Online poker brands PokerStars and Full Tilt have reportedly withdrawn their services from a number of national markets following a review of commercial opportunity and business risks.
In a statement issued to Pokerfuse.com, the brands did not specify which markets it has withdrawn from, but player reports suggest the countries affected include Turkey, Nigeria, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Iran.
The news comes after Canadian gaming provider Amaya Gaming in August acquired the two brands’ parent company Rational Group.
“Our management team and advisors regularly review our operations market-by-market to assess commercial opportunities and business risks for our brands,” the statement said.
“Following a recent review we have decided to stop offering real money games to players who are physically located in, or have a registered address in, a limited number of countries.
“Affected players can log into the relevant software and cash out their remaining balance using the ordinary withdrawal methods available to them, and they are welcome to do this at their convenience.”
The withdrawals come at a time when the brands are awaiting the result of licence applications in other markets.
PokerStars has applied for a remote gambling licence in the UK while parent company Amaya is pursuing a licence in New Jersey in the hope of launching both brands in the US state under a partnership with Resorts casino.
source : www.igamingbusiness.com
