World Cup sees online poker dip

The internet gambling operator PartyGaming said its online casino business had continued to drive strong growth, helping to offset the impact of a slump in poker players during the football World Cup.

PartyCasino, which offers games including slots, blackjack and roulette, saw its revenues increase by 6 per cent between the first and second quarters of 2010, although the number of players fell 5 per cent. PartyGaming said it was pleased with this "relatively robust" performance despite a "particularly tough" quarter for its PartyPoker card room – where revenues will be up to 13 per cent lower than in Q1 because of the football and warmer weather.

Overall revenues will be 2 per cent down quarter on quarter, although unexpected World Cup results – including early exits for France and Italy – provided a silver lining for its sports betting unit.