bwin.party is already a giant among its peers, we intend to make it greater still.

The transition to regulated markets has considerable momentum. Several countries in Europe including Denmark, Germany, Greece, Holland and Spain are each progressing towards a regulated framework for online gaming. We also expect the United States to follow suit. Given our significant scale, expertise and brand strength, this transition is a major opportunity. With the right framework we expect regulated markets to grow substantially, driven by the ability to advertise freely, often for the first time.

Acting responsibly is a pillar of our strategy, because it will help to sustain our business model. As a leader in digital entertainment, we will continue to raise standards for consumer protection and responsible eCommerce practice.

I’m proud to have been appointed the first Non-Executive Chairman of bwin.party digital entertainment, principally because the merger of bwin and PartyGaming has brought together two great companies that have strength and depth in management and great marketleading brands in all four product verticals. Both companies also sought to lead by example when it came to corporate governance and will continue to do so now they have become bwin.party.

We believe all adults should be free to play real money games online and enjoy the thrill of playing their favourite games irrespective of how or where they want to play – in land-based premises, on the internet or by phone.