IG Sport Launches First UK Licensed Online Casino

Tuesday October 21, 2008

London-based spread betting firm IG Sport has launched the first online casino licensed by the UK Gambling Commission powered by software from Canadian firm Chartwell Technology Incorporated.

The virtual casino commenced operations and is being marketed through ExtraBet.com, a fixed-odds betting site owned by IG Sport, following the thorough certification of Chartwell's gaming system by UK regulatory authorities.

"We're delighted to add Chartwell's casino to our online sports betting portfolio and proud that we can boast the first UK Gambling Commission licensed online casino," said Stuart Lane, Managing Director for IG Sport.

"While both our fixed-odds and sports spread-betting products remain strong, we also recognise the appetite for other modes of online gaming and, thus, the benefits of increasing the offerings on our online sports betting platforms.

"With the addition of the online casino we are now a step nearer to our long-term goal in bringing to both ExtraBet.com and IG Sport customer's everything they require on one betting site."

"This event marks a significant milestone for Chartwell, the IG Group and online gaming regulation as a whole", said Darold Parken, President and Chief Executive Officer for Calgary-based Chartwell.

"Delivering the software solution to power the UK's first licensed online gaming site elevates our company and technology to the next level and I am proud of every member of our team for achieving this industry first.

"I would also like to complement the efforts of the IG Group, its pursuit of growth built on technology while conducting business within an extensive regulatory framework clearly defines this organisation."