Super Bowl 2005 Sportsbooks

Success With Price Per Head (Small Sportsbook Success)

2005-06-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

Case Study in Small Sportsbook Success via Use of Price Per Head (PPH) Software Written and Owned by V.O. Group, S.A., the most successful offshore sportsbook in Costa Rica.

Price Per Head vs. Small Sportsbook Operation

Featuring Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of being the most innovative operator in offshore gaming. His most recent innovation has allowed small sportsbooks to outsource their complete operation to V.O. Group, S.A. while focusing completely on marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998. While most companies formed that late failed, V.O. Group, S.A. has become one of the top 10 operators offshore (as measured by AnteUp; Gambling Online Magazine; Poker Player Magazine; and Many other Publications).

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Recently we have been told that V.O. Group, S.A. is now allowing small sportsbook operations to outsource the complete writing of their business to your organization. How is this possible?
Wagner: The situation you speak about is 100% true. However, has only happened one time in our history.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Can you be more specific?
Wagner: When an offshore sportsbook starts, in 99% of all cases it will fail in the first 24 months of operations given the current market conditions. Examples are everywhere from The Dunes, Platinum, Super Sports Book, etc. It happens every single year. In the past, large sportsbooks like MVP Sportsbook or V-Wager.com would swoop in and try to save the books via financial help or simply buy them at a low price. Well, V.O. Group, S.A. now offers another more innovative solution.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: OK. You’ve got me, explain!
Wagner: We write business for onshore bookmakers and agents charging them a simple price per head per week. This price takes into consideration our considerable economies of scale and a small profit margin. In the case you are speaking of, instead of buying the sportsbook for a low cost that basically sent the owners home broken hearted and with empty pockets, we cut them a deal where they could focus on marketing and leverage off of our economies of scale. Simply put, we took over writing their business for them, and they now focus their limited resources on marketing 100% of the time.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: That sounds like snake oil. How exactly would that work?
Wagner: We don’t sell snake oil. The facts speak for themselves. When V.O. Group, S.A. opened it’s doors in 1998 the market was different. You could recruit players, write their business, and make a profit in years one, two and three. With the current market conditions, there is NO WAY a start up credit or post-up book can be profitable in year one, two or three without 2,000 head a week in business. That is the theoretical breakeven point. If you are writing less than 2,000 head a week, you can double or triple your net earn by letting V.O. Group, S.A. write your business.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: OK. That makes sense because in 1998 and 1999, it was cheaper to find a new client. Is that where the difference in earnings comes from?
Wagner: The fact is yes, that is where the difference is. But, that is not our selling point. Our selling point is that if you stop worrying about writing business and let us do it, you can focus on marketing – which is the key to the success of an online sportsbook. And, that is the simple fact for credit bookmaking, post-up bookmaking and future success in this industry. As long as you think ‘beating the clients’ is the key, you are limiting your business. Let our company worry about that – and, you find clients. Spend your time finding clients and you will make money.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: The theory is sound, but what about the facts?
Wagner: The owners of the sports operation in question do not want me to be specific about whom they are. But, let me simply say that when we took over their operations, they could not even make the post-up money good. Now they have $1.4 million in the bank. So, yes, the facts do follow the theory.

Playing Poker Online Magazine: Wow! That is incredible. Can any poker room, casino, racebook or sports book do this with V.O. Group, S.A.
Wagner: Yes. We have programs for all online products except for bingo. And, by 2006 we should be able to offer options for even bingo operators..

Playing Poker Online Magazine: So how does a bookmaker or current operation learn more about outsourcing their operations to V.O. Group, S.A.?
Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

Article Note: The situation in this Case Study is a true case, however may not be representative of your situation. All situations are different and therefore may result differently.

Success With Price Per Head (Agent Success)

2005-06-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Case Study in Agent Success via Use of Price Per Head (PPH) Software Written and Owned by V.O. Group, S.A., the most successful offshore sportsbook in Costa Rica.

Price Per Head vs. Dollywood Sportsbook

Featuring Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of being the most innovative operator in offshore gaming. His most recent innovation involves the direct attack upon the Onshore Bookmaking market via the unique value proposition of actually partnering with Bookmakers and Agents onshore (as opposed to attempting to steal their business). With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998. While most companies formed that late failed, V.O. Group, S.A. has become one of the top 10 operators offshore (as measured by AnteUp; Gambling Online Magazine; Poker Player Magazine; and Many other Publications).

Online Gambling: The ‘buzz’ in offshore gambling appears to be focusing on only two subjects as of late, including: Poker and Your Price Per Head Offering. What exactly is Price Per Head and Price Per Head Agency?
Wagner: As you know, one market that a post-up sportsbook has historically been unable to attack is the huge market of bettors that have been betting with their local guy for years (local guy = agent or corner bookie). The reason this market exists is the personal relationship that an onshore bookie or agent has with his clients. Sportsbooks have attempted to educate the player and lure him away from the local bookie, however V.O. Group, S.A. has decided to take another tact. Via our Price Per Head software written by Matthew Wilson, we have been able to PARTNER with onshore bookies or agents with our Price Per Head Agency Relationship.

Online Gambling: OK. Be more specific. How does a Price Per Head Agency Relationship Work?
Wagner: Price Per Head Agency is based on the very fair and equitable agreement between an onshore bookie and an offshore bookmaker. The deal is based on the onshore bookie recruiting players and the offshore bookmaker setting lines, writing the business and handling all accounting for the onshore bookie. And, all the onshore bookie does is simply pay the offshore bookmaker an agreed upon price per head per week.

Online Gambling: So, opposed to paying the offshore bookmaker a percentage, they simply compensate them a fixed price.
Wagner: Absolutely. The fact is that offshore sportsbooks have been gouging the onshore bookie or agent for years. Our offering stops that action in it’s tracks.

Online Gambling: Gouging! That is a pretty strong comment. Can you back that up?
Wagner: Let me give you an example…and, you judge for yourself. The example of Jeff W. in San Jose, California comes to mind. Jeff contacted V.O. Group, S.A. in early October 2004 when he was writing 72 head of business making an average of 12 wagers a week of $152. Rather, his turnover per client was an average of $1,824.00 a week. Via his agreement with a sportsbook we will call Dollywood, he was splitting his earnings 50/50. Once he shifted the business through BettorsNet.com, he was paying $30 a head a week. So, would you call this gouging?

Online Gambling: Actually, the numbers sound good. But, I have to admit, I am not sure. Can you help me understand better?
Wagner: That is very good answer. Let me simply do the math for you to illustrate the facts, and then you will have a much clearer set of information to deal with. If your average player bets $1,824.00 a week on just straight bets, you should have a minimum hold of 4.5% (parlays, teasers and props have a MUCH HIGHER HOLD). So, that means you should make $82.08/person ($1,824.00 x 0.045). Then, multiply this by the number of head equals a theoretical earn of $5,909.76 ($82.08 x 72). So, this means he would make $2,954.88 per week and Dollywood would make $2,954.88 per week.

Online Gambling: Well, $2,954.88 per week sounds pretty strong if you ask me How does this compare to his using BettorsNet.com?
Wagner: When Jeff started using BettorsNet.com, we simply charge him $30 a head a week. Rather, $30 times $72 is $2,160.00, representing a savings of $794.88 a week, or $41,333.76 a year.

Online Gambling: So, by Jeff W. switching to V.O. Group, S.A. or BettorsNet.com he was able to make an extra $41,333.76 a year?
Wagner: No. Actually, he made $25,000 in the first three months because most of his players are far worse than the theoretical averages. Almost every one of his players bet a proposition or a teaser or a parlay at least once a week. And, holds on those bets are far greater than 4.5%. On top of that, his players also play in our racebook and casino losing much, much more than 4.5%.

Online Gambling: Oh, I see. If he would have used Dollywood, he would have simply split more profit with them. But, via BettorsNet.com, he was able to keep 100% of the extra earn because he had already compensated you for the $30/head.
Wagner: That is exactly correct. Jeff W. came down in January 2005 and I took him sail fishing. It is the first time I ever had a client pay my bill. Why? Because, and realize I am quoting here, Jeff states that I will make him an extra $100,000 this year alone.

