ft. and 150 games. With this system we were
This interview was conducted on the 14th of September 2015 exclusively for
How much effect will the product have on increasing slot revenues?
able to use all different manufacturers
Infinity Gaming Magazine by: JJ Woods / Casino Gaming Consultant.
and all types of games. This area had
We anticipate a minimum of 30% in-
been difficult to attract guests to in the
crease in net win but judging from the
INFINITY GAMING
53