Lack of regulation in the US - Poker players concerned

Poker Web Watch / Matthew Pitt / 20 July 2009 / Leave a Comment

A survey of online poker players, following action in the United States to seize funds of gamblers, has revealed that more than half are not even aware their money may be at risk, but more than three quarters of those who are have looked for what they consider to be safer sites. 88% of Americans and 59% of UK players who knew about the issue also had serious concerns over their funds

The research, undertaken by Betfair, the world's largest online betting community, sought to establish what the impact was of the regulatory stance of the US government, which prohibits all forms of online gambling. Betfair's policy has always been not to accept bets from poker players in the United States, although many sites continue to do so.

In total 31% of those polled in Britain were aware of fund seizures, against 42% of US online poker players. Of these 59% of British players were concerned about the safety of their funds. Results also showed a confusion over which sites accepted American bets.

The poll also revealed the impact of the global recession on the industry with nearly half saying that they play less than the year before (48% UK and 52% US)

Richard Bloch, Head of International PR, said: "It is very difficult for operators which do not take bets out of the US to compete with those that do, because of the increased liquidity which comes from accepting the American bets."

"This research demonstrates that there are other factors which consumers are taking into account when it comes to choosing their preferred place to play poker online. It's no use having funds in your account if a government is going to seize them - and consumers are obviously aware of that."

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