Online Gambling: Wow! That is incredible. I bet large credit sportsbooks, like Dollywood, are quickly becoming unfavorable of your new product.
Wagner: Yes. They hate our new software offering! But, that is what you get when you take advantage of your clients or partners as they have. And, as far as I am concerned, credit shops with Agent Split Agreements have simply NOT been treating their partners fairly and now they will pay the bill.

Online Gambling: I must say, I agree that if your numbers are even close to correct, it appears that the credit shops that split the earn ARE GOUGING AGENTS AND ONSHORE BOOKMAKERS.
Wagner: Well, the facts speak for themselves. And, I am glad you see the facts for what they are.

Online Gambling: Is there ever a case where an onshore bookie or agent should opt for a split as opposed to a Price Per Head Agency agreement?
Wagner: Absolutely Yes. If you are starting up a new book, or if you need financial backing because you are not strong enough to support a losing week - then, you should opt for a split. The best way to judge this is simply look over your figures for the last year. Could you afford to pay out the worst week you had without going broke? If you answer yes – then, you should opt for PPH. If you could NOT afford to pay it, then you should opt for a split or not be in business at all.

Online Gambling: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?
Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

Article Note: Any assumption that “Dollywood” is related to “Hollywood Sportsbook” or “BetHollywood.com” or “BetAtHollywood” or “Hollywood International” is the assumption of the reader and not the responsibility of Gambling Online Magazine.

Innovation In Bookmaking

2005-06-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of ferreting out new markets and attacking while other companies sit on their hindquarters and watch. One market that has always eluded offshore bookmakers is the ‘guy who likes dealing with his credit bookmaker’. Typically this market has been untouchable for the offshore bookmaker, but NOT for Dalton and V.O. Group, S.A. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Panama.

Vegas Offshore: Tell us about this new product that you are calling your Price Per Head Agency Relationship.
Wagner: As you know, one market that a post-up sportsbook has historically been unable to attack is the huge market of bettors that have been betting with their local guy for years. The reason this market exists is the personal relationship that an onshore bookie has with his clients. Sportsbooks have attempted to educate the player and lure him away from the local bookie, however we have taken another tact. We have partnered with local bookies around the world to make their offering better and more valuable.

Vegas Offshore: So instead of attacking the local guy, you actually approach him with your offer?
Wagner: Exactly. The fact is that the relationship is the last thread holding clients to a local guy. Yes, there is the fact that the local guy extends credit, but with bonuses and promotions we can overcome that offering. The key is the relationship.

Vegas Offshore: I’m confused, please explain.
Wagner: As you know, the onshore bookmaking market has lost steam to the offshore providers like V.O. Group, S.A. The reason is that the offerings that I can provide are far superior to those that any onshore bookmaker can offer. The PPH concept is based on allowing the onshore bookmaker to provide his clients my offerings on a purely anonymous basis via an online automated tool. Rather, by signing up with my PPH service, an onshore bookmaker can compete with all offshore sportsbooks on equal footing offering 24-hour wagering, 365 days a year. All the bookmaker does is use an online system to assign PINs and PASSWORDs and pay me a small fee per week for the service.

Vegas Offshore: Wait a minute. So, this means that a small time operator in Cleveland, Ohio can offer all the same things that V.O. Group, S.A. does without making the multi-million dollar investment?
Wagner: Now your catching on. For as little as $25 per head per week, a guy in Ohio can compete with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. And, better yet, never answer another wagering phone call again.

Vegas Offshore: OK, I get it. They use your automated tool to drive their clients to your software online, and they simply pick up the figures at the end of the week.
Wagner: Exactly correct with one exception. Their clients can bet on the phone via our call center staffed with 250 people OR bet online. Again, they have access to all of the offerings V.O. Group, S.A. provides including call center access, client services and technical support.

Vegas Offshore: Is the PPH product only based on sports wagering?
Wagner: Very good question. The answer is no. We actually have the ability to offer clients two (2) casino products including blackjack, baccarat, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, etc. And, clients may also bet on horses at over 350 tracks worldwide.

Vegas Offshore: Wow! That truly is incredible. So, a bookie that has one client can compete with the likes of MVPsportsbook.com on equal footing?
Wagner: Exactly correct. But, there are two keys to the success of the product launch. The first is being able to compete head to head with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. But, arguably the most important factor is that since the onshore bookie no longer has to answer phones or track plays, he can spend all of his time picking up new clients, NOT writing bets.

Vegas Offshore: I remember that in a prior interview you had stated that the key is not winning, but finding more losers.
Wagner: An embarrassing quote, but true. Amateur bookmakers think that the key is to beat the clients you have. That is a huge mistake. The key to getting rich as a bookmaker is finding a new client every single day of the year. The numbers take care of themselves, the key is to get more and more people playing. That is the TRUE BEAUTY of the PPH software and agency relationship.

Vegas Offshore: Do you have any success stories to tell?
Wagner: I have many, but will tell you one that emphasizes what the PPH program can do. I have a bookmaker that has been working out of San Antonio, Texas for 10 years. The guy has historically made $200,000 a year from his 25 or 30 players. He was introduced to our product in July 2004, and today he is writing over 185 clients. The ability to outsource answering calls and writing tickets to us has allowed him to grow his business 600% and his revenue over 1000%.

Vegas Offshore: Why did his revenue grow more than his business? Is it because your lines are sharper than his?
Wagner: There you go again. That is the obvious mistake that everyone makes. Again, don’t worry about beating the clients. Worry about getting more clients to play. But, to answer your question directly, the ability for his clients to play in the casino, play 24 hours a day, play games/halves/quarters, props, etc. is where the extra revenue comes from. Our lines might be sharper, but the advantage is more clients betting more often.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?
Wagner: We are writing business for over 250 bookmakers now. Some represent groups as small as 2 or 3; and others represent groups as large as 500. Again, remember the key is finding as many clients as possible. If you get to where you are writing 15 clients or more, it is almost impossible to lose for an extended period of time.

Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?
Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

State of the Offshore Gaming Industry

2005-06-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of making one-dollar work like three in online marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998 and has quickly risen to be one of the largest offshore operators in the world with over 50,000 active clients. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Antigua.

Vegas Offshore: This year has been interesting for V.O. Group, S.A. and the offshore industry as a whole (advertising changes, etc.). How do you feel about the industry at the current time?
Wagner: I feel the industry is as strong as it has ever been. We are still finding that our advertising is bringing us new clients at an ever-growing rate. Some competitors are complaining that the crimp on advertising is affecting the industry, but we are not seeing this trend. Consolidation within the industry has begun, and I am sure you will continue to see smaller competitors gobbled up, and medium to larger companies merging. The weaker will go by the wayside.

Vegas Offshore: What about the rumors of V.O. Group, S.A. being bought?
Wagner: I am glad you used the term 'rumors'. The fact is that in July 2004 three suitors approached V.O. Group, S.A. because of our record-breaking profit year. In two of the cases we did see 'value' in a merger/relationship. However, at the end of the day, we could not come to terms that were agreeable on both sides. At this time V.O. Group, S.A. stands independent. And, we are happy being independent, profitable and growing.

Vegas Offshore: It is rumored that Bet On Sports (PLC; BSS.L) was one of the suitors. Is that true?
Wagner: There were three suitors that approached V.O. Group, S.A. And, in all cases confidentiality agreements were signed. For this reason, I cannot confirm or deny who any of the potential suitors were. What I can tell you is that one was a major sportsbook player, one was a major casino player and two were PLCs. I doubt that helps.

Vegas Offshore: Well, if Bet On Sports was involved, I bet you are happy you weren't involved in their November 24, 2004 stock debacle.
Wagner: The Bet On Sports stock debacle was an over-reaction by the market in my opinion. In one day you saw their stock drop 50% in value. And, the reason was poor performance in a very short period. If you looked at the other publicly held offshore gaming companies, you saw the same thing, just not as drastic as with BSS.L. Simply put, I know the founder of Bet On Sports, I know the management of Bet On Sports, I know the staff at Bet On Sports and I would not hesitate to invest in Bet On Sports. They were, and still are, undervalued in my opinion. They are a great competitor and a great company. I wish I had some of their stock at the new adjusted price. I just don't see how you can lose.

