Obama's Presidency Gives Hope To Online Gambling Operators

Operators hope for relaxed online gambling laws from new president.

The election of Barack Obama as US president has led to speculation that restrictions on internet gambling in the country could soon be lifted.

Mr Obama took his oath of office in Washington DC yesterday (January 20th), with millions of supporters travelling to the US capital to celebrate his inauguration.

American gambling operators could also have cause for celebration, as many believe that the new president will take a more lenient approach to the gaming industry than previous administrations.

However, industry consultant H2 Gambling Capital has warned that legalising online gambling in the US is likely to be a lengthy process.

"To assume a new president can flick the internet gambling switch on just like that is a bit naive," said Simon Holliday, director at H2.

He admitted that the relaxation of internet gambling legislation during Mr Obama's term is a "possibility", but claimed that the president's efforts will be devoted to other issues in the immediate future.

"The Obama administration will be pre-occupied with addressing the economy over the next couple of years," Mr Holliday said.