On 30 September 2006 the US Congress passed the “SAFE Port Act” which also contained certain provisions known as the “Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006” (the “Act”) that will affect the processing of payments between US customers and online gaming companies, including bwin. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by President Bush within the next two weeks.

As the leading online gaming company in Continental Europe, bwin generates 73 per cent of its gross gaming revenues on the European market, as against 22 per cent on the US market. bwin does not currently offer any sports betting products to US residents. The Company aims to provide fair and responsible entertainment, and has continually focused on product and geographical diversification.

bwin is currently in the process of obtaining further advice with the objective of fully understanding the applicability and impact of the Act to the Group’s US business. The Company will adapt its business strategy accordingly so as to minimize any adverse effects. The Board notes, however, that the Act, if signed into law, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the Group’s US business.

bwin’s non-US customers are not affected by the legislation.

Further announcements will be made in due course.

http://www.bwin.ag/page.aspx?view=adhocb_02_10_06

bwin is Ongame's parent company.