WPT - Crypto expanding

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CRYPTOLOGIC AND WPT EXPAND ONLINE POKER ACTIVITIES


WPT to grow online casino with new languages, and contract to run to 2011

The business relationship between online gambling software provider Cryptologic and the American poker group World Poker Tournament Enterprises seems to be working well, with an announcement this week that the two companies are to extend their online activities.

WPT Enterprises Inc. is now to expand its Internet casino offering, adding Spanish and German language Internet poker rooms and extend its exclusive use of CryptoLogic software until at least mid-2011.

“In less than one year, CryptoLogic and World Poker Tour have teamed up to deliver an exceptional online experience for casino and poker players all over the world,” said Brian Hadfield, CryptoLogic’s recently appointed President and CEO.

CryptoLogic sees World Poker Tour as one of the world’s most promising gaming brands, with huge potential for growth in player volume and revenue as WPT markets and leverages its television properties in the fast-growing European market.

The addition of the Spanish- and German-language poker rooms should also add valuable liquidity and many new European players.

WPT Enterprises began using CryptoLogic’s software on its website in 2007, enabling players to enjoy both Internet poker action and a mini-casino of 13 top games.

In addition to adding multi-language poker capabilities and extending its agreement with WagerLogic Ltd., CryptoLogic’s wholly-owned software development subsidiary, WPT has exercised its option to upgrade to a full Internet casino with more than 200 games.

“Our partnership with Cryptologic — particularly their reputation, proven software and liquidity — has been a key element in delivering a superior World Poker Tour gaming experience for fans in the international space,” said Steve Lipscomb, CEO and founder of WPT Enterprises.

“Expanding and extending this relationship allows us to take the WorldPokerTour.com brand to a higher level.”