888, Ultimate, Caesars Receive New Jersey Internet Gambling Approval
On Friday, several high-profile companies were granted transactional waiversin New Jersey, paving the way for their internet gambling sites to open as soon as November 26. Among those granted transactional waivers were, according to PokerNews, “Caesars Interactive Entertainment, bwin.party, 888, Ultimate Gaming, Betfair, and Amaya Gaming, all of which will be eligible to participate in the ‘soft launch’ trial period beginning on November 21.”
Not present on the list was PokerStars, whose parent company, the Rational Group, has partnered with Resorts after an attempt to buy the Atlantic Club went south. It was reported late Thursday night that PokerStars had been “thwarted” in the first round of New Jersey gaming licenses, but whether the company ultimately receives a license before the “soft launch” is not clear, as its application has not yet been denied.
According to Poker Player Newspaper, PokerStars not being granted a license on Friday could be due to the rumored involvement of founder Isai Scheinberg: “Regulators are said to have railed against pressure to turn a blind eye on the outstanding criminal case against PokerStars founder Isai Scheinberg, arising from his indictment dating back to 2011. Word has also leaked out through sources close to officials in Atlantic City and in the Statehouse of growing concern as to the role of PokerStars’ founder in the company’s current activities.”
New Jersey gaming officials told PocketFives on Friday that PokerStars’ application is still “under review” and “no decision has been made.” According to PokerNews, the next round of transactional waivers will be issued on November 15. If PokerStars were to receive a license then, it could most likely offer online gambling during the “soft launch” period that starts on November 21.
Rational Group Head of Corporate Communications Eric Hollreiser told PokerNews that it’s still a work in progress: “Our application remains under review by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and we remain committed to working with the Division to complete the review process.”
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