David Rebuck, director of New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, has said the US state has delayed its decision over whether to award an online gambling licence to PokerStars due to an ongoing investigation into the brand’s acquisition by Amaya.
As reported by iGaming Business, Amaya acquired PokerStars’ parent company Rational Group in August of last year, thus taking control of the brand as well as sister operator Full Tilt.
Upon acquiring the brands, Amaya voiced its desire to re-establish PokerStars in regulated US markets, listing New Jersey as a key target.
PokerStars applied for a licence in the state, but, despite the continued optimism of the company over its chances of securing a licence, it is yet to be approved by New Jersey.
Rebuck, who plays a major role in the awarding of online gaming licences in the state, has opened up on the situation, telling Global Gaming Business publisher Roger Gros that the delay is down to a “thorough, comprehensive review” of the brand’s acquisition by Amaya last year.
“We’ve done 80 sworn interviews, we’ve travelled to half a dozen foreign countries,” Rebuck said.
“I’m not going to be the first person to sabotage the work of this Division.
“We’re going to do this in a very professional way, which will be published to the world, because whatever decision we come down on will be scrutinised, and some will hate it and some will love it.”
source : www.igamingbusiness.com