Vegas Offshore: It is rare to hear the 'competition' speaking so highly of a major competitor. Why would you do so?
Wagner: Simple. Bet On Sports is a great company. And, I am sure they would tell you the same about V.O. Group, S.A. The fact is, that there are companies out there that make our industry stronger. And, ones that make it weaker. Bet On Sports and V.O.Group, S.A. strive to make our industry stronger and more legitimate on a daily basis (as do BetCris.com; BoDog.com; etc.). What kind of ambassador for the industry would I be if I downplayed a 'good' competitor like Bet On Sports for my own benefit?

Vegas Offshore: If Bet On Sports did approach you, would you consider a merger?
Wagner: I like being independent. But, simply put, NEVER say NEVER.

Vegas Offshore: What of the rumors that you are looking at Panama as a potential relocation site?
Wagner: Our operation currently has offices in Costa Rica, Antigua and Belize. In Costa Rica we currently have over 400 employees. With employment costs in Costa Rica on the rise, the burden of Caja and the ever-changing political climate, we have looked at several alternative locations. One of the most desirable is/was Panama. However, due to the massive failure of BetPanAm.com and the political debacle involving their past gaming commission, we have decided to stay put for the current time. I think it is very safe to say that our primary location will be Costa Rica for the next 5 years. Pending any crazy licensing or governmental changes.

Vegas Offshore: I have visited your office in Antigua, however had no idea that you employed 400 individuals in Costa Rica. Why do you need such a large staff?
Wagner: Our industry has a reputation for being lazy and getting by on a shoestring budget. Most sportsbooks, casinos, racebooks and poker rooms answer phones when it is convenient and buy computers when the ones they are operating blow-up. Most are simply embarrassing to the legitimate operators. To run an operation like ours, servicing 50,000 bettors, you need lots of space, a 1st rate phone system, fiber and satellite phone and Internet backups, IT professionals, accounting professionals, etc. V.O. Group, S.A. is currently located in 35,000 square feet of space, operating 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, and we are busting at the seems. At the current time, we are negotiating to buy the building next to us for future expansion. I think we will employ 600 people come this same time next year.

Vegas Offshore: I have noticed that you are still branching into other products. How has this strategy worked for V.O. Group, S.A.?
Wagner: In 1998 we started with our sports product. We then branched into the casino product. In 2001 and 2002 we opened several major race books and poker rooms. The fact is that we are profitable in all products. However, our core product, and hub for our advertising, is focused on the sports product. The strategy has worked, but we will not desert our core product. You can look for our re-launch of interactive betting in early 2005 and bingo in mid 2005.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for V.O. Group, S.A.
Wagner: I think you will see V.O. Group, S.A. work more on our Internet interface to make it more gamer-friendly; you will see our company move into land-based gaming; and you will see us acquire two or three smaller competitors. Rather, you will see what you have always seen, expansion.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for the industry as a whole?
Wagner: The strong will get stronger. The weak will get weaker. And, the acquisition race will be on.

Revenue Share vs. PPH Agency

2005-03-14T08:15:00.000-08:00

Q & A with Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

Dalton Wagner, Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A. has recently found himself in the middle of a controversy between Revenue Sharing Sportsbooks and his Price Per Head Agency Concept. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner and discuss the issue on his last visit to Curacao.

Vegas Offshore: We hear that the Price Per Head offering you launched several months ago has landed you in some hot water?

Wagner: Yes, it appears that my Price Per Head Software offering has been a little too popular with onshore bookmakers and it is making my competition a little upset.

Vegas Offshore: Can you be a little more explicit?

Wagner: Several offshore bookmakers have lost relationships with their agents because my Price Per Head offering has lured them away and toward my offering. Specifically, several of the largest credit sportsbooks in Costa Rica have lost packages to me in the range of 500-1000 head apiece. And, they are not happy about it.

Vegas Offshore: Why are so many people leaving their agency relationships with credit sportsbooks?

Wagner: Well, in the old days an offshore sportsbook might partner with an onshore bookmaker. The deal was based on the onshore bookmaker finding the business and the offshore operator writing it and doing the accounting for a fee. The deal was typically 50%/50%. However, with my Price Per Head offering, I can offer the same offerings, but only charge the onshore bookmaker a nominal fee for using my service. The fact is that 50% is simply too much to charge an onshore bookmaker. I charge bookmakers a flat fee based on the number of head I am writing and let the bookmaker keep the rest of the money.

Vegas Offshore: Wait a minute. How can you afford to write the business for a simple fee when it historically cost 50%.

Wagner: The simple fact is that 50% of the revenue is ridiculous. I can charge a fee as little as $25 per head, per week and allow a client to have access to sports wagering, casino wagering and horse wagering – and, make a profit. Furthermore, we have written a software interface that allows agents onshore to manage their clients limits, run reports, etc. from any computer in the world. The offering is robust, efficient and simple to use. And, unfortunately for offshore sportsbooks that share in revenue, agents and bookmakers simply love it.

Vegas Offshore: Is the PPH product only based on sports wagering?

Wagner: No. We actually have the ability to offer clients two (2) casino products including blackjack, baccarat, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, etc. And, clients may also bet on horses at over 350 tracks worldwide.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?

Wagner: We are writing business for over 250 bookmakers now. Some represent groups as small as 2 or 3; and others represent groups as large as 500. Again, remember the key is finding as many clients as possible. If you get to where you are writing 15 clients or more, it is almost impossible to lose for an extended period of time.

Vegas Offshore: Anything else you would like to add?

Wagner: Sure. If you’re a bookmaker onshore, call us or visit us online to learn how to save money and/or grow your business beyond your wildest dreams. The service is modestly priced, and we have never had a disgruntled user. The value proposition is simply huge for any bookmaker.

Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?

Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

How Much Should a Bookmaker Expect to Make with PPH

2005-03-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

Dalton Wagner, Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A. has recently found himself one of the most popular interviews in the offshore sportsbook industry. The reason is his new Price Per Head Agency offering for Onshore Credit Bookmakers. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner and discuss the issue on his last visit to St. Kitts.

Vegas Offshore: Last time we talked you mentioned that your Price Per Head offering was growing beyond your wildest dreams. How is it doing now?

Wagner: Our Price Per Head software allows onshore bookmakers to make more than they have ever dreamed. For this reason, the product is growing faster than we could have ever imagined.

Vegas Offshore: Can you be a little more explicit?

Wagner: We wrote the software offering with input from two bookmakers 24 months ago. Today, we have over 500 bookmakers using the software writing business for over 20,000 clients a week, generating over $500,000 in revenue on a weekly basis in football season.

Vegas Offshore: That is incredible. For you to grow that fast, bookmakers must simply love the product.

Wagner: Yes, bookmakers love the product. Not only does it take the burden of answering phone calls and doing accounting away, but it also allows bookmakers to insulate themselves from legal issues and market their product more aggressively. We have literally 50+ examples bookmakers that are writing hundreds of clients with our software. Can you imagine how they could have done that without us?

Vegas Offshore: The largest onshore bookmaker I have ever met wrote 300 clients and had a staff of 10 clerks on football Sunday. Who is your largest onshore bookmaker?

Wagner: I obviously can’t reveal identities, but I can tell you that she is writing 750 head a week on average and employees nobody.

Vegas Offshore: You have a bookmaker working with you that writes over 750 head a week, what do you think she makes annually?

Wagner: I know exactly what she makes. Let’s just say it is well over a million a year.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?

Wagner: We are writing business for over 250 bookmakers now. Some represent groups as small as 2 or 3; and others represent groups as large as 750.

Vegas Offshore: Anything else you would like to add?

Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?

Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

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2005-03-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

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Innovation In Bookmaking

2005-02-28T08:20:00.000-08:00

Innovation In Bookmaking
Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of ferreting out new markets and attacking while other companies sit on their hindquarters and watch. One market that has always eluded offshore bookmakers is the ‘guy who likes dealing with his credit bookmaker’. Typically this market has been untouchable for the offshore bookmaker, but NOT for Dalton and V.O. Group, S.A. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Panama.

Vegas Offshore: Tell us about this new product that you are calling your Price Per Head Agency Relationship.

Wagner: As you know, one market that a post-up sportsbook has historically been unable to attack is the huge market of bettors that have been betting with their local guy for years. The reason this market exists is the personal relationship that an onshore bookie has with his clients. Sportsbooks have attempted to educate the player and lure him away from the local bookie, however we have taken another tact. We have partnered with local bookies around the world to make their offering better and more valuable.

Vegas Offshore: So instead of attacking the local guy, you actually approach him with your offer?

Wagner: Exactly. The fact is that the relationship is the last thread holding clients to a local guy. Yes, there is the fact that the local guy extends credit, but with bonuses and promotions we can overcome that offering. The key is the relationship.

Vegas Offshore: I’m confused, please explain.

Wagner: As you know, the onshore bookmaking market has lost steam to the offshore providers like V.O. Group, S.A. The reason is that the offerings that I can provide are far superior to those that any onshore bookmaker can offer. The PPH concept is based on allowing the onshore bookmaker to provide his clients my offerings on a purely anonymous basis via an online automated tool. Rather, by signing up with my PPH service, an onshore bookmaker can compete with all offshore sportsbooks on equal footing offering 24-hour wagering, 365 days a year. All the bookmaker does is use an online system to assign PINs and PASSWORDs and pay me a small fee per week for the service.

Vegas Offshore: Wait a minute. So, this means that a small time operator in Cleveland, Ohio can offer all the same things that V.O. Group, S.A. does without making the multi-million dollar investment?

Wagner: Now your catching on. For as little as $25 per head per week, a guy in Ohio can compete with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. And, better yet, never answer another wagering phone call again.

Vegas Offshore: OK, I get it. They use your automated tool to drive their clients to your software online, and they simply pick up the figures at the end of the week.

Wagner: Exactly correct with one exception. Their clients can bet on the phone via our call center staffed with 250 people OR bet online. Again, they have access to all of the offerings V.O. Group, S.A. provides including call center access, client services and technical support.

Vegas Offshore: Is the PPH product only based on sports wagering?

Wagner: Very good question. The answer is no. We actually have the ability to offer clients two (2) casino products including blackjack, baccarat, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, etc. And, clients may also bet on horses at over 350 tracks worldwide.

Vegas Offshore: Wow! That truly is incredible. So, a bookie that has one client can compete with the likes of MVPsportsbook.com on equal footing?

Wagner: Exactly correct. But, there are two keys to the success of the product launch. The first is being able to compete head to head with the biggest sportsbooks in the world. But, arguably the most important factor is that since the onshore bookie no longer has to answer phones or track plays, he can spend all of his time picking up new clients, NOT writing bets.

Vegas Offshore: I remember that in a prior interview you had stated that the key is not winning, but finding more losers.

Wagner: An embarrassing quote, but true. Amateur bookmakers think that the key is to beat the clients you have. That is a huge mistake. The key to getting rich as a bookmaker is finding a new client every single day of the year. The numbers take care of themselves, the key is to get more and more people playing. That is the TRUE BEAUTY of the PPH software and agency relationship.

Vegas Offshore: Do you have any success stories to tell?

Wagner: I have many, but will tell you one that emphasizes what the PPH program can do. I have a bookmaker that has been working out of San Antonio, Texas for 10 years. The guy has historically made $200,000 a year from his 25 or 30 players. He was introduced to our product in July 2004, and today he is writing over 185 clients. The ability to outsource answering calls and writing tickets to us has allowed him to grow his business 600% and his revenue over 1000%.

Vegas Offshore: Why did his revenue grow more than his business? Is it because your lines are sharper than his?

Wagner: There you go again. That is the obvious mistake that everyone makes. Again, don’t worry about beating the clients. Worry about getting more clients to play. But, to answer your question directly, the ability for his clients to play in the casino, play 24 hours a day, play games/halves/quarters, props, etc. is where the extra revenue comes from. Our lines might be sharper, but the advantage is more clients betting more often.

Vegas Offshore: How many bookmakers do you currently work with?

Vegas Offshore: So how does a bookmaker learn more about this?

Wagner: Simply go to any of the V.O. Group, S.A. sites to learn more. I suggest starting at www.BettorsNet.com or calling 1-877-512-1001 or emailing agents@bettorsnet.com to get more information.

Bookmakers!

2005-02-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

Bookmakers!

Read Below To Earn More Cash Than Ever

Are you a onshore bookmaker that wants to Minimize Legal Exposure, Increase Potential Profits, Spend More Time Enjoying the Money You Are Making, and Grow Your Business Beyond Your Wildest Dreams? If you answered ‘YES’ to one or all of these questions, then you need to look at a Price Per Head Agent Relationship with our company.

The concept of a Price Per Head Agent Relationship is based on you, the onshore bookmaker, paying our company a service fee to offer the same services that we offer to thousands of clients (on an anonymous basis).

For the first time, you will be able to offer Internet and Phone access to Sports, Horse and Casino (2 casinos) wagering to all your current clients (via a simple PIN and PASSWORD betting system). No longer do you have to compete with offshore sportsbooks and lose clients. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO OFFER EVERYTHING THAT THEY OFFER!

We are Licensed to offer bookmaking services.

We have been in business for 7 years.

We write business for 15,000 clients daily.

We are open 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, 365 days a year.

We have over 500 operators standing by to make you money!

Take advantage of our $5,000,000 USD investment to make your services better than ever. No longer will you have to answer calls all Saturday and Sunday. No longer will you have to lose clients to the offshore bookmakers. No longer will you have to worry about having your door kicked in by the authorities. Now you can compete with the Big Boys! You will simply sit back, watch the games, and earn more than ever before.

To learn more, go to our website, and click on ‘Agents’. If you prefer to use a white-labeled site without bonus and promotional text, visit www.BettorsNet.com for more information.

We look forward to being your service provider.

Call 1-888-333-6914 for more information.

State of the Offshore Gaming Industry

2005-02-16T13:10:00.000-08:00

State of the Offshore Gaming Industry
Q & A with
Dalton Wagner, Founder V.O. Group, S.A.

As Founder and Proprietor of V.O. Group, S.A., Dalton Wagner has the reputation of making one-dollar work like three in online marketing. With formidable competition, Mr. Wagner founded V.O. Group, S.A. in 1998 and has quickly risen to be one of the largest offshore operators in the world with over 50,000 active clients. We had an opportunity to catch up with Dalton Wagner on his last visit to Antigua.

Vegas Offshore: This year has been interesting for V.O. Group, S.A. and the offshore industry as a whole (advertising changes, etc.). How do you feel about the industry at the current time?

Wagner: I feel the industry is as strong as it has ever been. We are still finding that our advertising is bringing us new clients at an ever-growing rate. Some competitors are complaining that the crimp on advertising is affecting the industry, but we are not seeing this trend. Consolidation within the industry has begun, and I am sure you will continue to see smaller competitors gobbled up, and medium to larger companies merging. The weaker will go by the wayside.

Vegas Offshore: What about the rumors of V.O. Group, S.A. being bought?

Wagner: I am glad you used the term 'rumors'. The fact is that in July 2004 three suitors approached V.O. Group, S.A. because of our record-breaking profit year. In two of the cases we did see 'value' in a merger/relationship. However, at the end of the day, we could not come to terms that were agreeable on both sides. At this time V.O. Group, S.A. stands independent. And, we are happy being independent, profitable and growing.

Vegas Offshore: It is rumored that Bet On Sports (PLC; BSS.L) was one of the suitors. Is that true?

Wagner: There were three suitors that approached V.O. Group, S.A. And, in all cases confidentiality agreements were signed. For this reason, I cannot confirm or deny who any of the potential suitors were. What I can tell you is that one was a major sportsbook player, one was a major casino player and two were PLCs. I doubt that helps.

