In fiscal 2006 IGT invested US$189 million in research and development (R&D) and established development standards for video products. The company also incorporated industry-leading technology licensed from Novomatic AG, introduced its TrimLine cabinet design and displayed prototype handheld devices at G2E. The company presentation given on Tuesday emphasised the growing importance of server-based gaming to enhance the gaming experience for players.

According to IGT there is a tremendous interest in downloadable gaming, with around 72% of slots managers considering installing the games. This year the company intends to invest even more in R&D and develop group play. Market expansion is happening at both home and abroad, and changes to gaming laws in Japan mean the replacement of about 1.5 million pachisuro machines by September. Electronic bingo is growing rapidly in Mexico and IGT has installed 5,800 units in the last 18 months. There are also numerous casino properties in Macau due to open in 2007 and 2008.

At the annual shareholders’ meeting on 6 March, 2007, the IGT presentation illustrated that the keys to the company’s future success can be summed up in four stated goals. To leverage its extensive content; to focus on systems-based game delivery and applications, and more content-based pricing; international growth; and diversified earnings and cash flow, coupled with prudent free cash flow development. (E-03.07.07)

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