Changes in the EU Online Gambling Regulations Strongly Affect Poker Market

European poker market is getting tougher- is what we can conclude from an interview conducted by Pokerfuse. This poker information site's last week's interview with 888 chief executive officer Brian Mattingley was worrisome yet optimistic. Mr. Mattingley shared his thoughts on the industry in light of recent changes on the regulatory scene and the impact of the economic uncertainties affecting the entire world. Mattingley talked about what is, at the moment, affecting the online gaming industry the most. He addressed the UK point-of-consumption legal changes which enforced a 15% tax on operators for business conducted with British online gamblers. His own company derives 40% of its revenues from the UK market and is clearly impacted by the changes. Mattingley's opinion is that the new tax and licensing regime are not well thought through, but nevertheless 888 will stay on the UK online gambling market. Mr. Mattingley pointed out that 888 holds legitimate real-money licensing in every major market where it operates and licensing is available. He is confident in the potential of the US market in spite of the volatile political situation. Although he was surprised with the amount of time needed for a business to take of in states which legalized online gambling. He also commented on the company's decision to leave the French market due to its high 37% tax rate and declining poker market. Mr. Mattingley concluded that tax rates levied by European governments may be a continuing problem for the industry.