Vegas Offshore: Well, if Bet On Sports was involved, I bet you are happy you weren't involved in their November 24, 2004 stock debacle.

Wagner: The Bet On Sports stock debacle was an over-reaction by the market in my opinion. In one day you saw their stock drop 50% in value. And, the reason was poor performance in a very short period. If you looked at the other publicly held offshore gaming companies, you saw the same thing, just not as drastic as with BSS.L. Simply put, I know the founder of Bet On Sports, I know the management of Bet On Sports, I know the staff at Bet On Sports and I would not hesitate to invest in Bet On Sports. They were, and still are, undervalued in my opinion. They are a great competitor and a great company. I wish I had some of their stock at the new adjusted price. I just don't see how you can lose.

Vegas Offshore: It is rare to hear the 'competition' speaking so highly of a major competitor. Why would you do so?

Wagner: Simple. Bet On Sports is a great company. And, I am sure they would tell you the same about V.O. Group, S.A. The fact is, that there are companies out there that make our industry stronger. And, ones that make it weaker. Bet On Sports and V.O.Group, S.A. strive to make our industry stronger and more legitimate on a daily basis (as do BetCris.com; BoDog.com; etc.). What kind of ambassador for the industry would I be if I downplayed a 'good' competitor like Bet On Sports for my own benefit?

Vegas Offshore: If Bet On Sports did approach you, would you consider a merger?

Wagner: I like being independent. But, simply put, NEVER say NEVER.

Vegas Offshore: What of the rumors that you are looking at Panama as a potential relocation site?

Wagner: Our operation currently has offices in Costa Rica, Antigua and Belize. In Costa Rica we currently have over 400 employees. With employment costs in Costa Rica on the rise, the burden of Caja and the ever-changing political climate, we have looked at several alternative locations. One of the most desirable is/was Panama. However, due to the massive failure of BetPanAm.com and the political debacle involving their past gaming commission, we have decided to stay put for the current time. I think it is very safe to say that our primary location will be Costa Rica for the next 5 years. Pending any crazy licensing or governmental changes.

Vegas Offshore: I have visited your office in Antigua, however had no idea that you employed 400 individuals in Costa Rica. Why do you need such a large staff?

Wagner: Our industry has a reputation for being lazy and getting by on a shoestring budget. Most sportsbooks, casinos, racebooks and poker rooms answer phones when it is convenient and buy computers when the ones they are operating blow-up. Most are simply embarrassing to the legitimate operators. To run an operation like ours, servicing 50,000 bettors, you need lots of space, a 1 st rate phone system, fiber and satellite phone and Internet backups, IT professionals, accounting professionals, etc. V.O. Group, S.A. is currently located in 35,000 square feet of space, operating 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, and we are busting at the seems. At the current time, we are negotiating to buy the building next to us for future expansion. I think we will employ 600 people come this same time next year.

Vegas Offshore: I have noticed that you are still branching into other products. How has this strategy worked for V.O. Group, S.A.?

Wagner: In 1998 we started with our sports product. We then branched into the casino product. In 2001 and 2002 we opened several major race books and poker rooms. The fact is that we are profitable in all products. However, our core product, and hub for our advertising, is focused on the sports product. The strategy has worked, but we will not desert our core product. You can look for our re-launch of interactive betting in early 2005 and bingo in mid 2005.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for V.O. Group, S.A.

Wagner: I think you will see V.O. Group, S.A. work more on our Internet interface to make it more gamer-friendly; you will see our company move into land-based gaming; and you will see us acquire two or three smaller competitors. Rather, you will see what you have always seen, expansion.

Vegas Offshore: What other changes do you see in 2005 for the industry as a whole?

Wagner: The strong will get stronger. The weak will get weaker. And, the acquisition race will be on.

Early super bowl sportsbooks wager favors bettors

2005-01-21T13:33:00.000-08:00

Early super bowl sportsbooks wager favors bettors
It’s not every day you can bet on a game before you even know who’s playing in it. Therein lies the beauty of the super bowl sportsbooks , the single largest betting day of the year in terms of handle taken at sportsbooks.

Every year betting shops offer punters a futures bet in which they can lay their cash on either the AFC or NFC teams to win the super bowl sportsbooks before the NFL has even carried out it’s conference championships. The pointspread is usually set at a small number, often not much more than a field goal.

However, this year most online and Vegas sportsbooks have the AFC favored by 5 to 5 ½ points to beat its NFC competition in super bowl sportsbooks XXXIX on Feb. 6 in Jacksonville.

That line leaves bettors with a potential moneymaking opportunity they might want to look closely at before this Sunday’s games are over and the line is taken off the board.

”Either one of the AFC teams (New England or Pittsburgh) should be favored by at least a touchdown over the Falcons in my opinion,” says the head linesmaker at Betcom.com, who prefers not to use his name. “The AFC should be favored over the Eagles by 3 ½ or 4, in my opinion.”

In other words, if you like Philadelphia (-5 ½) to win straight up over Atlanta this Sunday, jump on them now. Barring a major injury to Donovan McNabb, the Eagles won’t see value like this on the actual super bowl sportsbooks line.

While it’s true Philly lost to Pittsburgh 27-3 this season, that game was in early November and it was on the Steelers’ home turf at Heinz Field. The Eagles were favored by one point in that matchup and oddsmakers likely won’t throw many points at the Eagles for the revenge game should the Steelers beat the Pats in the AFC Championship in Pittsburgh.

The same applies if New England wins. Philly could hardly be considered a major underdog with a 15-3 record entering the NFL season finale.

On the other hand, if the Falcons upset the Eagles this week at Lincoln Field you might want to hammer the AFC side and give yourself a middling opportunity.

Middling is a technique often used by professional bettors and it can only occur when there is a variation on a pointspread of at least 1 1/2 points.

If the linesmaker is correct, Michael Vick and the Falcons can expect to be barking by at least seven points in Jacksonville. If you take the AFC at –5 or –5 ½ this week, and then take the Falcons at +7 on the actual super bowl sportsbooks line, a New England win of six points will have you looking for a bigger wallet to stuff your cash in.

In this scenario, both bets of the Falcons +7 and the AFC – 5 ½ would cash.

If you prefer not to mess with pointspreads, some books have also posted moneyline odds for super bowl sportsbooks XXXIX. The AFC is currently slated at around -220, while an NFC win is paying out at +180.

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2005-01-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

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super bowl sportsbook gambling: super bowl sportsbooks superbowl sportsbook Paper presented at the conference super bowl s

