"Advanced Technology Affecting Rise in European Online Gambling"

Europe is no exception to the online gambling bug that is sweeping the globe. Neilsen/NetRatings, the Internet research company, recently released findings indicating a 45 percent increase from the figures for last year with regard to online gambling in the UK. It is reported that in February of this year alone, in access of three million UK Internet users have logged onto an online gaming site. This trend is also evident in Europe where as many as 14 million players are reported as having logged on to an Internet online gambling casino in the month of February. This activity is led by the countries of France and Sweden. These two countries lead the pack in using online gambling sites, while the Spanish and Italians are much more reticent about such activities.

Analysts at Neilsen/NetRatings are predicting that the improved availability of hi-speed Internet connections and the superior variety of games and prizes being offered at online gambling sites, will result in even larger numbers who will soon be playing at Internet casinos. In the United Kingdom as an example, it is estimated that up to 75% of visitors to online casinos are using a broadband connection. This increases the speed, comfort, and convenience of Internet gambling.

The National Lottery is the most visited Internet gambling site in the UK. It has logged over 1.3 million entries in February alone. Next in line with regard to popularity in Britain are the William Hill sports betting site and PartyPoker.com in that order.