Both Paddy Power and 888 in casino news with bigger profits

Paddy power is in the general casino news again this week for announcing a 21% increase in pre tax profits for the first half of the year which was in part due to a very strong performance during Euro 2012 where total bets were up some 160% compared to Euro 2008 but whether Nicklas Bendtner and his infamous paddy power underwear had anything to do with it is debateable. The digital side of the business which includes the online casino is also quoted in the general casino news as contributing more than three quarters of the profit but the shops have not stood still as there have been 23 new openings in the UK. Chief Executive Patrick Kennedy is quoted in the general casino news as saying “It has been a record first half with growth across all of the business. As a consequence of existing momentum and the new investments that we are making, the board is confident in the groups prospects for not just 2012 but also beyond”. Strangely other articles read by general casino news suggest that al is not as rosy as it seems as the famous money back offers have caused Paddy Power to refund in excess of €5 million but maybe they can afford it. Not to be outdone, 888 is also in the general casino news for announcing first half revenues also 21% up compared to last year and 888 of course has no shops anywhere but are reported to be investing in newly regulated markets in Europe as well as preparing the ground for any deregulation in the USA. WE may be in recession but t appears from articles in the general casino news that gambling on sports and online casinos is as popular as ever.