2005-01-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Paper presented at the conference super bowl sportsbook gambling, Technology and Society: Regulatory Challenges for the 21stCentury, -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 2 2The current growth of the internet has resulted in an atmosphere conducive to the rapidgrowth of super bowl sportsbooks-betting - particularly interactive super bowl sportsbook gambling. This growth is best illustrated bythe number and range of super bowl sportsbook gambling products and services now available through the Net and thepotential growth factor when one considers it's largely unregulated nature and the lack oftraditional cost factors that besiege traditional regulated super bowl sportsbook gambling - for example, few staff arerequired, operators are not bound by legislative restrictions such as affirmative action, equalopportunity and the myriad of union demands and requirements - just to name a few.Additionally off-shore and even on-shore super bowl sportsbook gambling providers are not plagued by hundreds ofsuper bowl sportsbook gambling related regulations including such things as probity requirements, which expose anapplicant to a lifetime of examination by police and various government regulatory agencies.Recognising that there are already interactive gaming products on the market that are in someform bound by regulation and legislation (although whether same are enforceable is anotherquestion) and that many reputable companies and in particular those that are already probitytested are probing, testing and researching this new market place I will confine my submissiontoday to two areas of potential criminality:a) Those criminal activities impacting upon legal super bowl sportsbooks gaming facilities andb) Crime ownership of off-shore super bowl sportsbook gambling operators not controlled by regulation orprobity testing.IN CONJUNCTION WITH THESE TWO AREAS - Let me now take a walk on the wildside and suggest that:1) All regulated gaming legislation needs to be properly researched, reviewed andstreamlined with a long term view to national legislation.2) super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling legislation that is enforceable needs to be developed based on bestpossible research;3) A Gaming University or College - or a Specialty super bowl sportsbook gambling Campus be urgentlydeveloped within an established university which will include police and regulator investigatory training;The new on-line super bowl sportsbook gambling market place is a super bowl sportsbooks-bazaar for techno-fraudsters who well knowthat most police and gaming regulators are not exhaustively trained in computer crime or evenbarely computer literate and more particularly in criminal activity associated with super bowl sportsbook gamblingrelated computer crime - although both Victoria and the Federal Police have recognisedcomputer investigatory units.super bowl sportsbooks-criminals are also aware that this new market place and its service and product range isnot understood by most senior regulators nor can or do they grasp its vast potential - whenthe criminal possibilities of this new medium are either denied or ignored by police andregulators, through ignorance or lack of training, a curtain rises on a new era in criminality.There is already frustration amongst police and regulators about the sheer volume of super bowl sportsbook gambling legislation now in place - let alone trying to police a medium they little understand. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 3 3I will argue strongly here today that police and regulators need urgent professional training andeducation to keep pace with super bowl sportsbook gambling technological progress and that this is best provided bythe industry through the establishment of a super bowl sportsbook gambling university, College or Specialty Campus.This statement is made, well knowing that the current rapid expansion of internet and all formsof interactive gaming in Australia and in fact globally is making it impossible for any lawenforcement agency to effectively regulate this new industry.If we use history to plot the future, we all know that casino gaming was originally run andcontrolled by organised crime - in fact most super bowl sportsbook gambling was run by criminals - both organisedand unorganised.Using this knowledge as a guidepost, is there any reason to believe that these new computerbased super bowl sportsbook gambling products and services would not be a gateway to new national and globaltechno-organised crime organisations or syndicates? The sheer uniqueness of these productsmake them an attractive target for infiltration by traditional and non-traditional crime cartels -history holds an analogy in the need for organised crime to electronically control super bowl sportsbook gamblinginformation:The California Department of Justice in November 1993, in its report 'Gaming in California'noted in its 'Historical perspective' the recognition by organised crime to control the wireservices in order to control super bowl sportsbook gambling - it reported "in Chicago during the 1940s the ChicagoCrime Syndicate began an attempted takeover of Nationwide News, a wire service whichprovided information for super bowl sportsbook gambling. Continental Wire Service, the California-based subsidiaryof Nationwide news, was the target of many violent acts by organised crime members fromChicago. Controlling the wire services during this era was important because all bookmakingoperations were dependent on these wire services for their betting lines. After several years ofextortion attempts which involved a number of murders and beatings, the Continental WireService finally fell under the domination of East Coast organised crime.Bugsy Siegel arguably the super bowl sportsbook gambling grandfather of organised crime was also the head ofTransamerica, wire service set up to compete with Continental Wire Service as part of theorganised crime extortion scheme. Siegel's mismanagement of the Flamingo Hotel-Casino inLas Vegas and other factors eventually led to his murder on June 20, 1947.Tossing my mind back some twenty years when we first introduced probity testing ofapplicants for gaming licenses in this State I clearly recall a wave of attacks on those of us whoopted to change the then gaming status quo. There is no doubt that there will be strongopposition to many of my comments here today and that is both understandable and positive -when streamlining means potential job losses and a relinquishing of power there will always bedisquiet amongst regulators. Disagreement will stimulate us all to establish whether we shouldhave a pure free market approach to super bowl sportsbook gambling generally - in other words de-regulate or confineregulation both current and proposed to a narrow sphere that is enforceable.Let legislation review not be a divisive issue but rather an opportunity to improve super bowl sportsbook gambling asa whole. We cannot afford to maintain current attitudes, we need to become more visionaryboth in relation to the growth of the new super bowl sportsbook gambling markets and also the need to revolutioniseregulatory and investigatory principles and philosophies. We must not botch up the handlingof the regulatory changes needed. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 4 4We could also consider a partial non-regulatory approach similar to the one proposed by Dr.Roy Godson from Georgetown University National Strategy Information Center when givingtestimony on 'Criminal Threats to U.S. interests in Hong Kong and China before the SenateForeign Relations Committee East Asian and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee -Godson proposed both a regulatory and non-regulatory approach to controlling and managinglocal and organised crime in asia and elsewhere - he maintained that whilst regulatory lawenforcement is necessary it is not sufficient.He stated - 'the continued existence of drug trafficking and money laundering in the unitedstates dramatically illustrates how even the most regulated, aggressive and effective lawenforcement systems are unable to combat organised crime adequately"He also went on to make the point that particularly reflects on off-shore gaming enterpriseswhich operate from what i call ' unique business sites' around the world - "many states in theworld have very weak or corrupt governments and law enforcement systems. Perhaps a thirdor more of the members of the united nations are collapsed, failed or weak states, or are ruledby governments so corrupt that they are for sale to the highest bidder. Unfortunately, in spiteof the efforts of the united states and many others, the numbers of such states show no signs ofdiminishing."His non-regulatory approach which needs urgent research polish for use in gaming relatedinvestigations is the implementation of " a number of actions and programs designed tocontain, disrupt, weaken, and, if possible, destroy criminal enterprise and political-criminalrelationships. This includes harmonising diplomacy --public and not so public, economicincentives, disincentives and sanctions and what (he) called "crypto-diplomacy" - various typesof intelligence activities."super bowl sportsbook gambling pioneered the philosophy of the importance of probity to the super bowl sportsbook gambling industry. It isinteresting to watch how many other sensitive avenues of employment now require similartesting for their employees. With a little care we can again be super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling legislativepioneers - to do so means taking a chance and stepping outside the square.A question should be posed 'if you were an organised crime representative and you knew thatlegislation for whatever reason was in the main unenforceable would you not exploit it?Four principal ingredients lend credibility to the hypothesis that organised crime would beattracted to this form of gaming:1) Crime Cartels can afford to purchase the latest technology and accompanyingpersonnel to run such services and products;2) Knowledge by such Cartels that there is little practical policing and regulating ofsuch services and products;3) Control can lie off-shore without any need for probity testing - a gilt edgedinvestment opportunity indeed! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 5 54) Criminal interest in super bowl sportsbook gambling (both legal and illegal) has never abated - there issimply less enforcement of its activities today.Whilst it is acknowledged that various agencies are examining ways of regulating these newsuper bowl sportsbook gambling opportunities there is little planning for training super bowl sportsbooks Gaming Regulators - for thewant of a better clique. Regulation without adequate professional investigators is a poorinvestment indeed.Pausing just for a moment - think of how many legislative requirements that are now necessaryto fulfil, for one to become a successful gaming applicant - and how many are in realityenforced - we need to clean up the legislation with a strong, ethical and critical review of whatis now really necessary to underpin the industry as a whole - perhaps before we even think ofdeveloping further legislation to handle the new super bowl sportsbook gambling market place?CORRUPTION - Let me just touch on this briefly.The recent royal Commission clearly identified super bowl sportsbook gambling as a key factor in corrupt activitiesand corruption does not just align itself to Police. Many enforcement officers have over theyears used super bowl sportsbook gambling to explain away their excessive incomes and lifestyles. Unforceable andachronistic legislation simply fuels opportunities for corrupt activities - loop holes, communitylack of concern and low enforcement priority all provide an atmosphere for exploitation.Perhaps the most potent review of new electronic products & services (electronic commerce)was the Report of the Electronic Commerce Task Force to the Commonwealth lawEnforcement Board in November 1966. This Executive Summary of this report notes:"Mature and appropriately focused law enforcement is an essential requirement for economicstability and growth. New Payment Technologies promise many advances in our financialsystem and law enforcement can play a big part in bringing those advances to fruition.However, as with any innovation, the potential risks attached to these technologies must beassessed and action taken to minimise negative effects. It is this part of the process to whichlaw enforcement can contribute greatly.This is not to suggest that law enforcement should be a major determinant of protocols andstandards. However, through a process of consultation and communication with appropriatebodies, law enforcement should be able to ensure that, as a minimum, its interests areconsidered and that more informed decisions are made.This Report is clearly limited to exploring and identifying issues of concern to law enforcementin respect of specific electronic payment technologies (a small part of the big picture).however, it is also clear that many of the core issues of concern to law enforcement areimportant in respect of other government objectives.One of the most compelling statements within this summary that equally applies to super bowl sportsbookssuper bowl sportsbook gambling was - a comprehensive examination and response to new payment technologiesrequires policy and law makers to look to the ways in which a legal system and those whoenforce it can support and nurture progress. