Nambling Notes - April 15, 2008

Entertasia, the Macau-based gaming software group, has reached an agreement with CryptoLogic, the gambling software provider, through which the former will provide its Live Dealer software platform to licensees of the latter. Entertasia will initially deliver the platform to Playboy Gaming, a CryptoLogic licensee.

Harrah's Entertainment, the worlds largest casino operator, announced today that it will change its name to Caesars Entertainment Corp.; the move comes nearly three years after buying the rival casino operator for $9 billion. The change requires regulatory approval in the states where the company operates casinos. Gary Loveman, Harrah's chairman and C.E.O., said in a prepared statement that the name change is designed to capitalize on the international name recognition of Caesars. Harrah's as a brand name will not disappear, however; it will become one of the company's three primary casino brands, along with Caesars and Horseshoe.

Registration is open for the 22nd National Conference on Problem Gambling, scheduled for June 26-28 at the Hyatt in Long Beach, Calif. The annual conference, organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling, will host experts in the field from across the United States, covering topics relating to problem gambling prevention, treatment, research and recovery; advanced clinical training and supervision; responsible gambling; and regulatory and legal issues.

"That's like telling me I can go into a liquor store and buy vodka, but no gin. I'm just disgusted by it."

In an interview today with Las Vegas Review-Journal, Jay Lakin, vice president of Poker Source Online, criticized the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act's exemptions on horseracing, state lotteries and fantasy sports.

On the London Stock Exchange today, CryptoLogic closed up 8.50p to 800.50 and Playtech up 3p to 433.00.