Amaya agree SHFL deal for US gaming

iders Amaya have selected SHFL entertainment as the exclusive distributor of their Amaya Gaming Platform (AGP) and Ongame Poker Platform in the United States.

The 10-year deal, which will commence upon the execution of a definite agreement, will see SHFL pay Amaya up to $10m for exclusive rights, with the two firms sharing all revenue equally and splitting all direct US operational expenses.

The first $2m, to be paid upon the execution of the agreement, will see SHFL granted the immediate ability to offer their B2B customers the AGP casino content and Ongame Poker solution in freeplay form.

An additional $8m will be paid when regulated, real-money online poker becomes available under either a Federal statute or in California.

If individual states introduce regulated, real-money online poker before its introduction under either a Federal statute or in California, SHFL will pay up to an aggregate of $8m on a prorated basis (based on population) as individual states introduce regulated, real-money online poker.

If the Federal government or California introduce real-money online poker after any other state, SHFL will pay Amaya the difference between $8m, and the aggregate amount previously paid.

Amaya CEO David Baazov said: “Strategic alliances have always been an integral part of Amaya's strength and growth in key markets, and SHFL, with its reputation for gaming innovation and strong relationships in the US, is an ideal partner for us in the US market."

SHFL chief executive officer Gavin Isaacs added: “We are confident that the integration of our renowned brands and content delivery technology into Amaya’s full suite of cutting-edge online platforms will create a turnkey solution for our customers.

“Together with our many US gaming licenses, we believe we will be able to maximise the market presence of these platforms.”