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 6 6Whilst this report does not specifically address Gaming via the net, it makes a number ofpoignant comments which we in the super bowl sportsbook gambling world need to consider:"Just as new technologies will lead to government rethinking a range of issues including lawenforcement, it is also predictable that opportunistic and sophisticated criminals will also beviewing these technologies with interest.It is not unlikely that the more affluent and far thinking of these criminals are already investingin technology to infiltrate or abuse the New Payment Technologies. In the period beforegovernment implements protective policies, criminals will also be able to plan, prepare and,perhaps position themselves. Law Enforcement agencies already find that serious andorganised crime participants make significant use of telecommunications, informationtechnology and encryption to evade detection.I think we can safely anticipate increasing organised crime influence/action against bothregulated on-line providers/customers and also in controlling on-line super bowl sportsbook gambling products. Theelectronic masking of real ownership is I guess the ultimate critical challenge to probityinvestigators. Detection and investigation will not be easy but with planning we can also usethe same technology against such organisations. What it will clearly offer is an excellentopportunity for such organisations to use these products & services as a means of moneylaundering.Bud Zuravica in his recent article 'The Washing Cycle' pinned the origin of the term 'moneylaundering' back to US Mobster Meyer (and his cousin Jake) Lansky - laundering is the processby which dirty money is cleansed of its criminal past through a series of dazzlingly complexfiscal machinations designed to erase it tracks. It is finally reintroduced, squeaky clean, intothe legal economy. In Australia, the term was coined via the process poker machines cheatsused to get rid of their huge daily coin supplies. They purchased Laundromats to explain awaytheir piles of small change.Regulated casinos in Australia have this problem under control but with laundering becoming amajor global criminal activity with international figures estimated to be in the vicinity of $500billion and a potential real figure of one trillion dollars. Walker recently estimated thatbetween A$1 billion and A$4 billion of illicit criminal funds are generated and laundered in andthrough Australia each year.If we here today formed ourselves into group think tanks just imagine how many ways ofmoney laundering you could come up with using the net and super bowl sportsbook gambling. The whole point aboutcriminal activity associated with e-super bowl sportsbook gambling is not what we know about current criminalactivities but what we don't know.WHY IS THE INTERNET AND GAMING A LONG TERM MARRIAGE?Over the next two days you will hear (and already have) a whole range of statistics which willdemonstrate the growth of both the internet and internet gaming - in its many possible forms.Yet all these figures in reality can only but be guesstimates. Here is just a couple that havebeen recently published - to identify the attraction this new product and service range will haveto organised crime as they crank up their year 2000 and beyond strategic business plans: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 7 71) Over 2.0 million individual super bowl sportsbook bettors use the Internet every week;2) It is alleged to be growing at a rate of 800% per annum;3) Microsoft recently estimated 68% of the population would be using the Internet by the year2001 - translated this could mean some 13 million super bowl sportsbook bettors;4) According to the Australian Newspaper - The first generation to take the internet forgranted will begin to enter the workforce in five years or so.5) Between now and that time, transactions on the internet are forecast to increase by between50 and 100 times to $US 300 billion.NOW LET US LOOK AT super bowl sportsbook gamblingsuper bowl sportsbook gambling like sex will always cause media headlines.The super bowl sportsbook gambling phenomena in this country has caused the Federal Government recently to holdan inquiry which will look at the economic, social and community impacts of super bowl sportsbook gambling.Americans are estimated to wager close to $590 billion a year on casino and other forms oflegal super bowl sportsbook gambling - this does not include illegal super bowl sportsbook gambling. Figures such as $80 billion a year arebeing tossed around as an estimate of the amount super bowl sportsbook bettors are now spending on super bowl sportsbook gambling -so far no one has considered the possible effects of an expanded super bowl sportsbook gambling market with super bowl sportsbookssuper bowl sportsbook gambling.How big is this new market place? Who will use the facilities? Why would people take achance super bowl sportsbook gambling through unregulated and unknown service/products in other words illegalsuper bowl sportsbook gambling?According to one Off-shore Casino provider the 'Internet gaming market is expected togenerate revenues of anywhere from US$10 billion to US$20 billion." This one site offerscasino-style games, a Sportsbook with real-time betting lines, an international lottery ticketbrokerage, and live video/audio Internet broadcasting of horse-racing from around the world."This provider (similar to many others) offers:1. Casino graphics and 3-D animation's in a variety of casino environments, including a unique'Adult-theme' casino;2. A wide variety of internationally appealing casino-style games;3. Complete Sportsbook with direct betting lines from Las Vegas and Europe.4. Lottery brokerage featuring lotteries from all over the world;5. Pari-mutuel wagering on live horse races from international race tracks;6. Top-notch (their words), reliable technical support 24 hours a day, seven days a week' -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 8 87. Guaranteed security of all Internet financial transactions;8. Translation into eight international languages.super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling is here and developing fast - attracting and exposing a whole new potentialrange of players from the young and computer literate group to the grey power group on theother end of the spectrum, both groups having both the time and the money to explore thisnew medium of super bowl sportsbook gambling. In between we have those living in rural and outlying areas, theunemployed both those on government grants and those who are not - for example housewivesand the disabled as potential new customers.THERE IS THE POSSIBILITY OF THE RISE OF A NEW super bowl sportsbook gambling UNDERCLASS!This conference will hear over the next few days the social cost of super bowl sportsbook gambling - I wonder ifanyone has considered the new wave of social problems such an expanded super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gamblingmarket will ring. Research is urgently need to tackle problems that may arise out of thetapping into this new client base.In a study by the Harvard medical School, it was found that young people are struggling tocope with the ready availability of super bowl sportsbook gambling - the study stated that the rate of problem andpathological super bowl sportsbook gambling among teenagers is more than twice that of adults.Before we look at why this new form of super bowl sportsbook gambling is potentially attractive, perhaps we shouldlook at why people (have in the past and still to a certain degree continue to) choose traditionalillegal super bowl sportsbook gambling:CONSIDER -* Gaming houses allow their clientele the luxury of a 'safe house' while providing otherfacilities such as prostitution and drugs;* Those involved in organised crime activity can meet with and be amongst associates inseclusion;* Offer a source of contact with various criminal groups;* Offer a laundering mechanism for other illegal activity;* No questioning as to money source;* Large cash transactions are not recorded;* Credit betting is available;* Cheques are accepted;* Payments to offshore accounts can be arranged;* Minors can gamble; -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 9 9* Excluded persons from the Sydney Casino will be admitted;* Casino employees and regulatory officials can gamble there - this is not to say they do;* Allow and encourage compulsive gamblers to gamble;* The operators are not Equal Employment Opportunity Employers:* Extortion through high interest short term loans which are made easily available.Operators of such premises know that:* Penalties (if caught) are small and as such are simply built into their business plan;* Most small violations are ignored;* There is no public stigma if an operator is caught - in fact the opposite is often the case.* Illegal operators have the financial firepower to purchase the very best in legalrepresentation;* A lack of skilled super bowl sportsbook gambling investigators;* Most laws involving super bowl sportsbook gambling are simply unenforceable.Similar reasons for choosing super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling with unknown providers include but are notlimited to;* Can be carried out at home and in small groups;* Don't have to worry about parking;* There is no 'fear factor' - one doesn't get street mugged;* Credit betting is available;* Returns are far greater.The advent of 'Smart Cards' which include stored-value cards, reloadable cards and disposablecards will further broaden both legal and illegal on-line super bowl sportsbook gambling opportunities. There is noreason why card operated internet machines cannot offer super bowl sportsbook gambling facilities and even thetelephone system can be used. These cards with digital signatures, fingerprint recognition andloyalty schemes will further enhance them as a super bowl sportsbook gambling payment medium.Whilst the new market opportunities may be slow in development when compared with currentregulated super bowl sportsbook gambling the Internet as Paul Cain noted is a 'Public highway'. The Net now offers,blackjack, poker, roulette, craps, baccarat, pai gow, virtual slot machines, sports book bettingon football, basketball, hockey and baseball. Whilst many sites maintain they are 'Adult Only'there is no sure guarantee that juveniles cannot play. On line Social Clubs are now being -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 10 10developed which will offer service packages that may include sports betting, travel, gaming,shopping, alcohol purchases and even escort agencies. - no real need to leave home - just don'tforget to order your on-line pizza.Effective regulation of the Internet is difficult and will in all reality remain so. 'Fire Wall'legislation such as the Communications Decency Act (CDA) in the United States was designedto protect American children from obscenity on the Internet and yet it has already laid a seriesof difficulties for police and regulators which resulted in a court challenge as to its legality.The Court's decision was resounding with Judge Stewart Dalzell stating:"The Internet deserves the broadest possible protection from government imposed, content-based regulations ... any content-based regulation of the Internet, no matter how benign thepurpose, could burn the global village to roast the pig. Some of the dialogue on the Internetcan be unfiltered, unpolished and unconventional, even emotionally charged, sexually explicitand vulgar - in a word, 'indecent in many communities' But we should expect such speech tooccur in a medium in which citizens from all walks of life have a voice. We should also protectthe autonomy that such a medium confers to ordinary people as well as media magnates."THE URGENT NEED FOR super bowl sportsbook gambling LEGISLATIVE AND ENFORCEMENTREFORMS.The rapidity of change across all our lives is awesome. Whilst we accept the positive factorsmost change has brought us, there is also often a `down' side. Many times this `down' side isswept into the too-hard basket - particularly from a policing AND ENFORCEMENTperspective. Those who identify potential problems are judged as being obstructive, obsessiveor just plain annoying. Policing these new changes requires futuristic strategists prepared totackle their adversaries within the super bowl sportsbooks criminal world.Perhaps the following quote from Machiavellis, `The Prince' illustrates this real life conundrumand is certainly applicable to regulators and police "There is nothing more difficult to carry out,nor more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to handle, than to initiate a new order ofthings. For the reformer has enemies in all those who profit by the old order of things and onlyluke-warm defenders in all those who would profit by the new order, this lukewarmness arisingpartly from fear of the adversaries and partly from the incredulity of mankind, who do not trulybelieve in anything new until they have had practical experience of it.'In New South Wales and indeed Australia, super bowl sportsbook gambling has undergone an unprecedentedtransformation - particularly in relation to the spread of gaming machines and the huge varietynow available to a significant number of super bowl sportsbook bettors. super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling is our next challenge.let me illustrate a simple example of resistance to the acknowledgment of change -On a steamy and stormy day in february 1996 i was having coffee with a group of intelligencepolice and senior overseas casino regulators - with talk revolving around a forthcomingnetworked gaming world. The question of super bowl sportsbooks super bowl sportsbook gambling was raised by one of my officersand quickly put to sleep by one regulator who commented:super bowl sportsbooks casino super bowl sportsbook gambling is a dream - internet and interactive gaming is a dream toy of super bowl sportsbook gamblingsuper nerds - it will never compete with real casinos. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 11 11How wrong they were and that was only twelve months ago - the regulated industry needs topick up its ball game - because the off-shore opposition is now playing a grade.I have raised the problems - what are my phophetic answers?1. There is a chronic need to review and streamline current gaming legislation.2. The introduction of super bowl sportsbooks gaming regulation - only where it can be enforced - not a lipservice approach.3. Dismantle current enforcement philosophies and replace them with computer driveninvestigatory tools operated by highly trained super bowl sportsbooks regulators and at the same time strip awaythe unnecessary layers of bureaucratic control that are now in place.4. Establish a Gaming University - or its equivalent to handle all forms of super bowl sportsbook gambling andlicensing training - probably on a module basis where students can pick and choose thosesubject areas most applicable to their intended or current employment.5. Regulated casinos or similar super bowl sportsbook gambling providers need to speed up their entry into the super bowl sportsbookssuper bowl sportsbook gambling market. As unpleasant as it may seem the regulated industry needs to funnel itsknowledge of the illegal super bowl sportsbooks gaming industry into a central data base for analysis andresearch - this can only benefit both the industry and the community.6. Critically examine current licensing work practices to ensure that they have kept up with thepace of change within the industry.7. On-going research be undertaken to identify criminal opportunities within the new marketplace and the development of an intelligence research data base using public domain, industryand open source data bases.8. A strategic national Gaming plan needs to be developed to allow:a One stop national super bowl sportsbook gambling applications;b National training and education at university level;c National super bowl sportsbook gambling Legislation and Regulations;9. There is an urgent need to 'De-bloat' our gaming bureaucracy - downsizing in theenforcement arena must occur with the technical changes than can replace bums on seats.Perhaps the last words on this subject area should be left to australia's leading research insuper bowl sportsbook gambling - jan mcmillen who summed up her thoughts recently to the question - how serious aproblem are the pokies causing - her answer - we don't know very much at all - is this indeednot true about the new super bowl sportsbooks-super bowl sportsbook gambling market place? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Super Bowl Sportsbooks

