Highlights of the 2000s for Online Casinos
For those that have enjoyed online casinos from the beginning of the 2000s they have first hand knowledge of what spectacular changes have taken place to make the many games offered by the casinos all the more intriguing and exciting. In addition to this they have watched with keen interest what position the law of the lands is taking on online casinos
The year 2000
The Law:
Up to this point online casinos are not causing much of a stir legally, but sports betting is under the microscope.
Casino Happenings:
This was the year that gave a good indication that the online casinos were not only here to stay but were experiencing consistent growth. It was estimated that in the year 2000 that the online casino industry market was at about $0.6 billion.
The year 2001
The Law:
It would seem that the online Casinos are still managing to remain out of the legal spotlight.
Casino Happenings:
It was estimated that online gamblers would suffer a loss of about $3 billion just in this year alone in respect to their gambling activities. 90% of the online players are USA based yet the majority of their play was made at online casinos based in England and Australia. In addition to this predictions of an online gaming ban becoming a reality were surfacing.
The year 2002
The Law:
Its determined that the USA-Wire Act is not applicable to normal wagers
Casino Happenings:
Online casino software is beginning to surface with some superb new innovative features. For example one of the Playtech casinos released new software that consisted of 45 new games and most importantly state of the art 3D graphics. This combined with the faster action of the software and easy download opened a new horizon to online casino enjoyment.
The year 2003
The Law:
Antigua sued the USA regarding the restrictions place on gambling ads on the premise the USA violated WTO agreements.
Casino Happenings:
The number of new online casinos continues to grow with major casinos hitting the net such as Europa Casino. In addition to this incentive bonuses continue to become more lucrative.
The year 2004
The Law:
Antigua won its case against U.S. although the US appealed. Ads for internet gambling are still being banned in US.
Casino Happenings:
The annual Global Interactive Gaming Summit & Expo took place with the theme of "No Limits," all in relation to the never ceasing innovative possibilities for online casinos and their fast growth. This organization is now visited by both players and casino operators from over 45 countries. It certainly paints a very stable and ongoing future for online casinos.
The year 2005
The Law:
Halfway through the decade Antigua wins appeal but US ignores ruling and continues with bans on ads.
Casino Happenings
Major changes are being noted within the casino industry. The most prominent are several mergers and takeovers. The focus seemed to sway towards the Europe and Asia markets. It was recognized that more game content needed to be generated that would specifically address the changing markets.
The year 2006
New law (UIGEA) prohibits US banks from being involved in online gambling transactions. This is as a result of an amendment to the Safe Ports bill
Casino Happenings:
This is the year where the online casinos were beginning to be introduced to mobile phones with an impact. It was obviously a great move forward for both the online casino industry as well as the players themselves. Vodaphone was one of the first to take advantage of this new venue.
The year 2007
The Law:
Rep. Barney Frank attempts putting a bill in place to set up regulations for online gambling as opposed to UIGEA.
Casino Happenings:
The growth of online casinos continues in part thanks to the ongoing technology in the gaming industry. New adventures are being offered on a consistent basis with new games being added to the major casinos. A prime example was the CryptoLogic announcement of the rights to create Marvel Super Hero games and some of its counterparts.
The year 2008
The Law:
The state of Kentucky seizes 141 domain names related to gambling and the issue goes before the courts.
Casino Happenings:
A British study shows that along with the continuing growth of new online Casino sites there has been major improvements in customer service with the existing sites. This has led to the success of increasing membership for the sites participating in this. Their focus has been on rapid response, interaction opportunities and the supplying of factual information.
The year 2009
The Law:
Enforcement for UIGEA still not settled.
Casino Happenings:
The year has seen a great deal of activity for the online casino industry. Although there is still much unrest regarding UIGEA it would seem that most online casino operators are feeling a little more optimistic about their gambling future.
So far the gambling industry in the 2000s have seen many casinos offer great sign up bonuses , in house promotions, refer a friend programs, VIP programs that reward the players for their individual accomplishments in the game, and loyalty bonuses just for playing regularly at a particular site. The industry seems to get stronger everyday, who knows what the next 10 years will bring