The parent company of PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker is seeking to offer online casino products via its Italian-facing operations. While the Rational Group already operates PokerStars.it, eGaming Review reported that the company has filed an application with Italian regulator AAMS to offer casino games via FullTilt.it, which currently consists of nothing more than a ‘coming soon’ page. The move follows last month’s news that Rational’s Spanish subsidiary had applied to offer online blackjack and roulette. Amaya Gaming Group, which acquired Rational’s operations in a blockbuster $4.9b deal last month, has made diversification into other verticals a focus of its long-term plans for its new assets.
In other Italian news, a former host venue for a stop on PokerStars’ European Poker Tour, has added an onsite live dealer studio courtesy of live dealer casino specialists Evolution Gaming. Casino Campione d’Italia‘s live studio launched on June 27 with three tables: roulette, blackjack and baccarat. Space has been allocated for a fourth table, which will likely host another card-based game. Casino Campione CEO Carlo Pagan said the live studio would serve as “a key strategic tool and marketing channel with which to attract new demographics to our core business.”
Finally, Italian gaming operator SISAL has filed to list its shares on the Italian stock exchange. On Tuesday, SISAL announced it will offer up to 77.5m shares, representing 59% of the company’s capital – 68% if the greenshoe option is fully exercised – at a price range of €6.30 to €7.70. The price places a total valuation on the company of between €645m and €790m. SISAL reported a loss of €99m last year on revenue of €772m. SISAL currently boasts a 10% share of Italy’s online sports betting market, 9% of online bingo and 4% of poker.