2005-01-11T16:03:00.000-08:00

MVP Sportsbook

It's extremely difficult to find anyone anywhere who has something negative to say about MVP Sportsbook. And we discovered why when we visited their offices in Costa Rica. These guys staff were the friendliest people we met full of friendly people. Their attitude for dealing with folks face to face carries over to their online gambling business. They treat each and every player exactly as they themselves would want to be treated. It may sound corny, but the "Golden Rule" works!

Beverly Hills Bookie

BeverlyHillsBookie.com allows you to wager on all sports online and via telephone. You can open your offshore account safely and confidentially within minutes. They are licensed by two governments, boast more than 200 employees, and utilize decades of experience. Their lines are fair, payouts timely, action confidential, and offerings broad. they also some of the most creative prop bets in the business.

Players Super Book

Players Super Book is recognized world wide as being a top ranked online sportsbook, racebook, poker and casino. They have a great reputation when it comes to taking care of their player's money as well as paying out as quickly as possible. Customer service is their top priority. Players Super Book guarantees their customers' privacy and a their ultra secure website ensures that all financial transactions will be safe.

BetVSI.com

Named by major online Watch Dogs as the Sportsbook with the best odds and payout system, BetVSI.com offers a basic interface with no-frills wagering. Having incorporated a Race Book and Casino into their service, the website is expanding its offering but remains focused on quality over quantity, and promoting fast and accurate payouts ratios over feature-richness & content enhancement.

Virtual Bookmaker

With a crisp interface, frequently updated content, and a wide range of sporting events available, Virtual Bookmaker.com lives up to its reputation as one of the established online venues for Sports Wagering. Targeting mainly customers in the US, the site's emphasis is tax-free gaming and boasts an outstanding customer service department that is 24/7 all 365 days of the year.

Popular Poker Sportsbook

These guys are straight shooters who treat every player like a high roller, regardless the size of their bets. In our conversations with Popular Poker's management, we quickly realized that they are very different from the average offshore operators. They are quite serious about making a name for themselves as the best in the business when it comes to treating their players right.

V-Wager.com

When we spoke with the folks at V-Wager.com, we were immediately impressed with management's focus on customer service. It may sound old fashioned, but the idea of treating people the way you yourself would like to be treated seems to be working at V-wager.com. The number of new players is growing steadily and, by all accounts, these guys are on the fast track to becoming an elite player in an otherwise dubious industry.

superbowl sportsbooks

2005-01-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

Superbowl Sportsbooks