Online gambling is becoming respectable. It is increasingly both a socially acceptable activity and a bigger player in the market. The successful floatation of PartyGaming demonstrates that whatever the origins of a company or the befuddled global legal position of online gaming, it is revenue that counts for acceptance in the world of commerce.

It is reported by New Media Age, a weekly magazine launched in 1995 covering the business of interactive media, that two trade organizations that represent interactive gambling companies have merged. The Association of Remote Gambling Operators (ARGO) and the Interactive Gaming, Gambling and Betting Association (iGGBA) have agreed to form a single industry voice and become the Remote Gambling Association (RGA).

ARGO had as its primary aims working with governments and regulators to ensure sensible, practical regulatory regimes with realistic taxation levels, and working for the breaking down of unwarranted trade barriers. IGGBA was founded to address the unique legislative, regulatory and commercial opportunities and concerns of the i-gaming industry, and is recognized by the Gaming Board of Great Britain and by GamCare the charity for responsible gaming.

From 1 August membership of the Remote Gambling Association will be open to gambling operators and software suppliers in Europe, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. The new CEO of RGA is Clive Hawkswood, General Secretary of ARGO. The consolidated trade body is expected to bring benefits to the members of both organizations by the combining of experience and knowledge to give a credible and well-respected voice to the industry. (E-07.08.05)

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