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William Hill granted US licence William Hill granted US licence
(40 minutes later)
The UK's biggest bookmaker, William Hill, has been given the green light to launch its first US operations after being granted a licence by the Nevada Gaming Commission. William Hill has been given the green light to launch its first US operations after being granted a licence by the Nevada Gaming Commission.
Last year, William Hill announced it was to buy three US companies, but the acquisitions were dependent on the awarding of a licence. Last year, the British bookmaker announced it was to buy three US companies, but the acquisitions were dependent on the awarding of a licence.
The deals are now expected to complete by the end of the month.The deals are now expected to complete by the end of the month.
The firm said it looked forward to taking a leadership position in the US.
Sports betting is legal under federal law in only four US states - Nevada, Delaware, Montana and Oregon.
William Hill said it was the first British bookmaker to be licensed for sports wagering in the US.William Hill said it was the first British bookmaker to be licensed for sports wagering in the US.
Sports betting is legal under federal law in only four US states - Nevada, Delaware, Montana and Oregon.
"A Nevada gaming licence is recognised around the world as a significant regulatory seal of approval and we are proud to have earned it," said chief executive Ralph Topping."A Nevada gaming licence is recognised around the world as a significant regulatory seal of approval and we are proud to have earned it," said chief executive Ralph Topping.
"We are now able to bring together these three businesses to create a leading position in the US sports betting market, combining our brand and product range with AWI, Brandywine and Cal Neva's extensive footprint, strong local relationships and trusted service."We are now able to bring together these three businesses to create a leading position in the US sports betting market, combining our brand and product range with AWI, Brandywine and Cal Neva's extensive footprint, strong local relationships and trusted service.
"We look forward to working with our new colleagues to grow a leadership position in the US gaming industry.""We look forward to working with our new colleagues to grow a leadership position in the US gaming industry."