Last week saw the Isle of Man hold its second annual eGaming Summit, hosted by advisory services firm KPMG.
More than 180 delegates attended the event held at the Mount Murray hotel, with many of the industry's experts giving talks on current global online gaming matters.
Russell Kelly, director responsible for online gaming at KPMG, said: "This event provides a unique opportunity for this crucial sector to come together and share their knowledge on the challenges facing it and the opportunities that are presenting themselves on an almost daily basis."
Opening the ceremony was Chief Minister Allan Bell, who highlighted the island's pivotal role within online gaming. This was followed by a procession of speakers discussing the safety of game play and taxation on the Isle of Man. The afternoon talks centred on key topics such as the UK's planned move to tax gaming at the point of consumption rather than the point of supply, as well as mobile gaming, bringing to light the need for appropriate regulation. The event was brought to an end with a panel of speakers answering queries raised by the delegates, followed by a closing statement by Minister for the Department of Economic Development, John Shimmin.
Sponsors of the event included Celton, PaddyPower and Conister Bank, with PokerStars, Domicilium and Microgaming also supporting it. Full details of the topics discussed, as well as possible resolutions for the future, will be published in a post-event report, which will to be made available in January with the support of Continent 8 Technologies.
The success of the summit has helped create the island's own eClub, which has held regular events as well as setting up online discussion groups since the inaugural summit.
Archie Watt, head of online gaming and IT advisory at KPMG, said: "A lot has changed in the 12 months since the last summit, which highlights the pace of innovation and regulatory change in this complex but vibrant marketplace. The year ahead is likely to see even more changes."
