Financial and spread betting firm London Capital Group have received three “preliminary approaches” that would see them relinquish control of the entire business. The firm reports that Cantor Fitzgerald Europe, GAIN Capital Holdings and City Index Limited have expressed their desire to acquire the whole business – although LCG did reiterate “there is no certainty that any of these approaches will lead to an offer being made”. The speculation is a good thing as far as their share price is concerned and it led to a rise of 14 percent in trading yesterday. As we’ve seen with other takeovers in the gambling industry in recent months the three interested parties have a deadline under the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers to make an offer, which in this case is 5 p.m. on Mar. 12.
Sky Bingo has released a new bingo app in conjunction with software developer Playtech. The iOS app gives users 11 rooms of bingo as well as two slots games with players able to use the same account across both mobile and online. Shimon Akad, Playtech’s vice president of operations, added: “The roll out of this platform on the back of Android last year and the imminent launch of HTML5; plus on-going mobile/tablet development will drive us and our licensees forward to even greater heights. Not only do we offer the world’s largest bingo network, but we also ensure it is accessible to players anywhere, anytime.”
International Game Technology has partnered with iSoftBet to provide games for the growing Italian gambling market. The agreement will see iSoftBet able to offer iGT’s casino game to its customers in the market and strengthens its stable of games significantly. Nir Elbaz, iSoftBet business development director, added: “iSoftBet can now offer an even greater gaming experience and access to one of the world’s best libraries of online slots. We look forward to this leading to further opportunities and being the start of a long and successful partnership.”
Paddy Power have confirmed the launch of a new Las Vegas style mobile casino app. ‘Vegas’ will be available in the Apple App Store to all customers in the UK and Ireland. It features 15 assorted casino games and has been developed in association with Viaden Gaming. Paddy’s senior marketing manager – mobile special projects, Ian McLeod confirmed to eGR: “The launch is all about giving customers the choice they want. Roller Casino is quite a serious and sophisticated product whereas Vegas is all about having fun, without the hangover.”
Betgenius has appointed former bwin.party head of live trading Markku Kolehmainen as their new trading director. The incoming man has also worked at Ladbrokes and Bet Option, and will oversee the company’s trading team as it tries to extend its in-play sports offering. CEO Mark Locke commented: “Markku joins Betgenius with great pedigree coming to us from one of the leading and most innovative operators in the industry. We are excited about the depth and experience he will bring to our trading team and are confident he will be best placed to manage the calibre of clients Betgenius continues to attract.”
