888 received its interactive service provider licence from the Nevada Gaming Commission yesterday.
The company’s CEO Brian Mattingley called it an “historic moment for 888”, highlighting that it was the first time a dedicated online company had been licensed anywhere in the US.
The Gibraltar-based operator is the recipient of the 20th interactive gaming licence issued by the Silver State, the majority of which have been issued to operators.
Las Vegas bricks ‘n’ mortar casino Treasure Island, due to become the first poker skin on the 888-powered All American Poker Network, also received Nevada’s 21st licence yesterday.
Caesars’ WSOP brand will also launch in Nevada on 888 software, ahead of its planned migration to a modified version of the Barrière platform it uses in France. Machine supplier WMS also has a deal with 888 to use the software in Nevada and across the US.
888 also plans to launch under its own brand in the US as part of the JV it recently entered with hedge and private equity fund Avenue Capital Group, which has interests in several US land-based casino and entertainment companies, including a 22% controlling stake in New Jersey casino operator Trump Entertainment Resorts.
The first Nevada-licensed sites are expected to launch imminently, following approval of the software by independent testing labs GLI and BMM, as well as the Control Board.
The Silver State expedited through laws late last month to allow online poker operators to offer games in other US states which enter into compact agreements with Nevada, aimed at assisting operators to overcome the limited player pool and build viable businesses.
Article written by Stephen Carter
